Hyundai Santa Cruz: Modified for the Rebelle Rally Adventure
The Hyundai Santa Cruz, a standout in the compact pickup market, is gearing up for the renowned Rebelle Rally, a challenging women-only off-road competition in California. Let’s delve into the upgrades made to the Santa Cruz to enhance its off-road capabilities for this exciting event.
Minimal Modifications, Maximum Impact
Hyundai’s approach to prepping the Santa Cruz for the rally involved minimal but strategic tweaks. The truck received a custom front bumper and a protective skid plate underneath. To elevate its off-road prowess, the Santa Cruz was equipped with 17-inch Falken Wildpeak tires for enhanced ground clearance, a Truxxx lift kit boosting the truck by 1.5 inches at the front and 1 inch at the rear, added auxiliary lighting, a front recovery point, a rear-mounted spare tire, a shovel, and MaxTrax recovery devices.
Rally-Ready Features
The Rebelle Rally, spanning eight days and devoid of GPS usage, tests the skills of participants in the desert terrains of California. The Santa Cruz had its GPS antenna removed to adhere to the event rules and was outfitted with a Terratrip rally computer for precise timing. The Hyundai entry will be driven by automotive journalists Jill Ciminillo and Kristin Shaw, known as the “Brute Squad,” bringing their experience and grit to this challenging rally.
Upholding Tradition and Experience
Kristin Shaw, a seasoned adventurer, expressed confidence in the Santa Cruz’s capabilities, emphasizing the bond formed with the vehicle through training and previous rally experience. The truck’s striking wrap, designed by Hyundai Design North America, combines typography and 1970s aesthetics, creating a visually captivating look against the desert backdrop of the rally.
The Future of Off-Roading Hyundai Trucks
Hyundai’s foray into the competitive world of off-road racing with the Santa Cruz sparks curiosity about potential enhanced off-road versions of the truck. With the compact pickup segment heating up, an off-road variant could position Hyundai’s offering uniquely in the market.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Santa Cruz’s expedition to tackle the Rebelle Rally showcases its adaptability and ruggedness in demanding off-road terrain. With strategic modifications and a capable driver duo at the helm, the Santa Cruz is set to leave its mark on this exciting competition.
FAQs
1. What modifications were made to the Hyundai Santa Cruz for the Rebelle Rally?
Hyundai equipped the Santa Cruz with a custom front bumper, a skid plate, 17-inch Falken Wildpeak tires, a Truxxx lift kit, auxiliary lighting, a rear-mounted spare tire, recovery devices, and rally-specific navigation equipment.
2. Who will be driving the Hyundai Santa Cruz at the Rebelle Rally?
Automotive journalists Jill Ciminillo and Kristin Shaw, known as the “Brute Squad,” will pilot the Hyundai Santa Cruz at the Rebelle Rally.
3. What sets the Rebelle Rally apart from other off-road races?
The Rebelle Rally is a women-only event in California that spans eight days and prohibits the use of GPS, requiring navigators to rely on compasses and paper maps for route finding.
