Hyundai has unveiled the first images of its all-new Tucson, a small SUV headed to the U.S. next year with a boxy, rugged design, more interior space and a new approach to cabin styling. The redesigned Tucson also grows in length and width, while Hyundai says it will offer “best-in-class spaciousness.”
A Bolder Tucson Design
The new Tucson adopts a more rugged appearance while incorporating familiar Hyundai design elements. Its styling draws on the Boulder concept’s flared fenders and the production Sonata’s full-width front light bar, bringing those details together in a fresh design.
The Tucson competes in the largest U.S. vehicle segment by models and volume. It currently ranks roughly fifth in sales behind the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue and Chevrolet Equinox, and Hyundai’s new design could help the SUV move higher in the rankings.
More Space Inside
Hyundai says the new Tucson will deliver “best-in-class spaciousness,” although the company has not specified whether that claim applies to passenger space, cargo capacity or overall space.
Few specifications have been released with the initial images. Hyundai has provided baseline dimensions but has not revealed what will power the new Tucson. A hybrid is expected to be offered.
The new Tucson is 2.3 inches longer and 1.5 inches wider than before, while its wheelbase grows by 1.1 inches. Nearly all of that additional wheelbase length goes toward increased second-row legroom.
Rear headroom also increases, while the rear doors open wider than before. The changes should make it easier to load passengers and items into the second row, including rear-facing car seats. The new Tucson should also provide slightly more cargo space.
New Tucson Interior Design
Inside, Hyundai takes an avant-garde approach that combines soft curves with horizontal lines. The steering wheel uses a squircle shape, while the dashboard features backlit cutouts spanning nearly its entire width that can presumably hold small items such as a phone or wallet.
A large central screen serves as the infotainment display and appears to incorporate the HVAC controls. There are relatively few physical buttons throughout the cabin.
Front occupants get dual wireless chargers and two USB-C ports, while a hidden compartment sits beneath the center-console palm rest.
Tucson XRT Adds a Tougher Look
Hyundai will also offer an XRT trim for buyers seeking a more rugged appearance. The model gets its own front and rear styling, side cladding with a forged carbon-fiber look, black window trim and a unique wheel design.
The XRT will also include all-weather floor mats and LED lamps in the liftgate, features intended to help during activities such as camping or tailgating.
Hyundai has not said whether the XRT will receive mechanical changes aimed at improving its off-road capability. The article notes that rugged-looking trims of this kind are extremely popular across the SUV market.
When Will the New Tucson Arrive?
The fifth-generation Hyundai Tucson is expected to reach the U.S. next year as either a 2027 or potentially a 2028 model. Hyundai has yet to release most of the vehicle’s specifications, including details about its powertrain.
