The Hyundai Tucson: Proof the Underdog Caught Up
All three reviews tell a version of the same story — a brand that used to trail the class leaders on quality and dynamics has closed that gap almost entirely, styling included.
Illustration for editorial purposes
From Afterthought to Genuine Contender
It wasn't that long ago that cars wearing this badge were bought mainly on price rather than desire. Reviewers keep pointing to this model as the clearest evidence that era is over.
Specs at a Glance
| Body style | Mid-size SUV |
|---|---|
| Engines | 1.6T petrol, mild hybrid, full hybrid (236bhp), plug-in hybrid |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT automatic |
| 0–62mph | 7.8 sec (full hybrid) |
| Electric-only range (PHEV) | Up to 44 miles official |
| Price range (new) | Undercuts the Ford Kuga and Kia Sportage |
Full Review Summary
Autocar
Autocar found the plug-in hybrid's real-world electric range fell short of key rivals like the VW Tiguan eHybrid and Renault Rafale, both of which offer noticeably more miles per charge. Their rural test route returned only around 40mpg from the standard hybrid, a result they flagged as the model's clearest remaining weak point after a generation of otherwise steady improvement. Even so, they credited the car with genuinely humbling bigger-name rivals on style, technology and everyday usability for the price.
Top Gear
Top Gear praised the smart, screen-forward interior and noted the 2026 hybrid update brought a genuine jump in power, torque and efficiency all at once — a rare combination. They found the petrol engine notably gruff under hard acceleration and rated the plug-in hybrid's real-world electric range as merely middling rather than class-leading. Overall, they called it dynamically unmemorable but competent enough to comfortably earn a place on any family SUV shortlist.
What Car?
What Car? rated the infotainment system's graphics and responsiveness highly, just shy of the very best in class, and praised generous standard equipment including wireless smartphone mirroring and phone charging across the entire range. Their main practical gripe was the boot floor design, which isn't fully flat even at its lowest height-adjustable setting. They noted pricing undercuts several key rivals while still delivering a genuinely premium-feeling cabin at higher trim levels.
Trims & Engines at a Glance
Every engine is a variant of the same 1.6-litre turbo petrol — four-wheel drive is reserved for the Hybrid and PHEV, and only the entry petrol offers a manual gearbox.
| Derivative | Engine | Power | Transmission | Body | 0–62mph |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tucson 1.6T Advance / Premium | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo petrol, FWD | 148bhp | 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT auto | SUV | 9.3s |
| Tucson Hybrid (FWD or AWD) | 1.6L 4-cyl full-hybrid petrol | 236bhp | 6-speed automatic | SUV | 8.2s |
| Tucson PHEV (FWD or AWD) | 1.6L 4-cyl petrol + electric motor | 249bhp | 6-speed automatic | SUV | 7.9s (FWD) / 8.1s (AWD) |
Trim walk runs Advance → Premium → N Line → N Line S → Ultimate. The PHEV's 13.8kWh battery gives up to 43 miles of electric-only range. A broad exterior colour range is offered, with several metallic and pearlescent finishes at extra cost. Check Hyundai's UK configurator for current pricing.
Strengths
- Distinctive, attention-grabbing styling
- Strong standard equipment for the price
- Sharp, responsive infotainment system
- Genuinely competitive against pricier rivals
Weak points
- Plug-in hybrid electric range trails key rivals
- Petrol engine can feel gruff under hard acceleration
- Not a dynamically memorable drive
Who It Actually Suits
Buyers who want strong value and a distinctive look without paying premium-brand prices. If plug-in hybrid electric range for company car tax purposes is your priority, cross-shop against the Tiguan eHybrid first.
Common Hyundai Tucson Parts & Costs
- Hyundai Tucson Alternator
- Hyundai Tucson Battery
- Hyundai Tucson Brake Discs
- Hyundai Tucson Brake Pads
- Hyundai Tucson Cabin Air Filter
- Hyundai Tucson Clutch Kit
- Hyundai Tucson Engine Mount
- Hyundai Tucson Exhaust System
- Hyundai Tucson Fog Lights
- Hyundai Tucson Front Bumper
- Hyundai Tucson Front Suspension
- Hyundai Tucson Fuel Pump
- Hyundai Tucson Grille
- Hyundai Tucson Headlights
- Hyundai Tucson Master Clutch Cylinder
- Hyundai Tucson Radiator
- Hyundai Tucson Rear Bumper
- Hyundai Tucson Rear Shock Absorber
- Hyundai Tucson Rear Springs
- Hyundai Tucson Slave Clutch Cylinder
- Hyundai Tucson Spark Plugs
- Hyundai Tucson Starter Motor
- Hyundai Tucson Tail Lights
- Hyundai Tucson Timing Belt
- Hyundai Tucson Wing Mirror
More Hyundai Reviews
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