Bed Utility and AWD Confidence on the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz for Doniphan, NE Drivers

Jan 10, 2026

Hyundai of Grand Island – Bed Utility and AWD Confidence on the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz for Doniphan, NE Drivers

The 2026 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ is built for people who do more with every mile—hauling, camping, commuting, and keeping life organized without trading a smooth ride for utility. Two details make a huge difference for Doniphan, NE drivers who split time between town and trail: the innovative bed system and available HTRAC All Wheel Drive. Together, they turn everyday tasks into easy wins and weekend plans into simple yeses.

Let’s start with the bed. SANTA CRUZ includes standard tie-down points, molded-in slots for cross planks to create a quick “shelf,” and a sealed underfloor storage bin that drains after muddy days or ice-filled tailgates. Add the available integrated tonneau cover for a streamlined, lockable solution that keeps gear out of sight and protected from the elements. The available 115V power outlet supports campsite lighting or small tools, while optional C-channel utility rails with movable cleats help secure odd-shaped cargo. It’s the kind of thoughtful design that makes the most of compact dimensions—exactly what you want when your driveway holds sports gear one day and home-improvement runs the next.

Then there’s traction and control. Available HTRAC All Wheel Drive adds confident composure when rain, snow, or gravel complicate the route. On the XRT trim, new Terrain Mode Select introduces Snow, Mud, and Sand modes, fine-tuning throttle mapping and traction control to help you stay in command on loose or slick surfaces. Pair it with the available 2.5L turbocharged engine for strong passing power and up to 5,000 lbs. of towing capacity when properly equipped, and your weekend checklist suddenly includes a small camper or pair of ATVs without breaking stride.

Daily driving is equally intuitive thanks to a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The available panoramic curved display integrates the touchscreen and an available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, making key information easy to digest at a glance. The available Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch lets you use a compatible smartphone or smartwatch to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle, while Bluelink+ enables remote commands at no extra cost from a compatible device. For busy schedules, this tech suite offers fewer keys to manage, fewer cables to tangle, and a cabin that feels calm and connected.

Safety is about support you can trust, and Hyundai SmartSense brings a comprehensive roster. Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Warning, High Beam Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Safe Exit Warning, and Rear Occupant Alert come standard. XRT and Limited elevate confidence with Highway Driving Assist, Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Curve Control, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Surround View Monitor, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection.

When you’re ready to turn questions into a tailored plan, Hyundai of Grand Island is your trusted guide, serving Aurora, Ravenna, and Doniphan with product expertise and a straightforward process that respects your time. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common SANTA CRUZ questions we hear from local shoppers.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How big is the SANTA CRUZ bed and what makes it different?

The bed features standard tie-down points, molded-in slots for building a quick cross-plank “shelf,” a sealed underfloor storage bin that drains, and an available integrated tonneau cover. It’s compact but exceptionally organized, so you can stack, lock, and secure gear without wasting space.

Can HTRAC All Wheel Drive help in Nebraska winters?

Available HTRAC All Wheel Drive is engineered to distribute power for traction when roads turn slick. On XRT, Terrain Mode Select adds Snow mode, optimizing traction control and throttle response to help you get moving and stay composed in wintry conditions.

What towing can I expect?

With the available 2.5L turbocharged engine and the right equipment, the SANTA CRUZ is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs., which suits a compact camper, small boat, or a pair of ATVs for weekend escapes.

How does the interior tech simplify daily driving?

A standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ reduces cable clutter, while the available panoramic curved display adds an available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Available Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch and Bluelink+ add remote access conveniences that save time each day.

Which trims are best for bed utility and all-weather traction?

SEL Activity adds the integrated tonneau cover and tech upgrades many active owners want. XRT pairs rugged styling with HTRAC All Wheel Drive and Terrain Mode Select, a strong combination for year-round versatility.

Whether you’re planning a home project, a fall fishing trip, or a snowy school run, the SANTA CRUZ’s bed design and available HTRAC All Wheel Drive make it easier. From small wins during the week to bigger plans on the weekend, this Sport Adventure Vehicle keeps your schedule moving with capability that’s right-sized and smartly arranged.