2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Trim Levels Explained near Mount Prospect, IL
For shoppers comparing a 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ near Mount Prospect, IL, this compact Sport Adventure Vehicle offers a smart middle ground between SUV comfort and open-bed practicality. The 2027 model year carries forward the confident SANTA CRUZ formula while streamlining the lineup to three focused trims: SE, SEL Activity, and XRT. Every trim includes a useful Sheet Molded Composite bed, a lockable under-bed storage compartment, heavy-duty cargo D-rings, a multi-functional tailgate with assisted open and close, and standard H-Tex®-trimmed seating surfaces. The SE keeps the package approachable and versatile, the SEL Activity adds the convenience and utility features many daily drivers want, and the XRT brings the strongest performance, HTRAC AWD, elevated safety technology, and premium cabin upgrades. At Patrick Hyundai, our team sees this model as an excellent fit for drivers who want something easy to drive every day, yet far more flexible than a traditional compact SUV.
2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Trim Comparison
| Trim Level | Focus | Powertrain | Technology | Utility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE | Essential daily versatility | 2.5L, FWD or AWD | 12.3-inch touchscreen | Open bed storage |
| SEL Activity | Convenience and bed function | 2.5L, FWD or AWD | Digital Instrument Cluster | Tonneau, utility rails |
| XRT | Turbocharged adventure confidence | 2.5T, HTRAC AWD | Navigation, Bose® audio | Terrain Mode Select |
2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Trim Options
SE
H-Tex® seating surfaces · 12.3-inch touchscreen · Sheet Molded Composite bed · Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
The 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ SE starts the lineup with the everyday essentials that make this vehicle so easy to understand. It uses the Smartstream 2.5L GDI + MPI DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine, rated at 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while HTRAC AWD is available for drivers who want extra traction confidence. Inside, the SE includes standard H-Tex® seating surfaces, a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Bluelink+, front and second-row USB Type-C ports, and a rearview camera. The bed is not an afterthought, either. Standard features include a lockable under-bed storage compartment, sidewall bed storage compartments, heavy-duty cargo D-rings, roof-mounted LED cargo lighting, integrated rear bumper side steps, and a multi-functional tailgate with assisted open and close. Safety content is also strong, with Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Safe Exit Warning, and Driver Attention Warning.
SEL Activity
Power sunroof · Integrated tonneau cover · 12.3-inch Digital Instrument Cluster · Wireless Device Quick Charging
The 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ SEL Activity builds on the SE by adding features that make the vehicle feel more complete for daily use, errands, commuting, and recreation. Its powertrain remains the efficient and proven 2.5L engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard and HTRAC AWD available. The biggest changes are found in comfort, visibility, bed management, and cabin technology. This trim adds an 8-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support, heated front seats, dual automatic temperature control with Auto Defogger, rear A/C vents, front auto down and up power windows, illuminated sunvisors, and 15W Wireless Device Quick Charging. The 12.3-inch Digital Instrument Cluster gives the driver a cleaner and more modern view of vehicle information. Outside, SEL Activity adds a conventional power sunroof, roof side rails, heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators, rear sliding glass with defroster, and LED bed lighting. Its factory-installed integrated tonneau cover with built-in T-slot accessory tracks, dual C-channel adjustable utility track rail and cleat system, and 115V bed outlet make the open bed easier to organize, cover, and use.
XRT
2.5T engine · HTRAC AWD · Bose® Premium Audio System · Surround View Monitor
The 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ XRT is the most capable and feature-rich trim in the streamlined lineup, and it feels purpose-built for drivers who want more power, more confidence, and more technology in one compact package. Under the hood, the Smartstream 2.5L Turbo GDI + MPI DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine produces 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard HTRAC AWD. XRT is also the only trim with Terrain Mode Select, adding another layer of control for changing surfaces. This trim raises trailering capability to a maximum of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with trailer brakes, making it appealing for small trailers, utility gear, or weekend equipment. Inside, XRT adds a 12.3-inch Audio-Video-Navigation color touchscreen with onboard Navigation, Bose® Premium Audio System, Dynamic Voice Recognition, leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel, auto-dimming mirror, rear armrest with cup holders, Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch, and Smart Cruise Control 2 with Stop & Go. Safety upgrades include Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Highway Driving Assist 1, Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control with Curve Control, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Forward Attention Warning, and enhanced Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection.
Which 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Trim is Best for Mount Prospect Drivers?
For anyone searching for a 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ near Mount Prospect, IL, the best trim depends on how much open-bed utility, technology, and all-wheel-drive confidence belongs in the daily routine. Around Mount Prospect, drivers often balance neighborhood streets, Northwest Highway, I-90 connections, Metra station runs, shopping stops, and family schedules, so the SANTA CRUZ makes sense because it stays easy to maneuver while offering pickup-style flexibility. The SE is a smart entry point for drivers who want standard safety technology, open-bed storage, and a comfortable cabin without overcomplicating the choice. SEL Activity is the most balanced option for many local shoppers because it adds the integrated tonneau cover, utility rails, power sunroof, heated seats, wireless charging, and digital gauges. XRT is the clear fit for drivers who want turbocharged performance, standard HTRAC AWD, premium audio, onboard Navigation, and the most advanced driver-assistance features. At Patrick Hyundai, we recommend matching the trim to how much capability and convenience will be used week after week.
*Not actual model shown in images
- Choose SE if daily driving, essential safety features, and practical bed storage are the top priorities.
- Choose SEL Activity if comfort upgrades, covered cargo space, bed utility hardware, and modern cabin technology matter most.
- Choose XRT if turbocharged power, standard HTRAC AWD, premium audio, onboard Navigation, and advanced camera systems are must-have features.
- Choose SEL Activity or XRT if regular cargo hauling, recreation gear, or home project supplies are part of the routine.
*Images may not show trim level described
