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Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Lexus RX - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (281 HP vs 366 HP), trunk space and price (28,800 $ vs 48,600 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Hyundai Santa Cruz or Lexus RX?

Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Lexus RX: Key differences

Hyundai Santa Cruz

  • considerably cheaper
  • somewhat lighter
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Lexus RX

  • clearly more power
  • clearly more efficient
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Santa Cruz

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Hyundai Santa Cruz is considerably cheaper – starting at 28,800 $ , while the Lexus RX costs 48,600 $ . That’s a price difference of around 19,850 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Lexus RX performs clearly better – achieving 37 mpg, compared to 22 mpg for the Hyundai Santa Cruz. That’s a difference of about 15 mpg.

RX

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Lexus RX offers clearly more power – delivering 366 HP compared to 281 HP. That’s roughly 85 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Lexus RX delivers noticeably more torque with 406 lb-ft compared to 311 lb-ft. That’s about 95 lb-ft more.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Hyundai Santa Cruz is somewhat lighter – 3,779 lbs compared to 4,287 lbs. The difference is around 508 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Lexus RX holds a slight edge in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $48,600
RX

Lexus RX

  • Engine Type : Gasoline, Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel, All Wheel
  • Power HP : 246 - 366 HP
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Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

General
View detailed analysis

Hyundai Santa Cruz

The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a city-friendly pickup with SUV manners, serving up a smooth ride and a surprisingly upscale cabin while still handling weekend projects without the drama. It doesn’t try to out-macho the big rigs; instead it wins with smart packaging, easy parking, and just enough adventure vibe to make every grocery run feel like a mini road trip.

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Reviews Hyundai Santa Cruz

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Lexus RX

The Lexus RX stands as a benchmark in the luxury crossover segment, seamlessly blending elegance with practicality. Renowned for its plush interiors and smooth ride quality, this vehicle delivers a refined driving experience. Its design embodies a perfect mix of sporty appeal and sophisticated style, capturing the essence of modern luxury.

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Reviews Lexus RX

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Hyundai Santa Cruz
Lexus RX

Costs and Consumption
Price
28,800 - 42,800 $
Price
48,600 - 69,200 $
FuelEconomy City
18 - 22 mpg
FuelEconomy City
21 - 37 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
26 - 30 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
28 - 34 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
17.7 gal
Fuel tank capacity
14.5 - 17.8 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Pickup
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,779 - 4,295 lbs
Curb weight
4,287 - 4,750 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
-
Length
195.9 in.
Length
192.5 in.
Width
75 in.
Width
75.6 in.
Height
66 in.
Height
67 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline, Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Power HP
191 - 281 HP
Power HP
246 - 366 HP
Torque
181 - 311 lb-ft
Torque
168 - 406 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Engine Displacement
2.4 - 2.5 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024
Brand
Hyundai
Brand
Lexus
What is the price of the Hyundai Santa Cruz?

Starting from 28,800 $.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.