2025 GMC Sierra 3500 HD vs. 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz

Choosing between a full-size heavy-duty truck and a compact sport adventure vehicle often comes down to lifestyle needs, performance expectations, and long-term value. The 2025 GMC Sierra 3500 HD and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz represent two distinctly different approaches to utility, capability, and driver experience. While both models deliver refreshed styling and updated features, one is built for maximum towing, payload, and commercial utility, while the other offers a crossover-like experience with weekend versatility. This comparison highlights where each truck excels so you can make a confident, informed choice.

Design & Style

Both the 2025 GMC Sierra 3500 HD and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz offer eye-catching styling, but they cater to different audiences. The Sierra 3500 HD emphasizes size, power, and presence, showcasing a bold grille, high stance, and muscular body lines. With trim levels like the Denali and Denali Ultimate, the Sierra integrates luxury touches such as chrome accents, 20-inch wheels, and signature LED lighting, giving it a commanding look on both job sites and highways.

In contrast, the Santa Cruz is tailored for drivers who want utility in a more compact, city-friendly footprint. Its refreshed front fascia, updated LED lighting, and sporty proportions create a sleek yet rugged appearance. The 2025 model also introduces new wheel designs and exterior colors, enhancing its urban-ready aesthetic. While it lacks the imposing presence of the Sierra, the Santa Cruz stands out in the growing lifestyle pickup segment.

Technology & Safety

Inside the Sierra 3500 HD, a premium tech experience awaits. Trims like the Denali Ultimate feature a 13.4-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital driver display, Google built-in compatibility, and up to 14 available camera views for advanced trailering support. Safety features include Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, and advanced trailering-assist technologies designed to keep drivers in control even under heavy load conditions.

The Santa Cruz, on the other hand, updates its cabin with a new curved display that combines dual 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and instrumentation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard, and physical knobs for climate and media have returned based on user feedback. Hyundai's SmartSense safety suite includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance, and more. Though tech-rich and user-friendly, it's built more for light-duty convenience than work-focused capability.

Performance

Performance is where the differences between these two models become even more defined. The 2025 GMC Sierra 3500 HD offers two powerhouse engines: a 6.6L V8 gas engine producing 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque, and a Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8 delivering 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft of torque. With a 10-speed Allison automatic transmission and a towing capacity of up to 36,000 pounds, the Sierra is a true workhorse capable of handling extreme tasks and heavy-duty hauls.

Meanwhile, the Santa Cruz is available with either a naturally aspirated 2.5L four-cylinder engine (191 hp and 181 lb-ft) or a turbocharged 2.5L engine (281 hp and 311 lb-ft) paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. While its maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds is respectable for its class, it's a far cry from the heavy-lifting Sierra. The Santa Cruz focuses more on agile handling, efficiency, and light utility suited for weekend getaways rather than job site demands.

The Bottom Line

Drivers who prioritize raw power, high towing capacity, and premium trailering technology will find the 2025 Sierra 3500 HD to be a clear winner. It's designed to perform under pressure, whether on the worksite or hauling large equipment across long distances. In addition to strength, the Sierra adds refined luxury and next-generation tech to elevate the overall driving experience.

For those looking for a daily driver that offers light pickup functionality with the comfort and maneuverability of an SUV, the Santa Cruz delivers. It's ideal for drivers who want truck-style versatility without the size or fuel demands of a heavy-duty vehicle. However, its limitations in towing and payload might leave professional users wanting more than what the Santa Cruz can offer.

Schedule a Test Drive Today

Ready to experience the strength, luxury, and capability of the 2025 Sierra 3500 HD? Visit us at GMC Danvers, where our team is ready to help you explore trim, financing options, advanced features, and available offers. Whether you're towing heavy equipment or upgrading your everyday truck, we invite you to schedule a test drive with us today and discover why our lineup is built to go the distance.