Key highlights
- The new Tucson plug-in hybrid produces 292 PS and 380 Nm.
- A larger 17.1 kWh battery enables up to 81 km of electric-only range.
- The PHEV gets a 6-speed automatic, all-wheel drive and 7.2 kW AC charging.
Hyundai has revealed more details of the fifth-generation Tucson, including its significantly upgraded plug-in hybrid powertrain. The new Tucson PHEV combines a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine with a more powerful electric motor to deliver a combined 292 PS and 380 Nm.
The PHEV is offered exclusively with all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission. It can accelerate from 0-100 kmph in a claimed 7.9 seconds, making it considerably quicker than the standard petrol version.
Powertrain upgrade
The biggest upgrade is the battery. The new Tucson PHEV uses a 17.1 kWh battery, up from the previous generation’s smaller pack. Hyundai is targeting an electric-only range of up to 81 km, depending on specification and final homologation. That should make the Tucson PHEV considerably more useful for daily urban driving. Owners who can charge regularly could potentially complete most routine commutes without starting the petrol engine.
Charging capability has also improved. The new model gets a 7.2 kW onboard AC charger, allowing the battery to be replenished using a suitable home wallbox or public AC charger.
New Tucson gets a major redesign
The PHEV arrives as part of a completely redesigned Tucson range. Hyundai has adopted a much more upright and boxy exterior, with a prominent grille, integrated lighting elements and a more squared-off profile.
The new-generation SUV also gets Hyundai’s Pleos Connect infotainment system, available with screens measuring up to 17 inches. It introduces Android Automotive-based connectivity, three-finger gesture controls and Gleo AI voice interaction. Physical controls for key functions have also returned.
Hyundai will offer the new Tucson with petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, while rugged XRT and XRT Pro versions expand its appeal. The XRT Pro gets all-terrain tyres, recovery hooks and 210 mm of ground clearance.
India launch remains unclear
The fifth-generation Tucson is scheduled to begin its global rollout from 2027, with Korea getting it first. Hyundai has not yet confirmed whether the new PHEV will be introduced in India. However, with Kia bringing the Sorento, the Tucson too will likely be offered in India as well.
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