Episode Details

“White space” is hard to find in the U.S. car market, but Hyundai found a niche in 2021 when it introduced the Santa Cruz compact pickup truck. Now, four years down the road, the Santa Cruz remains a standout, blending a five-passenger crossover interior with the practicality of an open pickup truck bed. Designed for buyers seeking the utility of a truck without the bulk, it competes directly with the Ford Maverick, although the two small trucks differ markedly in persona.

For 2025, the Santa Cruz features refreshed interiors, a sleek curved infotainment display, and a rugged XRT trim with all-terrain tires. Available in five trims ranging from the base SE to the luxurious Limited, which Host Jack Nerad tested for the week. With its 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, and advanced safety systems, the likable little truck reminded Nerad of a sports sedan. He’ll have a full report in this episode.

On the other coast, Co-Host Chris Teague slipp[ed behind the wheel of the 2025 Honda Prologue battery-electric SUV. Teague had a strong sense of deja vue since he owns a 2024 version., He’ll offer his opinions on the vehicle based on his lengthy exposure in this edition.

Our guest this week is one of the most heralded automotive journalists of all time. Ted West has won multiple Ken Purdy awards for excellence in auto journalism, and he has put his considerable talents to writing what many have called the best racing novel of all time. Jack Nerad will talk with him about that, his entry into the world of auto writing, and his most recent literary endeavors.

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