2021 Ford F-150 vs 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz

The 2021 Ford F-150 retained its iconic tough look with oversized wheel arches and a tall hood, reminiscent of its predecessors. However, it introduced a new front fascia with larger headlights and a rounder grille, offering 11 design options. Ford emphasized improved aerodynamics with active grille shutters and an automatically-deploying air dam, aiming to enhance fuel efficiency. The aluminum bodywork, consistent with the previous generation, reduced weight, contributing to better fuel economy and increased payload capacity. Inside, the F-150 maintained its distinctive design with large angular air vents and a high centre console, offering a range of materials from basic to luxurious, as seen in the King Ranch trim with leather upholstery and wood trim.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz, with its smaller footprint, evoked memories of mini trucks from the past but stood out with its unibody construction and unique styling. Measuring 4,970 mm in length, it was significantly shorter than the Toyota Tacoma, yet wider, resembling an SUV with a bed. The Santa Cruz featured a toothy grille and blended headlights, similar to the Hyundai Tucson, and offered 20-inch wheels for a striking appearance. Inside, the design was more conventional, with integrated air vents and appropriate materials for its price range, positioning it as a rugged "adventure vehicle."

The 2021 Ford F-150 offered a variety of powertrains, including a base 3.3-litre V6 with 290 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.0-litre V8 producing 400 hp and 410 lb-ft. Two twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engines were available: a 2.7-litre with 325 hp and 400 lb-ft, and a 3.5-litre with 400 hp and 500 lb-ft. A 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 provided 250 hp and 440 lb-ft. The PowerBoost hybrid powertrain combined a 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 with an electric motor, delivering 430 hp and 570 lb-ft, making it the most powerful option. The F-150 excelled in payload and towing capacity, with the 5.0-litre V8 achieving a maximum payload of 3,325 pounds and the non-hybrid 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 towing up to 14,000 pounds. The hybrid offered a smooth ride, though transitions between electric and hybrid modes were occasionally rough.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz, available in Canada with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, produced 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Santa Cruz's multi-link suspension provided a fun driving experience, with impressive ride quality and low cabin noise. It offered 21.8 cm of ground clearance, but lacked serious off-road capabilities due to the absence of low range and locking differentials. The Santa Cruz had a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kg and a payload capacity of 864 kg, aligning more with midsize SUVs than traditional trucks.

The 2021 Ford F-150 catered to those using their trucks as mobile offices, with a fold-flat shifter creating a work surface for a 15-inch laptop. Higher trims offered fold-flat Max Recline Seats for resting. The F-150 provided ample storage, including a centre-console bin and large cupholders. It came in three cab configurations: a two-door regular cab, a SuperCab with rear half doors, and a SuperCrew cab with full-size rear doors. Bed sizes ranged from 5.5 to 8 feet, with features like power running boards and a fold-out step in the tailgate. The Pro Power Onboard system offered in-bed power outlets, with up to 7.2 kW of output in the hybrid model.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz, with a small truck bed measuring 1,323 mm, limited utility for larger cargo. However, it included features like a lockable tonneau cover, height-adjustable tailgate, and in-bed LED lighting. The Santa Cruz was available only in a four-door crew-cab configuration, seating five, with limited rear legroom but decent front-seat space. Storage included a centre console and under-seat compartments. The controls for heated and ventilated seats were conveniently placed, though touch pads for audio and climate control were less user-friendly while driving.

The 2021 Ford F-150 featured the new Sync 4 infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, capable of over-the-air updates. An 8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 12-inch option available, paired with a 12-inch digital instrument cluster. The system included physical buttons for essential functions and offered Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Trailer Reverse Guidance for easier towing.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz came with a standard 8-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, with Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics service. The system displayed blind spot images and had quick response times, with appealing graphics and a radio-station display with vacuum tubes.

The 2021 Ford F-150 had not yet received full crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but the previous model's roof strength rating was carried over. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high beams, with additional options like lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control. Ford's BlueCruise system, offering hands-free driving on highways, was expected later in 2021.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz was a Top Safety Pick by IIHS, missing the top rating due to standard halogen headlights. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Ultimate grade offered a surround-view camera system and Highway Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane centring.