Choosing the right compact truck is an important decision for drivers in Weatherford, Fort Worth, Dallas, and Granbury. At Jerry's Hyundai, we're comparing the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz and the 2026 Ford Maverick to help you decide which model offers the right balance of capability, comfort, and everyday versatility.
Both vehicles bring a fresh approach to the pickup segment, offering smaller footprints and flexible functionality. However, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz stands apart with its bold styling, refined interior, and innovative features designed for both work and play. Whether you're navigating city streets or heading out for a weekend adventure, the Santa Cruz delivers a more elevated driving experience.
While the Ford Maverick is known for its practicality and efficiency, the Santa Cruz offers a more premium feel with added convenience features and a design that blends SUV comfort with pickup utility.
A Closer Look at Both Compact Trucks-Weatherford, TX
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz is a Sport Adventure Vehicle that combines the versatility of a pickup bed with the comfort and handling of an SUV. It features a unibody design, which contributes to a smoother ride and more responsive handling.
The 2026 Ford Maverick is also built with a unibody platform and offers a compact truck design focused on efficiency and functionality.
Where the Santa Cruz stands out is in its attention to detail and upscale interior. Its cabin is designed with high-quality materials and a driver-focused layout, making it feel more refined than those of traditional compact trucks.
Performance That Fits Your Lifestyle Near Dallas, TX
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz is engineered to deliver confident performance for both daily commutes and weekend hauling.
Why the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Stands Out:
Available turbocharged engine for added power
Available HTRAC All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction
Smooth-shifting automatic transmission
Drive Mode Select for customizable performance
Impressive towing capability for its class
And more…
The Ford Maverick offers capable performance, with available hybrid and gas engine options. However, the Santa Cruz focuses on delivering a more refined and responsive driving experience, especially when equipped with its available turbocharged powertrain.
Connectivity & Convenience on the Road-Fort Worth, TX
Inside the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz, you'll find a modern, intuitive cabin packed with advanced technology designed to keep you connected.
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Technology Features Include:
Wireless Android Auto™ & Apple CarPlay®
Bose® Premium Audio System
Bluetooth® hands-free with wireless audio streaming
Dynamic Voice Recognition
SiriusXM Satellite Radio Trial
HD Radioâ„¢ Technology
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
12.3-inch Navigation touchscreen display
And more…
The Ford Maverick also offers useful technology, but many features vary by trim level. The Santa Cruz makes it easier for drivers in Weatherford and surrounding areas to access advanced tech features in a more refined, user-friendly environment.
Santa Cruz vs Maverick: Safety & Driver Assistance
Hyundai places a strong emphasis on safety, and the 2026 Santa Cruz reflects that commitment with a wide range of driver-assistance features.
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Safety Features Include:
Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW)
Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM)
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
Lane Following Assist (LFA)
High Beam Assist (HBA)
Smart Cruise Control 2 (SCC) with Stop & Go
Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
Highway Driving Assist (HDA)
Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Curve Control
And more…
The Ford Maverick also offers driver-assistance technologies, but Hyundai's approach emphasizes broad availability and ease of use, helping drivers stay confident on busy Texas roads.
Why the Santa Cruz Delivers More Value For Weatherford, TX Drivers
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz is designed to handle both work and recreation with ease. Its innovative bed design and flexible interior make it a practical choice for a wide range of lifestyles.
Drivers can benefit from driving the 2026 Santa Cruz for the following:
A versatile open bed for hauling gear
Lockable underfloor storage
Comfortable seating for daily driving
Compact size for easy maneuverability
A balance of utility and comfort
While the Maverick focuses on straightforward functionality, the Santa Cruz blends utility with comfort and style, making it ideal for drivers who want more than just a basic pickup.
More Features, More Everyday Value
One of the biggest advantages of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz is the value it delivers. Drivers get:
Advanced technology features
Strong available performance options
Modern design inside and out
Comprehensive safety systems
Everyday practicality with added comfort
The Ford Maverick remains a strong competitor in the compact truck segment. Still, the Santa Cruz offers a more premium experience with features and refinement that stand out at a comparable level.
Take the 2026 Santa Cruz for a Test Drive in Weatherford, TX
Ready to experience the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz for yourself? Visit Jerry's Hyundai in Weatherford and see how this Sport Adventure Vehicle stands out from the competition.
We proudly serve drivers from Weatherford, Fort Worth, Dallas, Granbury, and surrounding Texas communities. Stop by 3403 Fort Worth Hwy, Weatherford, TX 76087, or call (682) 332-4586 to schedule your test drive today.
Browse our new Hyundai inventory online, value your trade, or apply for financing from the comfort of your home. When you're ready for a vehicle that blends capability, comfort, and innovation, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz is waiting for you at Jerry's Hyundai.
DISCLAIMERS:
MSRP excludes freight charges, tax, title, and license fees. Freight charges and actual dealer prices may vary. Vehicles displayed may contain optional equipment at additional cost. Accessory items shown may vary according to model and illustration.
2026 SANTA CRUZ SE, SEL and SEL Activity FWD: 22 City/30 Hwy/25 Combined MPG. 2026 SANTA CRUZ SE, SEL and SEL Activity AWD: 21 City/29 Hwy/24 Combined MPG. 2026 SANTA CRUZ XRT and Limited AWD: 18 City/25 Hwy/20 Combined MPG. All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.
281 horsepower on XRT and Limited trims. 191 horsepower on SE, SEL, and SEL Activity trims.
HTRAC AWD available on SE, SEL, and SEL Activity trims. HTRAC AWD standard on XRT and Limited trims.
Standard on XRT and Limited trims.
Digital smartphone key requires a compatible smartphone and an appropriately equipped Hyundai vehicle. Not all smartphones are compatible. Hyundai vehicle must be equipped with smart key with push button start, wireless device charging, and Audio Video Navigation System 5.0 (or newer) or Display Audio 2.0. Tap to lock/unlock function works on front doors only. Requires MyHyundai with Bluelink app and active Bluelink account. Please visit www.MyHyundai.com for information on compatible devices. Features and specifications subject to change. See your Owner's Manual for additional details and limitations.
2026 SANTA CRUZ SE, SEL and SEL Activity FWD: 22 City/30 Hwy/25 Combined MPG. All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.
2026 SANTA CRUZ SE, SEL and SEL Activity AWD: 21 City/29 Hwy/24 Combined MPG. All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.
2026 SANTA CRUZ XRT and Limited AWD: 18 City/25 Hwy/20 Combined MPG. All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.
2026 SANTA CRUZ Limited AWD: 18 City/25 Hwy/20 Combined MPG. All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.
Always properly secure all cargo.
Towing capacity varies by configuration. 5,000 lb. maximum towing capacity requires SANTA CRUZ XRT or Limited trim and installation of aftermarket towing equipment. See Owner's Manual for proper use and additional information.
Never program while driving. GPS mapping may not be detailed in all areas or reflect current road regulations. On trim levels where navigation system is available but not a standard feature, it is available as part of a specific options package. Not available on all models. See dealer regarding availability.
Bluelink+ is available to original purchasers and lessees of new 2023 IONIQ 6 and new 2024 or newer Bluelink-equipped Hyundai models. Not available on all models and trims. Bluelink+ requires an active Bluelink account subject to the Connected Services Terms and Conditions. Bluelink features vary by model and trim. Only use Bluelink features and corresponding devices when safe to do so. Cellular and GPS coverage is required. Fees apply for map and multimedia over-the-air (OTA) updates after an initial three-year period of complimentary updates. Three-year term starts from the new vehicle date of first use. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change.
Bluelink services rely on digital wireless telecommunications technology outside of Hyundai's control. Bluelink is dependent on 4G LTE cellular networks controlled and maintained by third-party wireless carriers. If and when these networks change and/or discontinue service, or the underlying technology required to support Bluelink becomes obsolete, then the connected services will not work and Hyundai will be forced to cancel impacted subscription services.
Standard on XRT and Limited trims.
Digital smartphone key requires a compatible smartphone and an appropriately equipped Hyundai vehicle. Not all smartphones are compatible. Hyundai vehicle must be equipped with smart key with push button start, wireless device charging, and Audio Video Navigation System 5.0 (or newer) or Display Audio 2.0. Tap to lock/unlock function works on front doors only. Requires MyHyundai with Bluelink app and active Bluelink account. Please visit www.MyHyundai.com for information on compatible devices. Features and specifications subject to change. See your Owner's Manual for additional details and limitations.
Class comparison based on primary SUV crossover competitors as defined by Hyundai Motor America. Competitors within this class are the 2025 Ford Maverick and the 2025 Honda Ridgeline. Claim based on comparison of specifications on manufacturer websites.
Hyundai Pay is available on select 2021-2026 model year Hyundai vehicles equipped with Bluelink and touchscreen navigation. Requires an active Hyundai Bluelink mobile app account, subject to the Connected Services and Hyundai Pay Terms and Conditions. Cellular and GPS coverage is required. Only use Bluelink features and corresponding devices when safe to do so. Valid Visa, MasterCard, or American Express credit card must be linked to Hyundai Pay. Credit card eligibility and terms are determined by the card issuing bank. Hyundai Pay is currently accepted at select gas stations, charging stations and parking facilities (collectively, "Merchants") in the U.S. Participating Merchants may not operate in all states or locations. Additional Merchant terms and fees may apply. Features, specifications, fees and availability are subject to change. Visit owners.hyundaiusa.com/resources for more information.
Qi wireless charging function is based on smartphone compatibility and/or specific accessory cases.
Apple CarPlay is compatible with certain Apple devices. For a full list of compatible devices, please visit apple.com/ios/carplay
CarPlay is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. Android Auto is compatible with Android phones running Android 6.0 or higher. Android Auto may not be available on all devices and is not available in all countries or regions. Additional apps may be required. Android and Android Auto are trademarks of Google LLC.
Claim based on comparison of specifications on manufacturer websites.
Standard on SE, SEL, and SEL Activity trims.
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection (FCA-Ped) is intended to be a supplement to safe driving practices. The system is not designed to detect certain stationary objects such as trees or poles, and may not detect all vehicles or pedestrians under certain conditions. The system is a driver assistance system and is not a substitute for safe driving. The driver is responsible for being attentive and maintaining control of the vehicle, and should not wait for the system's alerts before braking as there may not be sufficient time to brake safely. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Standard on XRT and Limited trims.
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection (FCA-JT) is intended to be a supplement to safe driving practices. The system is not designed to detect certain stationary objects such as trees or poles, and may not detect all vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists under certain conditions. The system's Junction Turning function operates when the vehicle's left turn signal is activated, the vehicle is travelling between approximately 6-19 mph and the oncoming vehicle's speed is between approximately 19-44 mph. The system is a driver assistance system and is not a substitute for safe driving. The driver is responsible for being attentive and maintaining control of the vehicle, and should not wait for the system's alerts before braking as there may not be sufficient time to brake safely. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Standard on all trims.
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) can alert the driver of a potential collision by providing an audible warning and/or applying braking. RCCA is active when the vehicle is in reverse and operating at low speeds. Never rely exclusively on RCCA. RCCA cannot prevent all collisions and may not provide alerts or braking in all conditions. Always look over your shoulder and use your mirrors to confirm rear clearance. There are limitations to the function, detection, range and clarity of the system. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Standard on XRT and Limited trims.
Highway Driving Assist (HDA), is for highway use only and can help keep the vehicle centered in its lane while maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead only when the lane markings are clearly visible on the road and should not be used in poor weather, heavy or varying traffic, or on winding or slippery roads. HDA will not work under all circumstances and will not prevent loss of control. Driver remains responsible to slow or stop the vehicle to avoid a collision. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Standard on XRT and Limited trims.
Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) assists driver in changing lanes by providing a live view of the blind spots on either side of the vehicle and an audible alert if another vehicle is detected. Turn signal must be activated and other system limitations apply. Do not rely exclusively on BVM. It is the driver's responsibility to be aware of the surroundings and ensure it is clear before changing lanes or directions. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Standard on all trims.
Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) can assist the driver by warning of other cars in the blind spot region. While your turn signal is on, it can alert you visually, by sound and/or by haptic feedback when equipped. It senses the rear side territory of the vehicle when it is traveling over approximately 12 mph. There are limitations to the function, range, detection and clarity of the system. It will not detect all vehicles or objects in the blind spot. Its operation depends on the size, distance, angle and relative speed difference between your car and other cars. BCW may not operate if sensors are obscured in any way. Do not rely exclusively on BCW. BCW is a supplemental system, and the driver must still be attentive and exercise caution when driving. It is the driver's responsibility to be aware of the surroundings and ensure it is clear before changing lanes or directions. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Standard on XRT and Limited trims.
Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC) with Curve Control can help automatically adjust vehicle speed when driving on highways by using road information from the navigation system. NSCC only operates on main roads of select highways, and does not operate at interchanges or junctions. NSCC should not be used in poor weather, heavy or varying traffic, on winding or slippery roads, or if the navigation system is not working properly. NSCC is a driver convenience feature and not a collision avoidance or warning device. Driver remains responsible for checking the speed limit and distance to the vehicle ahead, steering the vehicle and slowing or stopping the vehicle to avoid a collision. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Standard on all trims.
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) will not work under all circumstances. It operates above 40 mph and only when it is able to detect painted lane markings. It cannot function if the lane markings cannot be seen clearly. If the lines cannot be seen clearly due to poor road conditions, weather, or lighting conditions, it may not function. It also may not function on very rough roads, when walls, curbs or concrete barriers are close by, or if following another car too closely. Since it "sees" the lane markings using a camera in the upper windshield area, it is imperative this area be clear and free of blockage such as stickers, dirt, snow, tinting material, markings and labels. Lane Keeping Assist is not a substitute for safe driving practices, but is a supplemental assist only. The driver is responsible for always maintaining command and control of the vehicle and must keep hands on the wheel at all times. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Standard on all trims.
Driver Attention Warning (DAW) is only a warning to inform the driver of a potential lack of driver attention or drowsiness. It does not detect and provide an alert in every situation. It is the driver's responsibility to remain alert at all times. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Standard on XRT and Limited trims.
Surround View Monitor (SVM) is a parking support system. SVM cannot completely eliminate blind spots, may not detect every object and does not warn of moving objects. Always check surroundings before moving vehicle. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Standard on XRT and Limited trims.
Forward Attention Warning monitors the driver's eye position using the vehicle's in-cabin camera and may provide an audible warning if it detects driver inattention or drowsiness. It does not detect and provide an alert in every situation. It is the driver's responsibility to remain alert at all times. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Standard on all trims.
When the vehicle is parked, Safe Exit Warning (SEW) can alert the driver when a vehicle is approaching from behind. SEW does not work in all situations and is not a substitute for driver or passenger attentiveness. Always be aware of your surroundings and attentive of approaching vehicles. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Standard on all trims.
Upon turning the engine off, Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) will provide a visual alert on the instrument cluster. ROA is not a substitute for driver attentiveness. Never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Standard on all trims.
Lane Following Assist (LFA) helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane only when the lane markings are clearly visible on the road. Lane Following Assist will not work under all circumstances and will not prevent loss of control. Lane Following Assist is a supplemental assist, and does not replace the need for extreme care and attention by the driver. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) New Car Assessment Program (www.nhtsa.gov).
Shopper Assurance available at participating Hyundai dealers. Financing available for well-qualified buyers. See HyundaiUSA.com/us/en/shopper-assurance for details.
Over-The-Air (OTA) software updates are available and complimentary to original purchasers and lessees of new 2026 Santa Cruz Bluelink-equipped Hyundai models ("Eligible Models"). Map and multimedia OTA updates are available and complimentary to original purchasers and lessees of Eligible Models for an initial three-year term, after which fees apply. Three-year term starts from new vehicle date of first use. OTA updates require an Eligible Model and an active Bluelink account subject to the Connected Services Terms and Conditions. Only use Bluelink features and corresponding devices when safe to do so. Cellular and GPS coverage is required. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change.
Bluelink services rely on digital wireless telecommunications technology outside of Hyundai's control. Bluelink is dependent on 4G LTE cellular networks controlled and maintained by third-party wireless carriers. If and when these networks change and/or discontinue service, or their underlying technology required to support Bluelink becomes obsolete, then the connected services will not work and Hyundai will be forced to cancel impacted subscription services.
America's Best Warranty claim based on total package of warranty programs. See dealer for LIMITED WARRANTY details. See your Hyundai dealer and HyundaiUSA.com/Assurance for details and limitations regarding Hyundai's Powertrain Limited Warranty, New Vehicle Limited Warranty and Roadside Assistance program. Competitive claim based on comparison of warranty specifications on manufacturer websites.
For every new Hyundai vehicle purchased, $22 is donated by Hyundai to Hyundai Hope on Wheels. Funds are used for pediatric cancer research grants and to raise public awareness. For more info visit HyundaiHopeonWheels.org.
America's Best Warranty claim based on total package of warranty programs. See dealer for LIMITED WARRANTY details.
See your Hyundai dealer for details and limitations.
