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2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT: The Compact Truck of Texas

The automotive world often witnesses spirited competition, especially in regions known for their love of trucks, like Texas. The prestigious Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) recently held their annual Truck Rodeo, and the results were certainly notable. The highlight of this year’s event was the recognition of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT as the Compact Truck of Texas.

Evaluating Excellence

The TAWA Truck Rodeo, an anticipated annual event, brings together leading automotive journalists to evaluate and scrutinize new vehicles. Participants are judged on multiple criteria, including performance, value, and overall appeal. Against a backdrop of tough competition, the Santa Cruz XRT emerged victorious, impressing judges and attendees alike with its rugged design, innovative technology, and improved off-road capabilities.

Ricky Lao, director of product planning for Hyundai Motor North America, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for this recognition. He highlighted that the award underscores Hyundai's commitment to delivering versatile and enjoyable vehicles that not only perform well on rugged terrains but also incorporate advanced technological features. The Santa Cruz XRT combines off-road capability with cutting-edge safety and performance metrics, making it an appealing choice for adventurous drivers.

Design and Features

The 2025 model boasts a bold new front design, enhanced with XRT-exclusive features such as robust front tow hooks, durable all-terrain tires, and rugged wrench-inspired wheels. These features are not just for aesthetics but provide practical support for the vehicle’s enhanced capabilities.

Inside, the cockpit of the Santa Cruz XRT is designed to impress, featuring a stunning panoramic curved display. This includes an available 12.3-inch driver information cluster and an infotainment touchscreen that are intuitive and user-friendly. With standard wireless integration for both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, drivers can effortlessly connect their devices and enjoy seamless access to navigation, music, and other essential apps while on the road.

Meeting the Needs of Drivers

Cory Fourniquet, president of the Texas Auto Writers Association, remarked on the tough competition at the Truck Rodeo, emphasizing how the Santa Cruz XRT stood out due to its remarkable blend of rugged capabilities, modern design, and state-of-the-art technology. This accolade as the 'Compact Truck of Texas' not only celebrates Hyundai's dedication to innovation but also highlights the company's ability to meet the diverse needs of South Texas drivers. With this recognition, Hyundai reinforces its commitment to providing vehicles that harmoniously merge functionality with modernity.

Hyundai's Commitment to Innovation

Hyundai is not just another auto manufacturer; it's a brand driving towards future growth and technological advancements. Operating significantly within the U.S., Hyundai Motor America offers a diverse range of vehicles, focusing on combining advanced technology with customer-focused design. Their operations, including the North American headquarters, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama plant, and the newly established Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, serve as the backbone of their success in contributing to the U.S. economy, generating approximately $20.1 billion and supporting around 190,000 jobs each year.

For consumers seeking a versatile and cutting-edge vehicle, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT stands out as a prime candidate. Its recognition at the Texas Auto Writers Association’s Truck Rodeo is a testament to its quality, making it a worthy consideration for adventure-loving families and individuals alike.

For more detailed information about the latest offerings from Hyundai, you can visit their official news outlet at www.hyundainews.com.