In January, Hyundai debuted its newest concept: the HCD-15 Santa Cruz. The concept - based on a pickup model - won a standing ovation from many automotive insiders who loved its unique design and practical usage. Thanks to this overwhelming response, it looks a production-ready model of the concept might actually be in the works at the Korean automaker.
Designed to appeal to a younger, female audience, the Santa Cruz focuses on the needs of an urban lifestyle, such as convenience and utility. This is accomplished through several features on the concept, including rear-hinged half-doors for easy access to the rear seats, a cargo area and a roomy, comfortable interior that seats five. Insiders say that the new pickup model should adopt many of these features and be similarly branded to a younger audience.
"The Santa Cruz crossover truck concept meets the unspoken needs of a growing Millennial lifestyle we call 'Urban Adventurers'," said Mark Dipko, director, corporate planning, Hyundai Motor America. "This new crossover allows them all the expandable utility they need throughout their active week, from work-life professionalism, to social interests, to a whole variety of outdoor pursuits, without the typical compromises they have come to expect from the industry's current product offerings."
No word yet on when we might see a market-ready version of the Santa Cruz pickup, but we hope that Hyundai uses many of the concept's innovative features. For more updates about the possible new pickup from Hyundai, subscribe to our blog.
