Diesel ditched from updated Hyundai Tucson range

HYUNDAI has dropped turbo-diesel powered models from its newly revised two-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) Tucson line up. In its place is a 1.6-litre petrol-electric hybrid (HEV) powertrain joining carryover 1.6-litre turbo-petrol and 2.0-litre petrol variants.

In the process of updating its Tucson mid-size SUV range, the South Korean manufacturer has elevated the kick-off point for the popular medium size SUV to $39,100 plus on-road costs, representing a $3450 hit over the previous entry point with price hikes extended through the 17-variant 2025 Tucson line-up.

The range topping Tucson Hybrid AWD Premium N-Line at $61,100 + ORC, is a whopping $7450 over the previous top of the range diesel-powered Highlander.

But Hyundai explains the 2025 model, available in three trim levels – Tucson Elite and Premium – features not only revised styling but also an array of new and upgraded tech’ range-wide among them a first-in-class panoramic curved display, the convenience of Bluelink connected car services and over-the-air (OTA) remote software updates.

The model also gaining a new 12.0-inch head-up display and highway driving assist (HDA) system for key driving and navigation info’.

Coupled with that is a 1900kg towing capacity (on selected variants).

The Hyundai Tucson is in the most competitive Medium SUV segment against the likes of multiple cheaper Chinese brands, the now-defunct Ford Escape, Honda ZR-V and CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Nissan X-Trail, Mitsubishi Outlander and the overarching Toyota RAV4.

Not forgetting Kia’s Sportage cut from the same cloth as the Hyundai Tucson but with only 2WD hybrid availability at the moment.

Outwardly, the 2025 Tucson can be identified at the front by its new grille and bumper underpinned by a silver “skid plate” topped by new fully LED headlights. At the rear is a new bumper, new LED combination lights and all models receive redesigned 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels model dependent.

An N-Line option pack range wide brings sporty enhancements for an additional $2500.

The newbie has a “thoroughly” updated interior that Hyundai says, “seamlessly merges convenience, technology, safety and style”.

The curved screens incorporate 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment displays, designed for ease of viewing and a “premium ambience”.

Drive selection is by column-type shift-by-wire and a floating centre console also features in what Hyundai describes as a spacious family-oriented interior designed to accommodate a range of active lifestyles.

Black cloth upholstery is standard in the base Tucson grade, and Elite and Premium bring leather-appointed seats in a choice of Black, Black/Grey and Dark Green/Grey.

The tech’ offering is extensive focusing on Hyundai’s SmartSense together with Bluelink systems.

Powertrain choices are the SmartStream G2.0 MPi Atkinson only with FWD that generates 115kW and 192Nm driving the wheels through a conventional six-speed automatic transmission. Claimed combined fuel consumption is rated at 8.1 litres/100km.

The SmartStream turbocharged G1.6 T-GDi available on FWD and AWD models generates 132kW and 264Nm driving the wheels through a seven-speed dual clutch transmission for a claimed combined fuel consumption of 6.7L/100 for the FWD and 7.2L/100km for the AWD.

And the SmartStream turbocharged 1.6T-GDi Hybrid FWD and AWD is good for a combined petrol/electric 172kW and 264Nm driving the wheels through a conventional six-speed auto transmission. Claimed combined fuel consumption for 2WD and AWD is the same at 5.3L/100km.

The 270-volt hybrid system runs a 1.49kWh lithium-Ion polymer battery with the traction motor rated at 47.7kW and is efficiency optimised with “smart” regenerative braking, dynamic torque vectoring and something called e-Dynamic drive that networks drive motor response, traction control, steering and other electronic modulators.

The AWD models are equipped with auto terrain mode for off-road driving that uses AI to recognise the road surface in real time while driving for optimal driving performance based on road conditions and enhancing driver convenience. Modes offered are Snow, Mud and Sand.

The 2025 Tucson also gains two novel new features the first called “Baby Mode” which decreases initial acceleration and limits maximum acceleration to enable smooth driving depending on the driving conditions.

Additionally, torque differentiation during reverse parking is aimed at reducing the impact from parking blocks to enhance comfort, especially for young children.

Another interesting feature is the “after-blow system” that operates after turning off the air-conditioning to dry the system and prevent the growth of bacteria, which can cause odours.

In safety terms and additional to the latest SmartSense ADAS suite and other improvements, the 2025 Tucson gains reinforcements to its monocoque for increased body rigidity.

The multimedia package is based on Hyundai’s Bluelink connected car services standard across the range complete with a five-year complimentary transferable subscription.

“The fourth-generation Tucson has become one of the most popular models in the competitive Medium SUV segment – from young adults to families and empty-nesters – with more than 53,000 sold in Australia since its launch in 2021,” said Hyundai Motor Company Australia chief executive officer Ted Lee.

“Now, 2025 Tucson broadens the nameplate’s appeal with new Hybrid powertrains, a range of new and upgraded technologies, and updated styling inside and out.”

The new MY25 Hyundai Tucson is available now in both hybrid and petrol variants with front wheel drive variants of the 1.6T-GDi petrol here during July.

2024 (MY25) Hyundai Tucson pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.