2026 Hyundai Tucson vs 2025 vs 2024: Key Differences
The Hyundai Tucson remains one of the most popular compact SUVs on the market, and comparing the model years will help you understand what’s new and improved. While these three generations share the same reliable foundation, there are meaningful differences in powertrain options, technology, and features. Let’s explore what sets each year apart.
Engine Options and Performance
2024 Hyundai Tucson
The Tucson offered a comprehensive powertrain lineup with three distinct options:
2.5L Gasoline Engine:
Horsepower: 187
Torque: 178 lb-ft
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Fuel economy: approximately 10.2 L/100 km city, 8.0 L/100 km highway
1.6L Turbocharged Hybrid Engine:
Combined horsepower: 231
Combined torque: 258 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Fuel economy: approximately 7.0 L/100 km city, 6.7 L/100 km highway
1.6L Turbocharged Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV):
Combined horsepower: 268
Combined torque: 258 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Electric-only range: approximately 50 km (31 miles)
Fuel economy: approximately 3.1 L/100 km equivalent
All models came standard with all-wheel drive (HTRAC system).
2025 Hyundai Tucson
This model year maintained the same three powertrain options with minor refinements:
2.5L Gasoline Engine:
Horsepower: 187
Torque: 178 lb-ft
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Fuel economy: approximately 10.2 L/100 km city, 8.0 L/100 km highway
1.6L Turbocharged Hybrid Engine:
Combined horsepower: 231
Combined torque: 258 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Fuel economy: approximately 7.0 L/100 km city, 6.7 L/100 km highway
1.6L Turbocharged Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV):
Combined horsepower: 268
Combined torque: 258 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Electric-only range: approximately 50 km (31 miles)
Key change: This model introduced Digital Key technology on most trims (except base SE), allowing smartphone-based vehicle access.
2026 Hyundai Tucson
The latest model year brings significant changes to the powertrain lineup:
2.5L Gasoline Engine (Preferred trim only):
Horsepower: 187
Torque: 178 lb-ft
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Fuel economy: approximately 9.7 L/100 km city, 7.7 L/100 km highway (improved)
1.6L Turbocharged Hybrid Engine:
Combined horsepower: 231
Combined torque: 258 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Fuel economy: approximately 6.7 L/100 km city, 6.7 L/100 km highway
1.6L Turbocharged Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV):
Combined horsepower: 268
Combined torque: 258 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Electric-only range: approximately 50 km (31 miles)
Fuel economy: approximately 3.1 L/100 km equivalent
Important change: The new model year significantly reduces gasoline-only trim options, with the Preferred being the only gas model available.
Trim Level Changes
2024 Hyundai Tucson Trims
SE
SEL
SEL Convenience
SEL Premium
Limited
Ultimate
Ultimate Hybrid
Ultimate PHEV
2025 Hyundai Tucson Trims
SE
SEL
SEL Convenience
SEL Premium
Limited
Ultimate
Ultimate Hybrid
Ultimate PHEV
2026 Hyundai Tucson Trims
Preferred (gas only)
Preferred with Trend Package
N Line Hybrid AWD
Ultimate Hybrid AWD
Ultimate Plug-in Hybrid AWD
The latest model year represents a major trim restructuring, consolidating options and emphasizing hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants.
Technology and Infotainment
2024 Hyundai Tucson
8-inch touchscreen standard on base models
10.25-inch touchscreen on higher trims
Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Hyundai Bluelink connected services
Standard Lane Following Assist (LFA)
Basic driver information display
2025 Hyundai Tucson
8-inch touchscreen standard on base models
10.25-inch touchscreen on higher trims
Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Hyundai Bluelink connected services with enhanced features
Digital Key technology (most trims except SE)
Standard Lane Following Assist (LFA)
Improved infotainment responsiveness
2026 Hyundai Tucson
10.25-inch touchscreen standard across lineup
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability
Enhanced Hyundai Bluelink with improved connectivity
Digital Key technology (available on select trims)
Standard Lane Following Assist (LFA)
Improved user interface and navigation
More intuitive controls
The new model brings wireless smartphone connectivity as a major upgrade, making it easier to connect devices without cables.
Interior Features and Comfort
2024 Hyundai Tucson
Spacious five-passenger seating
Cloth seats on base models
Available leather upholstery on higher trims
Heated front seats on select trims
Power windows and locks on most trims
Comfortable cabin with good legroom
Cargo space: 1,095 litres (38.7 cubic feet) behind rear seats
2025 Hyundai Tucson
Five-passenger seating with improved comfort
Enhanced interior materials
Cloth seats on base models
Available leather and premium upholstery
Heated front seats on multiple trims
Power windows and locks standard on most trims
Improved soundproofing
Cargo space: 1,095 litres (38.7 cubic feet) behind rear seats
2026 Hyundai Tucson
Five-passenger seating with refined comfort
Premium interior materials on higher trims
Available leather seating options
Heated front seats on select trims
Power windows and locks on equipped models
Enhanced cabin refinement and noise reduction
Cargo space: 1,095 litres (38.7 cubic feet) behind rear seats
Improved climate control systems
Exterior Design and Styling
2024 Hyundai Tucson
Distinctive parametric grille design
LED headlights and taillights on most trims
Sleek, modern body lines
Multiple wheel options from 17 to 19 inches
Available roof rails
Integrated turn signal mirrors
2025 Hyundai Tucson
Refined parametric grille with trim-specific variations
Enhanced LED lighting elements
Updated exterior styling
New wheel designs and options
Improved paint quality
More aggressive stance on N Line variants
2026 Hyundai Tucson
Carries over refined exterior styling
Updated grille design on new trims
Enhanced LED lighting systems
New wheel designs for updated trims
Improved paint options
N Line variant with sportier appearance
Maintains modern, sophisticated look
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
2024 Hyundai Tucson
Standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
Standard Lane Following Assist (LFA)
Standard Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
Standard Safe Exit Warning
Available Adaptive Cruise Control
Available Parking Distance Warning
Available Blind Spot Monitor
Multiple airbags (six standard)
2025 Hyundai Tucson
Standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with cyclist and junction turning detection
Standard Lane Following Assist (LFA)
Standard Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
Standard Safe Exit Warning
Standard Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA)
Available Adaptive Cruise Control 2
Available Highway Driving Assist (HDA)
Available Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist
Available Surround View Monitor
2026 Hyundai Tucson
All safety features carried over
Continued emphasis on collision avoidance
Enhanced camera systems
Standard safety package across all trims
Available advanced driver monitoring
Improved pedestrian detection systems
Dimensions and Cargo Space
All three model years maintain nearly identical dimensions:
Overall Dimensions:
Length: 4,630 mm (182.3 inches)
Width: 1,865 mm (73.4 inches)
Height: 1,685 mm (66.3 inches)
Wheelbase: 2,755 mm (108.5 inches)
Cargo Space:
Behind rear seats: 1,095 litres (38.7 cubic feet)
With rear seats folded: 2,119 litres (75 cubic feet)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
All models: 62 litres (approximately 16.4 gallons)
Towing Capacity
All three model years offer similar towing capabilities:
Maximum towing capacity: approximately 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs) with proper equipment
Towing package available on select trims
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
Choose the 2024 Hyundai Tucson if:
You want multiple gasoline trim options
Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are acceptable
You prefer a proven platform with established reliability
You want the widest range of trim choices
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson if:
Digital Key technology appeals to you
You want enhanced safety features with cyclist detection
You prefer the balance of proven technology and new features
Highway Driving Assist (HDA) is important to you
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Tucson if:
Wireless smartphone connectivity is a priority
You prefer hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains
You want the latest model year with current features
The simplified, modern trim structure appeals to you
You want the most refined interior and exterior styling
Hyundai Tucson: Value and Reliability
The Hyundai Tucson continues to deliver excellent value and reliability across all three model years. The first model represents the classic Tucson experience with comprehensive powertrain options and proven features. The next year brought meaningful improvements in safety technology and introduced Digital Key capability. The latest model year marks a significant shift toward electrification, with wireless connectivity and a focus on hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.
The most notable change is the emphasis on hybrid powertrains, making it the best choice if you prioritize fuel efficiency and modern technology. For those seeking traditional gasoline power with multiple trim options, the older models remain excellent choices. Test drive multiple years to experience the technology and comfort improvements firsthand. Your ideal choice depends on your powertrain preference, desired features, and budget considerations.
*Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.*
