The Hyundai Tucson XRT is giving an early look at the rugged styling planned for the all-new, fifth-generation Tucson, with a spy video revealing details beyond the front-end preview previously shown by Hyundai.
Hyundai Tucson XRT Takes a More Conservative Approach
The XRT trim was previewed alongside the standard fifth-generation Tucson. Hyundai uses the XRT designation for its off-road-inspired variants, which can appeal to buyers who occasionally venture onto trails or simply prefer a more rugged appearance.
While Hyundai’s press photo showed only the front of the Tucson XRT, a spy video from 숏카 SHORTS CAR on YouTube provides a look at what is believed to be the off-road-oriented version from multiple angles.
The spied vehicle appears similar to Hyundai’s preview, although its more conservative design becomes clearer in person. That approach is particularly noticeable when compared with other XRT models, including the Santa Fe, Santa Cruz and Ioniq 5, as well as the more comprehensive Palisade XRT Pro.
Silver-Gray Trim Breaks From the Blacked-Out Look
At the front, the spied Hyundai Tucson XRT features a mesh-type grille and silver-gray bumper trim. The treatment contrasts with the heavily blacked-out appearance typically associated with XRT models.
The design also differs from the outgoing Tucson, which featured a predominantly black front fascia that made the Hyundai logo stand out. Black trim can give off-road or sporty vehicles a more aggressive appearance, while chrome generally provides a more traditional premium look.
The spy footage also does not show the red tow hooks found on the Santa Cruz XRT, Ioniq 5 XRT and Palisade XRT Pro.
Gray Cladding and Black Wheels Add a Rugged Touch
Along the sides, the wheel-arch cladding appears grayer in the footage than the outgoing Tucson’s black fender flares. The previous model also featured bolt-like decorative accents designed to reinforce its rugged appearance.
The rocker-panel cladding likewise appears gray, with similar styling continuing toward the rear. Blacked-out wheels complete the exterior treatment and add to the tougher appearance of the new, boxier compact crossover.
Production Details Have Yet to Be Confirmed
Although Hyundai’s preview of the fifth-generation Tucson XRT and the vehicle shown in the spy video share several similarities, the footage does not confirm that the vehicle represents the final production version.
Hyundai could still make changes before mass rollout. For now, the spy video is better viewed as a glimpse of the Tucson XRT undergoing on-road testing rather than confirmation of its final design. Market-specific specifications and launch timing also remain to be confirmed.
Why the Tucson Matters in the U.S.
The upcoming Tucson will be an important model in Hyundai’s U.S. lineup because it is the brand’s best-selling model in the country.
The Tucson competes with some of the overall top sellers in the U.S. market, including the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, adding significance to the arrival of the fifth-generation model.
