Hyundai Tucson Engine Options and Evolution (2016-2024)
The Hyundai Tucson has established itself as a versatile compact SUV in the highly competitive crossover market. Between 2016 and 2024, this popular vehicle underwent significant transformations, particularly in its powertrain offerings. Spanning two distinct generations, the Tucson engine lineup has evolved from conventional gasoline options to include efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, reflecting changing consumer preferences and advancements in automotive technologies.
Third-Generation Tucson Engines (2016-2021)
The third-generation Tucson, introduced in 2016, offered a streamlined engine lineup focused on balancing performance with fuel efficiency.
2.0L Nu MPI Engine
Base Powerplant:
Naturally aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine
Direct port fuel injection system
Power output: 120 kW (161 horsepower) at 6,200 rpm
Torque: 205 Nm (151 lb-ft) at 4,000 rpm
Six-speed automatic transmission
Available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations
Fuel efficiency: approximately 10.1 L/100 km combined (FWD models)
This entry-level engine provided adequate power for daily driving while offering reasonable fuel economy. The 2.0L became the mainstay of the Tucson lineup, powering the majority of models sold during this generation. Its straightforward design prioritized reliability and maintenance simplicity over cutting-edge performance.
1.6L Gamma T-GDI Turbocharged Engine
Premium Performance Option:
Turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine
Gasoline direct injection technology
Power output: 130 kW (175 horsepower) at 5,500 rpm
Torque: 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) between 1,500-4,500 rpm
Seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT)
Standard all-wheel drive on most trim levels
Fuel efficiency: approximately 9.2 L/100 km combined
Reserved for higher trim levels like the Limited and Ultimate, this turbocharged engine delivered a more engaging driving experience with significantly improved low-end torque. The broader torque band made for more responsive acceleration, particularly in urban driving scenarios. The sophisticated dual-clutch transmission provided quicker shifts than the conventional automatic, although some drivers reported an adjustment period to its different driving characteristics.
Mild Updates (2019-2021)
For the 2019 model year, Hyundai implemented minor refinements to both engines, primarily focused on emissions compliance and slight efficiency improvements. The power outputs remained unchanged, but software calibrations were updated to improve throttle response and transmission shift patterns.
By 2021, the third-generation Tucson had maintained these two engine options throughout its lifecycle, with the 2.0L naturally aspirated engine serving the majority of buyers seeking value and simplicity, while the 1.6L turbocharged variant catered to those desiring more performance.
Fourth-Generation Tucson Engines (2022-2024)
The fourth-generation Tucson, introduced for the 2022 model year, represented a significant leap forward in powertrain technology, with Hyundai expanding the lineup to include hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants alongside conventional gasoline options.
2.5L Smartstream GDI Engine
Base Engine:
Naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine
Gasoline direct injection with multi-point injection capability
Power output: 140 kW (187 horsepower) at 6,100 rpm
Torque: 241 Nm (178 lb-ft) at 4,000 rpm
Eight-speed automatic transmission
Available in both front-wheel drive and HTRAC all-wheel drive
Fuel efficiency: approximately 8.9 L/100 km combined (FWD models)
This new base engine represented a significant upgrade over the previous 2.0L, offering more power and improved efficiency. The dual-injection system enabled the engine to switch between direct injection and port injection, depending on driving conditions, thereby optimizing both performance and emissions. The advanced eight-speed automatic transmission provided smoother shifts and better highway fuel economy compared to the previous six-speed unit.
1.6L Turbocharged Hybrid Powertrain
Efficient Performance Option:
Turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor
Combined system power: 169 kW (227 horsepower)
Combined system torque: 350 Nm (258 lb-ft)
Six-speed automatic transmission specifically designed for hybrid application
Standard HTRAC all-wheel drive
1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery
Fuel efficiency: approximately 6.4 L/100 km combined
The hybrid powertrain marked the Hyundai commitment to electrification within the Tucson lineup. This system blended the responsive power delivery of a turbocharged engine with electric assistance to deliver impressive acceleration while significantly reducing fuel consumption. The sophisticated control system seamlessly transitioned between power sources, often allowing for electric-only operation during light throttle conditions and low-speed driving.
1.6L Turbocharged Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain
Maximum Efficiency Option:
Turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine paired with more powerful electric motor
Combined system power: 195 kW (261 horsepower)
Combined system torque: 350 Nm (258 lb-ft)
Six-speed automatic transmission
Standard HTRAC all-wheel drive
13.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery
All-electric range: approximately 53 kilometres
Fuel efficiency: 2.1 Le/100 km combined (using the electric consumption equivalent)
The plug-in hybrid variant represented the most technologically advanced Tucson powertrain. With its larger battery capacity, the PHEV could operate as a fully electric vehicle for daily commuting while retaining the flexibility of gasoline power for longer trips. The system prioritized electric driving when charged, switching to hybrid operation when the battery reached a predetermined level. Level 2 charging allowed for complete battery replenishment in approximately two hours.
2024 Model Year Updates
For 2024, Hyundai maintained the same engine lineup but introduced calibration refinements to improve throttle response and transmission programming across all powertrains. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid models received updated software to optimize the interaction between electric and gasoline power sources, resulting in smoother operation and slightly improved efficiency.
Performance Comparison Across Generations
The evolution from third to fourth generation brought substantial performance improvements across the Tucson lineup:
Acceleration Metrics:
2016-2021 2.0L: 0-100 km/h in approximately 10.1 seconds
2016-2021 1.6T: 0-100 km/h in approximately 8.8 seconds
2022-2024 2.5L: 0-100 km/h in approximately 9.1 seconds
2022-2024 Hybrid: 0-100 km/h in approximately 8.0 seconds
2022-2024 PHEV: 0-100 km/h in approximately 7.7 seconds
The performance hierarchy clearly shifted with the introduction of electrified powertrains, with the PHEV variant claiming the title of quickest Tucson despite its focus on efficiency. The instantaneous torque delivery of the electric motors provided these hybrid models with responsive acceleration, particularly from a standstill.
Fuel Efficiency Evolution
Fuel economy improved significantly across generations, particularly with the introduction of hybrid technology:
Efficiency Progression:
2016-2021 2.0L AWD: 10.8 L/100 km combined
2016-2021 1.6T AWD: 9.9 L/100 km combined
2022-2024 2.5L AWD: 9.3 L/100 km combined
2022-2024 Hybrid AWD: 6.4 L/100 km combined
2022-2024 PHEV AWD: 2.1 Le/100 km combined (with regular charging)
The fourth-generation models showed marked improvement, with even the conventional 2.5L engine offering better efficiency than its predecessor despite delivering more power. The hybrid variants represented the most significant leap, with the standard hybrid cutting consumption by approximately 31% compared to the 2.5L. Meanwhile, the PHEV could drastically reduce operating costs for drivers who can charge regularly.
Maintenance Considerations by Engine Type
Different engines in the Tucson lineup present varying maintenance requirements and considerations:
2.0L and 2.5L Naturally Aspirated Engines:
Traditional maintenance schedule with oil changes every 8,000 km or 6 months
Timing chain design eliminates need for timing belt replacement
Conventional spark plug replacement interval of 160,000 km
Simpler overall design potentially results in lower long-term maintenance costs
1.6L Turbocharged Engines:
More frequent oil changes recommended (every 6,000 km) when driven aggressively
Additional maintenance items include turbocharger inspection
Potential for carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection
Cooling system requires special attention due to higher operating temperatures
Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Systems:
Reduced brake wear due to regenerative braking system
Additional cooling system for battery thermal management
High-voltage system inspections required
Potential for reduced engine wear due to electric operation
Specialized technician training required for certain service procedures
Five Tucson Engine Facts
The fourth-generation Tucson hybrid system uses a Transmission-Mounted Electric Device (TMED) rather than the more common power-split arrangement, allowing it to maintain a traditional six-speed automatic transmission instead of a CVT.
The 2022 Tucson PHEV’s 13.8 kWh battery weighs approximately 140 kg; yet, the vehicle maintains nearly the same cargo capacity as non-hybrid models due to clever packaging.
The 2.5L Smartstream engine in the fourth-generation Tucson uses both multi-point and direct injection, switching between them based on driving conditions to optimize efficiency and reduce carbon buildup.
The Hyundai 1.6L turbocharged engine has been remarkably versatile, powering everything from the sporty Veloster to the family-oriented Tucson across multiple generations with various power outputs.
The Tucson PHEV’s electric motor can deliver 67 kW (90 horsepower) on its own, allowing the vehicle to reach highway speeds without engaging the gasoline engine when the battery has sufficient charge.
Questions and Answers About the Hyundai Tucson
What is the most powerful engine available in the 2024 Tucson lineup?
The most powerful engine option in the lineup is the plug-in hybrid powertrain, which combines a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine with an electric motor to produce a total system output of 195 kW (261 horsepower) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque.
How does the fuel efficiency of the 2022-2024 Tucson Hybrid compare to the previous generation’s most efficient engine?
It achieves approximately 6.4 L/100 km combined, which is about 35% more efficient than the most economical engine from the previous generation, the 1.6L turbocharged engine that averaged around 9.2 L/100 km combined.
Can the Tucson PHEV operate in fully electric mode, and what is its range?
Yes, it can operate in fully electric mode when the battery is sufficiently charged. It offers an all-electric range of approximately 53 kilometres before the gasoline engine needs to engage, making it suitable for many daily commutes without using any fuel.
Did Hyundai offer a diesel engine option for the Tucson between 2016 and 2024?
No, they did not offer a diesel engine option during the 2016-2024 period. While diesel variants were available in other global markets, the local lineup focused exclusively on gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
What transmission types are available with the different Tucson engines?
The 2016-2021 2.0L engine used a six-speed automatic transmission, while the 1.6L turbocharged engine from the same generation paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. In the 2022-2024 generation, the 2.5L engine uses an eight-speed automatic transmission, while both the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models use a specially designed six-speed automatic transmission optimized for their electrified powertrains.
*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.*
