Hyundai Tucson Hybrid review
The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is a stylish, well built and practical hybrid family SUV that's up there with the best contenders in its class
Pros
- Striking looks
- Great to drive
- Impressive build quality
Cons
- Not the most fun-to-drive SUV
- Plug-in version will be more efficient
- More expensive then previous models
| Car type | Fuel economy | CO2 emissions | 0-62mph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hybrid | 50mpg | 127-131g/km | 8.0s |
The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is certainly one of the most eye-catching family SUVs around, but there’s more to it than just looks. The Tucson is an excellent family car all-round, and tops rivals like the Vauxhall Grandland, Peugeot 3008, Kia Sportage, Ford Kuga and Toyota RAV4 in most areas.
The Tucson's standout design feature is a series of LED lights that look like part of the grille when turned off, but transform its nose when illuminated. Hyundai used to have a reputation for building dull cars, but things have truly been turned around, and now the South Korean manufacturer sells some of the most distinctive models available. There are more interesting design aspects further around, with sharp body creases, chrome detailing and claw-like tail-lights.
There’s a mild-hybrid and a plug-in hybrid version of the Hyundai Tucson, but we’re focused on the conventional ‘full hybrid’ here. It’s fitted with a 1.6-litre petrol engine, electric motor and 1.49kWh battery, which produces 227bhp in all. Power goes through a six-speed automatic gearbox, with buyers given the choice of front or four-wheel drive.
The plug-in hybrid Tucson is the better choice if you’re after the lowest running costs and have a way to charge your car overnight, but the regular hybrid’s 50mpg fuel economy and CO2 emissions of 127g/km are pretty good for this class.
The Tucson is comfortable and composed on the road, and while it’s not as much fun as a Ford Kuga on a twisty road, it’s decent to drive as well. It has a high-quality interior that feels upmarket and well-built, plus its hybrid powertrain works very well – it’s efficient and switches seamlessly between electric and engine power while on the move.
Overall, the latest Tucson is one of the finest mid-size family SUVs on the market. There’s a powertrain to suit all needs (apart from a pure-electric option) and every important aspect has been carefully considered and well executed – including some genuine showroom appeal. Throw in Hyundai's excellent warranty and strong reliability record and things start to look even more promising for the South Korean brand's latest effort. For a more detailed look at the latest Tucson, read on for the rest of our in-depth review...
