2021 Hyundai Tucson has been unveiled. The all-new Tucson is the fourth generation of Hyundai’s successful best-seller with more than 7 million units sold around the globe since it launched in 2004. Of these, 1.4 million units have been sold in Europe. That makes it the company’s bestselling SUV globally.
By offering the most electrified powertrain line-up in the compact SUV segment, including hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and 48-volt mild-hybrid options, the all-new Tucson completes the electrification of Hyundai’s SUV fleet in Europe. Other electrified SUVs produced by Hyundai include the fully-electric and hybrid versions of the Kona, NEXO, its second-generation fuel cell electric vehicle, and the Santa Fe with hybrid and plug-in hybrid options on top of the line-up. By introducing electrification to its latest models, Hyundai consolidates its position as the manufacturer with the broadest range of electrified powertrains.
The all-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson will become the third-generation of the model to be produced in Europe at the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czech (HMMC) production plant in Nošovice, Czech Republic. The second-generation Tucson was the first model produced at HMMC. This underlines Hyundai’s commitment to the European market.
Rather than simply an evolution of the previous generation model, the all-new Tucson represents a revolution for Hyundai in design terms. Overall, it features a bigger and wider body than its predecessor. Its muscular stance combines sharp angles and dynamic proportions with rich surfaces, ensuring a progressive look without compromising on Tucson’s rugged SUV heritage.
The progressive design language of the all-new Tucson was inspired by Hyundai’s Vision T SUV concept, which was unveiled at 2019 AutoMobility LA. Also guided by Sensuous Sportiness, Vision T’s design themes revolve around the concept of Dynamism and represent an “urban adventurer” SUV design direction.
Refraining from traditional drawing and sketching methods, Hyundai’s designers developed the all-new Tucson’s futuristic design elements through geometric algorithms produced by cutting-edge digital technology. This process, known as “parametric dynamics”, utilises lines, faces, angles and shapes created through digital data to create unprecedented, bold design aesthetics. As a result, prominent geometric patterns known as “parametric jewels” appear throughout the SUV’s design, giving it a progressive character.
The most prominent display of these parametric jewels is on the vehicle’s front grille, where Parametric Hidden Lights provide a strong first impression. When the lights are off, the front of the vehicle appears covered in dark, geometric patterns, with no distinction between the signature LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), which are seamlessly integrated into the grille. Thanks to state-of-the-art half-mirror lighting technology, when the DRLs are switched on, the dark chrome appearance of the grille transforms into jewel-like shapes, bringing an eye-catching element to an otherwise sleek appearance.
Parametric jewels also feature as a prominent design element on the side of the vehicle. Chiselled surfaces create a striking contrast between a sleek silhouette and masculine wedge, suggesting forward motion even when standing still. Taut athletic shapes seamlessly merge into angular wheel arches, where alloy wheels provide a powerful and dynamic stance. The 2021 Hyundai Tucson sporty sensibility is accentuated through a chrome accent line with an edged parabolic shape, starting on the side mirrors and continuing all the way to the C-pillar. From the side view, the wrap-around doors are complemented by a sharp and bold side character line, which sits in harmony with the robust and rugged look of the dynamic and angulated wheel arches.
On the rear, wide tail lamps with parametric hidden light details continue the design theme. The all-new Tucson’s rear bumper also integrates parametric pattern details with a three-dimensional effect, coupled with a sporty garnish. It is the first Hyundai model to apply hidden rear wipers, which sit under the spoiler. High-tech design elements are crowned by a smooth glass Hyundai logo, which looks three-dimensional but actually does not protrude from the outer surface, in a departure from traditional automotive manufacture emblems.
2021 Hyundai Tucson customers can choose from nine exterior colours overall, including three new ones: Shimmering Silver, Amazon Gray and Teal. Moreover, the option of a two-tone roof in either a Phantom Black or Dark Knight offers customers even more scope for personalisation. Each exterior body colour can be combined with a two-tone roof.
Shimmering Silver [NEW] with optional Dark Knight roof
Amazon Gray [NEW] with optional Phantom Black roof
Teal [NEW] with optional Phantom Black roof
Phantom Black with optional Dark Knight roof
Polar White with optional Phantom Black roof
Engine Red with optional Phantom Black roof
Sunset Red with optional Phantom Black roof
Silky Bronze with optional Dark Knight roof
Dark Knight with optional Phantom Black roof
Inside, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson has space, technology and information intersect harmoniously. Featuring sensuous forms inspired by waterfalls, twin silver garnish lines streaming from the centre fascia to the rear doors harmonise neatly layered premium surface materials in complementary neutral tones. The seamless integration of segment-leading technology provides all-new Tucson customers with an advanced and fully-customisable digital experience. The new 10.25-inch AVN-T screen fills the centre of the vehicle. Hyundai’s designers dispensed with physical knobs and buttons, so all AVN and heat, ventilation and air conditioning functions are controlled via touch, making it the first Hyundai model to feature a full touchscreen console. High-quality soft-touch materials appear throughout the interior, lifting the look and feel to a new level, while new indirect air vents start from the doors and flow to the centre console.
The evolution of 2021 Hyundai Tucson interior layout led to a lower instrument display and removal of the gauge cluster housing for a decluttered surface to enhance the feeling of openness inside. The broad ridge of the dashboard blends seamlessly with the doors, wrapping around front occupants like a deep gorge. These futuristic features provide an even more progressive feeling and bring new levels of high-tech design value to customers.
The ergonomically-positioned arm rest is connected with the shift by wire application, for intuitive use by the driver, while also giving the car a clean and modern appeal. Occupants can also enjoy pleasant ambient mood lighting, which is positioned at the bottom of the centre fascia, in the wireless charging pad and door map pocket. It offers 64 configurable colours and 10 levels of brightness to fit every mood and offer even more scope for personalisation. In addition, customers can choose from three interior trims, including one-tone Black in fabric or leather, two-tone Black and Beige in fabric or leather and the Teal colour pack. The Teal pack offers a black textile or leather seat with teal stitching on the seats, armrest and gear shift. Teal textile inserts also feature on the cloth crash pad and door trim.
Interior colours:
One-tone Black (fabric or leather)
Two-tone Black or Grey and Beige (fabric or leather)
Teal pack (fabric or leather)
The fully digital configurable dual-cockpit consists of a new 10.25-inch open cluster and 10.25-inch AVN-T screen. This offers a personalised space that is intuitively optimised for high-tech user experience. For example, the colour schemes of the cluster change depending on which drive mode is selected.
Hyundai is offering the latest version of its state-of-the-art Bluelink connected car services with the 10.25-inch infotainment system in the all-new 2021 Hyundai Tuscon. The upgraded Bluelink offers a range of new benefits and services for Hyundai customers, including Connected Routing, Last Mile Navigation and a new User Profile feature. Meanwhile, customers can locate their vehicle, lock and unlock it remotely, or view vehicle attributes like fuel level, via the Bluelink app.
Occupants can tailor their individual infotainment choices with the new User Profile feature. This allows customers to install up to two main accounts and one guest account, and upload a profile picture via the Bluelink app. User Profile stores users’ infotainment preferences, such as language, Bluetooth, navigation and voice recognition settings, as well as their favourite radio stations, in the cloud. If drivers have to park their car within a 200-metre to two-kilometre radius from the destination, Last Mile Navigation can be activated to resume the guidance in the Bluelink app on the driver’s smartphone.
With the new cloud-based Connected Routing navigation, driving routes are calculated on a powerful server inside the Bluelink cloud environment. This ensures more accurate traffic forecasting, more precise times of arrival, and more reliable route recalculation. As an additional benefit of Connected Routing, the autofill functionality saves drivers time in selecting a destination.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow customers to mirror the functionality of their iOS and Android smartphones in a simplified and convenient manner. With the eight-inch Display Audio, smartphones can be mirrored wirelessly. Other infotainment and connectivity features on the all-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson include a premium sound system by KRELL for an enhanced listening experience, a wireless charging pad in the centre console, as well as front and rear USB ports for even more convenience, particularly on long journeys. In addition, the all-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson will feature calendar integration inside the infotainment system, meaning the user will be able to see their Apple or Google Calendar on the AVN screen. Synchronisation is done via Bluelink App settings. This is just one more reason for customers to use and download the Bluelink app.
Finally, Hyundai LIVE Services add real-time parking information and fuel station locations including prices, as well as weather information. Destinations or points of interest can also be sent from the app to the in-car navigation system.For the first time in a Hyundai vehicle, the all-new Tucson’s hidden type Multi-Air Mode technology consists of a combination of direct and indirect air vents for air conditioning and heating to create a more pleasant indoor environment with more gentle air flow. When this mode is activated, the air is dispersed to the newly added multi-air slots in the front, in addition to the normal air vents. The overall wind volume remains the same, and is therefore just as effective at changing the temperature, but the dispersion of wind reduces direct air contact and softens the air. This mode can be switched on and off based on the preference of the driver.
The three-zone climate control now caters to passengers in the rear seats in addition to occupants in the front of the vehicle. In addition, ventilated seats in the front and heated seats in the front and rear provide further comfort for the driver and passenger alike. In addition, with Walk-in Device drivers can slide and recline the passenger seat for the convenience of front- or rear-seat occupants with the simple use of a button on the seat’s bolsters.
Rear Sleeping Mode allows the driver’s row to listen to their selected audio without the same audio being transmitted to the rear speakers, so that passengers who are sleeping will not be disturbed. For improved user convenience, the rear seats of the all-new Tucson can now be folded in a 4:2:4 ratio. Remote Folding furthermore allows the seats to be folded at a distance. The folding levers are located on the side walls of the boot.
The all-new Tucson’s dynamic proportions and new platform provide a wide, open interior space that guarantees occupants comfort and roominess usually reserved for models in the segment above. At 20mm longer, 15mm wider, and a wheelbase that has been increased by 10mm as compared to the previous generation, the all-new Tucson is more spacious than ever before. As a result, rear passengers can enjoy 26mm of additional legroom. This has been achieved for both the hybrid and internal combustion engine models, due to a clever placement of the battery underneath the rear passenger seats. Meanwhile, boot space has been increased by 33 to 107 litres, depending on the chosen trim and powertrain, offering up to 620 litres overall for luggage with the seats up and up to 1,799 litres with the seats folded.
Dimensions (in mm)
Length: 4,500 (+20mm)
Width: 1,865 (+15mm)
Height: 1,650 (+5mm)
Wheelbase: 2,680 (+10mm)
Overhang: front 895mm, rear 925mm
Second row legroom: 996 (+26mm)
Boot (in litres)
Minimum volume, with seats up (Gasoline/ Diesel/ Gasoline 48V/ Diesel 48V/ Hybrid):
620 / 598 / 577 / 546 / 616
Maximum volume, with seats folded (Gasoline /Diesel /Gasoline 48V/ Diesel 48V/ Hybrid):
1,799 / 1,777 / 1,756 / 1,725 / 1,795
The all-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson is outfitted with an enhanced seven-airbag system, which features a new first row center side airbag, a feature unique to this segment. This prevents front row passengers from colliding with one another in the case of a collision, minimising the risk of serious injuries. When the deployment of the airbags is trigged by a front or side impact, Multi-collision braking automatically applies emergency brakes to reduce the risk of secondary, or multiple, collisions.
The all-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson has been equipped with forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), which sounds alarms when a collision becomes imminent with cars, bicycles, or pedestrians ahead. When the driver fails to react and brake in time, the system automatically controls the brakes to avoid an accident. For the first time in a 2021 Hyundai Tucson, FCA now includes Junction Turning, which expands the range of protection to include collisions at intersections. This function detects oncoming cars from the other side when turning left at a junction and, if a collision appears likely, applies the brakes to stop the car.
Lane Following Assist (LFA) prevents accidental lane departure and keeps the vehicle safety centred within the lane. Using the forward camera to recognise the intended lane, LFA will automatically provide corrective steering input to help maintain the centre path. This works together with the Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) function, which now detects road edges as well as lines.
Driver Attention Warning (DAW) is a driver protection feature which helps monitor driving patterns in order to detect fatigued driving and prevent potential accidents. This works in tandem with Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA). LVDA alerts the driver when the vehicle ahead of them starts moving forward and they do not react quickly enough, for example at traffic lights.
Introduced for the first time in a compact SUV, Highway Driving Assist (HDA) makes highway driving safer and more comfortable. HDA regulates the car’s speed and maintains its distance to other vehicles in front, as well as the current lane of travel on the highway. A special button on the steering wheel allows the driver to activate HDA with just one click.
HDA works in combination with LFA and navigation-based Smart Cruise Control Curve (NSCC-C). With this feature, all-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson drivers can set the speed using SCC then, for greater safety and convenience, NSCC-C is capable of automatically adjusting the vehicle speed for the incoming curve, based on local road information. It reduces the cruising speed and, upon exiting the curve, returns to the preset speed level.
Another new feature is Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA). As well as displaying speed limits on the AVN screen, ISLA automatically adjusts the all-new Tucson’s speed so that drivers do not exceed the limit.
For even more assurance, the all-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson has been outfitted with a series of functions that increase visibility on the road. Blind-spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA). This system now applies differential braking, in addition to visual and audio warnings, to prevent the car from colliding into other vehicles when changing lanes. This function uses the vehicle’s front-view camera and rear corner radars to calculate the relative position and speed of vehicles on the side or in the Tucson’s blind-spot. BCA is equipped with Rear Cross-traffic Collision-avoidance Assist. When backing out, RCCA alerts the driver to the approach of a vehicle crossing their rearward path. If necessary, the brakes are applied to prevent a collision.
A feature unique to the segment is the new Blind View Monitor (BVM), which shows the rear and side views of the car on the digital instrument panel when the driver activates the turn signal. This offers an enhancement of the views on the side mirror by displaying blind spots that are otherwise not visible, and also provides additional visual support in dark and rainy conditions. A feature unique to the segment is the Blind view Monitor. When the driver signals a lane change, one of the two main dials of the 10.25’’ Supervision Cluster will display a view of the blind spot of the respective side.
BVM also works in combination with the Surround View Monitor (SVM), so that drivers can experience a 360-degree, three-dimensional view of the vehicle from various viewpoints. This includes zooming in and out for the front, rear, left and right of the vehicle SVM also utilises a bird’s eye view to further enhance the visibility of potential obstacles. SVM is also synchronised with the new Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA), which is available on the hybrid version of the all-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson. RSPA aids drivers when parking and pulling out by automatically move forward and rear the vehicle. The feature can be activated and controlled via the Smart Key.
The new Safe Exit Warning (SEW) function alerts occupants if there is oncoming traffic when they attempt to step out of the car. This feature is being introduced to a mainstream compact SUV for the first time. Another highlight feature is the new Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA). Even if outside the car, drivers can enter or pull out the car from a parking space using a button on the Smart Key. The vehicle utilises ultrasonic sensors to identify obstacles, and emergency braking is applied whenever the risk of a collision is detected. When switched to automatic mode, High Beam Assist (HBA) detects both oncoming vehicles and those in the same lane ahead at night, as well as changing to low-beam as appropriate, thereby reducing blinding effects on other drivers. When no more vehicles are detected, the system automatically reactivates the high beams, maximising the driver’s range of vision.
Other improved and innovative features make the all-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson an assuring and reliable family-friendly car. The new Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) system monitors the rear seats via a sensor that detects the movements. Visual and auditory warnings are then relayed to the driver to ensure they remove passengers from the rear seats before leaving and locking the vehicle. Rear Passenger Sleeping Mode (RPSM) lowers the rear speakers in order to make the back of the car more relaxing for occupants, when undertaking long journeys.
Available Hyundai SmartSense active safety and driving assistance features:
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA with car, pedestrian and cyclist protection) [NEW: Junction Turning]
Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA) [NEW]
Highway Driving Assist (HDA) 1.5 [NEW]
Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control Curve (NSCC-C) [NEW: using navigation data]
Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) [NEW]
Blind Spot-Collision Warning (BCW)
Blind-spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) [NEW]
Safe Exit Warning (SEW) [NEW]
Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) [NEW: HEV/PHEV only]
Surround View Monitor (SVM) [upgraded]
Blind View Monitor (BVM) [NEW]
Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) [NEW]
Lane Following Assist (LFA) [NEW]
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) [upgraded]
Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW)
Rear Cross-traffic Collision-avoidance Assist (RCCA) [NEW]
High Beam Assist (HBA)
For further peace of mind, Hyundai offers its industry-leading five-year unlimited mileage warranty with the all-new Tucson.
Four-wheel drive and Terrain Modes make the all-new Tucson a true SUV. The all-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson consolidates its true SUV credentials with 4×4 capabilities, thanks to its new Terrain Mode selector, which provides even more enjoyment for drivers. This feature, available on a hybrid version with automatic transmission, utilises Hyundai’s signature HTRAC four-wheel drive technology, which enables agile handling and better torque application depending on wheel grip and vehicle speed. In addition to different drive modes, three additional terrain modes – Mud, Sand and Snow – optimise the driving performance and HTRAC settings for an enhanced driving experience on a variety of terrain.
A comfortable or sporty ride with new Electronic Controlled Suspension and tuning
The all-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson has been developed and tested in Europe performing accelerated durability tests and dynamic testing on the most demanding race track in the world, the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife, as well as undergoing rigorous public-road testing throughout Europe from the coldest winter testing conditions in Sweden to trailer testing in the Alps and hot weather testing in the south of Spain to ensure that the high expectations of European customers are met.
Customers can choose between two different suspension systems for the all-new Tucson, with both offering adaptive and conventional dampers for enhanced ride and handling. Thanks to the flexibility offered by the Electronic Controlled Suspension’s (ECS) adaptive damping technology, Hyundai’s engineers achieved a very versatile driving behaviour, depending on the situation and driver preference. For daily commuting in Normal or Eco mode, the development was focused on a comfortable, flat and stable ride on even the most challenging roads. The ECS automatically and continuously controls the vehicle’s suspension to maximise driving comfort and performance. It achieves this by taking into account driving conditions such as speed, road surfaces, cornering, stopping requirements and acceleration. By controlling the damping force on each individual wheel, ECS reduces roll, pitch and vertical motion to enhance ride and handling. When choosing the Sport mode, all-new Tucson drivers can enjoy an extra level of response and control.
Meanwhile, conventional dampers use a new valve technology that offers more tuning flexibility. A MacPherson strut on the front and multi-link suspension on the rear ensure good levels of comfort and handling.
The all-new Tucson’s Rack-mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (R-MDPS), which features a new generation Belt Drive steering gear, was tuned to match the character of the vehicle’s suspension. Over the course of many months of testing with both prototype vehicles and cutting-edge engineering simulation tools, Hyundai’s engineers finely calibrated the system to ensure drivers can experience smooth and connected steering. Drivers who select Sport Mode will experience a sharper steering effort build-up, before enjoying a greater sense of precision when driving for instance on the motorway.
Hyundai has developed a wide variety of tyre options for the all-new Tucson with three aerodynamic wheel choices: 17-inch steel or alloy, or 18- and 19-inch alloy options. The tyre choices were developed in close cooperation with top-tier tyre manufacturers Continental and Michelin, with special attention given to aspects such as comfort, road noise isolation and the handling performance. In addition, Hyundai’s engineers achieved low rolling resistance values, which contribute to minimising the vehicle’s fuel consumption and emissions. This underlines the company’s commitment to producing eco-friendly cars without compromising on performance.
By offering three electrified powertrain options and two internal combustion engines with four transmission choices, the all-new Tucson suits every type of driver. With gasoline and diesel 48-volt mild hybrid, full hybrid and plug-in hybrid available to consumers, the all-new Tucson offers the widest range of electrified powertrains in the compact SUV segment. In addition to the electrified powertrains, the all-new Tucson also offers a range of gasoline and diesel options.
The all-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson was developed to reduce emissions without compromising on being fun to drive. The hybrid version consists of the new 1.6-litre T-GDI (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) Smartstream engine and a 44.2 kW electric motor, with a 1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission (6AT) and available with two-wheel or four-wheel drive. The system is the most powerful in the all-new Tucson’s powertrain line-up, with a combined output of 230 PS power, meaning it offers low emissions without compromising on driving fun.
In terms of 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, customers can choose from three different options:
1.6-litre T-GDI Smartstream with 150 PS and two-wheel drive
1.6-litre T-GDI Smartstream with 180 PS with optional four-wheel drive
1.6-litre CRDi Smartstream with 136 PS with optional four-wheel drive
Hyundai has combined its efficient and responsive 48-volt mild-hybrid technology with the 150 PS 1.6-litre T-GDI, which will be available with six-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (6iMT) and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT). Another well-balanced option is the 1.6-litre T-GDI with 180 PS, which will be offered with six-speed iMT with two-wheel drive in addition to 7DCT with four-wheel drive. Meanwhile, the 136 PS 1.6-litre CRDi 48V mild-hybrid engine arrives with 7DCT and either four- and two-wheel drive.
When not mated to the 48-volt mild hybrid system, the 1.6-litre T-GDI Smartstream gasoline engine is available with 150 PS, a six-speed manual transmission and four- or two-wheel drive. The 1.6-litre CRDi Smartstream diesel engine will be available with 115 PS and a six-speed manual transmission with two-wheel drive.
The all-new Tucson’s 1.6 T-GDI Smartstream engine will be equipped with Hyundai’s Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology. CVVD optimises engine performance and fuel efficiency while also being eco-friendly. The valve control technology regulates the duration of the valve opening and closing according to driving conditions. This is the only system that can change the duration of the valve opening during a ride, depending on conditions. A plug-in hybrid version of the all-new Tucson with a 1.6-litre T-GDI engine and 265 PS will also be available to customers. More details will be revealed closer to the market launch in 2021.
All-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson customers have the option of Hyundai’s newly developed iMT. iMT operates purely electronically and decouples the engine from the transmission after the driver releases the accelerator while driving at a constant speed, allowing the car to enter into coasting mode. This improves overall fuel efficiency. The driver’s chosen gear remains engaged even with the engine off. The engine restarts in the same gear as soon as the driver presses either the brake or accelerator pedals thanks to the burst of power provided by the Mild Hybrid Starter Generator (MHSG). The transmission restarts the engine in neutral (with an open clutch) if the driver pushes the clutch pedal to change gear, or if the vehicle speed is too low for the currently engaged gear.
The first all-new 2021 Hyundai Tucson models – a hybrid, diesel and gasoline including 48-volt mild-hybrid – will appear in Hyundai’s European showrooms towards the end of this year. Meanwhile, the plug-in hybrid version and N Line trim will arrive at the beginning of next year.
