2025 Hyundai Tucson Expert Review: Drive, Performance & Specs Tested

So, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson is coming in hot as an excellent choice in the crowded compact SUV market. It’s now in its fourth year of this generation, and this mid-cycle refresh is definitely worth talking about. They’ve made some pretty neat changes to how it looks on the outside and what’s going on inside with the tech, showing that Hyundai really wants to keep the Tucson in the game against heavy hitters like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape.

When we look at the compact SUV scene, the Tucson stands out as a value-packed option that doesn’t skimp on those fancy features we all love. The Honda CR-V has been the go-to for many when it comes to smooth driving and a quality interior. Then there’s the Toyota RAV4, known for being dependable and holding its value like a champ. The Chevrolet Equinox comes with a fresh design and prices that are competitive, while the Ford Bronco Sport is for those who want a bit more adventure in their ride.

If you’re considering the Subaru Forester, it’s got standard all-wheel drive and amazing visibility. It packs 180 horsepower from a 2.5L engine, starting at around $36,000. On the other hand, the Kia Sportage, which shares its platform with the Tucson, offers similar engines and features, usually at a slightly lower price. And let’s not forget the CR-V—its 1.5L turbo engine cranks out 190 horsepower, with a starting price of just over $40,500 for the all-wheel-drive version.

Now, about Tucson’s trim levels—Hyundai’s really thought this through to appeal to different buyers. The base SE trim starts at $28,600 and is loaded with standard features. Then there’s the SEL trim at $31,610, which adds some nice comfort and convenience perks. If you want more premium stuff, the SEL Convenience package at $32,670 is the way to go. The XRT trim, priced at $32,915, gives it a tougher look, while the Limited trim at $38,545 is all about that near-luxury experience.

On top of the regular gasoline version, Hyundai has hybrid and plug-in hybrid options for Tucson, although those are covered in separate reviews. This variety shows they’re trying to cater to different tastes—whether you’re all about that traditional gas engine or looking for something more eco-friendly.

As for the 2025 update, it tackles some areas where the last model could’ve done better. The exterior has some nice, subtle tweaks to the grille, bumpers, and lighting. Inside, the biggest change is the new 12.3-inch touchscreen now standard across all trims. Plus, the dashboard design is revamped to be more user-friendly and modern. It’s clear that Hyundai’s thought a lot about how to make this vehicle even better!

The 2025 Tucson comes with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for reliability and easy maintenance—definitely simpler than those turbocharged engines out there. This engine cranks out 187 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 178 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Those numbers? They’re decent and keep it competitive in its class, but Tucson is all about being user-friendly rather than just chasing high performance.

When it comes to how this engine delivers power, it’s been fine-tuned for smooth and steady acceleration. Unlike some turbo options that give you a jolt of speed, the Tucson builds power gradually. This makes it predictable and easier to manage when you’re driving around town. You know, in city driving, having that smooth acceleration is often way more useful than just having raw power.

Hyundai made a smart move by pairing this engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The gear ratios are nicely spaced to maximize the engine’s power, and the shifts feel pretty refined. Plus, the transmission is clever enough to adjust based on how you’re driving—holding onto gears when you’re feeling a bit more spirited, and shifting up smoothly on the highway to save on gas.

As for performance, if you’re wondering about the 0-60 mph time, it falls in the mid to high 8-second range, with the all-wheel-drive versions usually hitting that mark in about 8.8 seconds. Sure, that’s not breaking any speed records, but hey, it’s perfectly fine for what this vehicle is meant to do. And what’s even better? The powertrain really holds its own in real-world driving conditions, so you can expect consistent performance no matter what.

The Tucson also gives you some options with different drive modes that tweak the transmission and throttle response. In Sport mode, you’ll notice that the throttle gets a bit snappier and the car holds onto gears longer. Eco mode, on the other hand, is all about saving fuel, nudging you to shift up earlier. Then there’s the new Smart mode, which is pretty clever—it adapts to your driving habits, giving you a nice mix of performance and efficiency without you having to think about it.

When you’re merging onto the highway or making passing moves, the powertrain shines. It’s not like you’re going to rocket forward, but the acceleration from 50 to 70 mph feels confident and smooth, taking around 6.0 seconds in top gear. This makes those highway maneuvers pretty stress-free, even if you do have to plan a little.

If you opt for all-wheel drive, you’ll notice better traction and stability, especially when the weather isn’t cooperating. The system can send up to 50% of the torque to the rear wheels when it needs to, plus it has a center differential lock for tougher conditions. That’s a nice touch that adds some versatility to how the Tucson performs.

Engine noise and vibration management is notably improved for 2025, particularly in the Limited trim which benefits from additional sound insulation. Under normal acceleration, the engine remains quietly composed, only becoming more vocal when pushed toward the upper reaches of its rev range. This refinement contributes significantly to the overall premium feel of the vehicle.

The manual shift mode is available on most trims through the gear selector and paddle shifters on the Limited trim. It’s not as quick as a sports car, but the shifts feel solid and reliable—giving you a bit of engagement if that’s what you’re after. So, overall, the Tucson has a lot to offer in terms of performance and comfort!

The braking system in the 2025 Tucson is something to talk about. It’s designed to give you solid stopping power while also keeping that pedal feel super responsive. Up front, you’ve got these 12.8-inch ventilated disc brakes, and at the back, there are 11.8-inch solid discs. This setup means it can handle a lot of heat, making it great for those times when you really need to brake hard repeatedly.

When you step on the brake pedal, you’ll notice how well it’s calibrated. It has this great progressive feel that lets you modulate it perfectly in day-to-day driving. The initial bite? Just right—neither too harsh nor too soft. It makes for smooth stops, which is especially nice in stop-and-go traffic. We mean, who doesn’t appreciate a little extra comfort when you’re stuck in a jam?

Some tests show that this vehicle can go from 60 to 0 mph in about 124 feet, which is competitive in its class. Even after a few high-speed stops, it keeps performing well, showing good resistance to brake fade. And when you’re heading downhill for a while? The thermal management is impressive, keeping that pedal feel and stopping power consistent.

Now, if you’re looking at the Limited trim, it comes with larger 19-inch wheels and a different brake setup. This gives you a bit of a better initial bite and a somewhat more positive feel compared to the base model. But honestly, the difference isn’t huge—most drivers will be more than happy with the standard brakes.

What’s cool is how smoothly the electronic brake system works with other safety features. The automatic emergency braking kicks in smoothly when necessary, and the electronic parking brake engages and disengages without a hitch. Plus, the auto-hold feature, which is standard on all trims, is a lifesaver in heavy traffic.

We have mentioned that the brake pedal feels a tad firmer than what you might find in some other cars. This adds to a more confident driving experience, for sure. It does take a little more effort to press down, but it gives you better feedback and control, especially when you’re driving a bit more spiritedly or if you find yourself in an emergency situation.

The 2025 Tucson features a MacPherson strut front suspension that works hand in hand with an independent multi-link rear setup. This combo nails that sweet spot between a comfy ride and precise handling. Throw in some gas-pressured shock absorbers, and you’ve got a system that keeps the wheels in check while ensuring a ride quality that’s pretty much top-notch in its class.

When it comes to steering, it’s been tuned just right. You feel a smooth, natural progression from the center, and as you steer more, the weight builds up in a way that feels totally predictable. The Limited trim even has this cool drive mode selector, letting you tweak the steering effort. If you flip it to Sport mode, you get a bit more weight, which some folks might really dig when they’re hitting those winding backroads.

Talking about the suspension, it’s got a knack for handling different road surfaces really well. It does a great job of soaking up those harsh bumps, all while keeping body control in check. Small imperfections on the road? No sweat, especially for the models with 18-inch wheels and the higher-profile tires that come with the SEL and SEL Convenience trims.

Hyundai’s engineers really focused on the suspension geometry and bushing selection. The result? A vehicle that stays straight and true on the highway, even when you need to make quick turns. Plus, the front strut design keeps the torque steer in check, which is a bonus for those who push their front-wheel-drive configurations hard.

Body roll during cornering? It’s well-managed, allowing for good feedback on how the vehicle’s handling without being too stiff. And that multi-link rear suspension? It really shines when the road gets bumpy, keeping those tires connected to the surface, which helps with both comfort and stability.

Now, about those larger 19-inch wheels on the Limited trim—sure, they do bring a bit more road feedback into the mix, but it’s not enough to take away from the comfort. The suspension tuning does a solid job of making up for that thinner tire sidewall, so you still get impressive bump absorption while enjoying just a touch sharper handling response.

If you go for the base SE trim, you’ll find 17-inch wheels with all-season tires. This setup strikes a solid balance between comfort and efficiency, which is always a win. Now, if you bump up to the SEL or SEL Convenience trims, you get 18-inch wheels fitted with 235/60R18 tires. And for those who opt for the Limited trim, they’ll be riding on 19-inch wheels with 235/55R19 rubber.

On the Limited trim, they’ve got Michelin Primacy A/S tires as standard, and let us tell you, these tires are great all-around performers. They grip well in wet conditions, plus they manage to keep fuel efficiency in check and have low rolling resistance. Sure, they handle light snow decent enough, but honestly, if you’re in an area that gets hit hard by winter, you might want dedicated winter tires.

About those 18-inch tires on the mid-level trims — they do provide a noticeably better ride compared to the 19-inch ones, and that’s mostly due to the extra sidewall height. This added cushion makes a difference, especially on bumpy roads, allowing you to keep the cabin comfortable without losing out on how well the car handles.

Another handy feature is Tucson’s tire pressure monitoring system. It gives you individual tire readings, which is super useful for keeping your tire pressures just right. The sensitivity of the system is spot-on too; it sends alerts when needed but doesn’t overreact to minor pressure changes.

As for the lower trims, they come with Continental Cross Contact tires. These tires are a good mix of durability and all-season performance. They handle predictably whether the roads are wet or dry, and they have this progressive breakaway feature that makes it easy to manage the vehicle’s limits.

When it comes to noise, testing shows that tire noise is kept under control across the board. But, it’s worth noting that the 19-inch setup does let in a bit more road noise inside the cabin. Thankfully, the acoustic glass in the Limited trim helps reduce that, keeping the noise levels reasonable even with those larger wheels and tires.

The interior of the 2025 Tucson shows how Hyundai’s design approach has evolved. It’s all about those clean lines and making everything super user-friendly. You’ll notice the dashboard has this neat horizontal layout that gives it a spacious feel. Plus, there’s this slick integrated display panel that includes a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and, if you opt for the higher trims, a matching 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

When it comes to materials, there’s some serious thought put into it across all the trims. The SE trim lays a solid groundwork with tough cloth upholstery and decent plastic surfaces. But then, if you move up to the SEL and SEL Convenience trims, you get this upgrade to leatherette seating and softer materials that you’ll actually want to touch. And, oh boy, the Limited trim takes it up a notch with real leather and even more of those soft-touch surfaces all around.

The center console—it’s quite different depending on the trim you choose. The Limited trim has a column-mounted shifter, which is nice because it opens up extra storage space. This makes the front cabin feel more relaxed and airy, and hey, it’s also practical for storing your stuff comfortably.

Ambient lighting, available in the Limited trim, offers 64 different color choices and helps establish a premium atmosphere during nighttime driving. The illumination is tastefully integrated into various interior elements, creating depth and visual interest without appearing ostentatious.

The interior color schemes are well thought out, too. You can go for a classic black that feels sophisticated, or choose the gray that gives a more modern look. Then there’s the Limited trim with its leather upholstery, which has some detailed stitching that adds a nice touch and makes it feel premium.

The steering wheel has been redesigned with a four-dot pattern in the center, which is actually Morse code for the letter “H.” How cool is that? It’s a little nod to the Hyundai brand. The leather wrapping (in applicable trims) feels nice, plus the buttons are laid out in a way that’s easy to use and gives good feedback.

As for climate controls, they’ve stuck with good old physical buttons and knobs for the main functions. Honestly, we think that’s a smart move. It keeps things user-friendly instead of getting too minimalist. In the higher trims, there’s a touch-sensitive climate control panel that looks modern but still works well.

Lastly, the Limited trim features this floating-style center console design that creates extra storage space underneath. And there’s a wireless charging pad right where you can easily reach it. Plus, they’ve included USB ports and power outlets, which really shows they’re thinking about what we need in today’s world of connectivity.

The exterior design of the 2025 Tucson shows off Hyundai’s dedication to stylish and unique looks. They’ve made some eye-catching updates to the front, like a wider grille that sports a cool geometric pattern and fresh LED daytime running lights that are built right into the grille. This setup gives Tucson a standout lighting signature that helps it shine in the crowded compact SUV market.

About the front bumper—it’s not just there for looks. They’ve added functional air curtains to help manage airflow around the wheel wells. This not only boosts the car’s aerodynamics but also makes it visually interesting. Plus, the lower valance has a skid plate-style element that adds a hint of rugged charm while still keeping that overall polished vibe.

When you check out the side profile, you’ll notice those signature creased sheet metal lines that the Tucson is known for. The sharp character lines play with light and shadow in a way that’s pretty captivating. And the greenhouse? It ensures you’ve got great visibility, adding to that sporty stance, especially with the floating roof effect thanks to those blacked-out C-pillars.

As for the wheels, they differ by trim level, each one designed to fit the car’s overall aesthetic. The SE trim comes with 17-inch alloys that look clean and practical, while the SEL and SEL Convenience trims offer 18-inch wheels with more intricate geometric designs. Now, the Limited trim? It’s got those 19-inch wheels that scream sophistication with their two-tone finish, highlighting the car’s premium vibe.

Then there’s the XRT trim, which brings in some cool adventure-inspired styling features. We’re talking exclusive wheel designs, dark chrome accents, and more prominent body cladding. This gives it a unique character without losing that classy design touch.

Moving to the back, you’ll see some subtle but smart updates for 2025, like the new LED taillights that create a memorable look at night. And, clever move here—the rear wiper is tucked under the spoiler, so it keeps those lines nice and clean while still doing its job effectively with a longer blade.

Now, if you’re into color, the Tucson’s got options! They’ve just added Rockwood Green—a classy choice that adds a touch of elegance. The paint quality across all options is impressive, with great depth and finishes, including some metallic and pearl options that really catch the eye.

The Limited trim stands out even more with extra chrome detailing and high-end lighting features, like projector-type LED headlights. These elements work together to give it that upscale look that makes it clear where it fits in the lineup.

Lastly, they’ve integrated a bunch of sensors and cameras for safety features in a way that keeps the design sleek. You won’t see a bunch of clutter; everything, including the front camera and radar units, fits neatly into the grille design.

The 2025 Tucson sets a new bar when it comes to comfort and convenience in the compact SUV world, kicking things off with its smartly designed seating. If you opt for the SEL trim or better, you’ll find the driver’s seat equipped with an 8-way power adjustment system, complete with lumbar support. This means you can get just the right fit, no matter your body type or driving style.

The climate control is impressive—dual-zone automatic climate control comes standard starting from the SEL trim. The way the air is distributed? Quite evenly, actually! Plus, those rear ventilation ducts are a thoughtful touch, making sure everyone in the car stays comfortable. And if you go for the Limited trim, you’ll enjoy ventilated front seats and heated rear seats, which level up the comfort factor for all riders.

When it comes to storage, the Tucson seems to get what people actually need. The front center console changes up its layout depending on the trim you choose; for instance, the Limited has a column-mounted shifter that opens up even more storage space. Sure, the door pockets might be a bit on the narrow side, but they still hold your everyday essentials just fine.

Sound insulation is another area where the Tucson shines, especially in the Limited trim with its acoustic laminated front door glass. You’ll find that road noise and wind noise are nicely kept at bay, making for a calm ride that’s perfect for chatting or just enjoying the audio system.

Visibility? Top-notch! The driver’s seat gives you a great view all around, thanks to the well-placed A-pillars that keep those pesky blind spots in check. And if you’re in the Limited trim, you get a 360-degree camera system that adds a nice layer of confidence when you’re maneuvering at lower speeds. Plus, the head-up display shows important info right in your line of sight, which is super handy.

The power liftgate, standard on the SEL Convenience trim and above, includes a hands-free option that’s a lifesaver when you’re juggling stuff. It opens and closes at just the right speed, and you can adjust the height to fit your garage or personal preference.

If you’re looking for a little sunshine, the panoramic sunroof available on higher trims does the trick. It brings in tons of natural light and has a power sunshade to keep out that pesky heat and glare. Honestly, the opening is way bigger than what you’ll see in many competitors, making the interior feel spacious for everyone, whether they’re upfront or in the back.

Digital key functionality, standard on the Limited trim, allows users to access and start the vehicle using their smartphone, adding a contemporary convenience that integrates well with modern lifestyles. The system includes features like remote start and the ability to share digital keys with family members.

The 2025 Tucson steps up its game when it comes to technology. At the heart of it all is this standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. we mean, it’s not just big; it’s super responsive and the graphics look great. Plus, the menu layout? So intuitive—you can easily find your way around while driving, which is a big deal.

Now, here’s something cool: all trims come with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Gone are the days of fumbling with cables. It’s such a nice upgrade! And speaking of convenience, there’s a wireless charging pad that kicks in from the SEL trim and up. So, even if you’re driving a bit more aggressively, your devices stay charged without any hassle.

If you’re into music, the Limited trim offers a Bose premium audio system that sounds fantastic. You get this well-balanced sound with hardly any distortion, even when you crank up the volume. The 8-speaker setup is strategically placed to make your listening experience truly immersive—which is just awesome.

Then there’s the digital instrument cluster, also in that 12.3-inch size for the higher trims. It’s got loads of customization options and the graphics are crystal clear. Oh, and the display adjusts its brightness based on the light around you, so you’re never squinting to see anything.

One of the standout features is the over-the-air update capability. This means your car’s systems—think infotainment and powertrain controls—can get better over time. It’s pretty neat how Hyundai is keeping the tech fresh throughout the vehicle’s life.

The Limited Trim’s fingerprint recognition system allows for personalized driver profiles that automatically adjust vehicle settings, including seat position, mirror angles, and entertainment preferences. This technology proves reliable in daily use while adding a layer of security.

When you take a look at the 2025 Tucson, you can see how much it prioritizes safety. It has an impressive range of standard and optional safety features that just stand out. For every trim level, you get forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection. And let us tell you, that system knows what it’s doing—it’s smart and steps in smoothly when needed.

Then there’s the lane-keeping assist and lane-following assist. These are refined, we’d say. They keep the car in its lane without those annoying, jerky corrections you might find in some other brands. Plus, they perform well even on those curvy roads and adjust nicely to different road conditions and markings.

For those who are looking at the SEL trim and above, the blind spot monitoring system kicks in. It’s reliable and doesn’t bombard you with unnecessary alerts. If you opt for the Limited trim, you get these cool blind spot view monitors that show camera feeds right in the digital instrument cluster when you signal to turn. It’s like having an extra set of eyes on the road.

Highway Driving Assist, available on higher trims, effectively combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering to reduce driver fatigue during highway journeys. The system’s programming shows impressive refinement, maintaining natural-feeling vehicle positioning and smooth responses to changing traffic conditions.

If you’re worried about parking, the Limited trim also features remote smart parking assist. You can maneuver the vehicle forward or backward while standing outside, which is a lifesaver in those tight spots. It works reliably and has safety checks to make sure it doesn’t get misused.

When it comes to structural safety, the Tucson doesn’t skimp. It’s built with advanced high-strength steel in key areas, and the safety cage design is all about keeping occupants safe. They’ve also included crumple zones to help manage impact energy effectively.

Parking assistance features are different depending on which trim you choose. The Limited, for instance, has the most comprehensive suite, including front and rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist, and a surround-view monitor. All of these systems work together well to give you a full picture when you’re maneuvering at low speeds.

Lastly, there’s the rear occupant alert system, which is standard on all trims. This system uses ultrasonic sensors and door logic to help make sure that kids or pets aren’t accidentally left in the car. It’s a solid, multi-layered approach to a pretty serious safety issue. So, yeah, Tucson seems to have thought of it all when it comes to safety.

The 2025 Tucson shines when it comes to driving comfort and a refined feel. It does a fantastic job of keeping the ride smooth, even when you’re tackling more spirited driving. The way the suspension is tuned, it manages to soak up those pesky road bumps without feeling too disconnected from the road. Honestly, it’s got a ride quality that’s impressive, like, top-notch for its class.

When you’re in normal mode, the throttle response is just, well, smooth and steady—perfect for your everyday driving needs. Switch it to sport mode, and you’ll definitely notice a sharper response, but it doesn’t go overboard and feel too aggressive. Then there’s Eco mode, which focuses on saving fuel but doesn’t leave you feeling like you’re dragging along.

The steering system? It’s well-balanced. You get solid feedback while cornering, yet it’s light enough that parking doesn’t feel like a chore. If you opt for the Limited trim, you can even tweak the steering weight to fit your personal style. How cool is that?

About road noise—a big improvement for 2025, especially in the Limited version with its fancy acoustic glass. Seriously, even when you’re cruising on the highway, the cabin stays quiet enough so you can chat comfortably or enjoy your tunes without cranking the volume way up.

As for the all-wheel-drive system, it’s standard across the trims and really knows how to distribute power intelligently. This means you get better handling and all-weather capability. It feels seamless in regular driving, but you can definitely feel the advantage when conditions get tricky.

Navigating the city? No problem. The Tucson has a tight turning radius and good visibility, so it slips right through traffic and into parking spots. And if you go for the higher trims, those camera systems and parking sensors boost your confidence in tight spots. It’s like having an extra set of eyes!

When it comes to rear seat comfort, the 2025 Tucson raises the bar for compact SUVs. we mean, we’re talking about a generous 41.3 inches of legroom—plenty of space for adults to sit comfortably. The seat bottom is at a nice height, and you can even adjust the backrest angle to find that sweet spot for comfort.

The materials in the back match up nicely with what you’d find in the front. If you go for the Limited trim, you’ll notice some impressive attention to detail. The door panels? They’re made with soft-touch materials in spots where passengers usually rest their arms, and the armrests are well-padded, too.

As for climate control, rear passengers aren’t left out. There are dedicated air vents, except if you opt for the base SE trim. But if you go for the Limited, you get heated outer rear seats—definitely a nice touch, especially when it’s chilly outside.

USB charging ports for rear passengers are thoughtfully positioned for easy access, while the center armrest includes well-sized cupholders. The seat back pockets include dedicated phone storage compartments, demonstrating attention to modern needs.

Getting in and out of Tucson is a breeze, thanks to the rear doors that swing wide open. The roofline is relatively high, ensuring good headroom, even for those who are on the taller side. And if you go for the panoramic sunroof, it stretches over the rear seats, making the whole space feel open and airy.

Last but not least, installing child seats is a cinch with the easy-to-reach LATCH anchors. The rear seat is wide enough that you can fit two child seats comfortably, and still have room for a third passenger in the middle.

The Tucson’s cargo space is impressive, you know? It offers about 38.7 cubic feet behind the back seats, and if you fold those down? Bam! You get a whopping 74.8 cubic feet. That’s some serious room. Plus, the load floor is set at a nice height, making it easier to lift heavy stuff in and out.

If you opt for the higher trims, you get this handy power liftgate, which even lets you adjust the height and operate it hands-free. Super convenient for those busy days! The opening is generous enough to fit bulky items, and the load lip—well, it’s low enough to make loading a breeze.

Inside, you’ll find some clever storage solutions like hooks for your shopping bags and tie-down points for bigger stuff. There’s also a removable floor panel that opens up extra storage underneath. Great for stashing emergency gear or hiding valuables away from prying eyes.

And get this: the rear seats fold nearly flat, which is fantastic when you need to haul longer items. The 60/40 split configuration? It gives you the flexibility to carry passengers and cargo at the same time—pretty neat, right?

There’s even a 12-volt power outlet in the cargo area! Perfect for charging up accessories or running air pumps. If you go for the Limited trim, you’ll enjoy a dual-level cargo floor that can be adjusted to create a flat load surface when the rear seats are down.

The optional retractable cargo cover effectively conceals contents from view while being easy to remove when not needed. When removed, the cover can be stored under the floor to avoid taking up additional space.

The 2025 Hyundai Tucson stands out when you look at its different trims. Starting with the SE trim, which comes in at $28,600, you get a whole bunch of great standard features. We mean, it has this cool new 12.3-inch touchscreen and a solid set of safety systems too. So, it’s definitely a worthy option if you’re in the market for an entry-level compact SUV.

Now, if we move up to the SEL trim priced at $31,610, this one hits the sweet spot! It adds in some nice extras like heated seats, blind spot monitoring, and even wireless charging—stuff that a lot of folks just can’t live without these days. Honestly, the extra cost over the base model makes total sense when you think about all the added comfort and features.

Then there’s the SEL Convenience package, which is at $32,670. This trim brings in some luxury vibes with features like a power liftgate and a panoramic sunroof, but without going into the crazy high price range. It’s probably got the best mix of features and value in the whole lineup.

For those who want a more rugged look, the XRT trim at $32,915 is pretty cool. It’s mostly about the style—no huge mechanical changes here—but it gives a distinctive look that some buyers will really dig, and it’s still reasonably priced.

If you’re looking for something more upscale, the Limited trim at $38,545 takes the Tucson to near-luxury levels. You get leather seating, ventilated front seats, and a fully digital cockpit. Sure, it’s pricier, but the quality of materials and features you get definitely makes it worth considering if the premium is what you’re after.

When you stack the Tucson up against its competitors, it consistently delivers equal or even more features, and at lower price points too. Plus, the warranty package is impressive—5 years or 60,000 miles of basic coverage, and 10 years or 100,000 miles on the powertrain. This adds to the overall value of owning one.

The addition of 3 years or 36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance further strengthens the value equation, reducing operating costs during the initial ownership period. This benefit, relatively rare in the mainstream segment, helps offset the slightly higher starting price compared to some competitors.

Resale value? It’s getting better with the newer models, but yeah, it’s still behind the big players like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. But hey, the lower initial price and solid warranty do help soften the blow when you’re looking at the total cost of ownership. So, all in all, the Tucson is a pretty solid choice if you’re shopping around!