How the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Bed System Makes Projects Easier around Emporia, KS

Oct 7, 2025

Hatchett Hyundai East – How the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Bed System Makes Projects Easier around Emporia, KS

For many shoppers, the biggest question about the 2026 Santa Cruz is simple: can a compact Sport Adventure Vehicle really handle home projects and active weekends without the bulk of a full-size truck? The answer is yes—thanks largely to an innovative bed that solves everyday hauling with smart design. Molded-in shelf slots help you create custom tiers, up to six standard tie-down points secure awkward cargo, and the underfloor bin drains for easy cleanup after muddy trail runs or garden center trips. Add the available integrated retractable tonneau cover for lockable coverage, and you get a weather-resistant, secure storage solution that still works like a truck when you need open-bed space.

Beyond utility, the 2026 Santa Cruz keeps you plugged into your day with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and available wireless device charging. When weekend plans take you off the beaten path, available HTRAC All Wheel Drive and, on XRT, new Terrain Mode Select—Snow, Mud, and Sand—help you keep moving. Pair the available 2.5L turbocharged engine with HTRAC All Wheel Drive and you can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, ideal for small boats, utility trailers, or a pair of dirt bikes. Hatchett Hyundai East showcases how these features work together, so you can choose the trim and accessories that best match your projects and play. Here are just a few of the features that make the Santa Cruz an excellent choice:

Integrated tonneau cover: Available, retractable, and lockable for added security without sacrificing open-bed flexibility.
Underfloor storage bin: Sealed and drainable—great for wet gear, tools, or grocery runs that need containment.
Tie-down versatility: Up to six standard points plus available adjustable C-channel utility rails and cleats.
Bed power: An available 115-volt outlet lets you power tools or a portable fridge at the site or campsite.
Molded-in shelf slots: Support cross-planks to create custom cargo tiers and maximize vertical space.

Still curious if the 2026 Santa Cruz is right for you? Below are some of the questions we are frequently asked by customers shopping for a capable adventure vehicle:

Frequently Asked Questions:

How big is the Santa Cruz bed and what makes it different?

The bed is designed for versatility with molded-in shelf slots, multiple tie-downs, and an underfloor bin that drains. With the available integrated retractable tonneau cover, you can quickly switch between secure, covered storage and an open bed for larger cargo.

Can the 2026 Santa Cruz tow my weekend gear?

When equipped with the available 2.5L turbocharged engine and the proper equipment, towing capacity reaches up to 5,000 pounds—enough for small boats, utility trailers, or a pair of motorcycles.

Is All Wheel Drive available?

Yes. Available HTRAC All Wheel Drive enhances traction and stability. On XRT, Terrain Mode Select—Snow, Mud, and Sand—helps optimize power delivery for changing conditions.

What interior tech supports busy projects and travel?

A standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, available wireless device charging, Bluelink+, and on Limited, Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch deliver seamless convenience from the workweek to the weekend.

Which trims best fit project-focused buyers?

SEL Activity is a standout for bed utility and added tech, XRT brings rugged styling and terrain-tuned features, and Limited adds premium convenience like the available panoramic curved display and Integrated Memory System.

Whether you’re hauling landscaping supplies, storing wet kayaking gear, or locking up tools between jobs, the Santa Cruz bed system earns its keep with the kind of practicality that replaces multiple vehicles in one. And because the cabin is every bit as modern as the bed is functional, you don’t have to choose between comfort and capability. If you’re mapping out your next project or planning a multi-stop weekend, visit our team—serving Arkansas City, Emporia, and Winfield—for a personalized walkthrough and bed accessory recommendations.

Ready to see how smart bed features, available HTRAC All Wheel Drive, and advanced safety come together in one right-sized package? Reach out for an at-home or on-lot demo, compare trims side-by-side, and drive the setup that matches your must-haves. From the first question to your first haul, our goal is to make ownership easy, confident, and genuinely useful for the way you live.