Hyundai raises the bar with the 2026 Tucson, the compact SUV that doesn't give ground
Hyundai is preparing a new generation of one of the most important SUVs in its catalog, although that doesn't stop them from also introducing new features in the 2026 Tucson range. This important model is receiving improvements in both the mechanical and equipment aspects.
The product strategy of Hyundai is one of the most interesting for customers and a danger, at the same time, for the competition. The Koreans know that while other manufacturers stop investing in a model when a new generation approaches, what they are really doing is giving away sales to rivals for free.
Something that does not align in any way with the tactical moves of this Korean brand that, despite developing a new generation of the Hyundai Tucson arriving in 2026, the manufacturer does not give up on further exploiting what is already the best-selling model in its catalog. An important rival that has established itself at the top of the sales ranking and promises to remain there until it is replaced by its successor.
New engines arrive for the 2026 Hyundai Tucson
Last summer, Hyundai launched the 2026 Tucson with the first part of a divided package of new features, with the second part now arriving. The Korean received an optimization in its engine range to meet stringent emission standards, so the four-cylinder 1.6-liter turbo gasoline engine reduced its maximum power from 160 hp to 150 hp.
This engine, which is available with both a six-speed manual and a seven-speed automatic transmission, now introduces a second, more powerful variant that produces 180 hp and is offered exclusively with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as well as all-wheel drive.
An option that, like the lower-powered one, has discarded the 48V MHEV technology, leaving maximum efficiency in the hands of a self-charging Hybrid Tucson. The gasoline engine of this HEV version is the well-known 1.6 T-GDI, which has increased its performance with an extra 24 hp to reach a total maximum power of 239 hp.
| 1.6 T-GDI AWD | 1.6 HEV AT / AWD | |
|---|---|---|
 Maximum power | 180 hp | 239 hp |
 Maximum torque | 265 Nm | 379 Nm |
 0-100 Km/h | 9.1 s | ND |
 Max. Speed | 204 km/h | 196 km/h |
 Consumption | 7.7 - 7.6 l/100 km | 5.9 - 5.6 (6.5 - 6.4) l/100 km |
 Transmission | Auto 7v | Auto 7v |
 Traction | All | Front / All |
Performance homologated according to the WLTP cycle / In parentheses, data from the version with all-wheel drive
The same significant increase that the Hyundai Santa Fe has received, available with front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and both with automatic transmission. The increased power output has also allowed to increase the towing capacity to 1,510 kilograms, and the maximum speed to 196 km/h.
More trims and equipment in the 2026 Hyundai Tucson range
Hyundai has also improved the equipment, announcing the introduction of the N Line X which now makes two sporty trims. The standard equipment of this new trim includes the 2.0 digital key and the seat package.
Additionally, the Intelligent Traffic Sign Recognition function has been improved with new speed warning tones, so that if the speed limit is exceeded, a more subtle warning tone now sounds with three beeps instead of four. The sound alert can be deactivated with a prolonged press of a button on the steering wheel.
These new improvements have already debuted in Germany, where these new versions of the Hyundai Tucson already have prices, and we hope they will soon be announced in Spain as well.
