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- Highs Smooth ride, quality interior, comfortable seating for five.
- Lows Base model is quite basic, average cargo and storage room, don't expect sporty handling.
- Verdict The Tucson delivers the kind of comfort, ride, and practicality that are high on the list most buyers of compact SUVs.
Overview
Hyundai launched its entry into the red-hot compact sport-utility market, the Tucson, in the 2005 model year. But it took until the third-generation version, new for 2016, to compete directly with the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, which are not only the bestsellers in the segment, they are just behind pickup trucks among the best-selling vehicles in the country. The Tucson has always been on the small side of the compact SUV class, but like other Hyundais it competes as a value-laden, high-feature model with an exceptionally well-designed, quality interior.
What's New for 2017?
Various Tucson trim models were treated to infotainment and interior upgrades for 2017. Higher trims now come with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and a 315-watt Infinity stereo. Eco and Sport models have a new stain-resistant seat fabric, and the Eco now comes standard with console-mounted rear-seat vents for the heat and air conditioning. Upgraded materials are used for the door panels of Sport models and above.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- SE: $23,650
- Eco: $25,100
- Sport: $26,850
- Value: $27,500
- SE Plus: $27,700
- Night: $28,750
- Limited: $30,725
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Tucson's base engine is a 164-hp 2.0-liter inline-four coupled to a conventional six-speed automatic transmission, and is available only on the base Tucson SE. All other trim levels come with a 175-hp turbocharged I-4, driving the front or all wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, which shifts quickly and seamlessly, but is a bit languid in its upshifts. Handling isn’t all that noteworthy in the Tucson; it’s competent but not sporty. But body roll is well controlled, and the steering is nicely weighted. It also offers a very smooth and refined ride, and the suspension soaks up all but the harshest bumps.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Tucson's interior is nicely designed, with plenty of front-seat room and a capacious back seat for a compact sport-utility. The SE and Eco trims come with the basics, such as cloth seats, power windows, air conditioning, and cruise control. Higher trims add touches like heated seats, leather upholstery, eight-way power front seats, dual-zone climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, soft-touch surfaces, and a power liftgate. Cargo space is 31 cubic feet with the rear seat upright, and 61.9 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down—about average for this size class—and interior cubby storage is adequate but not exemplary.
Infotainment and Connectivity
All Tucson models come with Bluetooth connectivity, steering-wheel controls, USB ports, and an auxiliary input. SE, Eco, Sport, Value, and Night trims have a 5.0-inch color touchscreen and a six-speaker stereo with satellite radio. SE Plus and Limited models come with an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Hyundai’s BlueLink connectivity system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, and an eight-speaker Infinity premium audio system.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
For more information about the Hyundai Tucson‘s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
