The next-generation Hyundai Tucson will have much bolder styling and at least one hybrid version.
The new Hyundai Tucson SUV has been teased ahead of its reveal later this month. Looking completely different to the current model, the Tucson will offer futuristic styling and a thoroughly redesigned interior. Australia is expected to land the new model 2021.
Rivals will continue to include the Mazda CX-5, Toyota Rav4, Skoda Karoq, Peugeot 3008 and Kia Sportage, but the new 2020 Hyundai Tucson might make its competitors’ styling look rather dull in comparison. The front end is dominated by what looks like a huge grille, with headlights on each flank. They blend in with the grille when the car is turned off, while the grilles look like they will open and close when needed.Hyundai promises more of a coupe shape than before, facilitated by a longer bonnet, a stretched wheelbase and shorter overhangs. It looks like a silver trim strip will be adopted above the windows to make it look sleek. Meanwhile, a full-width light bar connects similarly angular rear lights.
The new Tucson will be bigger and wider than before, which should improve passenger and luggage space.
Stepping inside, you’re treated to a fully reworked interior with intricate surfaces and increased technology. A digital instrument cluster, without a cowl, is fitted behind a new steering wheel, and there’s an integrated touchscreen prominently displayed in a centre console that protrudes from the dashboard. Just like the Hyundai Santa Fe, the dashboard design flows into the door cards, while overall the interior styling isn’t dissimilar to a luxurious Audi A6.
The initial concept was a plug-in hybrid model, which all but confirms that the Tucson will be available in this form. No powertrain or performance details have been released, but it’s likely that a Tucson PHEV would use a tweaked version of the Hyundai Ioniq’s drivetrain; a 1.6-litre petrol engine linked to a battery and electric motor.
A plug-in model of the Tucson would rival the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4, Ford Escape PHEV and the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.
It’s plausible that Hyundai could put the Ioniq Electric’s powertrain into the 2021 Tucson, creating a fully electric version with a blanked-out version of the car’s big grille.
Ben Custard