New Look for the Tucson
The new generation Hyundai Tucson has been spotted again during public testing. Although the prototype still conceals a significant part of the body under camouflage, one thing has become absolutely clear—this SUV has acquired contours so square that they are difficult to achieve even with modern trends.
If the current Tucson can be compared to a smooth stone, streamlined by aerodynamics, the new one resembles a brick thrown into a wind tunnel to smooth out sharp corners. Hyundai seems to be aiming to give the Tucson the same massive presence that transformed the Santa Fe from an unremarkable family car into a sharp and stylish SUV.
Influence of the Crater Concept Car
Perhaps for a reference point in the final appearance of the Tucson, one should look not to the Santa Fe, but to the Crater concept SUV, which Hyundai presented at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Although the roofline of the prototype is not as sporty, the wheel arches are similar, and the beginning of a curve in the window line can be discerned where the door meets the pillar.
Interior and Technology
The interior remains a mystery, but the more angular shape could improve headroom and rear seat space. A more significant change could be a new screen configuration. Instead of the integrated digital instrument cluster and infotainment system seen in the new Santa Fe, Hyundai might borrow the layout seen in spy shots of the Ioniq 3.
The future electric crossover had a slim instrument display behind the steering wheel and a large tablet-like infotainment screen in the center of the console. It’s hard to say for sure, but the Tucson photos seem to show a similar compact speed display.
Technical Features
Engine specifications remain a mystery, but the Tucson is expected to receive the usual small-displacement turbocharged gasoline engines and hybrid powertrains when it launches next year. However, a significant deviation from the current model is the potential for a true N version, not just a visually enhanced N-Line trim.
It was recently reported that Hyundai is considering developing a powerful Tucson N with a 300 hp hybrid powertrain, which could compete with the new 320 hp Toyota RAV4 GR Sport. Rumors suggest the front wheels of the powerful SUV will be driven by an internal combustion engine, while the rear axle will be exclusively electric. If Hyundai does decide to release the Tucson N, its debut will not happen before 2027–2028, while the standard version will be presented next year.
Given the overall trend towards electrification and increased power, the emergence of an N hybrid version for the Tucson seems like a logical step. This would not only enhance the model’s competitiveness but also demonstrate that Hyundai continues to invest in high-performance hybrid technologies, combining efficiency with dynamics. Such decisions could significantly influence perceptions of the capabilities of compact SUVs in the future.