Long-term tests provide more insight into life with new vehicles such as the Hyundai Santa Cruz is really like. The Santa Cruz is a pretty significant contender as the Ford Maverick’s only true rival, and it’s been on and off the pavement. See the biggest 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz issues. 

Potential 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz problems

According to MotorTrend, the biggest potential 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz problems after one year include sensitive safety and tech controls. Their team drove this tiny truck for an entire year to provide more in-depth information, and the truck can be a little fussy. 

For example, the Driver Attention Warning feature can be a little annoying. It has a loud chime and the message to “Consider Taking a Break” when drivers seem drowsy. However, sometimes it comes on too often. 

If you clear the warning, it may come about every 10 minutes, making it feel invasive. However, you can turn this feature off with a button on the steering wheel. You can also leave it on but adjust how often the messages appear and how loudly it chimes. 

Another issue is related to the lane-assist system. When the light turns yellow, it aggressively means to put your hands back on the wheel. Otherwise, the light turns red and emits loud beeps, and the system may turn off if you don’t grab the steering wheel quickly enough. 

You can press a button on the steering wheel to renegade the system if it turns off. Also, the truck seems to ping from side to side instead of staying perfectly centered in the lane. 

Is the 2022 Santa Cruz worth buying? 

Yes and no, depending on your truck needs! Despite having sensitive safety controls, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz is worth buying. MotorTrend mentions how great some of the active safety features are, meaning the system isn’t all bad. 

For example, the Santa Cruz will provide two chimes to notify you if the vehicle in front of you is pulling away. This is helpful if you find yourself distracted at stop lights or in traffic lines. It’s much faster and more relaxing than being honked at. 

Also, the Blind Spot Monitoring system is very effective while backing out of parking spots and changing lanes. 

Plus, the tech in the 2022 Santa Cruz is easy to use. You can quickly adjust the safety systems to your personal preferences to avoid annoying beeps and notifications. 

The layout is intuitive, and the buttons are clearly labeled. The drive mode switch is right beside the gear shifter. This is where the camera button is too, which allows you to see your surroundings while pulling forward or in park. 

How does the Santa Cruz perform? 

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz provides a relaxing, low-effort performance in the city. It’s not big and bulky with a rough ride like larger traditional trucks. It’s agile and smooth. Plus, it’s pretty athletic with a turbocharged engine, Sport mode, and paddle shifters. 

MotorTrend noted that it makes daily commutes easier and safer after long days at the office. Plus, it has the utility and practicality of a pickup truck. The 4.3-foot truck bed is perfect for weekend adventures and light hauling. 

The Hyundai Santa Cruz is available with AWD and can tow up to 5,000 lbs. The sensitive controls can be turned off aren’t a big enough reason to avoid this comfortable, intuitive, and capable tiny truck. But if you need more space, consider something larger.