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Hyundai Santa Cruz: which year should you buy?

Across the 2022 to 2026 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2025 (85/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2025 85 · 2024 84

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202693/100
Too New

4 complaints · 3 recalls

202585/100
Buybest year

16 complaints · 3 recalls

202484/100
Buy

34 complaints · 1 recalls

202364/100
Caution

74 complaints · 2 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

202264/100
Caution

176 complaints · 4 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

Zeroing in on the 2025?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Hyundai Santa Cruz as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.