The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a clever mix of a comfortable SUV and a handy pickup. To unlock its full potential for adventures and chores, you need a good trailer hitch. A strong hitch lets you tow a trailer, carry bikes, or use a cargo carrier safely. We tested many options to find the best hitch for the Hyundai Santa Cruz. This list helps you pick the right one for your needs and budget.
In This Article
- 1 Quick Product Comparison
- 2 Our Top 10 Best Hitch For The Hyundai Santa Cruz Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
- 2.1 1. Draw-Tite Class 3 Trailer Hitch with 2-Inch Receiver for 2022-2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
- 2.2 2. DBXB-RV Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Hyundai Santa Cruz with a 2-Inch Receiver
- 2.3 3. CURT Class 3 Trailer Hitch with a 2-Inch Receiver for Hyundai Santa Cruz
- 2.4 4. Kojem Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Hyundai Santa Cruz with 5,000 lb Capacity
- 2.5 5. CURT 56553 Vehicle-Side Custom 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness, Fits Select Hyundai Santa Cruz
- 2.6 6. CURT Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento Models
- 2.7 7. 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness Kit for Hyundai Santa Cruz and Other Models
- 2.8 8. Wsays 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness for Hyundai Santa Cruz and Santa Fe
- 2.9 9. Custom 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness for Hyundai Santa Cruz and Santa Fe
- 2.10 10. No-Drill Truck Bed Extender for Hyundai Santa Cruz with a Pin Release
- 3 Complete Buying Guide for Best Hitch For The Hyundai Santa Cruz
- 4 Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Hitch For The Hyundai Santa Cruz Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Draw-Tite Class 3 Trailer Hitch with 2-Inch Receiver for 2022-2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
This Draw-Tite hitch is a premium pick for your Santa Cruz. It’s built tough with all-welded steel and meets high safety standards. You get a perfect fit and peace of mind for towing.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Made for 2022-2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz for exact fit
- ✓ Solid, all-welded steel construction for maximum strength
- ✓ Tested to exceed SAE J684 and V-5 safety standards
- ✓ 2-inch receiver for versatile towing and accessories
Why We Recommend It
We love its robust build and reliable performance. It’s from a trusted brand known for durability, making it a safe choice for any towing job.
Best For
Best for Santa Cruz owners who need a heavy-duty, reliable hitch for frequent towing or carrying heavy loads like trailers or cargo carriers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent build quality and durability
- Vehicle-specific design for easy installation
- High towing capacity with safety certifications
- Trusted brand with good customer support
Cons:
- Shipping packaging might not protect well during transit
- Slightly heavier than some alternatives
- May require basic tools for DIY installation
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The trailer hitch is good and solid, and it fit my vehicle perfectly. Installation was easy. My only complaint is the shipping. It did not come in a box with cushioning foam—just wrapped in a thin blue plastic wrap that offered no protection during transport.”
Customer Review: “I got this trailer hitch receiver and I am extremely happy with it. The hitch receiver is made of very sturdy thick durable steel and it feels bomber. Self installation was straightforward.”
2. DBXB-RV Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Hyundai Santa Cruz with a 2-Inch Receiver
The DBXB-RV hitch offers great value with a custom fit for your Santa Cruz. It’s precision-engineered and safety-tested, giving you confidence on the road.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compatible with 2022-2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
- ✓ Custom fit design for secure and simple installation
- ✓ Exceeds SAE J684 safety standards
- ✓ 2-inch receiver for various towing needs
Why We Recommend It
It balances quality and affordability well. The fit is spot-on, and it meets all safety requirements, making it a smart editor’s pick.
Best For
Best for those who want a reliable hitch without breaking the bank, ideal for occasional towing or bike rack use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good fit with easy bolt-on installation
- Solid construction and nice paint finish
- Affordable price for a Class 3 hitch
- Safety certified for peace of mind
Cons:
- Some users report minor alignment issues during install
- Packaging could be improved
- Brand is less known than others
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Fairly easy to install, and fitment was good. Holes lined up with minimal effort. Just what I needed, overall good quality hitch and nice paint quality.”
Customer Review: “Mounted this hitch a week ago, and the bolt on installation matched the factory points without needing adjustments. It felt solid right away, with no looseness after tightening everything down.”
3. CURT Class 3 Trailer Hitch with a 2-Inch Receiver for Hyundai Santa Cruz
CURT delivers a dependable hitch at a budget-friendly price. It’s tested in real-world conditions and offers strong towing capacity for your Santa Cruz.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Rated for 5,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 750 lbs tongue weight
- ✓ Versatile 2-inch receiver for various accessories
- ✓ Fully tested in on-vehicle conditions for reliability
- ✓ Aftermarket design that fits perfectly
Why We Recommend It
It’s a great value pick from a reputable brand. You get solid performance without spending too much, perfect for light to medium towing.
Best For
Best for budget-conscious buyers who still want a quality Class 3 hitch for their Santa Cruz, suitable for bike racks or small trailers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Heavy-duty construction with strong fasteners
- Good fit and alignment with vehicle frame
- Affordable price point
- Backed by real-world testing
Cons:
- Installation can be challenging due to tight bolt access
- Not compatible with vertical hanging bike racks
- Some users find instructions could be clearer
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I recently purchased this hitch, and the installation process was surprisingly straightforward. The hitch’s design aligned flawlessly with my vehicle’s frame, making it a perfect fit without any modifications.”
Customer Review: “The hitch is heavy duty and comes with heavy duty fasteners. I’ve used it several times and have no issues. It fits very well. Installation was very challenging, though, due to one bolt hole that was very hard to access.”
4. Kojem Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Hyundai Santa Cruz with 5,000 lb Capacity
The Kojem hitch is a solid alternative with a three-piece design. It offers high capacity and a good fit for your Santa Cruz at a competitive price.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compatible with 2022-2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz
- ✓ 5,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 750 lbs tongue weight capacity
- ✓ Standard 2-inch receiver for towing versatility
- ✓ Beefy construction for durability
Why We Recommend It
We like its unique design that can make installation easier. It’s a robust option that doesn’t compromise on strength.
Best For
Best for those who prefer a multi-piece hitch design for easier handling during installation, and need high towing capacity.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High towing capacity for its class
- Three-piece design can simplify installation
- Good material quality and finish
- Affordable compared to some brands
Cons:
- Design may not be as seamless as one-piece hitches
- Brand recognition is lower
- Instructions might be basic
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I was a bit concerned because this hitch is a three piece install. Once I saw the hitch, and how beefy it is, I decided this was just fine. In fact, I like this design better for install.”
Customer Review: “Buen material y la descripción exacta del producto. (Good material and exact product description.)”
5. CURT 56553 Vehicle-Side Custom 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness, Fits Select Hyundai Santa Cruz
This wiring harness is essential for safe towing. It plugs into your Santa Cruz’s factory wiring without cutting, making installation a breeze.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Easy plug-and-play installation with no cutting or splicing
- ✓ Standard 4-flat connector for trailer lights
- ✓ Vehicle-specific design for select Hyundai Santa Cruz models
- ✓ Ensures proper brake and turn signal functions
Why We Recommend It
It simplifies the wiring process and ensures reliability. From a trusted brand, it’s a must-have accessory for any towing setup.
Best For
Best for Santa Cruz owners who need a hassle-free wiring solution to connect trailer lights safely and legally.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very easy to install, saving time and effort
- No modification to vehicle wiring required
- Reliable performance with good connectivity
- Compact and durable design
Cons:
- Only for vehicles with pre-installed trailer packages
- Might be slightly more expensive than generic harnesses
- Limited to 4-pin connections
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Easy to install, no cutting required. Works perfectly with my Santa Cruz’s trailer lights. The plug-and-play design made it a quick job.”
Customer Review: “Great product, saved me time and money. The harness fits like a glove and all lights function correctly. Highly recommend for DIYers.”
6. CURT Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento Models
This CURT hitch is designed for multiple models, including some similar to the Santa Cruz. It offers dependable strength and a clean look.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Rated for 4,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 600 lbs tongue weight
- ✓ Versatile 2-inch receiver for accessories
- ✓ Fully tested in real-world conditions
- ✓ Aftermarket fit for specific Hyundai and Kia models
Why We Recommend It
It’s a quality option if it fits your vehicle. The installation is straightforward, and it looks like a factory hitch.
Best For
Best for owners of compatible models who want a CURT hitch with good towing capacity and a factory-like appearance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Perfect fit and alignment for listed vehicles
- High-quality construction and finish
- Easy installation with clear instructions
- Cost-effective compared to dealer installation
Cons:
- Not specifically for Santa Cruz; verify compatibility
- Lower weight capacity than some Santa Cruz hitches
- May require muffler bracket adjustment during install
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Fit perfectly. Great quality, instructions were great, perfect alignment. Looks like a factory hitch.”
Customer Review: “The tow hitch fits nice. It looks like a factory hitch. The hardest part was pulling the muffler brackets out of the rubber hangers. Spraying some soapy water on them helped.”
7. 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness Kit for Hyundai Santa Cruz and Other Models
This generic wiring harness kit covers multiple models, including the Santa Cruz. It’s made with quality materials for reliable trailer light connections.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High-quality ABS plastic and metal terminals
- ✓ Compatible with 2022-2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz and other models
- ✓ Plug-and-play design for easy installation
- ✓ Includes necessary hardware like zip ties
Why We Recommend It
It’s an affordable option that gets the job done. Just make sure to check compatibility before buying.
Best For
Best for those who need a basic wiring harness for occasional towing and want broad compatibility across vehicles.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wide vehicle compatibility list
- Simple installation with plug-and-play
- Durable materials for longevity
- Budget-friendly price
Cons:
- Quality control can be inconsistent
- Some units may have wiring issues or splices
- Instructions might be minimal
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Installation was as simple as plugging it in and securing with a couple of zip ties. Works well for my needs.”
Customer Review: “Complete garbage. It did not work as stated. Inside the protective wire casing there were wires spliced. The converter box did not work. I am sending this back.”
8. Wsays 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness for Hyundai Santa Cruz and Santa Fe
Wsays offers a reliable wiring harness with good performance. It’s designed for easy installation and solid electrical connectivity.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Fits Hyundai Santa Cruz 2023-2024 and other models
- ✓ Standard 4-pin connector for trailer lights
- ✓ High-specification SMT circuitry for safety
- ✓ Includes zip ties and mounting hardware
Why We Recommend It
It’s a dependable choice that works well with vehicles having pre-installed trailer packages. Installation is quick and hassle-free.
Best For
Best for Santa Cruz owners with factory trailer packages who need a no-fuss wiring harness for towing lights.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very easy to install with the right cable length
- Good electrical conductivity and safety features
- Comes with all necessary accessories
- Affordable and effective
Cons:
- Requires vehicle to have pre-installed trailer package
- Plastic nut for mounting might not be very secure
- Brand may not be well-known
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Very easy to install with just the right cable length to reach the hitch. The car came with the pre-installed trailer package which is required. Works perfectly.”
Customer Review: “Easy installation, plugged in and worked right away. The included zip ties made securing the wires simple. Good value for money.”
9. Custom 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness for Hyundai Santa Cruz and Santa Fe
This custom wiring harness offers plug-and-play convenience for your Santa Cruz. It ensures seamless connection of trailer lights without any hassle.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compatible with 2022-2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz and other models
- ✓ Standard 4-pin flat connector for easy towing
- ✓ Plug-and-play design with no cutting or splicing
- ✓ Quick installation into existing factory wiring
Why We Recommend It
It’s a reliable accessory that makes towing safer. The custom fit means fewer issues during installation.
Best For
Best for those who want a custom-fit wiring harness that is easy to install and works with multiple vehicle models.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Hassle-free installation saves time
- Good compatibility with listed vehicles
- Reliable performance for trailer lights
- Durable construction
Cons:
- May not fit all model years perfectly
- Some users report generic reviews not specific to product
- Price can vary compared to other options
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This wiring harness is designed for simplicity and reliability, ensuring your trailer lights work seamlessly with your vehicle. Installation was quick and easy.”
Customer Review: “Plugged it in and it worked right away. No issues with lights or signals. A great addition for towing with my Santa Cruz.”
10. No-Drill Truck Bed Extender for Hyundai Santa Cruz with a Pin Release
This bed extender is a handy accessory for your Santa Cruz. It bolts on without drilling, extending your bed length for more cargo space.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Vehicle-specific for 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz
- ✓ No-drill design using existing threaded holes
- ✓ Works with bed covers and liners
- ✓ Pin release for easy folding and adjustment
Why We Recommend It
It maximizes the utility of your Santa Cruz’s bed. The installation is straightforward, and it doubles as a bed divider.
Best For
Best for Santa Cruz owners who need extra cargo space without permanent modifications, ideal for hauling longer items.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent fit and value for money
- No drilling required, preserving vehicle integrity
- Versatile as both extender and divider
- Sturdy construction for secure use
Cons:
- Instructions are not very clear or detailed
- Assembly can be tricky with some parts
- May require piercing plastic dimples on tailgate
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Waited too long to make the purchase. This is such an efficient enhancement to my Santa Cruz. Took my truck from a 4 ft bed to a 6 ft bed. Also doubles as a bed divider when folded in.”
Customer Review: “Excellent value and fit. Instructions are not very good. Don’t use the locking washers. I had to reverse one of the clips but it wasn’t a problem. Works great once assembled.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Hitch For The Hyundai Santa Cruz
Essential Factors We Consider
When picking the best hitch for the Hyundai Santa Cruz, think about a few key things. First, the hitch class matters. A Class 3 hitch is common and can handle up to 5,000 lbs, which matches the Santa Cruz’s towing ability. Next, the receiver size is usually 2 inches for versatility. Material is important too; look for solid steel for strength. Also, check the installation ease. Some hitches bolt on easily, while others might need more work. Don’t forget about safety certifications like SAE J684. Lastly, consider if you need a wiring harness for trailer lights. It’s a must for safe towing.
Budget Planning
Hitches for the Santa Cruz can range from budget to premium. A basic Class 3 hitch might cost around $150 to $300. Wiring harnesses add another $30 to $80. If you’re on a tight budget, go for value picks like the CURT hitch. For top quality, invest in brands like Draw-Tite. Remember, installation costs extra if you hire a pro. DIY can save money but requires some tools. Plan your total spend based on your towing needs and how often you’ll use it.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right hitch enhances your Santa Cruz’s functionality. Whether you tow a trailer, carry bikes, or need extra cargo space, a good hitch makes it safe and easy. Always verify compatibility with your vehicle year and model. Read reviews and consider your usage patterns. With our top picks and guide, you’re set to make a smart choice. Happy towing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best hitch class for Hyundai Santa Cruz?
A: The best hitch is usually a Class 3 with a 2-inch receiver. It supports up to 5,000 lbs towing, which fits the Santa Cruz’s max capacity. This class is versatile for most needs.
Q: Do I need a wiring harness for towing with my Santa Cruz?
A: Yes, a wiring harness is essential for connecting trailer lights. It ensures your brake and turn signals work on the trailer. Look for a 4-pin harness that plugs into your factory wiring for easy install.
Q: Can I install a trailer hitch on my Santa Cruz myself?
A: Many hitches are designed for DIY installation. They come with instructions and bolt onto existing frame points. If you’re handy with tools, you can do it. Otherwise, a professional installer is a good idea.
Q: What accessories work with these hitches?
A: A standard 2-inch receiver works with bike racks, cargo carriers, ball mounts for trailers, and more. Just check the weight limits to avoid overloading.
Q: How do I know if a hitch fits my specific Santa Cruz year?
A: Always check the product description for exact fitment. Most hitches list compatible years, like 2022-2025. Verify your vehicle model before buying to ensure a perfect match.
We’ve covered the top hitches and accessories for your Hyundai Santa Cruz. From the robust Draw-Tite to the budget-friendly CURT, there’s an option for every need. Remember to pair your hitch with a good wiring harness for complete towing safety. Think about how you’ll use it—whether for occasional trips or daily hauling. Ready to upgrade your Santa Cruz? Check out the links above to find the best deals and get started on your next adventure!
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