Which Compact Truck Is Better for Akron, OH?
When drivers in Akron, Ohio shop for a compact truck that balances everyday comfort with real utility, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz and 2026 Ford Maverick are two of the most common choices.
Both promise efficiency, maneuverability, and versatility, but after driving both around Akron, Green, Fairlawn, Stow, and Cuyahoga Falls, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz delivers a more complete experience for Northeast Ohio roads.
At Ron Marhofer Hyundai of Green, compact truck shoppers from Akron, Green, Barberton, Kent, Hudson, and Tallmadge often compare these two models side by side.
While the Maverick is known for affordability and efficiency, the Santa Cruz stands out with stronger available performance, a more refined cabin, and technology that feels designed for daily life rather than basic utility.
Performance Tuned for Akron Roads
and Northeast Ohio Driving
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
2026 Ford Maverick
After test driving both trucks through city traffic and on the highway, I immediately noticed how much more confident the Santa Cruz feels behind the wheel.
The standard 2.5L engine delivers smooth, predictable power, and the available turbocharged engine transforms the Santa Cruz into something genuinely quick and capable.
Merging onto I-77 and accelerating along Route 8 felt effortless, especially with the turbo’s 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
Driving the Maverick back-to-back highlighted the difference. While it performs well for light-duty tasks and commuting, its power delivery feels more economy-focused.
The Santa Cruz, by comparison, felt more planted, more responsive, and better suited for towing, highway passing, and fully loaded driving.
Key Santa Cruz performance highlights include:
- Standard 2.5L 4-cylinder with 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque
- Available turbocharged 2.5L producing 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque
- Smooth 8-speed automatic transmission
- Available All-Wheel Drive for Northeast Ohio conditions
- Towing capability up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped
Interior Comfort That Feels More Like an SUV Than a Truck
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
2026 Ford Maverick
Sitting inside both cabins made the contrast obvious. In the Santa Cruz, I felt like I was in a modern SUV rather than a compact pickup.
The seating position is comfortable, road noise is well controlled, and the interior design feels thoughtfully laid out.
On longer stretches between Green and Cuyahoga Falls, the Santa Cruz remained quiet, stable, and comfortable.
The Maverick’s interior is functional and practical, but it leans more utilitarian. Materials feel simpler, and the overall environment doesn’t feel as refined.
The Santa Cruz stood out as the better choice for drivers who commute daily, carry passengers regularly, or simply want their truck to feel like more than a basic work tool.
Technology That Feels More Advanced and Driver-Focused
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
2026 Ford Maverick
Using both infotainment systems made it clear which one was built with the driver in mind.
In the Santa Cruz, I found the displays easier to read, the menus more intuitive, and the overall layout more modern.
Everything from navigation to media felt quicker to access and easier to manage while driving.
The Maverick’s technology works well, but it feels more straightforward and less immersive.
The Santa Cruz delivers a more digital, connected experience that better fits drivers who rely on technology during daily commutes across Akron, Stow, and Fairlawn.
Standout Santa Cruz technology features include:
- Available large touchscreen infotainment display
- Digital instrument cluster options
- Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ capability
- Available wireless smartphone charging
- Advanced digital driver information systems
Safety Features Built for Busy Streets and Ohio Winters
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
2026 Ford Maverick
Driving both vehicles through traffic and tight parking areas, I paid close attention to how the safety systems behaved.
In the Santa Cruz, the driver-assist features felt smooth, responsive, and reassuring without being intrusive.
Lane support, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision systems worked naturally in everyday driving.
While the Maverick also offers modern safety features, the Santa Cruz’s Hyundai SmartSense® suite felt more cohesive and refined.
In stop-and-go traffic and highway cruising, the Santa Cruz inspired greater confidence something that matters year-round in Northeast Ohio.
Standard Santa Cruz safety features include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Smart Cruise Control
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz vs. 2026 Ford Maverick:
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz | 2026 Ford Maverick |
|---|---|---|
| Max Horsepower | 281 hp | 250 hp |
| Max Torque | 311 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Engine Options | 2.5L 4-cyl / 2.5L turbo | 2.0L turbo / 2.5L hybrid |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | CVT (hybrid) / 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD available | FWD / AWD available |
| Max Towing | Up to 5,000 lbs | Up to 4,000 lbs |
| Interior Feel | Refined, SUV-like | Functional, utilitarian |
| Technology | Advanced digital displays | Simpler interface |
| Overall Character | Sporty, versatile, upscale | Budget-focused, practical |
Final Verdict: Santa Cruz Is the Better
Compact Truck for Akron Drivers
After driving both trucks across real Northeast Ohio roads, I found the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz to be the clear standout.
It delivers stronger available performance, a noticeably more refined interior, and a smoother, more confident driving experience.
The Santa Cruz feels equally comfortable commuting through Akron, traveling highways, or handling weekend projects.
The Maverick remains a practical option, but the Santa Cruz offers a higher-quality experience that better fits drivers who want their compact truck to feel as good to drive as it is useful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where can the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz be test-driven near Akron, OH?
+Ron Marhofer Hyundai of Green proudly serves Akron, Green, Barberton, Kent, Hudson, Tallmadge, and surrounding Summit County communities.
Which truck offers more power?
+The Santa Cruz offers up to 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
Which truck can tow more?
+The Santa Cruz can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, compared to up to 4,000 pounds for the Maverick.
Which has a more comfortable interior?
+The Santa Cruz offers a more refined, SUV-like interior environment.
Which is better for daily commuting?
+The Santa Cruz’s smoother ride, quieter cabin, and advanced technology make it especially well-suited for everyday driving.
Which is better for winter driving in Ohio?
+With available AWD and Hyundai SmartSense® safety technology, the Santa Cruz is well-suited for winter conditions.
Can financing or leasing be arranged locally?
+Yes. Ron Marhofer Hyundai of Green offers financing and lease support.
Test-Drive the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz in Akron, OH
Drivers searching for a compact truck that blends power, refinement, and everyday versatility are invited to visit Ron Marhofer Hyundai of Green.
Explore the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz in person, compare available trims, and see why so many drivers across Akron, Green, Fairlawn, Stow, Cuyahoga Falls, Hudson, and Tallmadge are choosing it over the Ford Maverick.
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