2019 Hyundai Tucson Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　

What's new

Updated styling and feature availabilityCollision avoidance and lane keeping assist are now standardTurbocharged 1.6-liter engine has been discontinuedPart of the third Tucson generation introduced in 2016

　　If you want a vehicle with a good value proposition, the Hyundai lineup is a great place to look. A prime example is the 2019 Hyundai Tucson, which is spacious, stylish and feature-packed, even at base trim levels. The Tucson also offers a long list of optional features that are available in higher trim levels without breaking the bank.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2019 Hyundai Tucson SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$145/mo  for Tucson SE

　　Tucson SE

　　SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 6A) (Most Popular) - $23,200 MSRPSE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A) - $24,600 MSRPValue 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 6A) - $24,650 MSRPValue 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A) - $26,050 MSRPSEL 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $25,600 MSRPSEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $27,000 MSRPSport 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $27,700 MSRPSport 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $29,100 MSRPLimited 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $28,900 MSRPLimited 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $30,300 MSRPNight 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $30,650 MSRPNight 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $32,050 MSRPUltimate 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $31,550 MSRPUltimate 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A) - $32,950 MSRP

　　vs

　　$166/mo

　　Avg. Compact SUV

　　Even at the base trim level, the 2019 Hyundai Tucson has standard features including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch touchscreen and forward collision warning. As you climb the trim levels, you get added features such as a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree parking camera. All of this from a vehicle that undercuts some rivals in price quite a bit.

　　While it's got lots of tech, the Tucson is a bit bland to drive. To be clear, it handles corners just fine and there's a smooth, quiet highway ride, but there isn't much excitement from the engine bay. Under the Tucson's hood, there's a choice of two engines: the base 2.0-liter or the 2.4-liter. Both four-cylinder engines are a bit underwhelming, and neither choice will get you class-leading fuel economy.

　　Even though it's not the most exciting vehicle in the class, the 2019 Hyundai Tucson feels refined and capable of competing against class leaders. We definitely recommend putting it on your short list of crossovers and taking one out for a test drive.

　　Notably, we picked the 2019 Hyundai Tucson as one of zzdcar' Best Small SUVs for this year.

　　

zzdcar' Expert Rating

8.0 / 10

　　

Trim tested

　　Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Hyundai Tucson Ultimate (2.4L inline-4 | 6-speed automatic | FWD).

　　

Scorecard

Overall	8.0 / 10
Driving	8.0
Comfort	8.5
Interior	8.0
Utility	7.5
Technology	8.0

　　

Driving

8.0

　　With the upgraded 2.4-liter engine, the Tucson provides adequate acceleration. Braking and handling are more than competent and impart a better feeling of control than you'll find in other SUVs.

　　

Acceleration

7.0

　　The 2.4-liter engine provides sufficient power to pass or merge, but bear in mind this is the upgraded engine. The Tucson certainly can't keep up with the likes of the Honda CR-V or Chevrolet Equinox with their optional turbocharged engines. In zzdcar testing, our test Tucson covered 0-60 mph in 9.1 seconds.

　　

Braking

7.5

　　Stopping power is smooth and progressive thanks to good feel through the brake pedal. At our test track, panic braking from 60 mph took 124 feet, which is right at the class average. Stability is also commendable under heavy braking.

　　

Steering

8.0

　　Hyundai has struck a nice balance with the Tucson. The steering is light enough for easy low-speed maneuverability but also has enough heft to give you confidence at higher speeds. Even in Sport mode, the steering isn't unduly heavy and feels appropriate for a compact SUV.

　　

Handling

8.0

　　The Tucson navigates tight parking lots with the same ease as it manages freeway on-ramps or a twisting country road. It is easy to drive at higher speeds, and it leans just enough when going around turns to convey speed without feeling overly soft or sloppy.

　　

Drivability

8.5

　　The transmission and engine work well together. Upshifts are smooth and timely, and the Tucson never seems to be caught in the wrong gear. Downshifts occur without too much prodding and are nearly as smooth as the upshifts.

　　

Comfort

8.5

　　If a smooth ride and comfortable interior are must-haves, the Tucson needs to be at the top of your list. Easily equaling the best vehicles in the class, the Tucson is a relaxing place to be during a long drive.

　　

Seat comfort

8.0

　　The front seats are comfortable to a wide range of body types. Our test vehicle also had the heated and ventilated seats, which is a little above and beyond for this class. Rear-seat legroom is OK, but it does lack a bit when compared to the larger CR-V. The rear seats also recline.

　　

Ride comfort

8.5

　　Whether driving at freeway speeds or in slow city traffic, the Tucson handles road irregularities exceptionally well. Dips and seams across freeways were nicely suppressed, and the suspension and tires can absorb even larger city potholes without causing too much jarring to the occupants.

　　

Noise & vibration

8.5

　　Road and engine noise is kept to a pleasant minimum. Even under full acceleration, the engine never sounds coarse or sends vibrations into the cabin. At higher speeds, wind noise is present from the front and side windows but isn't overly intrusive. It's one of the quieter cabins in the segment.

　　

Climate control

8.5

　　The controls are clearly marked and easy to understand. Air flow is generous, and there are two center-mounted vents for rear passengers. If you like to fiddle with the settings rather than just leave it in Auto, you may find the controls mounted a bit low on the dash. The front heated and ventilated seats along with rear heated seats are a definite plus on the Ultimate trim.

　　

Interior

8.0

　　Everything is where you'd expect it to be, which might not seem like much of a compliment. But as vehicles get more and more complicated, this quality is becoming a rarity. All but the tallest passengers will appreciate the optional panoramic sunroof. The only driver-centric downside is the low-resolution rearview camera.

　　

Ease of use

8.5

　　It doesn't take long to get familiar with the Tucson. Every interface is straightforward, and the controls are clearly marked. Some settings and controls are locked out unless the vehicle is in Park. Otherwise, there's nothing frustrating about it.

　　

Getting in/getting out

8.5

　　With agreeable seat heights and wide-opening front and rear doors, the Tucson's interior is easily accessible for all passengers. The doors are also light and easy to open.

　　

Driving position

8.0

　　The Tucson, like other compact SUVs, offers a fairly upright seating position. The dash is neither too low or high. Hyundai has found good middle ground. The steering wheel tilts and telescopes a generous amount, and the eight-way power seat allows for decent adjustment for all heights.

　　

Roominess

8.0

　　Front passengers have good shoulder room and headroom, even with the optional panoramic sunroof. Rear passengers up to and just over 6 feet tall will have enough legroom, but anyone taller might want for a bit more. The same goes for headroom. But the back seat never feels cramped.

　　

Visibility

8.0

　　As befitting an SUV, there's good visibility all around and blind spots are minimal. Only the slightly smallish rear window is obstructive. The side mirrors are big enough, but the rearview camera is low-res and details are often blurry when backing up.

　　

Quality

8.0

　　There's not a lot of evidence of cost-cutting in the Tucson, although there is a lot of very scratchable-looking plastic in the cargo area. The panel gaps are tight and consistent, and the car free of squeaks and rattles. The doors feel light but aren't the least bit flimsy.

　　

Utility

7.5

　　Though it trails some of its competitors in outright cargo capacity, the Tucson is anything but impractical. With an agreeable liftover height and quick-folding rear seats, the Tucson is easy to load up. It can also tow 2,000 pounds, although it might be a little slow when doing so.

　　

Small-item storage

7.5

　　The cubby in front of the shifter, the cupholders, a small tray, and center console storage allow plenty of room for stuff in the Tucson. Front and rear door pockets are a good size, too, but are simply hard plastic so items will rattle around.

　　

Cargo space

8.0

　　With 31 cubic feet on offer, the Tucson just edges out the CX-5 (30.9 cubic feet) but trails the cavernous CR-V (39.2 cubes) by quite a bit. That said, it's still quite practical, and the 60/40-split rear seats fold nearly flat for easy loading of longer objects.

　　

Child safety seat accommodation

7.5

　　Thanks to wide door openings, putting a child seat in any of the rear seats is easy enough. The LATCH anchors are clearly marked on the seat fronts, and each seat has its own anchor on the seatback.

　　

Towing

7.5

　　Rated to tow 2,000 pounds, the Tucson is on par with the Mazda CX-5 and exceeds the 1,500-pound towing capacity of the Honda CR-V and the Subaru Forester.

　　

Technology

8.0

　　Hyundai's infotainment is not going to win any awards for being clever, but it's also not going to be accused of being difficult to use. Whether pairing a phone or entering a destination in the navigation system, the Tucson makes it easy. More USB ports would be a welcome addition.

　　

Audio & navigation

8.5

　　This system is one of the more straightforward and easy-to-use ones on the market, let alone the class. Only the somewhat small-ish size and dated graphics are of any demerit, and even that's minor. The optional Infinity sound system has power and clarity.

　　

Smartphone integration

8.0

　　Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the Tucson's Bluetooth connection was quick to find a phone. There's a wireless charging pad in front of the shifter along with two 12-volt power sources and one USB port. Rear passengers have one USB port to fight over.

　　

Driver aids

8.0

　　This fully optioned tester came with Hyundai's full SmartSense suite, which includes, among other things, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with brake assist, and a driver attention warning system. None of the systems were prone to overreacting and could be disabled.

　　

Voice control

8.0

　　Hyundai's voice control system works with the radio, phone and navigation (for those models so equipped), and you don't need to rigidly follow a syntax to make it work. If you have a smartphone hooked up, the voice button will pass the commands directly to it.

　　

Which Tucson does zzdcar recommend?

　　Despite some changes to the Tucson's trim level structure this year, we still recommend the Value trim level. It offers all of the SE's significant standard equipment (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, forward collision warning, a 7-inch touchscreen), along with added extras such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, heated front seats and satellite radio. And you get all of that equipment at a pretty reasonable price. If you want a bit of a boost in power, though, the SEL, with the larger and more powerful engine, is probably a better bet.

　　

2019 Hyundai Tucson models

　　The 2019 Hyundai Tucson is available in SE, Value, SEL, Sport, Limited and Ultimate trim levels. The SE and the Value are reasonably well equipped. Moving up to the other trims gets you added luxury-oriented features and a more powerful engine.

　　The SE and the Value come standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (164 horsepower, 151 pound-feet of torque). The SEL, the Sport and the Limited get a 2.4-liter engine (181 hp, 175 lb-ft). Both engines are paired to a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard on all trims, and all-wheel drive is optional.

　　The Tucson SE comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, a windshield wiper de-icer (AWD only), heated mirrors, a rearview camera, a height-adjustable driver's seat, a 60/40-split folding back seat, Bluetooth, a USB port, a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player. You also get forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist as standard this year.

　　The Value adds roof rails, a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, keyless access and push-button start, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, satellite radio, and Hyundai's Blue Link communication services. You get similar features with the SEL but with the 2.4-liter engine, 18-inch alloy wheels, upgraded exterior trim, dual-zone climate control (with rear-seat vents) and a second-row USB port.   

　　From there, the Sport adds 19-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, exterior styling enhancements, foglights, a hands-free liftgate, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and wireless smartphone charging. Those items are all included on the Limited trim, which also tacks on leather upholstery, upgraded door trim, a heated steering wheel, a 360-degree parking camera system, and a power-adjustable passenger seat.

　　At the top of the trim level ladder for the Tucson is the Ultimate, which adds a panoramic sunroof, automatic high beams, an upgraded forward collision mitigation system, adaptive cruise control, an upgraded driver information display, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen display with navigation.

　　Jump to:Related 2019 Tucson articles

　　

2019 Tucson Highlights

Trim: SEValueSELSportLimitedNightUltimateSE

　　

Base MSRP	$23,200
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	26 MPG
Cost to Drive	$145/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	31.0 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles