2025 Hyundai Tucson: A Comprehensive Review of Updates, Design, and Performance

The Hyundai Tucson has undergone significant updates for the 2025 model year, with a refreshed exterior design, a heavily revised interior, and a variety of new tech improvements. These changes aim to keep the Tucson competitive against key rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the Tucson’s updated features, from exterior design to interior technology, and help you determine whether this SUV is now even more prepared to take on the competition.

Exterior Design: Bold New Look

One of the most noticeable updates to the 2025 Tucson is its refreshed exterior. Hyundai hasn’t drastically changed the SUV’s fundamental design but has made several tweaks to give it a sharper, more aggressive appearance. The front grille has been squared off, providing a tougher presence, while the new lower fascia adds some rugged styling elements. The gloss black finishes on the emblems and fascia help further elevate its upscale look, especially on the Limited trim level.

The Tucson’s lighting system remains one of its most distinctive features. The daytime running lights are cleverly integrated into the grille, and the headlights are separated into a top turn signal housing and a lower projector LED unit. This clever arrangement sets the Tucson apart from many other SUVs. Additionally, the Limited trim features 19-inch alloy wheels, an upgrade over the 17-inch alloys on lower trims.

Moving around to the rear, Hyundai has maintained the signature “fang” tail lights, which are accented with LEDs on most trim levels. The rear bumper has a sleek design, though it still includes traditional incandescent reverse and turn signal lights. Overall, the exterior of the 2025 Tucson looks bold and modern while retaining the brand’s signature design language.

Pros of Exterior Design:

• Bold, modern design that sets it apart in the compact SUV segment
• Sharp, angular lines give it a rugged presence
• Distinctive LED lighting elements
• Larger wheels on higher trims enhance its upscale look

Cons of Exterior Design:

• Rear lighting is less advanced with incandescent elements for some functions
• Limited trim’s rugged look may not appeal to those preferring a more conservative design

Read About Hyundai Elantra 2025

Interior Design and Technology: A Significant Overhaul

The interior of the 2025 Tucson has seen even more changes, with Hyundai focusing heavily on improving both comfort and technology. The first thing you’ll notice is the updated seating options. Cloth seats are standard on lower trims, while the Limited trim comes with premium leather upholstery available in black, gray, or a new gray with green trim. The seating is plush, with excellent perforation details, and provides ample support for long drives.

The redesigned dashboard is a major focal point, with soft-touch materials, leatherette coverings, and piano black accents creating a premium feel. A standout feature of the cabin is the new dual-display arrangement: a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a large 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The seamless integration of these displays provides a high-tech, futuristic vibe to the interior. Upper trims feature a fully reconfigurable gauge cluster, offering multiple display designs and functionality, such as a blind spot camera system.

The Tucson’s interior also boasts significant improvements in storage versatility. The new electronic column-mounted shifter frees up space for additional storage, including a large compartment in front of the shifter and a wireless phone charging pad. This setup gives the interior a clean, uncluttered feel, with plenty of room for everyday items.

Pros of Interior Design and Technology:

• High-quality materials and a premium feel, especially in the Limited trim
• Dual-display system offers advanced tech and convenience
• Expanded storage options with a wireless phone charger and spacious compartments
• New head-up display and fingerprint reader enhance convenience and security

Cons of Interior Design and Technology:

• No significant changes in rear-seat materials, which could be improved for a more consistent experience
• Limited trim’s high-tech features may not be available on lower trims

Comfort and Space: A Family-Friendly Cabin

The Tucson offers generous space for passengers, especially in the rear seats. With 41.3 inches of legroom and 39 inches of headroom, the Tucson easily outperforms its competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in terms of rear-seat space. Whether you’re commuting daily or going on a long road trip, the Tucson’s rear seat offers plenty of comfort, with a reclining feature for added relaxation.

Storage space in the Tucson is also impressive, especially with the hybrid models. The hybrid offers up to 74.5 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded down. The plug-in hybrid has slightly less space due to the battery, but it’s still ample for most needs. The rear seats are also easy to fold, thanks to a convenient release handle.

Pros of Comfort and Space:

• Excellent rear-seat legroom and headroom, making it ideal for families
• Large cargo capacity with easy-to-use folding seats
• Rear-seat recline feature adds comfort during long trips

Cons of Comfort and Space:

• The lack of a spare tire in hybrid models may be a downside for some buyers

Performance: Powertrain Options

Under the hood, the Tucson continues to offer a range of powertrain options to suit various driving preferences. The gas-powered models feature a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower, offering a solid balance of power and fuel efficiency. For those seeking more power, the hybrid variants come with a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 231 horsepower. The plug-in hybrid boosts the power output to 268 horsepower, making it the most powerful option in the lineup.

The hybrid and plug-in hybrid models come with all-wheel drive, while the traditional gas model offers either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Fuel economy is another area where the Tucson excels. The hybrid models offer up to 38 MPG combined, while the plug-in hybrid provides 32 miles of all-electric range.

Pros of Performance:

• Multiple powertrain options provide a range of performance and efficiency choices
• Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models offer impressive fuel economy and power
• All-wheel drive is standard on hybrid models, providing enhanced traction and handling

Cons of Performance:

• Gas-powered models may not be as efficient as hybrid alternatives
• Plug-in hybrid model’s cargo capacity is slightly reduced due to the battery

Pricing and Value: Competitive Pricing

Pricing for the 2025 Hyundai Tucson starts at $28,355 for the base model with the 2.5-liter engine and front-wheel drive. The Limited hybrid model starts at $34,940, offering a range of premium features. While the Tucson is competitively priced within its segment, the added value of advanced technology, spacious interiors, and impressive powertrain options make it a great option for buyers seeking a modern, family-friendly SUV.

Verdict: Should You Buy the 2025 Hyundai Tucson?

The 2025 Hyundai Tucson is a strong contender in the compact SUV segment, offering a blend of stylish design, advanced technology, and solid performance. The updated exterior gives it a more rugged look, while the redesigned interior features high-quality materials and tech upgrades. With spacious seating, ample cargo room, and a variety of powertrain options, the Tucson remains a versatile and family-friendly choice.

Whether you’re interested in the fuel-efficient hybrid, the powerful plug-in hybrid, or the reliable gas engine, the Tucson offers something for every type of driver. With its competitive pricing and a reputation for reliability, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson is definitely worth considering if you’re in the market for a compact SUV.

Author- Ayush