2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night AWD: Colorado's Capable Sport Pickup
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night AWD is the standout choice for Colorado's rural outdoor enthusiasts who want turbocharged capability and all-wheel-drive confidence without the bulk of a traditional truck. With 281 hp, a 5,000 lb tow rating, about 27 cu ft of bed cargo space, and standard all-wheel drive, it earns Cars.com's Top Pick: Best Urban Pickup while delivering the mountain-ready traction that Teller County's alpine roads and Black Forest's pine-forest trails demand. Starting at $38,460 MSRP, it's a well-rounded Sport Adventure Vehicle built for real Colorado life.
Table of Contents
- How Much Does the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD Cost to Own in Teller County?
- Rugged Looks That Fit Teller County's Mountain Terrain in the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD
- Power and Traction for Forest Trails and Ranch Roads with the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD
- Spacious Cabin Comfort for Family Trips in the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD
- Smart Tech to Navigate Between Nearby Cities in the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD
- Advanced Safety Built for Remote and Mountainous Roads in the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD
- Mid-Range Pricing that Matches Your Rural Colorado Lifestyle for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night AWD
- Local Service You Can Count on for Hunting and Hiking Seasons with the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD
- Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD's Strengths
- Answers to Your Questions About Driving the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD in Mountain Conditions
How Much Does the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD Cost to Own in Teller County?
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night AWD carries a base MSRP of $38,460, with a destination charge of $1,395, bringing the delivered starting price to $39,855 before any options or accessories. That figure positions this trim as a serious value in the compact pickup segment, particularly given that it includes standard all-wheel drive and the more powerful turbocharged engine — two features that matter greatly when you're navigating Teller County's mountain roads or the long rural stretches between Peyton and Colorado Springs.
| Feature | Night 2.5 AWD |
|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $38,460 |
| Destination charge | $1,395 |
For buyers comparing this against rivals like the Ford Maverick or Honda Ridgeline, the Night AWD delivers a compelling package: turbocharged output, all-wheel-drive traction, a blacked-out sport aesthetic, and a bed with a composite liner and tonneau cover — all included at this price point. The Car Connection has noted that the Santa Cruz Night presents strong value for buyers specifically seeking the turbocharged engine with all-wheel drive, and that assessment holds up when you consider how much capability comes standard.
Running costs are reasonable for a vehicle of this class. Fuel economy of 19 city / 27 highway / 22 combined MPG on regular 87-octane unleaded means the 17.7-gallon tank provides an EPA-estimated range of 389 miles per fill-up — practical for the longer drives rural Colorado life often requires. Whether you're commuting from Peyton along Highway 24 or heading into Colorado Springs for supplies, fuel stops stay manageable.
If you're ready to explore availability, browse our current new Santa Cruz inventory to see which configurations are in stock at #1 Phil Long Hyundai of Motor City. We also offer flexible financing options and a no-payments-for-90-days program (WAC) that can make the purchase process more comfortable for budget-conscious families and working households.
Rugged Looks That Fit Teller County's Mountain Terrain in the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD
Strip away the marketing and the Night AWD makes a simple visual statement: blacked-out everything, paired with a crew-cab body that sits confidently at 8.6 inches of ground clearance. That stance doesn't just look purposeful — it's genuinely useful when you're picking your way along forest service roads or navigating uneven terrain near Teller County's pine-covered ridgelines.
The exterior design follows Hyundai's Sport Adventure Vehicle philosophy, blending crossover-smooth body lines with pickup-truck utility. The four-door crew-cab configuration features four front-hinged doors, a standard roof with black roof rails, and painted front and rear bumpers that complete the cohesive darkened look the Night trim is named for. Projector-beam LED headlights with auto high-beam control provide strong visibility on unlit mountain roads at night — a genuine safety benefit when you're returning from an evening fishing trip near Florissant. LED daytime running lights, LED rear lights, and LED brake lights round out the full lighting suite.
The bed itself is a defining exterior element. It measures 52.1 inches long, 53.9 inches wide, and 19.2 inches deep, with a loading floor height of 31.6 inches. The composite liner is built in, and the tonneau cover comes standard — keeping your gear dry through Colorado's afternoon mountain thunderstorms without any aftermarket additions. A fixed cargo step at the rear makes loading and unloading straightforward after a long hike.
Two exterior color choices are confirmed for this trim: Phantom Black and Hampton Gray — both understated tones that suit the Night trim's sport-dark aesthetic and blend naturally with Colorado's mountain and forest landscapes.
Shoppers interested in a pre-owned Santa Cruz can also explore our pre-owned vehicle inventory for additional options at #1 Phil Long Hyundai of Motor City.
Power and Traction for Forest Trails and Ranch Roads with the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD
Put simply, the Night AWD's powertrain is the reason to choose this trim over less expensive configurations. The Smartstream 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque — meaningful numbers that translate to confident passing power on mountain highways and the pulling force needed for hauling trailers loaded with ranch equipment or ATVs across Peyton's rolling grasslands.
| Feature | Night 2.5 AWD |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L |
| Horsepower | 281 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | SHIFTRONIC |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive |
The SHIFTRONIC transmission is an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic unit that delivers quick, responsive gear changes. It includes a manual mode and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, so you can dial in engine braking on steep descents — a useful capability on the switchbacks and graded forest roads that characterize Teller County's mountain terrain. The transmission also supports multiple driver modes that adjust throttle and steering response.
Standard all-wheel drive is what truly sets this trim apart for Colorado buyers. The system continuously manages torque distribution between the front and rear axles, providing the grip and stability you need on snow-dusted mountain passes, muddy ranch tracks, and the loose gravel surfaces common on back roads throughout the region. Ground clearance of 8.6 inches adds to the confidence, and approach, breakover, and departure angles of 17.5°, 18.6°, and 23.2° respectively confirm the Santa Cruz can handle more than just paved surfaces.
The suspension uses an independent strut setup at the front with coil springs and a multi-link independent rear with coil springs, keeping the ride composed on rough surfaces while maintaining the car-like handling that makes this vehicle genuinely pleasant to drive daily. Rear automatic leveling helps maintain a stable ride even when the bed is loaded.
If you're planning to trade in your current vehicle toward a Night AWD, you can get an estimate on your trade-in's value right from our website before you visit the showroom.
Spacious Cabin Comfort for Family Trips in the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD
A stat worth leading with: the Santa Cruz Night AWD seats 5 passengers in a full crew-cab layout with 40.7 inches of front headroom and 41.4 inches of front legroom — numbers that reflect genuine crossover-class interior space rather than the cramped rear quarters typical of compact pickups. Rear passengers get 40.1 inches of headroom and 36.5 inches of legroom, making this a practical family vehicle for day trips to Florissant Fossil Beds or community events in Peyton.
| Feature | Night 2.5 AWD |
|---|---|
| Seating | 5 |
| Cargo | 27.0 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 4,164 lbs |
| Towing | 5,000 lbs |
| Payload | 1,568 lbs |
Shoulder room measures 57.6 inches front and 56.1 inches rear, and hip room comes in at 54.5 inches front and 53.5 inches rear — all comfortable for adults on longer drives. The rear seat folds asymmetrically in a split-bench configuration, opening up additional interior storage when you need it. Below-seat storage in the rear adds another practical hiding spot for valuables or smaller gear items you want to keep out of the bed.
The driver's seat is 5-way power-adjustable with electric height, reach, recline, tilt, and lumbar controls — a meaningful comfort upgrade for those who spend long hours commuting or driving across rural Colorado. The passenger seat adjusts manually. Both front seats are heated, and both front and rear seats feature illuminated vanity mirrors.
Upholstery throughout is synthetic leather in black (the Black H-Tex interior option), which is durable and easy to clean after outdoor adventures. The cabin includes a full-length floor console, front and rear cup holders, front and rear center armrests, and a partial overhead console. Dual-zone automatic climate control with a micro-filter ventilation system keeps the interior comfortable regardless of season.
The Santa Cruz's curb weight of 4,164 lbs and its 1,568 lb payload capacity mean you can load the bed with gear, tools, or supplies without pushing the vehicle beyond its limits. Ready to get started? You can submit a financing application online before you visit us at #1 Phil Long Hyundai of Motor City.
Smart Tech to Navigate Between Nearby Cities in the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD
The technology suite in the Night AWD is built around two matched 10.25-inch screens: a digital instrument cluster and a central touchscreen infotainment display. Both are fixed-orientation units, and the infotainment screen includes a physical control wheel for intuitive operation while driving — important when you're navigating mountain roads and don't want to take your eyes off the road for extended periods.
The infotainment system includes a built-in navigation system with a 10.25-inch display, 3D mapping, voice guidance, and real-time traffic information. Map updates are included for 36 months. Satellite radio comes with a 3-month trial subscription, and the system includes AM/FM radio, a digital radio tuner, and a 6-speaker audio system. Audio controls are mounted on the steering wheel for hands-free operation.
Smartphone integration is fully wireless-capable. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both included with effectively unlimited subscription terms (999 months), meaning you won't face a paywall to mirror your phone's navigation, music, or messaging apps. Bluetooth connectivity, voice activation, and an apps control interface round out the connected experience. A front USB connection port, 2 front USB charging ports, a front 12V power outlet, and a wireless charging pad mean multiple devices can stay powered simultaneously.
Hyundai's Bluelink+ connected services platform adds a meaningful layer of remote functionality. Over-the-air software updates keep the vehicle current without dealership visits. Remote services — including remote start, remote lock/unlock, vehicle diagnostics, geo-fencing, speed alerts, theft notification, and driving history analysis — are included for 36 months. Remote HVAC control (heating and cooling) is also included for 36 months, so you can pre-condition the cabin before a cold morning departure in Teller County's alpine climate. A built-in SIM card provides the telematics connection. Proximity keyless entry and a push-button start make access quick and convenient.
Advanced Safety Built for Remote and Mountainous Roads in the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD
The Santa Cruz Night AWD earned a TOP SAFETY PICK designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in 2024 — a meaningful credential for buyers who regularly travel remote mountain roads where response times from emergency services can be long. IIHS rated the headlights Good and the moderate overlap front test Good, the small overlap front driver test Good, and the side impact test Good. NHTSA awarded a 5-star frontal crash rating and a 4-star rollover rating.
The standard advanced driver assistance suite covers the scenarios most relevant to rural Colorado driving. Forward Collision Avoidance with Pedestrian Detection monitors the road ahead and can apply automatic emergency braking — including at low speeds as slow as 6 mph — to help avoid or mitigate front collisions with vehicles and pedestrians. This system activates brake lights automatically and provides visual and acoustic warnings before intervening.
Lane Keeping Assist monitors lane markings and applies corrective steering input if the vehicle begins to drift without a turn signal — useful on the long, undivided rural highways connecting Peyton to Colorado Springs. Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist uses radar to monitor adjacent lanes and can actively intervene with braking if you begin to change lanes while a vehicle is present in your blind spot. Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist watches for crossing traffic when backing out of parking spaces or driveways, a practical feature for tight ranch entrances and busy parking areas alike.
The passive safety structure includes 6 airbags: driver and passenger front airbags, front side airbags, and front-and-rear side curtain airbags. All three rear seating positions have 3-point seatbelts. Front seatbelts include pre-tensioners and height adjustment. ISOFIX child seat anchors are standard. A trailer stability program helps maintain control when towing, and anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic parking brake auto-hold are all standard. An emergency call system and accident data recorder provide additional protection when venturing into areas with limited cellular coverage.
Mid-Range Pricing that Matches Your Rural Colorado Lifestyle for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night AWD
The Night AWD occupies a sensible position in the Santa Cruz lineup: it delivers the turbocharged engine and standard all-wheel drive that active Colorado buyers genuinely need, without requiring a step up to the top-tier Limited grade. For families and working individuals in rural areas who want real capability — not just the appearance of it — this trim's pricing reflects honest value.
At a base MSRP of $38,460 (plus $1,395 destination), the Night AWD is priced competitively against comparably equipped rivals in the compact pickup segment. The Ford Maverick, Honda Ridgeline, and Chevrolet Colorado are the most direct comparisons, but none combines the Santa Cruz's crossover ride quality, urban maneuverability, and blacked-out sport aesthetic in the same package at this price point.
Several factory-installed options allow buyers to personalize the Night AWD further. The Cargo Package adds a cargo area net for securing smaller items in the bed. The Winter Package includes front and rear mud flaps and all-weather floor mats — a practical addition for Colorado's mud and snow seasons. Standalone accessories include a bed mat, tailgate cover, bed rails, bed fence, sliding bed divider, side steps, roof rack cross rails, fender flares, underbody protection plates, and a tow hitch. An auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink garage door opener is also available as a standalone option.
#1 Phil Long Hyundai of Motor City also offers a no-payments-for-90-days program (WAC) and specializes in helping customers with challenged credit purchase with zero cash down — practical options for buyers who want to get into a capable vehicle without straining their household budget.
Local Service You Can Count on for Hunting and Hiking Seasons with the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD
Owning a capable vehicle is only part of the equation. Keeping it reliable through Colorado's demanding seasons — spring mud, summer heat, fall hunting trips, and winter mountain driving — requires a service partner you can trust. At #1 Phil Long Hyundai of Motor City, our certified technicians are trained specifically on Hyundai vehicles and understand the maintenance needs of trucks and crossovers that see real outdoor use.
You can book a service appointment online at a time that works around your schedule, whether that's before a weekend hunting trip or after returning from a week of camping. Transparent pricing and efficient turnaround mean you're not left without your vehicle for longer than necessary.
We're proud to serve Colorado Springs' military and healthcare communities, as well as the working families and outdoor enthusiasts across Teller County, Black Forest, and Peyton. Our service center is staffed by people who understand that your Santa Cruz isn't just a vehicle — it's the tool that makes your Colorado lifestyle possible.
For additional peace of mind, learn more about our Repaired for Life vehicle coverage program, which provides long-term protection beyond the standard factory warranty. Combined with Hyundai's own comprehensive warranty coverage, it's a strong foundation for confident ownership.
Speaking of warranty: #1 Phil Long Hyundai of Motor City backs new Hyundai purchases with a Powertrain Limited Warranty covering up to 30 years or 300,000 miles for original owners, good at any ASE Certified Service Center nationwide. That's the kind of long-term protection that makes owning a Santa Cruz in rural Colorado a genuinely reassuring decision.
Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD's Strengths
Third-party recognition matters when you're making a significant purchase, and the 2024 Santa Cruz has earned it from multiple credible sources.
Cars.com awarded the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz its Top Pick: Best Urban Pickup designation — a recognition that specifically validates the Santa Cruz's approach to blending pickup utility with crossover daily livability. Cars.com's Detroit Bureau Chief called it a city dweller's dream for those who need pickup utility without the traditional truck experience.
Car and Driver included the Santa Cruz on its 2024 Editors' Choice list, noting that it drives like a car while handling truck-worthy tasks, with a segment-best cabin look and feel. That assessment aligns directly with what the Night AWD delivers: a refined interior, responsive turbocharged powertrain, and genuine cargo capability.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the 2024 Santa Cruz a TOP SAFETY PICK for 2024, with Good ratings across key structural crash tests and a Good headlight rating — important credentials for a vehicle that regularly operates on unlit rural roads.
MotorTrend has observed that the Santa Cruz combines truck utility with SUV comfort in a way that excels at daily drivability — a point that resonates clearly for buyers who need one vehicle to handle both the morning commute and the weekend adventure. Carsforsale.com has specifically highlighted the Night trim as the configuration to target, noting its sharper styling, more powerful engine, more capable technology, and useful bed features relative to base configurations.
Answers to Your Questions About Driving the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night 2.5 AWD in Mountain Conditions
Q: How does the Santa Cruz Night AWD handle snowy or icy mountain roads?
Standard all-wheel drive continuously distributes torque between the front and rear axles, providing meaningful traction on snow-covered or icy surfaces common in Teller County's alpine environment. The system works in combination with electronic traction control and stability control to help maintain vehicle composure. The 8.6 inches of ground clearance provides additional confidence on unplowed roads. For added winter preparedness, the optional Winter Package adds front and rear mud flaps and all-weather floor mats to protect the vehicle and interior from Colorado's freeze-thaw cycles.
Q: Can the Santa Cruz Night AWD tow a small trailer or ATV?
Yes. The Night AWD is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs with a braked trailer, and up to 1,650 lbs unbraked. That's sufficient for a loaded ATV trailer, a small fishing boat, or a utility trailer with ranch supplies — the kinds of loads that Peyton and Teller County residents regularly haul. A trailer stability program is standard, actively helping maintain control when a trailer is attached. A tow hitch is available as a factory-installed accessory option if not already equipped.
Q: How practical is the cargo bed for outdoor gear?
The bed measures 52.1 inches long by 53.9 inches wide, with a total cargo volume of about 27 cu ft. A composite liner and tonneau cover come standard, protecting gear from weather. Sliding tie-down anchor points and load hooks are built in. Optional accessories including a bed mat, bed rails, bed fence, sliding bed divider, and cargo nets allow you to further customize the bed for bikes, camping gear, or fishing equipment.
Q: What fuel does the Night AWD require, and what is its range?
The Smartstream 2.5L turbocharged engine runs on regular 87-octane unleaded fuel — no premium required. EPA fuel economy is rated at 19 city / 27 highway / 22 combined MPG. With a 17.7-gallon tank, the EPA-estimated range is 389 miles per fill-up, which covers the longer rural drives between Colorado Springs, Teller County, and Peyton without frequent fuel stops.
Q: How do I get started at #1 Phil Long Hyundai of Motor City?
Visit us at 170 W Motor Way, Colorado Springs, CO 80905, or give our team (719) 453-0549 to schedule a test drive, ask about current inventory, or discuss financing options. Our team is ready to help you find the right Santa Cruz configuration for your Colorado lifestyle — whether you're commuting from Peyton, exploring Teller County's back roads, or planning your next outdoor adventure.
While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of all vehicle details, equipment, pricing and incentives, all information is subject to human error. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. All pricing and financing offers are WAC. All listed equipment, benefits, and comparisons are believed to be accurate, however are subject to error. See Dealer for details.
