2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid details confirmed

A new automotive battleground has opened in Australia as more and more makers set their sights on the most popular hybrid models.

Hyundai will make a hybrid power play in the mid-sized SUV segment with a new petrol-electric Tucson.

Hybrid models will form an integral part of the rejigged line-up ahead of its mid-year arrival in Australia.

The hybrids will replace diesel models in the updated Tucson range, which also has styling revisions, including new bumpers and lights.

The Tucson’s hybrid system pairs a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo engine with an electric motor to make a combined 169kW and 350Nm.

Hyundai is adding hybrid power to its RAV4-rivalling Tucson SUV.

Fuel use figures are yet to be released, but should be similar to the claimed average 5.9 litres per 100km for the Kia Sportage hybrid that uses the same system.

However, whereas the Sportage is only offered in front-drive guise in Australia, the Tucson will be available with all-wheel drive, paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.

While pricing and equipment levels are yet to be finalised, Hyundai says the hybrid will be offered in various trim levels, including the N-Line styling pack that adds a wing and body kit as well as larger alloy wheels and interior tweaks.

For the standard Tucson, Hyundai will continue with the 115kW/195Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder front-drive model that’s expected to be the price leader.

Hyundai will offer hybrid power on a range of model variants.

Buyers will still be able to choose the 132kW/265Nm 1.6-litre turbo four-cylinder driving all four wheels.

But it’s the hybrid that holds the most promise in a market segment that’s increasingly focused on reducing fuel use and running costs.

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is proving immensely popular – about 90 per cent of sales are for the hybrid – and the maker is dealing with frustrated buyers who are being told they will have to wait years for delivery.

Nissan, Honda and GWM-Haval are others that offer hybrid alternatives.

It should use about 5.9L/100km of fuel.

Electric offerings including the BYD Atto 3 and Tesla Model Y have also partially filled the void for those looking to lower their emissions or reduce running costs.

The updated Tucson will also bring with it loads more tech, including dual curved 12.3-inch screens as part of the instrument cluster and infotainment system.

There’s also BlueLink connectivity that allows for remote monitoring and unlocking via a smartphone app, as well as over-the-air software updates.

Higher-end models will have a head-up display, wireless Apple CarPlay (Android Automotive still needs to be run through a cable), the return of some buttons for the ventilation system and the option of matt paint.

While details are yet to be finalised, Hyundai looks set to continue with three model grades – entry-level Tucson, mid-grade Elite and top-of-the-line Premium – with new features depending on the variant.

Originally published as 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid details confirmed