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Blue Ford Maverick pickup truck packed with outdoor camping and fishing gear parked along a scenic river. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)

2026 Ford Maverick vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Comparison

The 2026 Ford Maverick is a strong choice in this compact pickup comparison, delivering superior fuel economy, larger bed cargo volume, and versatile everyday utility at a lower price point than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz. Achieving up to 39 city MPG in its Lariat AWD trim and offering about 33 cu ft of bed space, the Maverick provides unbeatable practical value for commuters and active families alike. more Table of Contents Which Truck Fits Milford Lifestyles Better: 2026 Ford Maverick or 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz? Pricing and Trim Value for Families: Comparing the 2026 Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz Cargo and Passenger Space Tailored to Active, Coastal Living Performance and Driving Experience: 2026 Ford Maverick vs Hyundai Santa Cruz Fuel Efficiency That Supports Commutes and Weekend Adventures Tech Features That Simplify Daily Life and Outdoor Fun Safety Systems Designed for Families and Coastal Driving Conditions Warranty, Maintenance, and Local Service Options for Owners Answering Top Buyer Questions on Capability, Comfort, and Cost Which Compact Truck Belongs in Your Driveway? Which Truck Fits Milford Lifestyles Better: 2026 Ford Maverick or 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz? When evaluating which compact pickup best meets daily driving and weekend recreation demands, the 2026 Ford Maverick emerges as the superior choice over the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz. Engineered on an approachable unibody platform, the Ford Maverick blends smooth maneuverability with genuine truck bed capability, making it uniquely suited for both daily traffic and outdoor adventures. While the Hyundai Santa Cruz positions itself as an urban adventure vehicle, its smaller about 27 cu ft cargo bed and lower fuel economy limit its practical versatility. Whether loading kayaks for a morning on the water near Milford or carrying supplies for home projects, the Maverick provides an extra about 6 cu ft of cargo volume compared to the Santa Cruz. Its lower bed loading floor height of 29.4 in makes loading heavy cooler boxes or sporting equipment simple and stress-free. In addition, the Maverick's 121.1 in wheelbase and 8.6 in unladen ground clearance in the Lariat AWD configuration allow it to handle rough gravel access roads or unpaved boat launches with total confidence. Drivers looking for a dependable vehicle that handles school drop-offs and weekend trips with equal ease will appreciate how the Maverick maximizes cabin comfort for 5 passengers. Inside, smart storage solutions like rear below-seat storage bins keep wet gear or tools tucked out of sight. To explore our full selection of new trucks, browse our new Ford inventory to find the trim and color that best matches your lifestyle. Pricing and Trim Value for Families: Comparing the 2026 Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz The 2026 Ford Maverick offers greater long-term value and flexible capability across its trim lineup compared to the competitively priced 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz. With starting MSRPs spanning from $35,930 for the Lobo Standard 4WD to $38,090 for the feature-packed Lariat AWD, the Maverick delivers premium technology and efficient power without forcing buyers into expensive luxury pricing. In contrast, top-tier competitors like the Santa Cruz Limited 2.5 AWD reach a base MSRP of $43,700, representing a significant price premium for less bed space and lower gas mileage. Value-conscious shoppers will note that every Maverick model comes standard with essential equipment that elevates daily driving. For instance, the Maverick Lariat AWD ($38,090 base MSRP) includes standard all-wheel drive, a 2.5L hybrid engine, a CVT transmission, an 8-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system with a subwoofer, ambient lighting, and a 13.2 in touchscreen display screen. Upgrading to the street-tuned Lobo Premium 4WD ($41,425 base MSRP) brings a 250 hp 2.0L EcoBoost engine with a 7-speed automatic transmission, while maintaining full passenger space and bed utility. For families planning their budget, Winner Ford makes upgrading easy with current valuation tools. You can quickly value your trade-in online to see how much equity you can apply toward a new Maverick. If you are exploring additional options across various price points, you can also check our pre-owned inventory for quality pre-owned trucks and crossovers. Pricing Manufacturer-listed pricing per trim, across compared vehicles. 2026 Ford Maverick Trim MSRP 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Trim MSRP Lobo Standard 4WD $35,930 SE 2.5 $29,750 Lariat AWD $38,090 SE 2.5 AWD $31,250 Lobo Premium 4WD $41,425 Limited 2.5 AWD $43,700 Cargo and Passenger Space Tailored to Active, Coastal Living The 2026 Ford Maverick provides superior cargo bed space and clever interior storage efficiency compared to the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz. In the truck bed, where utility matters most, the Maverick delivers about 33 cu ft of cargo volume with a cargo bed length of 54.4 in and a width of 53.3 in. The Santa Cruz trails behind with just about 27 cu ft of cargo space, restricting your ability to haul larger equipment like beach chairs, bicycles, or lumber. Interior roominess is another area where the Maverick shines for 5 passengers. Front row passengers enjoy 40.2 in of headroom and 42.8 in of legroom, while rear passengers benefit from 39.6 in of headroom and 36.9 in of legroom. The Maverick also features 57.3 in of front shoulder room and 55.6 in of rear shoulder room, ensuring adults and children have plenty of elbow room during long highway trips. The Maverick's bed architecture is purposefully built with 42.6 in of width between the wheelhouses, allowing standard 4x8 building sheets to lay flat when using the adjustable tailgate. Integrated load restraint hooks and available sliding anchorage points allow you to secure gear safely. If you are ready to secure a versatile compact pickup built for your lifestyle, you can complete our secure online credit application to start the approval process before visiting our showroom. Dimensions & Capacity Capacity and dimensions by trim Specification 2026 Ford Maverick 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Seating 5 5 Cargo 33.3 cu ft 27.0 cu ft Towing 2,000 lbs 5,000 lbs Curb weight 3,685 lbs 4,191 lbs Payload 1,545 lbs 1,607 lbs Performance and Driving Experience: 2026 Ford Maverick vs Hyundai Santa Cruz While the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz delivers higher engine output numbers, the 2026 Ford Maverick provides a more balanced, nimble, and practical driving experience for daily commutes and light towing. The Maverick Lariat AWD utilizes a sophisticated 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid powertrain generating 191 hp total system output and 173 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth-shifting CVT. This setup delivers crisp off-the-line acceleration thanks to its 126 hp electric motor while maintaining whisper-quiet operation in stop-and-go driving. For drivers seeking maximum power, Ford offers the available 2.0L EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine on the Lariat AWD (option 502A) or standard on Lobo trims, producing 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque mated to an 8-speed or 7-speed automatic transmission. The Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited 2.5 AWD features a 2.5L turbocharged engine generating 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque via a SHIFTRONIC transmission. However, the Santa Cruz's heavier curb weight of 4,191 lbs dulls its handling agility compared to the Maverick Lariat AWD's lighter 3,685 lbs curb weight. The Maverick's suspension design employs independent front struts with a stabilizer bar and an independent multi-link rear suspension with coil springs, providing sharp turn-in and minimal body roll through tight corners. The Maverick Lariat AWD features a published payload capacity of 1,545 lbs and a standard towing capacity of 2,000 lbs. When equipped with the available 4K Tow Package (code 53Q), which includes a trailer brake controller and upgraded cooling, the EcoBoost Maverick increases its towing power to 4,000 lbs. To customize your pickup with OEM bed accessories or towing equipment, contact our genuine Ford parts department for expert advice. Engine & Performance Powertrain specs by trim Specification 2026 Ford Maverick 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Drivetrain All-wheel drive All-wheel drive Engine 2.5L 2.5L Horsepower 191 hp 281 hp Torque 173 lb-ft 311 lb-ft Transmission CVT SHIFTRONIC Fuel Efficiency That Supports Commutes and Weekend Adventures The 2026 Ford Maverick Lariat AWD achieves an impressive EPA-estimated 39 MPG city, 32 MPG highway, and 36 MPG combined, easily outclassing the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited 2.5 AWD across every efficiency metric. With an EPA calculated vehicle range of 497 miles on its 13.8 gal fuel tank, the Maverick Lariat AWD lets you travel further between fill-ups, saving both time and money on long road trips. During daily weekday driving, a 30-mile commute around Smyrna highlights the immense cost advantage of Ford's hybrid technology. The Maverick Lariat AWD consumes significantly less fuel in urban congestion compared to non-hybrid trucks. By contrast, the Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited 2.5 AWD registers a low 18 MPG city, 25 MPG highway, and 20 MPG combined, with a calculated cruising range of just 396 miles from its 16.5 gal tank. Even when selecting the high-output EcoBoost engine on the Maverick Lobo Standard 4WD, fuel economy remains impressive at 22 MPG city, 32 MPG highway, and 25 MPG combined. By choosing the Maverick, you enjoy dependable performance meets modern technology without sacrificing the outstanding fuel economy necessary for modern household budgets. Fuel Economy Fuel economy and range by trim Specification 2026 Ford Maverick 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz MPG 39 city / 32 hwy / 36 combined 18 city / 25 hwy / 20 combined Tech Features That Simplify Daily Life and Outdoor Fun Equipped with an intuitive 13.2 in central touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the 2026 Ford Maverick makes daily connectivity effortless for tech-savvy drivers. Standard across the Lariat AWD and Lobo Premium trims, the large high-definition display center runs Ford's latest infotainment software with voice-activating controls, integrated 3D navigation, and 12 months of included traffic information. Audiophiles will appreciate the Bang & Olufsen 8-speaker sound system with a dedicated subwoofer standard on the Lariat AWD and Lobo Premium 4WD, delivering rich, immersive audio throughout the cabin. Passengers can keep devices charged using 2 front USB ports and 2 rear USB charging ports, alongside a 12V front power outlet and a standard mains power supply for running small appliances or tailgating tools. Convenience technology in the Maverick extends far beyond entertainment. A reconfigurable 8 in TFT digital instrument cluster provides driver information at a glance, while the standard 360 Degree Camera system assists when parking in tight spaces. Innovative trailer assist features include trailer hitch assist, automatic steering, trailer reversing aid, and 360 camera extension, taking the stress out of backing up a trailer. Safety Systems Designed for Families and Coastal Driving Conditions Featuring 7 standard airbags and advanced collision mitigation system technologies, the 2026 Ford Maverick helps keep your family safe on every drive. Standard driver-assist systems include Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian Detection, which activates at speeds as low as 3 mph and operates across low and high speed thresholds to prevent front collisions. Safety equipment standard across the Maverick lineup includes: Dual front airbags, driver knee airbag, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags for front and rear passengers AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) and Electronic Traction Control Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Alert Lane-Keeping System with active steering intervention Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality Multi-collision braking and rear cross traffic collision avoidance with radar sensors ISOFIX child seat anchor preparation and 3-point seat belts for all 5 seating positions In crash testing, the Ford Maverick achieved top-tier ratings, including an NHTSA 5-star frontal crash rating and IIHS "Good" ratings in side impact and small overlap front driver tests. Whether driving through rainy weather or navigating dark rural roads, automatic LED projector headlights with auto high-beam control enhance visibility to protect what matters most. Warranty, Maintenance, and Local Service Options for Owners Ford backs every 2026 Maverick with a robust factory warranty suite, including a 36-month/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and 60 months/60,000 miles of Ford roadside assistance coverage. Hybrid components on the Lariat AWD receive an extended 96-month/100,000-mile warranty for complete peace of mind. Should you ever require towing support or emergency service, Ford Roadside Assistance at (302) 734-0444 provides 24/7 coverage connecting you directly to certified Ford technicians who use original equipment parts. At Winner Ford, your local Ford experts are here when you need us for all routine oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations. You can easily schedule your service appointment online at your convenience. When you are ready to visit our dealership located at 591 S Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, click here to get directions to Winner Ford and experience our easygoing, family-friendly customer service firsthand. Answering Top Buyer Questions on Capability, Comfort, and Cost Q: Is the 2026 Ford Maverick more fuel-efficient than the Hyundai Santa Cruz? Yes, the 2026 Ford Maverick is significantly more fuel-efficient than the Hyundai Santa Cruz. The Maverick Lariat AWD hybrid achieves an EPA-estimated 39 MPG city, 32 MPG highway, and 36 MPG combined, compared to the Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited 2.5 AWD's 18 MPG city, 25 MPG highway, and 20 MPG combined. Even non-hybrid Maverick models like the Lobo Standard 4WD achieve 25 MPG combined, outperforming the Santa Cruz across all driving conditions. Q: Which compact pickup offers more truck bed cargo space? The 2026 Ford Maverick offers more truck bed cargo space than the Hyundai Santa Cruz. The Maverick features about 33 cu ft of bed volume with a length of 54.4 in and a width of 53.3 in. The Santa Cruz provides about 27 cu ft of bed volume. The Maverick's bed is also wide enough (42.6 in between wheelhouses) to carry 4x8 sheet materials flat using its multi-position tailgate. Q: How does the towing capacity compare between the Maverick and Santa Cruz? The 2026 Ford Maverick comes standard with a 2,000 lbs towing capacity across Lariat AWD and Lobo trims. When equipped with the available 4K Tow Package on EcoBoost models, the Maverick's towing capacity increases to 4,000 lbs. The Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited 2.5 AWD offers a 5,000 lbs towing capacity. For buyers towing lightweight utility trailers, jet skis, or small pop-up campers, the Maverick's 2,000 to 4,000 lbs rating provides ample capability while delivering far superior fuel economy. Q: What technology features come standard on the 2026 Ford Maverick? The 2026 Ford Maverick Lariat AWD comes standard with a 13.2 in touchscreen display, an 8 in digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 3D navigation with 12 months of traffic data, an 8-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system with subwoofer, a 360 Degree Camera, and advanced trailer assist controls including trailer hitch assist and reversing aid. Q: Is all-wheel drive available on the 2026 Ford Maverick hybrid? Yes, for the 2026 model year, All-wheel drive is fully integrated with the 2.5L hybrid powertrain on the Maverick Lariat AWD trim. This combination provides all-weather traction and stability on slippery roads while maintaining an outstanding 36 MPG combined fuel economy rating. Which Compact Truck Belongs in Your Driveway? The 2026 Ford Maverick clearly stands as the smarter, more versatile choice for buyers seeking a compact pickup that excels in daily usability, fuel economy, and practical cargo design. While the Hyundai Santa Cruz offers higher towing figures on select trims, its significantly higher price tag, smaller about 27 cu ft cargo bed, and fuel-thirsty 20 MPG combined rating make it less practical for everyday family living and commuting. From its standard 13.2 in touchscreen and 36 MPG combined hybrid efficiency to its spacious about 33 cu ft bed and advanced collision mitigation systems, the Maverick is built for your family, ready for every adventure. Schedule your test drive today and see why local families trust Winner Ford for honest advice and friendly service. Stop by our Dover showroom or contact our team online to experience the award-winning Ford Maverick today! © 2026 Winner Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

Ford Transit MPG

Ford Transit MPG

What are you looking for in your next commercial vehicle to take around the Middletown, Odessa, and Dover areas? Some people value performance, while others are looking for interior space more than anything else. No matter what your interests are, you need to make sure your next cargo van has the fuel efficiency you deserve. There are plenty of fuel-efficient options available on the market today, but the new Ford Transit tends to stand out. While it offers all the interior space and performance you'd expect, its fuel-efficiency has been enhanced like never before. Learn all about the Ford Transit MPG, and discover whether or not its 25-gallon tank is good enough for your cargo van needs. Advanced Fuel Capability Ford has taken fuel efficiency to the next level with every available engine option in the Transit. The 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine offers advanced fuel capability, thanks to the Compressed Natural Gas/Propane Gaseous Engine Prep Package. This advanced system will change the way you think about fuel efficiency by utilizing new technology you won't find on many other models. Alternatives to gasoline will always be more efficient. Even so, your Transit will be able to use gas as well, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds when you're behind the wheel. In addition to saving you at the pump, this alternative to standard fueling options is also better for the environment, so you'll be reducing your carbon footprint as well. EcoBoost® Efficiency In addition to the CNG/Propane-enabled engine, you can also opt for the 3.5-liter EcoBoost® V6 and all its direct-injection efficiency. The EcoBoost® technology has been implemented in numerous Ford models throughout the years, always bringing your favorite vehicles to new levels of efficiency. The Transit's version is no exception. The key factor in this EcoBoost® engine is responsiveness. With a direct-injection system extracting as much power as possible from every drop of fuel, you can always count on your Transit to get all the power it needs without wasting a bit of your gas. In fact, that level of efficiency earned the Transit a best-in-class rating when it comes to its gas-powered torque rating of 400 lb-ft. Turbo Diesel If you truly want to maximize your MPG, the 3.2-liter Power Stroke® I-5 Turbo Diesel engine is an incredible choice. This powerful engine can keep you running for hours and hours without wasting a single drop of your diesel fuel. Whether you're idling or dealing with stop-and-go traffic, this engine offers the efficiency you deserve. Diesel is inherently more fuel-efficient than standard gasoline, so you can be sure you'll be spending less time at the pump and more time on the road. This is especially important if you're using your cargo van for business. Time is money, and the entire purpose of your business is to make as much of it as possible. Test Drive the Ford Transit While the Ford Transit MPG is certainly impressive, it's just a taste of everything this cargo van can do for you. If you want to learn more about everything it can offer, head over to Winner Ford, your local Middletown, Odessa, and Dover Ford dealer. Our friendly team is happy to show off everything the Transit can offer. Contact us to schedule your test drive today!

2017 Ford Focus RS Earns Respect of AutoGuide.com Staffers

If the search for your next daily driver has led you to the hot hatchback segment, we here at Winner Ford would be downright delighted to introduce you to ours, the 2017 Focus RS. How come? Click "play" on the clip below to find out; here with his thoughts on the Focus RS is AutoGuide.com Road Test Editor Dan Ilika: Talk about tricked-out -- the Focus RS's sole trim level is all that and then some. Standard features include 19-inch alloy wheels, summer tires, performance brakes, adjustable suspension settings, automatic xenon headlights, foglamps, remote entry and push-button start, a rearview camera, dual-zone auto climate control, partial leather upholstery and front Recaro sort seats. So, what's the hold-up, friend? The time is now to experience the brilliance of this beefcake. As such, we invite you to pop by our Dover, DE facility, whereupon we'll happily arrange a test drive in the Focus RS, or any other Ford model that's made your short list.

What Makes the 2017 Ford Mustang Such a Superb Sports Car?

To say that we at Winner Ford are impressed by the 2017 Mustang would be an understatement of the highest order. More accurately, we're flat-out over the moon for this sport-tuned stunner. And if you're at all wondering why we feel as we do, we suggest you scope the clip below. Tag along with carwow reviewer Mat Watson, as he highlights some of the Mustang's choicest qualities: Stocked to the gills with incredible amenities, the entry-level V6 model is one that's sure to get your attention. Standard equipment on this trim includes 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic xenon headlamps, LED taillights with sequential turn signals, keyless ignition and entry, a rearview camera, SYNC voice-command connectivity, a 4.2-inch display screen and Bluetooth compatibility. If you'd like to meet this mind-blowing machine "in the metal," or wish to put one through its paces on the open road, we encourage you to pay us a visit at our Dover, DE location. Upon your stopover, we'll be sure to set you up with a test drive in the Mustang, or any other Ford model that's commanded your curiosity.

AutoGuide.com Marvels at Feature-Rich 2017 Ford Fusion

Might you be in the market for a midsize sedan? Well, if so, we here at Winner Ford would be quick to couple you with ours, the 2017 Fusion. Why, though? Please allow AutoGuide.com Managing Editor Jodi Lai an opportunity to explain; her critique of the Fusion is as follows: Amazing amenities abound on the Fusion's range-topping trim, the V6 Sport. Standard features include a brawny, 325-horsepower turbo-V6 engine, all-wheel drive, a unique grille, 19-inch wheels, quad exhaust tips, a rear spoiler, adjustable suspension dampers, leather and simulated suede upholstery, as well as nine-speaker sound system. For more information about this debonair four-door, or to take the wheel of one, we invite you to swing by our Dover, DE showroom. Our seasoned staff is available to address your every question regarding the Fusion, or any other Ford model throughout the current fleet.

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