About Hyundai Tucson
The Tucson first arrived in 2004 as a family-focused SUV, at the time launching just with four-wheel-drive. Slotting beneath the larger Santa Fe, it offered plenty of room and a bargain price. Somewhat confusingly the second-generation Tucson was instead known as the iX35 in Europe, before Hyundai returned to the same nameplate as before in 2015. This third-gen model was quite a big step up, bringing more modern looks and a more upmarket interior.But where the Tucson took a real step forward is with the latest model, which hit showrooms at the start of 2021. Boasting a radical new design language for Hyundai, it feels particularly premium inside, while customers can also choose between a range of hybrid models with some more conventional petrol engines available too.
Why buy a used Tucson?
The Hyundai Tucson has always been one of the roomiest models in this segment, and if you want a spacious family SUV (without choosing a seven-seater), the Tucson is a supreme option. All generations offer a big boot and plenty of rear seat space, but the latest car is really impressive. It’s useful to know that hybrid versions offer just as much as room inside, too.The latest Tucson also really pushes the boundaries of how cool a family SUV can look. It’s got what Hyundai calls ‘Parametric Hidden Lights’, which are essentially strips in the grille that illuminate, and truly make this Hyundai look like a concept car. Sharp crease lines and a full-length LED light bar also give the Tucson a superb amount of street cred, especially at night.
Elsewhere, the current generation of Tucson has an especially smart interior, as both digital dials and a large touchscreen are included as standard, even on the lowest spec models. Offering plush materials throughout and a great range of digitalisation, this Hyundai definitely has one of the best interiors in the business.
And if you’re wanting something electrified, the Tucson has plenty to offer. Even the previous generation was offered as a mild-hybrid (MHEV), but the latest option has this and also the choice of a full hybrid and plug-in hybrid. Choose the latter option and there’s scope for some seriously low running costs, with Hyundai claiming it can travel for around 35 miles purely on electricity.
You also get a lot of equipment for your money, as on top of the touchscreen and digital dials, the Tucson also features dual-zone climate control, a raft of safety equipment and a reversing camera. High-spec models get all manner of features too, including ventilated and heated seats, a panoramic sunroof and blind spot monitoring to name just a few elements.
Tucson updates
Here’s a short history of the Hyundai Tucson, which first arrived in showrooms in 2004.- Named after the city of Tucson in Arizona, Hyundai revealed its first-generation model in 2004 as a sibling model to the Kia Sportage. It was revised in 2008 with the introduction of a more affordable front-wheel-drive version.
- In 2010, Hyundai revealed the second-generation Tucson, though it would see its name changed to iX35 as part of the brand’s new naming structure.
- In 2015 the Tucson name returned for the third generation, with a more stylish, upmarket and tech-laden version being introduced to compete with fresher-faced rivals.
- The Tucson was then tweaked in 2020, bringing a revised design, mild-hybrid technology and a greater level of standard equipment.
- A fourth-generation Tucson then debuted in 2020, showcasing a stunning new design, far more upmarket interior and the choice of both hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
Which used Tucson should I buy?
Hyundai offers a range of trims on its latest Tucson, here are what’s available and that’s included on each.
Hyundai Tucson SE Connect
10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, 10.25-inch touchscreen, satellite navigation, 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, drive mode select, dual-zone climate control, high beam assist, LED daytime running lights, rear camera, rear parking sensors, roof rails.
Hyundai Tucson N Line
19-inch alloy wheels, alloy pedals, ambient lighting, heated front seats, LED headlights, N Line styling pack, privacy glass, keyless entry and start, suede and leather upholstery, wireless charging pad.
Hyundai Tucson N Line S
Blind spot collision warning, rear cross traffic alert, heated steering wheel, Krell sound system, panoramic glass sunroof, electric tailgate, three-zone climate control.
Hyundai Tucson Premium
18-inch alloy wheels, black two-tone roof, blind spot warning and collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control, front parking sensors, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, keyless entry, Krell sound system, LED bending headlights, rear cross traffic alert, wireless charging pad.
Hyundai Tucson Ultimate
19-inch alloy wheels, black leather seats, electric front seats, highway drive assist, panoramic glass sunroof, ventilated front seats, electric boot, heated rear seats, rear cross traffic avoidance, panoramic glass sunroof.
What should I look for when buying a used Tucson?
- Previous Tucsons didn’t always come with sensors or a camera, so look out for any signs of scuff marks or scratches from parking.
- While few Tucsons these days have a manual gearbox, Hyundai clutches can wear quite quickly so make sure there’s no sign of it slipping, or having an odd feeling to it.
