HYUNDAI TUCSON ESTATE 1.6T Plug-in Hybrid N Line 5dr 4WD Auto

Hyundai has big plans for this MK4 model Tucson. Jonathan Crouch drives the improved version of this model.

Ten Second Review

Hyundai are aiming high with this fourth generation version of their stylish Tucson, a sharp-suited family mid-sized SUV aimed at the Qashqai-class. We're told it'll 'change the way you drive': this lightly improved version of this design certainly intends to change this Korean brand's fortunes in this sector.

Background

In an era where nearly half of all European car buyers are looking at something from the SUV Crossover class, mainstream brands need to take this segment very seriously. Hyundai's doing just that with this car, the Tucson, this being the fourth generation NX4-series model, hence reviewed in the updated form launched in Spring 2024, following this MK4 model's original introduction in 2020. Hyundai has been offering Crossovers in the mid-sized 'Qashqai'-class SUV 'C'-segment since the first generation JM-series Tucson sold between 2004 and 2009. That contender was replaced by a far more competitive LM-series model, which the brand chose to badge 'ix35' for Europe and which campaigned until the MK3 TL-series design made its debut in 2015, before being updated three years later. Very little was carried over from that MK3 model to this fourth generation one. Can this current, now much-improved car offer a genuine alternative to the established players in this sector? Time to find out.

Driving Experience

There are no engineering or handling changes to this lightly improved MK4 Tucson. As before, all versions of this model use some sort of 1.6 T-GDi petrol engine. In the base variant, this features in conventional form with 160PS and ordinary 6-speed manual transmission. Your dealer will urge you though, to find the small extra premium necessary to get this same 160PS engine with the brand's 48V mild hybrid tech and a 7DCT auto gearbox. Both these variants are front-driven. If you want a stronger dose of electrification in your Tucson, there are two full-fat Hybrid options, both of which comes as standard with a 6-speed DCT auto gearbox and can optionally be ordered with 4WD. The first is a self-charging full-Hybrid HEV variant, which uses that 1.6 T-GDi engine in 215PS form. Alternatively, you could go for the top Plug-in Hybrid PHEV variant, which mates that 1.6 T-GDi engine to a 66.9kW electric motor for a total output of 252PS, yet can offer an all-electric driving range when fully charged of around 38 miles. The four-wheel drive PHEV models get a terrain control switch for optimal driving off-road, but obviously on-tarmac dynamics have been prioritised here, though as with the previous model, don't expect particularly involving handling. Customers are being offered a couple of suspension set-ups, with electronically-controlled adaptive dampers optional on high spec variants. These have two profiles, a softer set-up for when the car is in its 'Normal' or 'Eco' drive modes. And a firmer one for when the 'Sport' mode is selected, which also firms up the steering. Whatever your choice of Tucson, you'll find body roll well controlled and refinement quite impressive - a boon on the kind of long journeys over which you'll appreciate the standard Highway Drive Assist set-up that all automatic Tucsons feature.

Design and Build

The updates to this fourth generation NX4-series Tucson model are uber-subtle. Look closely and you might notice the thinner, more angular lines of the radiator grille and the revised front bumper. As before, the front end styling is dominated by the brand's 'Parametric Jewel' daytime running lights borrowed from the company's previous Vision T concept, which represented what Hyundai has called 'a design revolution'. The 'jewel-like' running lights are integrated into the sides of the 3D grille and can't be distinguished from it when switched off. As before, this MK4 model is one of the larger mid-sized SUV segment models, at 4.5-metres long. And sits on big wheels of between 17 to 19-inches in size. Inside up-front, the changes to this facelifted model are much more noticeable. Borrowing from the cabin design theme seen in the company's latest EVs, the twin screens are now 12.3-inches in size (up from 10.25-inches before). One is for the instrument cluster; the other is for the centre stack and incorporates Hyundai's latest Bluelink telematics. The redesigned dashboard has a new horizontal crash pad design supposed to create a sense of openness. Physical heating and ventilation controls and a redesigned centre console with buttons for regularly used functions feature on the new centre console, whilst the automatic and hybrid powertrains feature a wireless charging pad housed in the centre armrest. As before, there's quite a spacious back seat - a 10mm longer wheelbase increase for the original version of this MK4 model improved that and added 26mm more legroom. And the boot offers up to 620-litres of space in front-driven models (though that falls to 558-litres in the PHEV variant).

Market and Model

The Tucson used to be a budget-orientated choice in the mid-sized family SUV segment. No longer. There are five trim levels - 'Advance', 'Premium', 'N Line', N Line S' and 'Ultimate' - and prices start at around £32,000. Most Tucsons will be sold in the £35,000-£40,000 bracket that's becoming common for electrified crossovers in the mid-sized family SUV segment. For the HEV Hybrid, prices start from just under £36,000. And for the Plug-in hybrid variant, prices start at just under £40,000 for the base 'Advance' version. With this fourth generation Tucson, Hyundai has been aiming to move slightly away from comparisons with cheaper mid-sized crossovers like Nissan Qashqais and SEAT Atecas and closer to slightly larger, slightly pricier volume brand mid-size models like Volkswagen's Tiguan and the Ford Kuga. Doing that requires not just sharper looks but a greater degree of technology - and that's certainly been prioritised here. The twin 12.3-inch interior screens are one example of that, the central infotainment monitor not only including 'Android Auto' and 'Apple CarPlay' connectivity but also Google and Apple calendar integration, along with selectable user profiles. There's also a 'last mile navigation' feature, meaning that if the driver won't be able to find a place to park actually precisely at his or her intended destination, further directions can be sent to their smartphone so that the final part of the journey can be finished on foot. Live parking and traffic information is also included, thanks to up-to-the-minute Hyundai Bluelink telematics. And of course there are up-to-the-minute driver assistance safety features, including the company's latest 'Highway Drive Assist' semi-autonomous capability. This can brake and accelerate the Tucson to keep it a pre-set distance from other motorists, using a 'Lane Follow Assist' system to keep the car in lane on major roads. There's even a 'Remote Smart Parking Assist' feature, allowing the car to be summoned from a parking spot via a button on the key.

Cost of Ownership

By offering the broadest range of electrified powertrains in the mid-sized SUV segment, this Korean brand aims to take a lead in terms of drivetrain efficiency in this class, with mild hybrid, full hybrid and plug-in hybrid tech available to customers. Let's get to the WLTP figures. The conventional version of the company's 1.6 T-GDI Smartstream engine manages 41.5mpg on the combined cycle and puts out 154g/km of CO2, but you can improve that marginally to 44.8mpg and 142g/km if you get this powerplant with the brand's 48V mild hybrid tech. The full-Hybrid model improves that showing to 49.6mpg and 129g/km. The PHEV version is rated at up to 201.8mpg and up to 29g/km - in 4WD form. In all its forms, this 1.6-litre powerplant has been optimised for efficiency and gets Hyundai's Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology. CVVD optimises engine performance and fuel efficiency while also being eco-friendly. The valve control technology regulates the duration of the valve opening and closing, according to driving conditions. This is the only system that can change the duration of valve opening during driving. The company's latest iMT intelligent manual transmission also helps efficiency by working purely electronically, de-coupling the engine from the transmission after the driver releases the accelerator while driving at a constant speed, allowing the car to enter into a coasting mode, which obviously improves overall fuel efficiency. And as usual with Hyundai, with all Tucsons, you get one of the best customer assurance plans in the industry. The Five Year Triple Care warranty includes five years of mechanical cover with no mileage limit, annual vehicle health checks and roadside assistance.

Summary

Hyundai is much more than just a value volume brand these days - and the improved version of this fourth generation Tucson provides ample proof of that. It's a family SUV you'd still choose for its looks, secure in the knowledge that in terms of practicality, safety and connectivity, it's also cutting-edge. We're not as convinced that the Korean maker has done as much as it could have to improve its engine electrification options - particularly in the case of the Plug-in Hybrid version. Plus it's disappointing that the 4WD versions can't tow a little more. And as before, those looking for a truly involving drive might have reason to pause for thought before purchase. If you can live with those caveats though, there's still lots to like here. If you didn't want a Tucson previously, there's not much more reason to choose one now. But if you like the way it looks, this update could tip you Hyundai's way, secure in the knowledge that all kinds of serious family expeditions - be they to the shopping mall, the in-laws or Inverness - will be well within this car's remit. Expect it to continue to establish Hyundai in this segment.

Body Glass

Adjustable intermittent front windscreen wipers with aero wiper blade

Automatic defog system

Automatic windscreen wipers with rain sensor

Front and rear electric windows with anti-trap mechanism and one touch control

Privacy glass - Rear windows and tailgate

Rear wash/wipe with intermittent wipe setting

Tinted glass with windscreen shade band

Brakes

Anti-lock brake system (ABS)

Brake assist function

Downhill brake control

Electric parking brake

Electronic stability control

Hill start assist control (HAC)

Multi-Collision braking

Traction control

Vehicle stability management

Communication

Bluetooth system

E-call

Voice recognition

Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

Wireless phone charging pad

Driver Aids

Hyundai road side assistance

Smart and power tailgate

Driver Convenience

Cruise control - smart adaptive speed control with stop and go function

Drive mode selector

Driver attention warning

Emergency stop signalling system

Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA) - Car, Pedestrian and Cycle

Forward Collision Avoidance Assist Junction Turning (FCAJX)

Front and rear parking sensors

Highway Driving Assist (HDA)

Intelligent speed limit assist

Lane follow assist

Lane keep assist

Power assisted steering

Rear camera and guidance parking system

Driver Information

12.3" LCD display with driver's supervision instrument cluster

12.3" widescreen navigation with bluelink and mapcare

Digital clock

Over the air updates(OTA)

Rev counter

Tailgate open warning light

Trip computer

Trip odometer

Water temperature gauge

Windscreen washer fluid sensor and warning indicator

Driving Mirrors

Automatic dimming rear view mirror

Body colour door mirrors with integrated indicators

Electrically adjustable, heated and power folding door mirrors

Entertainment

2 front and 2 rear speakers with 2 tweeters

2 front and 2 rear USB-C ports

DAB Digital radio

Steering wheel mounted audio/phone controls

Exterior Body Features

Body colour bumpers

Body Colour Exterior Door Handles

Body coloured wheel arches

Glossy black bumper mouldings

Rear side wing doors

Roof rails

Soft touch rear door paneling

Exterior Lights

Automatic headlights with dusk sensor

Follow me home headlights

Front fog lights

LED 3rd brake light

LED daytime running lights

LED Headlights

LED rear lights

Positioning Lights - LED

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Dual zone climate control

Touch sensitive climate controls with temperature dials

Interior Features

12V power outlets in front console and luggage compartment

Cupholders in rear armrest

Front and rear door pockets

Front armrest with storage box

Front centre console and door bottle holders

Heated steering wheel

Height/reach adjustable steering column

Illuminated/air conditioned glove compartment

Leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob

Leather/faux textile suede upholstery

Luggage cover

Luggage hooks

Luggage net

Metal pedals

Rear side window sunblind

Retractable load cover

Sunglasses holder

TUCSON branded metal door scuff plate

Underfloor boot compartment

Interior Lights

64 colours interior ambient lighting

Door courtesy lights

LED interior lighting

Luggage compartment lighting

Map and reading lights

Packs

N Line design package - Tucson

N Line interior design package - Tucson

Trailer wiring package - Tucson

Safety

3x3 point rear seatbelts

Active bonnet

Airbag - Front, front side, curtain and centre front airbags

Childproof rear door locks

Curtain airbag roll over sensor

Front and rear seatbelt reminder

Front passenger airbag deactivation switch

Front seatbelt pretensioners

Outer rear seatbelt height adjustment

Seatbelt height adjustment for front seats

Tyre pressure monitoring system with individual tyre pressure display - TPMS

Seats

3 seat bench in 2nd row

40/20/40 split folding rear seat

Adjustable head restraints (Up and down)

Driver's seat manual height adjustment

Heated front seats

ISOFIX child seat anchorage points attached on outer rear seats

Manual height adjustable front passenger seat

Rear seat remote folding function

Reclining rear seats

Single front passenger seat

Security

Deadlocks

Immobiliser

Locking wheel nuts

Remote control central locking

Smart key with keyless entry and engine start/stop button

Speed sensitive auto door locking

Thatcham category 1 alarm

Towing

Trailer stability assist

Vanity Mirrors

Driver and passenger sunvisors with illuminated LED vanity mirrors

Vehicle Charging

Charging cable - 7 pin type 2

Charging cable - Emergency 3 pin connector mode 2 (ICCB)

Wheels - Alloy

19" Alloy wheels

Wheels - Spare

Tyre repair kit

Electric Vehicle Data

Battery Capacity % guaranteed under warranty: 70

Battery Capacity in kWh: 13.8

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Charge Time (Mins): 102

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Percentage Change: 0-100

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Power Supply - kW: 7.4

Battery Leased: 0

Battery Type: Lithium-ion

Charging Port Location: Right Side Rear

Coupler/Connector Type: CCS Type 2

Maximum Charging Rate - kW: 7.4

Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Mileage: 100000

Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Years: 8

Usable Battery Capacity: N

WLTP - Equivalent AER (km) - Comb: 63

WLTP - Equivalent AER (miles) - Comb: 39.1

Emissions - ICE

HC+NOx: N

Particles: N

Standard Emissions: EURO 6

Emissions - PHEV

WLTP - CO2 Weighted (g/km) - Comb: 29

Engine and Drive Train

Camshaft: DOHC

Catalytic Convertor: No

CC: 1598

Compression Ratio: 10.5:1

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

Cylinders: 4

Cylinders - Bore (mm): 75.6

Cylinders - Stroke (mm): 89

Engine Layout: FRONT TRANSVERSE

Fuel Delivery: TURBO DIRECT INJECTION

Gears: 6 SPEED

Number of Valves: 16

Transmission: SEMI-AUTO

Fuel Consumption - PHEV

WLTP - FC Weighted (l/100km) - Comb: 1.3

WLTP - FC Weighted (mpg) - Comb: 217.3

General

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: No

Badge Engine CC: 1.6

Badge Power: 252

Based On ID: N

Coin Description: T Plug-in Hybrid 4WD

Coin Series: N Line

Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0

Generation Mark: 4

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 23E

Manufacturers Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years: 12

NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: 86

NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: 87

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: 5

NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: 66

NCAP Safety Assist %: 70

Special Edition: 0

Special Order: 0

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 999999

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 5

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

Performance

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

0 to 62 mph (secs): 8.5

Engine Power - BHP: 252

Engine Power - KW: 185

Engine Power - PS: No

Engine Power - RPM: 5500

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 224

Engine Torque - MKG: 31

Engine Torque - NM: 304

Engine Torque - RPM: 1500

Top Speed: 116

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Tyres

Alloys?: No

Space Saver?: 0

Tyre Size Front: 235/50 R19

Tyre Size Rear: 235/50 R19

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Wheel Style: N

Wheel Type: 19" ALLOY

Vehicle Dimensions

Height (including roof rails): 1653

Length: 4510

Wheelbase: 2680

Width: 1865

Weight and Capacities

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 42

Gross Vehicle Weight: 2420

Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): 1737

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 558

Max. Loading Weight: 480

Max. Roof Load: 100

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 1210

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750

Minimum Kerbweight: 1940

No. of Seats: 5

Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 11

Exterior Body Features

Abyss Black two tone roof

Additional solid paint

Pearlescent paint

Solid paint

Special metallic paint

Special solid paint

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Shimmering Silver

Paint - Pearlescent

Pearl - Abyss black

Pearl - Ecotronic grey

Pearl - Serenity white

Paint - Solid

Solid - Engine red

Paint - Special

Special Metallic - Ultimate red

Special solid - Atlas white

Special solid - Shadow grey

Trim - Part Leather

Leather/faux textile suede - Black with red stitching