Key highlights
- Next-generation Hyundai Tucson gets a much boxier and more upright design
- New-generation cabin expected to feature Hyundai’s PLEOS infotainment system
- Hybrid and non-hybrid powertrains are expected, although specifications are yet to be announced
Hyundai has previewed the 2027 Tucson, and if the current SUV was already a fairly bold-looking machine, the new one takes things considerably further. The next-generation Tucson gets a more upright, rugged design that moves away from the sharp-but-rounded styling of the outgoing model.
The new Tucson is expected to arrive with a stronger focus on technology as well, including Hyundai’s latest PLEOS infotainment ecosystem.
Tucson gets a much tougher look
Hyundai has given the new Tucson a boxier silhouette, pronounced wheel arches and sharper body surfacing. The design follows the more rugged direction seen on newer Hyundai SUVs, including the Santa Fe, rather than trying to make the Tucson look like a conventional urban crossover.
The front gets a slim lighting signature, while the main headlamp units sit separately lower down. At the rear, the Tucson gets a full-width light bar and sharper tail-lamps, giving it a considerably more futuristic appearance.
The roofline also appears less heavily sloped than before, which could translate into additional cabin and boot space.
In short, Hyundai seems to have taken the “SUV” part of Tucson a little more seriously this time.
New cabin, bigger screen
The new Tucson gets a completely redesigned dashboard, with a large central touchscreen, a new steering wheel and a cleaner overall layout. Interestingly, Hyundai appears to have resisted the temptation to turn everything into a touchscreen, with physical controls retained for important functions.
One of the major additions will be Hyundai’s PLEOS Connect infotainment platform. It uses an Android-based operating system with a smartphone-style interface, over-the-air updates and an integrated app ecosystem.
An AI assistant called Gleo is also expected to allow more natural voice interaction with functions such as navigation and climate control.
Hybrid powertrains expected
Hyundai hasn’t announced the complete technical specifications of the new Tucson yet. However, reports indicate that the next-generation SUV will continue to offer electrified and conventional powertrain options, with mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions expected. A performance-oriented Tucson N has also been reported, although that remains separate from the regular model range.
The fifth-generation Tucson is therefore shaping up to be much more than a styling exercise. Hyundai is combining a tougher exterior with a significantly more technology-heavy cabin while retaining the SUV’s core emphasis on practicality.
For India, the Tucson occupies a fairly interesting position between mainstream midsize SUVs and more premium offerings. Whether this new generation eventually makes it to our market, and with which powertrains still remains to be seen.
Also read: Maruti Suzuki Fronx achieves 2 lakh exports – Fastest Indian SUV to do so
