The Hyundai Tucson is one of the best small crossovers available today. Practical, affordable, along with a spacious cabin all contribute to being one of the top SUVs you can buy. Hyundai takes the Tucson one step better by offering it as a hybrid – which adds even more charm to this loveable SUV.
Today’s Tucson is part of the fourth generation that came out in 2022. Sandwiched between the smaller Hyundai Kona and larger Hyundai Santa Fe, the Tucson is a 5-passenger compact crossover that takes aim directly at the likes of the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4. And it does so with an attractive design that features squared wheel arches and bold creases that make their presence in the body. Tucson’s of long ago used to be described as cute, but today’s is bolder and athletic.
The Tucson is available with a conventional gas engine or, as mentioned, as a hybrid. All gas-engine powered Tucson’s use a 2.5 liter four-cylinder that makes 187 horsepower. But the way to go is the hybrid route, as it’s not only more economical, but it’s also more powerful. Hybrid Tucsons use a turbocharged 1.6 liter four-cylinder and an electric motor that makes 231 hp (up from last year’s 226 hp). Going with the plug-in hybrid gets you even more power at 261 hp. Hybrids use a six-speed automatic transmission and come standard with all-wheel drive while the gas engine uses an eight-speed automatic with front-wheel drive (with all-wheel drive being an option).
For 2025, the Tucson receives many updates. Outside, there is a new grille along with wider bumpers and streamlined lighting elements front and back. New wheel designs add some freshness. Inside, the Tucson follows other Hyundai models by including a pair of optional 12.3-inch displays and bringing back several physical buttons for the HVAC and audio functions, making them easier and less distracting to use. A new dashboard parcel shelf and a center console with a cubby and an optional wireless charging pad complete the makeover.
The tester arrived as a Tucson Hybrid Limited with all-wheel drive. Starting price for the base Tucson is $30,000, with the Hybrid version starting at $34,760. The tester had an MSRP of $43,020.
Inside, Hyundai continues their pattern of providing excellent ergonomics and an abundance of interior space despite the Tucson’s small footprint. The cabin is very pleasant with front seats that offer ample room while rear passengers are able to stretch their legs and even recline their seat. The new cockpit works well, and, like other Hyundais, being in the Tucson certainly makes you feel like you are in a much more expensive vehicle.
I recall the last Tucson I drove (last year, a gas version Limited), that despite how good it was, was rather slow. The hybrid version resolves that issue. With 231 horses, the Tucson Hybrid won’t pin your back to the seat, but it is the kind of power you’ll be glad to have when entering a highway on-ramp or trying to pass. Add in the Tucson’s the solid steering, comfortable ride, and confident handling, the Tucson Hybrid really turns out to be great driving vehicle.
And not only is the Tucson Hybrid quicker than its all-gas counterpart, it consumes far less fuel. The EPA rates the tester at 35 mpg (both in town and on the highway) – far better than the 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway you would expect from the non-hybrid version.
When put to work, the Tucson can carry 38.7 cubic feet of cargo behind the rear seats – which puts it among the best in its class. Fold the rear seats down, and that space increases to nearly 78 cubic feet. Along with that, a low liftover and nice flat floor makes it easy to load and unload.
Tech gurus will be happy to hear that all Tucsons are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible and display nicely on the touchscreen. There is also a voice activation system that recognizes commands well and is easy to use. And the Tucson is fitted with many driver’s aids like a blind-spot warning system, adaptive cruise control and front and rear parking sensors.
The Tucson Hybrid is better than the standard Tucson in just about every way – and there is only a small premium to be paid for the extra power, better fuel economy, and just overall charm that the Tucson Hybrid carries. In today’s market, where buyers are starting to question electric vehicles, a vehicle like the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid makes the most sense.
— Christopher A. Randazzo
By The Numbers:
2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD
Layout: front-engine / all-wheel drive
Engine: 1.6 liter turbocharged four-cylinder w/ electric motor
Transmission: six-speed automatic
Horsepower: 231 hp
Torque: N/A
EPA Fuel Economy: 35 mpg city / 35 mph highway
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