2024 Hyundai Tucson Pros vs Cons, & How it Stacks Up to Competitors

Trying to pick the best compact SUV? Then check out the Hyundai Tucson. With a mix of strengths - from strong engine choices to high-tech features and awesome looks - this ride is worth a close look. We'll dig into the "2024 Hyundai Tucson pros and cons", compare it to big names like the Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, and Toyota RAV4, and break down what it can do. Packed with details, our complete guide aims to help you decide if the Tucson fits your needs. Read on for info that may steer you toward your next ride.

Key Takeaways

• The 2024 Hyundai Tucson is a stylish SUV with high-end tech. It runs well and costs less than other cars in its class.

• Competition Beware: How the Tucson "Stacks Up" against the Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, and Toyota RAV4

• Under the Hood and Beyond: Putting the Tucson's Performance to the Test

• Beauty Meets Brains: A Sleek Exterior and Smart Interior Design

• The 2024 Tucson’s Not Flawless: Skimpy Engine Choices, Loud Highway Noise. We dive in all areas where it may come up short.

• Your Guide to Picking the Perfect Compact SUV: Everything You Need to Make an Informed Decision

What We Like: 10 Pros Tucson

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson boasts several advantages such as its sleek design, the availability of hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, competitive pricing that delivers excellent value, a roomy interior for passengers and cargo along with advanced safety features and modern tech.

It hosts a reliable HTRAC all-wheel drive system, low maintenance costs, and a smooth powerful turbo engine. Hyundai's impressive 10-year/100K mile powertrain warranty further enhances the Tucson's appeal.

1. Stylish Design

On the outside, the Tucson rocks a bold, modern look with sleek styling. Inside, it impresses for a compact SUV with quality materials, stylish controls, and an upscale vibe. The cabin serves up plenty of padded surfaces, and the fit and finish got a major glow up compared to the previous gen Tucson. Overall, this Hyundai brings sharp exterior design and an interior that looks and feels more premium than its class.

2. Three Powertrains to Choose From: Gas, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid

Under the hood, the 2024 Tucson packs a 187-horsepower 4-cylinder engine linked to an eight speed automatic transmission with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The Tucson hybrid version has a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder gas engine combined with an electric motor that puts out a respectable 226 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. It comes equipped with standard AWD. Tucson Plug-In Hybrid comes with a 261 horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged gas/electric setup.

With the Tucson hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, you get more power and use less gas than the gas powered model. The plug-in hybrid uses a turbocharged engine and an electric motor.

It comes with a big battery for electric power. But, the Tucson Hybrid costs approximately 6K less than the plug-in version.

Fuel economy for the three are as follows:

• Gas Engine - EPA of 25/32 (City/Highway mpg).

• Tuscon Hybrid - EPA of 38/38 (City/Highway mpg).

• Tuscon Plug-In Hybrid - 87/74 (City/Highway mpg).

Plug-In Hybrid models have an All-Electric Range of 33 miles.

(Reference Source: EPA)

3. Competitive pricing and good value

The Tucson's standard safety equipment like collision alerts and automatic braking add extra peace of mind for those inside. This Hyundai blends a nice style, a lot of features, traveler-pleasing comfort, and top safety creds. That compelling combo makes the Tucson a standout in the compact SUV market, packing great value for the price point. Overall, it's got the complete package to be a strong contender versus other small SUVs out there.

Trim levels and pricing:

• Tucson SE Trim - Starts at $28,875. Comes with a 187hp engine, 8-speed transmission, and front-wheel drive. Has LED headlights, 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and collision warning.

• Tucson SEL Trim - Starts at $31,025. Adds dual-zone climate control, proximity key, blind spot monitoring, and power driver's seat. Can get AWD.

• Tucson SEL Convenience Trim - Starts at $33,235. Upgrades to a bigger 10.25-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, roof rails, and parking sensors.

• Tucson XRT Trim - Starts at $35,700. Comes with unique 20-inch wheels, special LED lighting, and sporty exterior styling. AWD is standard.

• Tucson Limited Trim - Tops the lineup at $$38,135. Includes leather seats, power liftgate, sunroof, Bose premium audio system, and turbocharged engine. Advanced driver aids available.

Prices are MSRP and include the destination fee of $1,335. They are based on 2WD models. AWD is an extra $1500. (Approximate)

4 Comfortable, Smooth and Agile Ride

According to Car and Driver, the 2024 Tucson delivers a smooth, quiet ride with agile handling. The steering feels accurate and well-weighted for an enjoyable drive. But the base engine's acceleration may leave you wanting more - it takes 9.6 seconds to hit 60 mph, lagging some competitors.

The hybrid Tucson brings a perkier, quieter driving experience plus way better 35 mpg fuel economy. Reviewers praise the hybrid's smooth ride, sharp handling, and hushed cabin versus the regular Tucson. This electrified model feels more responsive and capable thanks to its 1.6-liter turbo paired with electric motivation. Overall, the hybrid powertrain takes the cake for acceleration, nimble handling, and efficiency - a great urban SUV. They rated both models highly and placed them on their CR Recommended list.

(Reference Source: Car and Driver)

KBB rated both models in the top ten list of "Best Compact SUVs". they stated the gas power model accelerates fine at highway speeds but some rivals like the CR-V and CX-5 feel peppier off the line.

But they liked the Tucson smooth sailing with agile cornering. Reviewers praise its comfy ride quality, making this SUV a top road tripper. The cabin stays quiet with minimal road and wind noise, even at highway speeds. On ride and handling, the hybrid models have an excellent, satisfying driving experience.

(Reference Source: KBB)

Based on consumer reviews and backed by VIN verification of ownership, J.D Power rates vehicles for "Driving Experience" as part of their overall ratings. They rated the Tucson as excellent with a score of 84/100 meaning that people that own them really like the way they drive.

(Reference Source: J.D. Power)

5. Roomy Interior for Passengers and Cargo

The 2024 Tucson has a lot of space inside. The front and back seats are big. They give plenty of room for heads and legs. This makes it cozy for everyone inside the car. In addition, this SUV has lots of cargo space too.

The Tucson has more cargo space than close competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. Only the Honda CR-V has a bit more:

Cargo Capacity

• Tucson: 38.7/74.8 cu-ft

• RAV4: 37.6/69.8 cu-ft

• CR-V: 39.3/76.5 cu-ft

• CX-5: 30.8/59.3 cu-ft

For passenger space the Tucson surpasses the competition as well:

Front Headroom/Legroom (Inches)

• Tucson: 40.1/41.4

• RAV4: 37.7/41.0

• CR-V: 40.0/41.3

• CX-5: 39.7/41.0

Rear Headroom/Legroom (Inches)

• Tucson: 39.5/41.3

• RAV4: 39.5/37.8

• CR-V: 38.2/41.0

• CX-5: 39.0/39.6

6. Advanced safety features and tech

The Hyundai Tucson offers more than just a roomy cabin and good fuel economy. It gives you peace of mind with its SmartSense suite of technologies. This includes new safety features like rear side airbags, steering-wheel haptic feedback, and a system that reminds everyone to buckle up before the ride starts.

Hear are some of the features available:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist

• Blind Spot View Monitor

• Safe Exit Assist

• Rear Occupant Alert

• Highway Driving Assist

• surround view camera system

• Rear Cross-Traffic alert

• Collision-Avoidance Assis

• Driver Attention Warning

• Eight airbags including center front airbag between driver and passenger

• Advanced traction and stability control systems

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System

• Childproof rear door locks and automatic locking when shifting from Park

• Adaptive cruise control

• Automatic Emergency Braking

The Hyundai Tucson get a 5-Star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It is also rated a 2024 TOP SAFETY PICK from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). With these advanced safety features and tech, driving becomes less worrisome and more fun!

7. Latest Infotainment and Technology Features

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson rocks the latest infotainment tech. It makes every ride fun with a wireless connection. The following tech features are available on this system:

• HD Radio and satellite radio

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for free!

• There's a cool Bose sound system too, but it's only for top trims like Limited and XRT.

• You will find a big 8-inch touch screen. This screen makes it easy to control music and maps. A larger 10.25-inch screen comes with higher trim levels.

• The digital gauge cluster gets high marks as well, adding style to your drive with useful data right on your steering wheel.

• You can make hands-free calls or send messages safely while driving. Also, multiple apps play nicely with the infotainment system when pairing up with a smartphone.

8. Available HTRAC all-wheel drive system

The Hyundai Tucson comes with an HTRAC all-wheel drive option. This system is smart. It shares power to both the front and rear wheels in a fair way. The result: better control and steadiness on the road, even when it's rough or slippery.

The Tucson Hybrid has this all-wheel-drive system too! Along with it, you also get a six-speed gear change as standard.

(Reference Source: Hyundai USA)

9. Proven reliability and low maintenance costs

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson is known for not needing much upkeep. It's a car that lasts long without giving you headaches. Fewer trips to the garage means more money in your pocket. The Tucson's top-notch warranties add even more peace of mind. J.D Power gives the Tucson 80 out of 100 for reliability. Not bad. Buyers love the Tucson because they get to enjoy driving more and worrying less.

(Reference Source: J.D. Power)

10. Hyundai's excellent 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty

Hyundai Tucson's warranty is a big plus. It gives owners peace for 10 years or 100,000 miles. This means your engine and transmission are covered. It is one of the longest warranties you can get in the market.

This could save you lots of money if something goes wrong with these parts. Many buyers pick Hyundai because of this great warranty offer!

What We Question: 4 Cons of the Tucson

While the Hyundai Tucson impresses with a stylish design and advanced tech, it's not without its drawbacks. Some of these include limited engine options, noise at higher speeds, restricted cargo space and room for improvement in rear seat comfort.

Continue reading to learn more about these factors that might influence your decision making process when choosing your next compact SUV.

1. Base Engine Performance a Could be Better

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson faces tough competition. Some rivals offer better performance on the road. For instance, some cars like the Honda CR-V are a bit quicker off the line. Even the Toyota RAV4 shows more agility in tight turns. (Tucson has a higher turning radios.) According to Kelly Blue Book, They found "acceleration a bit lackluster compared to some quicker rivals like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5."

These cars pack more punch and can make your ride feel exciting. Despite this, the Tucson still stands tall with its mix of quality and value for money.

(Reference Source: KBB)

It has slower acceleration than its close rivals, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.6 seconds. (According to Car and Driver) Compared to the competition, the base engine has less horsepower and torque:

Horsepower/Torque:

• Tucson: 187 HP/178 Torque

• RAV4: 203 HP/184 Torque

• CR-V: 190 HP/179 Torque

• CX-5: 187 HP/185 Torque

2. Noise Levels at Higher Speeds

The Hyundai Tucson is a great SUV. But on the gas powered engine, it has some issues with noise at higher speeds. When you get aggressive with the gas pedal or hit high speeds, engine noise can amp up and intrude into the Tucson's cabin. You'll hear a low-key thrashy sound, interrupting the otherwise quiet interior vibe.

This noise is most obvious in driving scenarios that make the engine work extra hard - think merging onto highways, passing other cars, climbing hills. The engine growls louder and more noticeably versus normal driving.

Even with the engine pushed hard, the Tucson still keeps road and wind noise decently hushed in regular conditions. But that spike in engine noise when you step on it may impact the refined feel for some drivers, especially noise-sensitive folks. It should be noted that the the Tucson Hybrid beats out the regular Tucson for quietness, thanks to that unrefined-sounding base engine.

(Reference Source: MotorTrend)

3. Push-Button Gear Selector

On higher trims, Hyundai added a push-button gear selector. If your used to a regular stick gear selector you may find that it takes a bit getting used to. Until you get used to where it is and how it works, you may find yourself looking down to change gears. Once you are used to the push-button, it shouldn't be a problem.

4. Rear seat comfort could be better

The back seats in the Tucson may not be very cozy. The seats can tilt back for more ease, which is a plus for young passengers. Also, there is much room for legs in the back area.

Despite this, some people still find these seats stiff and less comfy than they expect from an SUV like Tucson.

Compact SUVs Faceoff: 2024 Tucson vs. the Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Nissan Rogue

Let's do a quick evaluation of the 2024 Hyundai Tucson compared to the Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Nissan Rogue, focusing on their pros and cons.

Vs. the CX-5

The Tucson offers bold styling, hybrid power and value. But the CX-5 provides a nicer driving experience and efficiency.

Vs. the RAV4

The Tucson excels in style, cargo versatility and tech availability. But the RAV4 is better known for dependability and resale value.

If design and tech matter more, go Tucson. If reliability and resale value are key, the RAV4 is your best bet.

Vs. the CR-V

The Tucson excels in style, tech and hybrid engines, while the CR-V is better for passenger space, ride comfort and Honda's reputation. Test drive both to compare cabin room, features and performance.

Vs. the Rogue

The Tucson is better for looks, hybrid power, interior space and tech. But the Rogue has a lower starting price, optional third row seating, and more ground clearance.

If you want style, hybrid options and cargo room, go Tucson. If price, a third row and clearance matter more, Rogue is your ride. Choose based on what features you need most in a compact SUV!

Summary and Final Thoughts

The 2024 Tucson isn't just stylish, it's practical too with a spacious interior and ample cargo room. It excels in safety as well, with high-tech driver aids and top safety ratings. The Tucson also offers cutting-edge tech and connectivity to engage drivers.

Compared to rivals, the Tucson wins on design, tech options and hybrid engines, despite falling short on rear seat comfort, noise levels at high speeds and performance versus some competitors. But its warranty, affordability and overall value make it a strong compact SUV pick for shoppers wanting style, versatility and the latest features.

Note: This article is based on our research and expert reviews. We are not affiliated with Hyundai or any other automaker and do not receive any compensation for our reviews. This information is based on our opinions and the opinions of the expert reviewers we have referenced.