2025 Honda Ridgeline vs 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
2025 Honda Ridgeline vs 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
When it comes to midsize trucks, both the 2025 Honda Ridgeline and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz aim to balance power with everyday driveability. Under the hood, the Ridgeline uses a 3.5-litre V6 engine, putting out 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 9.0-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with all-wheel drive. On the other hand, the Santa Cruz runs a 2.5-litre turbocharged inline-four engine, delivering 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, mated to an 8.0-speed dual-clutch transmission. While the Santa Cruz offers quicker torque delivery, the Ridgeline provides a smoother, more traditional feel on longer highway drives through areas like Saint John or the Acadian Coastal Drive.
Fuel Economy and Range You Can Count On
Fuel use matters when you're clocking in kilometres between Fredericton and Moncton. The Santa Cruz does edge ahead slightly in fuel efficiency, with a combined rating of 10.7 L/100 km compared to the Ridgeline’s 11.5 L/100 km. However, the Ridgeline’s larger 74.0-litre tank gives it a slightly longer range at about 655 kilometres. For drivers planning longer weekend escapes to Fundy National Park or hauling gear up to a lakeside cabin, that extra distance without refuelling can make a difference.
Towing and Utility: Built to Haul
Here’s where the Ridgeline starts to pull ahead. It can tow up to 4,998 lbs, which is significantly more than Santa Cruz’s 1,678 lbs. Payload capacity is higher too, with the Ridgeline carrying up to 1,528 lbs. That makes it a better fit for small contractors or outdoor enthusiasts who need their truck to do more than just commute. Whether you're towing ATVs or helping a friend move furniture across town, the Ridgeline handles it better.
Comfort and Cabin Features
Both trucks come standard with heated front seats, cloth upholstery, and smart key access. The Santa Cruz adds remote climate app control, but the Ridgeline counters with a roomier three-zone automatic climate system and power-adjustable driver’s seat. The Ridgeline also offers a larger 7.0-inch infotainment display, compared to the Santa Cruz’s 4.20-inch screen in base form. It’s worth noting that both models feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. If interior convenience and ride comfort matter for those daily errands around Fredericton, the Ridgeline’s extra touches feel more refined.
Warranty and Long-Term Peace of Mind
Hyundai leads the way on warranty coverage, offering a 5-year/100,000 km comprehensive plan. Honda falls slightly behind with a 3-year/60,000 km bumper-to-bumper warranty. Still, both trucks offer a 5-year/100,000 km powertrain warranty. If you're planning to keep your vehicle long-term, Hyundai may offer extra value in this area.
Find the Right Truck for Life in New Brunswick
If you’re still deciding between the 2025 Honda Ridgeline and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz, visiting Riverview Honda in Fredericton, NB is the best next step. Whether you're hauling gear for work, planning a weekend trail escape, or simply commuting around town, our team is ready to help you explore both options up close and guide you toward the truck that suits your lifestyle best.
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