Can someone explain to me why you would pick the SC over any other truck on the market if you do not like tech? There are so many cheaper, more capable options.
I think what you are missing is that it's NOT a truck, it's a Sport Adventure Vehicle (SAV). IMHO that's its' number one appeal. You get a sporty SAV that can do some minor truck like functions. It's a family Swiss Army Knife vehicle. Smaller in size. Easy to drive and park. Hopefully FUN to drive and certainly sporty and fast in the turbo trim. It is really in a class of its' own.
What other more capable options do you speak of that cost about $25K? I know of none.
The Maverick is coming, but it IS a small unibody TRUCK; and it looks its' boxy part well.
The add-on "tech" stuff is a personal preference thing in my opinion. I like engine MPI (& GDI) technology for altitude and efficiency, but don't want a turbo. I like a technology enhanced multi-mode slush-box automatic, but don't want a DCT, CVT or manual for this AWD purchase that will be used off-road on occasion. I want an AWD with utility that includes an open trunk/bed and the brunk adds even more utility, but don't want a traditional truck in looks, feel or size.
Again, this vehicle is in a class of its' own. If Subaru reinvents the Baja with sporty lines and their top-notch AWD system, then that will be their competition. But for now, we are left with the Santa Cruz SAV and Maverick TRUCK. Personally, the Maverick truck can't even meet my requirements stated above.
Frankly I'm surprised that so many traditional truck buyers are looking at and considering this (it seems to threaten some traditional truck owners ego). But... not really, because I can see where it fits into so many peoples lifestyle much better than a traditional truck for those that don't really need a traditional truck, but get forced into one for that utility function they seldom use.
I'm just extremely happy Hyundai isn't forcing all the "add-on" tech at the base level, including the flat touch screens. Hopefully that will allow them to keep the cost down, giving access to this wonderful vehicle style concept to more folks.
IMHO what makes the Santa Cruz attractive to so many is that it's: easy to drive as a city DD, has a dynamic driving experience unlike a truck, has the utility of an open trunk with a brunk, and enough design styling NOT to require that aesthetically pleasing sports car or other vehicle on the side.
That's my 2-cents...