2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Trim Levels Explained near Wausau, WI
2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Trim Levels Explained near Wausau, WI
For shoppers comparing a 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ near Wausau, WI, Stevens Point Auto Center offers a smart vehicle to study because the SANTA CRUZ blends SUV-like comfort with an open bed built for real utility. Hyundai keeps the 2027 model focused with a streamlined trim lineup: SE, SEL Activity, and XRT. Every trim includes standard H-Tex®-trimmed seating surfaces, a five-passenger cabin, a Sheet Molded Composite bed, under bed storage, sidewall bed storage compartments, heavy duty cargo D-rings, and a multi-functional tailgate with assisted open and close. The SE and SEL Activity use a Smartstream 2.5L GDI + MPI engine rated at 191 horsepower, while the XRT adds a Smartstream 2.5L Turbo GDI + MPI engine with 281 horsepower and standard HTRAC AWD. A second look at the 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ near Wausau, WI shows why this compact Sport Adventure Vehicle is appealing: it is easier to park than a traditional truck, yet it delivers meaningful bed versatility, available AWD confidence, and refined Hyundai technology.
2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Trim Comparison
| Trim Level | Focus | Engine | Drivetrain | Utility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE | Essential bed versatility | 2.5L, 191 hp | FWD or HTRAC AWD | Under bed storage |
| SEL Activity | Cargo and tech upgrade | 2.5L, 191 hp | FWD or HTRAC AWD | Tonneau, utility tracks |
| XRT | Turbo AWD confidence | 2.5T, 281 hp | HTRAC AWD standard | Terrain Mode Select |
2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Trim Options
SE
2.5L GDI + MPI engine · 12.3” touchscreen display · H-Tex® seating surfaces · Lockable under bed storageThe 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ SE is the practical entry point, and it does not feel stripped down. It starts with the Smartstream 2.5L GDI + MPI DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine, producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque through an 8-speed automatic torque converter transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while HTRAC AWD with Active On-Demand capability is available for shoppers who want extra traction for Wisconsin roads, boat ramps, gravel driveways, or frequent highway travel. The SE also includes Bi-LED headlights, LED Daytime Running Lights, LED taillights, automatic headlights, High Beam Assist, privacy glass, acoustic laminated windshield glass, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the SE gives drivers a 12.3” touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto, SiriusXM®, HD Radio Technology, Bluelink+, front and second-row Type-C USB ports, and a rearview camera. The bed is a major reason to consider the SE: lockable under bed storage, sidewall bed compartments, a Sheet Molded Composite bed, heavy duty cargo D-rings, trailer pre-wiring, rear bumper side steps, and an assisted multi-functional tailgate make it useful from day one.
SEL Activity
Integrated tonneau cover · Dual C-channel utility tracks · 115V bed outlet · 12.3” digital instrument clusterThe 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ SEL Activity builds on the SE by adding features that make the vehicle feel more complete for daily life, weekend projects, and active households. The most important changes are in the bed and cabin. The factory-installed integrated tonneau cover with two built-in T-slot accessory tracks helps secure and organize cargo, while the Dual C-channel adjustable utility track rail and cleat system gives owners more flexibility for tying down equipment. A 115V power outlet in the sidewall storage area adds useful power access when working away from home, tailgating, or supporting small gear. SEL Activity also adds LED bed lighting, heated outside mirrors, side mirrors with turn signal indicators, a rear sliding glass window with defroster, a conventional power sunroof, and roof side rails. Inside, the trim upgrades comfort with an 8-way power driver’s seat, power driver’s lumbar support, heated front seats, dual automatic temperature control with Auto Defogger, center console-mounted rear A/C vents, wireless 15W device quick charging, illuminated sunvisors, front auto down/up power windows, and a 12.3” Digital Instrument Cluster. It keeps the same 191-horsepower 2.5L engine as the SE, with FWD or available HTRAC AWD.
XRT
2.5L Turbo GDI + MPI engine · HTRAC AWD · Bose® Premium Audio System · Terrain Mode SelectThe 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ XRT is the most capable and feature-rich trim in the streamlined lineup, and it is the clear choice for shoppers who want stronger acceleration, standard AWD, and premium convenience. Its Smartstream 2.5L Turbo GDI + MPI DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine raises output to 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic torque converter transmission and standard HTRAC AWD. XRT is also the only trim with Terrain Mode Select, making it well suited for changing surfaces, uneven access roads, and confident travel beyond pavement. Towing capability also increases, with a maximum trailer weight of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with trailer brakes. The XRT adds matte black exterior details, black-only H-Tex® seating surfaces, a leather-wrapped shift knob, a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, an auto-dimming mirror, rear armrest with cup holders, Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch, and a 12.3” Audio-Video-Navigation color touchscreen with onboard Navigation. Bose® Premium Audio System, Dynamic Voice Recognition, Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Highway Driving Assist 1, Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control with Curve Control, and enhanced Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist add refinement, confidence, and everyday value.
Which 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Trim is Best for Wausau Drivers?
The best 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ trim for Wausau-area drivers depends on how much power, technology, and bed capability your routine demands. For commuting between Wausau, Weston, Rothschild, and Rib Mountain, even the SE feels well equipped because it includes modern infotainment, Hyundai SmartSense driver-assistance features, a useful open bed, and available HTRAC AWD. For homeowners, cyclists, anglers, small business owners, and families who regularly carry gear, the SEL Activity is especially appealing because its tonneau cover, utility tracks, bed outlet, sunroof, heated front seats, and dual automatic temperature control make the SANTA CRUZ easier to use every week. The XRT is the standout for drivers who want turbocharged power, standard AWD, advanced camera technology, Bose® audio, and the highest trailering capability in the lineup. At Stevens Point Auto Center, our recommendation starts with your lifestyle, not just a trim badge, because the right SANTA CRUZ should make daily driving, errands, recreation, and regional travel feel simpler.
*Not actual model shown in images
- Choose SE if you want a well-equipped SANTA CRUZ with standard bed storage, a 12.3” touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto, available HTRAC AWD, and strong everyday value for commuting along US-51 or running errands across the Wausau area.
- Choose SEL Activity if you want the best balance of utility and comfort, including the integrated tonneau cover, adjustable utility track system, 115V bed outlet, heated front seats, wireless device charging, and a 12.3” Digital Instrument Cluster.
- Choose XRT if you want the strongest performance, standard HTRAC AWD, Terrain Mode Select, 5,000-pound trailer capability with trailer brakes, Bose® Premium Audio System, Surround View Monitor, and a more advanced driver-assistance package.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. Excludes options; taxes; title; registration; delivery, processing and handling fee; and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual selling price. The best price advertised includes a $399 documentation fee.
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*Any MPG listed is based on model year EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid only) and other factors.