Hyundai Tucson

Overview: Is the Hyundai Tucson a Good Compact SUV?

The Tucson has been a mainstay of Hyundai’s U.S. lineup for two decades. Originally designed as a dowdy and uninspiring compact crossover, the Tucson has been transformed by Hyundai into a head-turning two-row family hauler. The debut of the fourth generation for the 2022 model year gave the Tucson striking looks with numerous geometric accents. This newest edition also has a hybrid or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. At one point, the Tucson was Hyundai’s entry-level crossover SUV, a role now taken over by the subcompact Venue and Kona models. Misspelling can be an issue for these vehicles; “Hyundai Tuscon” is incorrect.

The Hyundai Tucson competes with the Kia Sportage (its corporate cousin), the Honda CR-V, the Toyota RAV4, the Mazda CX-5 (and CX-50), and the Nissan Rogue. The Hyundai Santa Fe is larger and has three rows, depending on the model year.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Hyundai Tucson cars for sale.

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Related: Hyundai Tucson Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

Key Features

The Hyundai Tucson offers:

• Five-door compact crossover SUV body style
• Two-row seating for five passengers
• Four cylinder engines, V6 engines (first generation only), hybrid powertrains, and plug-in hybrid powertrains
• Front wheel drive (FWD) or all wheel drive (AWD)
• Manual transmission or automatic transmission (varying by generation)

Trims

Hyundai Tucson trim names have changed over the years. Older models came as a GL, GLS, or LX, followed by a more simplified GLS or Hyundai Tucson Limited offerings. Buyers could later choose from an SE, Sport, or Limited. The current lineup for conventionally powered Tucsons includes the SE, SEL, XRT, and Limited grades. The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is available in Blue, SEL Convenience, N Line, and Limited trims. There are two choices for the Hyundai Tucson Plug In Hybrid: SEL and Limited.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

Like most compact crossovers, the Tucson’s front seat is roomy, while the back seat is less generous. However, the fourth-generation Tucson offers 41.3 inches of rear legroom, making it more spacious in the back than many of its competitors. More recent generations have all the tech goodies (as standard equipment or optional), including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Harman Kardon audio, and advanced driver aids (like automatic emergency brakes and lane departure warning). Cargo space is ample, especially when the second row is folded.

How It Drives

The Hyundai Tucson is more about getting the job done than winning stoplight races or carving canyons. Fuel economy is another priority, as families are often concerned with MPG performance. Front wheel drive is more than adequate for most driving environments, but available all wheel drive adds extra confidence.

Safety

The Hyundai Tucson does well in testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Evaluated models have a four- or five-star (out of five) rating for overall safety or specific crash tests.

Reviews

According to Kelley Blue Book, Hyundai Tucson reviews average between 4.0 and 4.5 (out of 5), depending on the generation. Owners consistently rate the Tucson high for reliability, quality, and value.

Learn More: Here Are The Hyundai Tucson Years To Avoid and Hyundai Tucson Resale Value: Do They Hold Their Value? What To Know

FAQs

Is Tucson worth buying?

Yes, newer Tucsons hit a sweet spot, blending eye-catching design, passenger space, and generous standard equipment at an affordable price.

What are common Tucson issues?

There are no issues common to all Hyundai Tucson generations. However, carcomplaints.com reports that the second and third generations have a history of engine and transmission problems.

Is Tucson fuel efficient?

Definitely. Both four-cylinder and available hybrid and PHEV models deliver excellent real-world MPG. Driven gently, hybrid versions can approach 40 mpg combined for economy car-like fuel consumption.

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