Pros: Quiet cabin; broad array of standard and available safety, comfort, and technology features; dynamic exterior styling; comfortable ride, even with available 19-inch wheels
Cons: Less cargo capacity than some rivals; leisurely acceleration with base engine; some desirable features restricted to top-line Limited and Ultimate models
CG Says: The 2021 Hyundai Tucson is unchanged. Hyundai redesigned its compact crossover SUV for 2016 and there was a refresh for 2019. This generation Tucson is 3 inches longer overall and 1.1 inches wider than the previous generation, which translates to improved rear-seat-passenger and cargo room. A 181-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine is standard in SEL, Sport, Limited, and Ultimate models. Base SE and Value models get a 164-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic. Available safety features include a forward collision mitigation system, 360-degree surround-view monitor, adaptive cruise control with stop/go functionality, lane-keep assist, driver attention monitor, and rain-sensing wipers. Other available features include a hands-free power liftgate, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and rear-park assist. The Hyundai Tucson is a compelling choice in its very competitive class. Some class competitors offer crisper handling, and others offer better cargo room, but the Tucson is nonetheless a well-rounded compact SUV.
Class | Compact SUV |
Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
Passenger Count | 5 |
Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
Manufacturer | Hyundai |
Nation of Manufacture | South Korea, Czech Republic |
Base Prices | SE: $24,840 AWD SE: $26,240 Value: $26,290 AWD Value: $27,690 SEL: $27,240 AWD SEL: $28,640 Sport: $29,390 AWD Sport: $30,790 Limited: $30,540 AWD Limited: $31,940 Ultimate: $33,190 AWD Ultimate: $34,590 |
Base Engine 2.0-Liter 4-cylinder (SE, Value) |
Horsepower 164 |
Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
Avail. Transmission NA |
EPA City Range (mpg) 22-23 |
EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 25-28 |
Optional Engine 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (SEL, Sport, Limited, Ultimate) |
Horsepower 181 |
Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
Avail. Transmission NA |
EPA City Range (mpg) 21-22 |
EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 26-28 |
First Spin: 2022 Hyundai Tucson
Test Drive: 2019 Hyundai Tucson
Test Drive: 2017 Hyundai Tucson
Test Drive: 2016 Hyundai Tucson Limited
Steve and Johnnie Road Test: 2016 Hyundai Tucson Limited
Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast, Episode 55: Rolls-Royce Motor Car; 2022 Hyundai Tucson
Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast, Episode 77; Creating Car Colors, 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz