Chevrolet boasts an extensive lineup of passenger cars, crossovers, SUVs, and trucks, far surpassing Dodge, which offers only four nameplates currently available. While Chevrolet leads in quantity, offering a diverse range of vehicles, including the Bolt EV, Trax, Trailblazer, Equinox, Blazer, Traverse, Tahoe, and Suburban, among others, Dodge’s lineup is notably more limited.
The disparity between the two brands is evident when considering their offerings in various segments. Chevrolet’s extensive lineup covers a wide spectrum of consumer preferences, whereas Dodge’s lineup is more focused, featuring the Hornet, Charger, Challenger, and Durango.
However, despite Dodge’s limited lineup, its vehicles, particularly the Challenger SRT Hellcat, continue to command attention in their respective segments. In a drag race scenario, the performance prowess of vehicles like the Challenger SRT Hellcat often outshines that of traditional SUVs, emphasizing Dodge’s commitment to high-performance vehicles.
A recent drag race between a Saab 9-7X and a Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat showcased the unexpected capabilities of the former, highlighting the element of surprise that can arise in such matchups. Despite its unconventional appearance, the Saab 9-7X proved to be a formidable competitor, securing a surprising victory over the powerful Challenger SRT Hellcat.
This unexpected outcome underscores the unpredictability of drag racing and the importance of considering all variables when assessing vehicle performance. While traditional performance metrics may favor vehicles like the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, real-world performance can often yield surprising results, as demonstrated by the Saab 9-7X’s unexpected victory.
While Chevrolet may lead in terms of quantity, Dodge’s focus on high-performance vehicles ensures that it remains a formidable competitor in its segment. The drag race between the Saab 9-7X and Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of automotive performance, where unexpected outcomes are always a possibility.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz, despite being relatively young, is undergoing a mid-cycle refresh after nearly three years on the market. Hyundai revealed the refreshed model at the 2024 New York Auto Show, showcasing updates to its exterior design and interior technology.
The refreshed Santa Cruz features a redesigned grille, updated lighting elements, and revised front and rear bumpers, enhancing its visual appeal. Additionally, the vehicle now offers underbody protection and 18-inch wheels with a distinctive wrench-inspired design, adding a touch of ruggedness to its appearance.
Inside the cabin, the Santa Cruz receives a significant tech upgrade with the optional curved display, integrating a 12.3-inch infotainment system and digital gauge cluster. Notably, physical buttons remain available for essential functions, providing a user-friendly interface for drivers.
Hyundai has also introduced new exterior color options, including Canyon Red and Rockwood Green, along with Medium Gray trim for the interior, expanding customization choices for customers.
Under the hood, the Santa Cruz retains its existing engine options, with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated unit and a turbocharged variant. These engines deliver respectable performance and are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which has undergone slight modifications for improved efficiency.
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz is expected to arrive at dealerships nationwide in the summer, with pricing details to be announced closer to the launch date. Additionally, aftermarket tuning options may become available for interested buyers, further enhancing the vehicle’s customization potential.
In the meantime, the first unofficial tuning job for the Santa Cruz has surfaced, showcasing subtle yet impactful modifications. These enhancements, including larger wheels and smoked lighting units, contribute to the vehicle’s sporty appearance, appealing to enthusiasts seeking individuality in their vehicles.
The mid-cycle refresh reinforces Santa Cruz’s position as a versatile and technologically advanced pickup, catering to the needs of modern consumers while offering ample opportunities for customization and personalization.
