The 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid enters the market as a refreshed model, aiming to solidify its position in the competitive compact SUV segment. After spending a day driving the updated Tucson Hybrid in Santa Barbara wine country, this review dives into whether this vehicle simply performs its duties well, or if it truly stands out in a crowded field of rivals. While some vehicles immediately impress or disappoint, the Tucson Hybrid occupies a space of quiet competence, making it a more nuanced subject to evaluate.
2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Review – Front View
It’s often easier to discuss extremes – the exceptionally good or remarkably bad. Vehicles that fall into the “just fine” category, like the 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, require a more thoughtful approach. This isn’t a flashy, head-turning SUV, nor is it plagued with glaring faults. Instead, it’s a vehicle that quietly goes about its business, performing most tasks effectively and efficiently. The question then becomes: is “just fine” good enough in a segment brimming with strong contenders? And more importantly, does the 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid possess that elusive “it” factor to elevate it above the competition, such as the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid or Honda CR-V Hybrid? This review aims to explore these questions in detail.
Hyundai’s strategy with the Tucson Hybrid centers around a powertrain that combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 178 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, with a 47.7-kW electric motor. This pairing results in a combined system output of 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. For comparison, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant boasts a more powerful 72.0-kW electric motor, pushing the total system horsepower to 268, while maintaining the same torque figure. During this review, only the standard hybrid model was tested, foregoing the PHEV and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) versions. The ICE Tucson models utilize a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options differ as well, with ICE models receiving an eight-speed automatic and offering either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, whereas both hybrid variants are exclusively all-wheel drive and equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission.
2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Interior – Dashboard and Controls
The 2025 refresh brings subtle yet noteworthy updates to the Tucson Hybrid. These include minor exterior styling adjustments, the welcome addition of standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the availability of a head-up display, a redesigned infotainment system, and a slight increase in overall length by 0.4 inches. The interior also receives a significant overhaul, creating a more modern and user-friendly environment.
Stepping inside the 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid reveals a cabin focused on contemporary design and functionality. A curved display integrates the infotainment and driver information screens, offering a seamless and visually appealing aesthetic. Crucially, Hyundai has listened to feedback and reintroduced physical knobs and buttons for essential audio and climate controls, enhancing usability. Higher trim levels feature a column-mounted shifter, freeing up center console space and relocating the wireless phone charger to a more accessible position for the driver.
2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid – Infotainment and Climate Controls
On the road, the Tucson Hybrid demonstrates a refined powertrain. Transitions between electric and gasoline power are remarkably smooth and almost imperceptible, contributing to a relaxed driving experience. While the power output is adequate for typical city and suburban driving scenarios, a bit more responsiveness would be appreciated, especially during highway merging or passing maneuvers. Performance is sufficient, but not exhilarating.
Handling characteristics are in line with expectations for a compact SUV. Body roll is present during cornering, and the vehicle’s limits are apparent when pushed harder. However, under normal driving conditions, the Tucson Hybrid feels stable and planted. Steering is precise and turn-in is sharp, although the steering feel is somewhat artificial, it is nonetheless appropriately weighted for everyday driving. Enthusiasts seeking a sportier driving experience might find the Tucson Hybrid lacking, but for the average commuter and errand-runner, the balance between ride comfort and handling is well-judged and perfectly adequate.
Ride quality on the smooth roads of Southern California was commendable. The Tucson Hybrid effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections, providing a comfortable and composed ride. Further testing on less-than-perfect road surfaces will be necessary to fully evaluate its ride comfort in harsher conditions. Noise isolation is another strong point, with minimal outside noise intruding into the cabin, making the Tucson Hybrid a pleasant vehicle for longer journeys on the freeway.
2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid – Rear Seating Space
The updated cabin is a comfortable and inviting space. The repositioned wireless phone charger is a practical improvement. However, the driver’s seat, even at its lowest setting, felt slightly too high, and long-distance comfort could be improved. Additionally, the indicator lights for features like seat heating and cooling were difficult to see when wearing sunglasses, a minor ergonomic issue. Rear passenger space appears sufficient for adults based on a brief assessment.
A short off-road driving experience in the Tucson XRT (ICE version) showcased its capabilities on a mild trail. While not designed for serious off-roading, the Tucson XRT proved capable enough to handle moderately challenging terrain, such as loose rocks and uneven surfaces, exceeding the capabilities of a standard sedan. For reaching remote campsites or navigating light off-road conditions, the Tucson XRT, and by extension, the AWD Hybrid models, should prove sufficient.
2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid XRT – Off-Roading
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid comes well-equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard and available advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These include forward collision-avoidance assist, forward-attention warning, blind-spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, a 360-degree camera system, blind-spot monitoring, driver-attention warning, lane-keep assist, lane-following assist, intelligent speed-limit assist, safe-exit warning, and navigation-based smart cruise control with curve control. These features contribute to a safer and more confident driving experience.
Comfort and convenience features are also plentiful, with standard or available amenities such as dual-zone climate control, heated front and rear seats, cooled front seats, navigation, 19-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, a power liftgate, LED lighting, Bluetooth, satellite radio, USB ports, remote keyless entry, and keyless start.
Pricing for the 2025 Hyundai Tucson lineup starts at $28,355 before destination fees. The top-of-the-line Limited PHEV reaches a starting price of $47,090. ICE Tucson trims include SE, SEL, SEL Convenience, XRT, and Limited. All-wheel drive adds $1,500 to the ICE models. Hybrid trims consist of Blue, SEL, Convenience, N Line, and Limited, with all hybrid models being all-wheel drive. PHEV versions are available in SEL and Limited trims. The Limited Hybrid model tested in this review is estimated to be around $40,945 before a $1,395 destination charge. The EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid are 35 mpg across city, highway, and combined cycles.
2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid – Side Profile
2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid – Rear View
In conclusion, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is a competent and well-rounded compact SUV. While perhaps not as visually striking as the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V, its styling is inoffensive, and the interior is arguably a step above the Ford Bronco Sport in terms of refinement. The Tucson Hybrid offers the added benefit of electrification, although the Bronco Sport, particularly in certain trims, might hold an edge in off-road prowess. Ford also offers a hybrid Escape, sharing a platform with the Bronco Sport, but a direct comparison would require further testing.
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid excels at fulfilling the needs of most urban and suburban drivers. Its smooth hybrid powertrain and comfortable ride make it a pleasant daily driver. Whether the hybrid premium is justifiable depends on individual driving habits and fuel consumption considerations. However, choosing the hybrid variant unlocks a refined and efficient powertrain. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited represents a very good offering from Hyundai – a vehicle of quiet competence that performs its intended tasks reliably and effectively. While it may not inspire passionate pronouncements, its strengths lie in its well-executed practicality and overall competence.
2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid – Front Grille Detail
