2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz vs 2026 Toyota Tacoma

Based on the Hyundai Tucson compact crossover SUV, the Santa Cruz is not about towing the heaviest loads or driving to off-the-grid locations. Instead, it’s perfect for weekend DIY projects, hauling bulky items home from the big-box store, and carrying adventure gear on day trips. The 2025 Santa Cruz is better at these tasks than ever thanks to new tech, styling updates, and off-roading enhancements.

Verdict: We realize the Santa Cruz’s styling isn’t broadly appealing. If this Hyundai trucklet’s appearance is just too hard to accept, then its direct rival, the Ford Maverick, might be more to your liking. If you like the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz, you’ll find it plenty fun to drive.

We’d bet good money that most people who buy a Tacoma TRD Pro — one of the most off-road-capable Tacoma models — won’t use it to blast across the desert with wild abandon. Buyers will probably want to consider a different version of Toyota’s midsize pickup truck, which is available in Canada as a Double Cab with two bed lengths, several powertrain combinations, and multiple packages.

Verdict: The 2026 Tacoma TRD Pro sells a fantasy, not a reality. Given some of the compromises it requires, we think people who want an expensive off-road-ready Tacoma would be happier with the Trailhunter model.