Hyundai is preparing to release the all-new Tucson rival to Toyota’s RAV4 in both ICE, mild-hybrid, full hybrid, and plug-in hybrid forms across the globe. A little over a month after previewing the fifth-generation Tucson and its hybrid variant, the Korean carmaker has unveiled the plug-in hybrid version. The all-new Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid is one of the most technically advanced PHEVs ever developed by Hyundai and is set to debut initially in Europe, which will get the short-wheelbase fifth-generation Tucson.
The new Tucson represents a major design update over its predecessor, as it employs a bolder “Art of Steel” design language utilized by its larger brethren, the Hyundai Palisade. The car’s proportions have also changed, as the fifth-generation Tucson is longer and boasts a more upright front end, lending it a more premium look. The overall design changes have made the new Tucson larger than its predecessor, providing more room inside the cabin and upholding its status as one of the most competitive compacts in the global automotive market. The production versions of the new Tucson are set to vary by region, as the short-wheelbase fifth-generation Tucson will be built in the Czech Republic, while the long-wheelbase variants are set to arrive in Korea, North America, and other regions. Sales of the new Tucson are set to commence in Korea later this year, with other regions set to welcome the refreshed compact SUV in 2027.
The powertrain options available for the new Tucson represent its most compelling update, as Hyundai will offer a wide variety of powerplants, including traditional internal combustion powertrains, full hybrids, and plug-in hybrids. In terms of conventional powertrains, the new Tucson will be available with a 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine with various power outputs, depending on the market. Some variants will be available with a mild-hybrid system rated at 48 volts, providing excellent fuel economy and efficiency. As for full hybrids, Hyundai will utilize the same 1.6-liter turbo petrol engine in combination with electric motors and a small battery to produce a combined output of up to 245 PS and a healthy torque figure. The new Tucson hybrid will be available with both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive and will offer excellent fuel economy, with some variants managing a claimed 42 mpg on the North American market.
The new Tucson plug-in hybrid variant is set to provide the most compelling specs, as it utilizes the same 1.6-liter turbo petrol engine but pairs it with a more powerful electric motor and a larger 17.1 kWh battery. The combined output of the hybrid powertrain is rated at 288 PS for the new Tucson plug-in hybrid, with some markets getting a slightly more powerful 292 PS version of the compact crossover. The new Tucson PHEV will be available with four-wheel drive as standard in most markets and will be able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds. The claimed range on electricity alone is said to be as much as 81 km on smaller wheels, making it possible for some drivers to make their commute on electricity alone. An onboard AC charger with a power output of 7.2 kW will also be available, allowing the new Tucson PHEV to charge at a decent pace when connected to a wallbox.
Hyundai believes that its Tucson Plug-in Hybrid represents the best of both worlds, providing the flexibility of a traditional hybrid but with the added benefit of being able to utilize electricity for most commutes without having to worry about running out of charge. The new Tucson PHEV provides the same level of comfort, safety, and advanced connectivity found in other PHEVs in Hyundai’s lineup, including the Pleos Connect infotainment system, showcased on the refreshed Tucson concept, but adds plug-in tech that allows drivers to enjoy electricity for most of their commute. The wide variety of engines on offer, from traditional petrol, mild-hybrid, full hybrid, and plug-in hybrid ensures that Hyundai is able to offer a Tucson that is suitable for most global markets. The new Tucson’s utilization of diverse powertrain options will ensure its competitiveness in the global market, as it is able to directly challenge the likes of the Toyota RAV4 across several segments. The introduction of the Tucson PHEV to the global market, including Europe, means that the Korean carmaker is prepared to meet the demand for electrified vehicles in the most competitive segment in the automotive world.
