Hyundai Tucson Generational Changes: How The SUV Evolved From 2005 To 2025
As of 2025, the Hyundai Tucson is the brand's best-selling individual model in the United States, competing in the crucial compact crossover segment. No, it's not as popular as the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V, but the Tucson is a more adventurously styled than both of those. Now in its fourth generation, here's a look at how the Hyundai Tucson generations have changed over the last two decades.
The first-generation Hyundai Tucson was launched in 2004 for the 2005 model year, with the last model year being 2009. Based on a platform shared with the Hyundai Elantra, the Tucson slotted in below the larger Santa Fe in Hyundai's range.
Both front- and all-wheel-drive models were available, and engine choices were a 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a 2.7-liter V6. Only the former had access to a five-speed manual, while all other first-gen Tucsons used a four-speed automatic transmission. V6 Hyundai Tucson models made 173 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque.
Although lacking in performance and efficiency, the first-gen Tucson's rugged design and good practicality quickly established it as one of the brand's most important models.
On sale from the 2010 to 2015 model years, the second-gen Tucson - known as the iX35 in several other markets - had far curvier, more contemporary looks than the original model. This look extended into the cabin, too, with a more flowing dashboard layout.
The V6 engine was dropped, leaving 2.0L and 2.4L four-cylinder mills. The 2.4L had similar power to the previous V6 but was a lot more efficient. Both transmissions were upgraded, as the LM Tucson saw the introduction of a six-speed manual and six-speed automatic. An experimental fuel-cell model was also offered.
The 2014 model year saw the introduction of a facelifted Tucson, with the engines upgraded with direct injection. This change resulted in a 182-hp output for the bigger of the two engines.
The TL generation of the Tucson was on sale for the 2016 to 2021 model years in the United States. Larger than the outgoing model, the TL was also more advanced. A slew of new safety technologies and new turbocharged engines transformed this Tucson into a real contender.
The manual transmission did not survive for the third-gen Tucson. Consumers could either go for a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a six-speed automatic, a 2.4L with the same transmission, or a 1.6-liter turbo-four with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. With 175 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, the first turbocharged Tucson was also more efficient, returning up to 28 mpg combined.
The 2019 model year saw the introduction of a facelifted Tucson with some styling changes and a new dashboard design.
Comfortable and feature-packed, all third-gen Hyundai Tucson model years make for good used buys, but steer clear of the underpowered 2.0-liter model.
Arriving for the 2022 model year, the NX4 represented the crossover's most dramatic redesign yet; parked next to all other Hyundai Tucson models by year, it's clearly the most interesting to look at. The most daring aspect of the new look has to be the grille, which smartly integrates the vehicle's daytime running lights.
This generation introduced both hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. The former hits 38 mpg combined in its most efficient form, while the latter can travel for 33 miles on electric power alone. With 231 hp for the hybrid and 261 hp for the PHEV, both these Tucsons are also much more responsive than older, naturally-aspirated Tucsons. However, a base 2.5-liter engine with 187 hp kicks off the NX4 lineup. It has a new eight-speed automatic, but isn't as fun to drive as the Mazda CX-5.
Inside, the latest Tucson has a comfortable and feature-rich interior, and rear-seat space is generous for adults. It also benefits from Hyundai's generous warranty, with 10 years or 100,000 miles of coverage for the powertrain.
The NX4 Tucson was refreshed for the 2025 model year with revised styling, a dual-screen infotainment setup on upper trims, and a new steering wheel.
Chiefly, it's the bold look and more powerful hybrids that have made this Tucson a lot more alluring. And, after the Tucson sold just over 60,000 units for its first full year on sale in the United States, it now surpasses 200,000 units annually.
Is the Hyundai Tucson a good car?
Yes, the Hyundai Tucson is a good car, and competes well against the class-leader, the Toyota RAV4. The current Tucson looks good, is comfortable, and has two efficient hybrid options.
What is the difference between a Tucson SE and SEL?
These are two different trims, with the SEL positioned above the SE. Looking at the 2025 Tucson, the SEL comes with a power driver's seat, heated front seats, wireless device charging, and dual-zone climate control. None of these are available on the SE.
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