The 2023 Hyundai Tucson delivers in all of the areas we’ve come to expect from the once diminutive South Korean car manufacturer. By that we mean, it’s flashy, affordable, reliable and more refined than you’d expect. For the new year, a nice middle tier XRT trim debuts. Along with some revisions to the standard and optional feature list. Apart from that though, since the fourth generation of the Tucson was only just introduced in 2022, it remains largely the same.
In a segment as hot as the small SUV class, standing out is no small feat. The Hyundai Tucson has enough of the goods to compete against big hitters like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5. Helping it measure-up against the very best is tremendous value, an excellent warranty, comfortable ride, a fast powertrain with AWD, and 37 average miles per gallon with the Hybrid model.
From a design standpoint, the full redesign from last year continues to turn heads. Distinct and modern with sharp lines, chrome trim, 19-inch alloy wheels and uniquely aggressive headlights. For a more rugged look, the new XRT trim will deliver plenty of outdoorsy vibes. On the inside, you’ll find room in the rear to stretch your legs. Seat-backs will even recline. Up front, a large, glossy touchscreen and center console looks nice, but lacks actual physical buttons or even haptic feedback when operating the infotainment system. As a result, you’re never really sure right away if your input registered, and the screen becomes full of smudges and finger prints quickly. A dial-style controller or a couple buttons would have been a nice addition.
What you will find in abundance are standard driving aides and safety features. There’s forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping and follow assist, blind-spot monitors, cross-traffic warning, radar cruise control and on and on. In the limited model, you’ll get a premium sounding Bose audio system. Front seats are leather-trimmed, heated and cooled. The steering wheel is also wrapped in leather and heated. Even the back seats receive the heated treatment. The back-up monitor even has a full 360 degree surround-view image to make backing into tight spots a breeze.
The 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid remains a strong option in the packed-full segment of small SUV’s. Add in the award winning warranty package for extra peace of mind and a price tag that’s hard to beat, and suddenly, there’s nothing ‘diminuitive’ at all about this well-rounded vehicle.
Price as tested: $40,455.00
