Side by Side: Honda Ridgeline vs. Hyundai Santa Cruz

It's not secret that Americans love trucks, and for decades, the pickup segment has been governed by a simple rule: bigger is better. Don't think so? Perhaps you should check out the Ford Raptor or the RAM TRX. 

But now, a new breed is arriving on our shores, and these aren't the massive machines we're used to seeing. Rather, these smaller, more efficient rigs seek to balance the practicality of a pickup with nimbleness of a crossover. Two of the best options on the market right now are the Honda Ridgeline and the Hyundai Santa Cruz, so let's see how they stack up.

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With excellent driving dynamics, everyday practicality, and a solid payload rating, the Ridgeline Sport presents a compelling package for anyone looking for a pickup truck. Overall, this is a vehicle which exhibits the elevated level of refinement buyers expect from a Honda, but adds the ability to do truck things. So from that perspective, it should be a smash hit. If you're looking at buying a truck because you want a daily driver that'll also haul cargo and make for a great camping rig? The Honda Ridgeline has to be on your list. Read the full AutoNation Drive review here.

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The Santa Cruz delivers a top-notch driving experience, at least on the more powerful upper trims, and the refined dual-clutch transmission is adept at keeping you in the power band, particularly in Sport mode. Hyundai also offers an impressive suite of standard and optional driver assists: forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep, rear-seat reminder, driver attention warning, leading vehicle departure alert, and auto high beams are standard at all trims. Read the full AutoNation Drive review here.

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*MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.

**Based on EPA mileage ratings. Your mileage will vary depending on specific vehicle trim, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.