Cars

Full Review: 2025 Hyundai Tucson Test Drive and Features

JH
John H
Senior Cars Expert
8 min read

Full Review: 2025 Hyundai Tucson Test Drive and Features

The automotive world continues to evolve rapidly, and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson stands at the forefront of compact SUV innovation. With a fresh redesign, enhanced technology, improved efficiency, and a sleek new exterior, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson promises to deliver a compelling package for drivers seeking style, performance, and value. After an extensive test drive across city streets, highways, and rural backroads, we’re bringing you a comprehensive look at everything this updated crossover has to offer.

Exterior Design: Bold, Modern, and Aerodynamic

The 2025 Hyundai Tucson marks a significant evolution in the brand’s design language. Gone is the more conservative styling of previous generations; the new Tucson embraces a bolder, more futuristic aesthetic. The front fascia features a Parametric Dynamics grille—a signature Hyundai design element that blends LED daytime running lights with the grille pattern for a seamless, high-tech look. This integration not only enhances visibility but also contributes to improved aerodynamics.

Along the profile, sharp character lines and a slightly sloping roofline give the Tucson a sporty, coupe-like silhouette. The wheel arches are flared, housing standard 17-inch alloy wheels, with optional 19-inch wheels available on higher trims. The rear end showcases full-width LED taillights with animated turn signals, a feature typically reserved for luxury vehicles. This cohesive lighting design adds a premium flair and improves safety at night.

Available in ten exterior colors, including Phantom Black, Creamy White, and the striking Aurora Black Pearl, the 2025 Tucson stands out in any setting. Hyundai has also introduced new matte finish options on select trims, a rare offering in the compact SUV segment that further elevates its visual appeal.

2025 Hyundai Tucson front view showcasing bold Parametric Dynamics grille and LED lighting

Interior Comfort and Materials

Step inside the 2025 Hyundai Tucson, and you're greeted with a modern, minimalist cabin that prioritizes comfort and usability. Hyundai has made significant strides in interior quality, using soft-touch materials, real metal accents, and available leather or vegan leather upholstery across most trims. The attention to detail is evident in the stitching patterns and ambient lighting that can be customized to one of 64 colors.

The driver-centric cockpit features a dual 12.3-inch panoramic curved display that houses both the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment system. This seamless setup reduces glare and improves visibility, making it easier to monitor vehicle data and navigation while driving. Physical buttons are minimized, replaced by capacitive touch controls on the steering wheel and center console, though some drivers may take time adjusting to this new interface.

Seat comfort is a highlight. Front seats are ergonomically designed with available 12-way power adjustment, heating, ventilation, and lumbar support. Rear passengers benefit from more legroom than the previous model—up by nearly two inches—thanks to a slightly longer wheelbase. The rear bench also reclines, a feature not commonly found in this class, enhancing long-distance comfort.

Cargo space remains generous, with 38.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The hands-free power liftgate, standard on SEL and above trims, makes loading large items effortless. Hidden underfloor storage provides a secure spot for smaller items like charging cables or grocery bags.

Technology and Infotainment

At the heart of the 2025 Tucson’s tech suite is the latest version of Hyundai’s Blue Link connected car system, now with enhanced over-the-air (OTA) update capability. This means your vehicle’s software can evolve over time, adding new features and improving performance without a trip to the dealership.

The 12.3-inch infotainment screen runs on a faster processor and supports both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Voice recognition has been improved with natural language processing, allowing you to adjust climate settings, navigate, or play music using conversational commands. The system also learns your preferences over time, suggesting routes based on your driving habits.

A premium 12-speaker Bose audio system is available, delivering crisp highs and deep bass through strategically placed speakers, including a subwoofer integrated into the rear seatback. For tech enthusiasts, the Tucson offers a head-up display (HUD), wireless charging pad, and four USB-C ports (two front, two rear) to keep all devices powered.

Safety technology is equally impressive. The 2025 Tucson comes standard with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Highlights include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane keeping assist, blind-spot collision avoidance, and Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2), which enables semi-autonomous driving on supported highways.

One standout feature is Remote Smart Parking Assist 2, allowing the Tucson to park itself with the driver standing outside using the key fob. This is particularly useful in tight garage spaces or crowded parking lots. Additionally, Surround View Monitor with parking guidance provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle, making parking maneuvers intuitive and stress-free.

Powertrain and Driving Dynamics

The 2025 Hyundai Tucson offers three powertrain options, catering to a wide range of driving preferences and needs. The base model features a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivers smooth acceleration and respectable fuel economy—up to 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway—making it ideal for daily commuting.

For those seeking more power, the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine (shared with the Sonata N-Line) produces 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. When combined with the hybrid powertrain, it delivers a combined output of 226 horsepower. This version offers quicker throttle response and improved highway passing ability while maintaining an impressive 38 mpg combined.

The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant is the most compelling for eco-conscious drivers. With a larger 13.8 kWh battery pack and electric-only range of 38 miles, the Tucson PHEV can handle short commutes entirely on electricity. When the battery depletes, the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in, delivering a total driving range of over 500 miles. Charging from a Level 2 (240V) station takes about 2.5 hours, while standard household outlets will take around 9 hours.

Driving the Tucson on the road, we found the ride quality to be well-balanced. The suspension absorbs bumps effectively, providing a comfortable experience on rough city streets. Steering is light yet precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight urban environments. The hybrid and PHEV models are notably quiet at low speeds, with minimal engine noise even under hard acceleration.

For those who venture off the beaten path, the Tucson offers HTRAC all-wheel drive with selectable drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Snow. The AWD system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear axles, improving traction on wet or slippery roads. While not designed for serious off-roading, the Tucson handles gravel paths, steep inclines, and snowy conditions with confidence.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency is a major selling point for the 2025 Tucson, especially in its hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. The standard gas model achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, which is competitive in the segment. However, the real story lies with the hybrid models.

The Tucson Hybrid delivers up to 38 mpg combined, thanks to regenerative braking and an intelligent start-stop system. The plug-in hybrid takes efficiency a step further, offering 89 MPGe in electric mode and 34 mpg when running on gasoline. With an electric-only range of 38 miles, many drivers could potentially go days without using gasoline, especially with home charging.

Hyundai has also made strides in sustainability. The interior features eco-conscious materials, including bio-based plastics, recycled PET fabric, and water-based adhesives. The company has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2045, and the 2025 Tucson is a step toward that goal.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2025 Hyundai Tucson is available in six trim levels: SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, Hybrid SEL, and Plug-in Hybrid Limited. Pricing starts at $27,750 for the base SE trim and climbs to $43,950 for the top-tier Plug-in Hybrid Limited, including destination fees.

Optional packages include the Ultimate Package (added safety tech and luxury features) and the Premium Appearance Package (matte paint, upgraded wheels, and interior accents). Hyundai also offers a generous 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage, giving buyers peace of mind.

Comparison with Competitors

How does the 2025 Tucson stack up against its rivals? In the highly competitive compact SUV market, the Tucson faces strong competition from the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester.

Compared to the Toyota RAV4, the Tucson offers a more refined interior, better infotainment system, and superior ride comfort. While the RAV4 is known for reliability, the Tucson counters with more standard tech and a longer warranty.

Against the Honda CR-V, the Tucson matches or exceeds in most categories. The CR-V has slightly more cargo space and a proven hybrid system, but the Tucson’s design, tech features, and available PHEV model give it an edge in innovation.

The Subaru Forester wins points for standard all-wheel drive and excellent visibility, but it lags behind in fuel efficiency and interior tech. The Tucson’s optional AWD and superior infotainment system make it a more modern choice.

Overall, the 2025 Tucson stands out for its blend of style, technology, and value—offering features typically found in more expensive vehicles.

Who Should Buy the 2025 Hyundai Tucson?

The 2025 Hyundai Tucson is ideal for a wide range of buyers. Urban commuters will appreciate the hybrid and plug-in hybrid options for their low running costs and environmental benefits. Families will value the spacious interior, advanced safety features, and ease of use. Tech-savvy drivers will enjoy the seamless connectivity and over-the-air updates. Even adventure seekers may find appeal in the rugged XRT trim and capable AWD system.

For those upgrading from an older SUV or sedan, the Tucson offers a compelling reason to switch. Its modern design, excellent fuel economy, and long list of standard features make it a standout in its class. Plus, with Hyundai’s strong warranty and growing reputation for quality, buyers can feel confident in their investment.

Pros and Cons Summary

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Final Verdict: Is the 2025 Hyundai Tucson Worth It?

After spending several days behind the wheel of the 2025 Hyundai Tucson, we can confidently say it’s one of the most well-rounded compact SUVs on the market. It blends sharp design, cutting-edge technology, and strong efficiency into a package that feels both modern and practical.

The hybrid and plug-in hybrid models are particularly impressive, offering real-world fuel savings without compromising performance. The interior is comfortable and upscale, rivaling vehicles in a higher price bracket. With standard advanced safety features and