About the Hyundai Tucson
AI-generatedThe Hyundai Tucson is a popular compact SUV that has been a mainstay in the UK market since 2004. Now in its fourth generation (launched 2021), the Tucson offers a spacious interior, attractive styling, and excellent value for money. It's available with a range of petrol, diesel, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, making it versatile for different driving needs. The Tucson competes directly with models like the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and Volkswagen Tiguan. Known for its generous standard equipment, comprehensive warranty (5 years/unlimited mileage), and practical family-friendly design, the Tucson has evolved from a budget option to a genuinely premium-feeling SUV. The latest generation features bold styling, advanced technology including dual digital displays, and impressive safety equipment. Build quality has improved significantly over the years, with the latest models offering refinement levels that rival more expensive German competitors. It's particularly popular with families and company car drivers seeking low benefit-in-kind tax rates with the hybrid models.
Generations
Known Issues
Known Issues
Third Generation (TL)
2015-2021
- Dual-clutch automatic gearbox can develop jerky changes and hesitation, particularly in 1.6 diesel models
- DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) blockages on diesel models used mainly for short journeys
- Rear suspension bushes can wear prematurely causing knocking noises over bumps
- Bluetooth connectivity issues reported with some infotainment systems
- Occasional engine management light illumination on 1.6 diesel engines related to EGR valve issues
- Electric parking brake faults reported in some early 2015-2016 models
Second Generation (LM/IX35)
2010-2015
- Clutch wear on manual models, particularly with the 2.0 diesel engine
- Air conditioning compressor failures requiring expensive replacement
- Alternator failures more common on higher mileage examples
- Front suspension strut top mounts can wear causing clunking noises
- Timing belt tensioner issues on 2.0 diesel engines if not maintained properly
- Rust can appear on rear wheel arches and tailgate on older examples
Photo by Hyundai Motor Group on Pexels
Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,400-£2,200
Insurance Group
15-25
Average Service
£300-£450
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£24,000 - £35,000
£18,000 - £26,000
£14,000 - £20,000
£7,000 - £11,000
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent 5-year unlimited mileage warranty provides peace of mind
- Spacious interior with generous boot space (up to 620 litres)
- Comprehensive standard equipment across all trim levels
- Efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid options with low company car tax
- Comfortable ride quality and refined cabin on newer models
- Strong value for money compared to German rivals
- Modern technology including digital displays and advanced safety features
Photo by Hyundai Motor Group on Pexels
Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2022 - Latest generation with hybrid technology, modern design, excellent build quality, and all the latest safety features. Benefits from resolved early production issues.
- 2020 - Final year of third generation with all updates and refinements applied. Reliable and well-proven, with good availability and competitive pricing on used market.
- 2019 - Facelifted third generation with improved engines, updated infotainment, and resolved early reliability issues. Good balance of modern features and proven reliability.
Worst Years
- 2015 - First year of third generation with teething troubles including dual-clutch gearbox issues and electric parking brake faults. Early infotainment software also problematic.
- 2011 - Early second generation model prone to clutch issues, air conditioning failures, and build quality not as refined as later years.
Buying Checklist
Engine7 items
- Check for oil leaks around engine block and sump
- Listen for unusual rattles or knocking noises on cold start
- Verify all warning lights extinguish after starting
- Check coolant level and condition for contamination
- On diesel models, ensure DPF warning light doesn't illuminate during test drive
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The Tucson is named after the city in Arizona, USA, continuing Hyundai's tradition of naming SUVs after places.
Between 2010-2015, the Tucson was sold as the 'ix35' in Europe before reverting to the Tucson name worldwide.
The fourth-generation Tucson features hidden daytime running lights that are invisible when switched off, creating a unique lighting signature.
Hyundai's 5-year unlimited mileage warranty is one of the best in the industry and is fully transferable to subsequent owners.
Alternatives to Consider
Kia Sportage
7/10Sister car sharing engines and platform but with different styling. Offers 7-year warranty and traditionally stronger resale values.
Nissan Qashqai
7/10Slightly smaller but very popular, refined, and reliable. Strong dealer network and good availability of used examples.
Mazda CX-5
8/10More engaging to drive with excellent build quality. Stylish interior and strong reputation for reliability.
Owner Tips
- 1Always use Hyundai-approved service centres to maintain warranty validity and ensure proper diagnostic equipment is used.
- 2For diesel models, ensure at least one long motorway journey per month to regenerate the DPF and prevent blockages.
- 3Check service history carefully on used models, particularly that dual-clutch gearbox oil has been changed according to schedule.
- 4The hybrid models offer best reliability and lowest running costs for mixed driving patterns.
- 5Inspect rear suspension bushes during servicing as these wear faster than expected on some examples.
- 6Keep infotainment software updated via Hyundai dealer to resolve connectivity and performance issues.
- 7Consider extended warranty beyond 5 years if planning long-term ownership, particularly for dual-clutch gearbox models.
- 8Opt for 17 or 18-inch wheels for best ride comfort; larger wheels compromise comfort without significant handling benefits.
Check a specific Hyundai Tucson
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