The 2027 Hyundai Tucson is taking a major step away from its predecessor with a redesigned look, increased power and an updated XRT trim. Hyundai has revealed key details for the South Korean market ahead of October order books, offering an early look at what could eventually reach the U.S.
A Major Design Change for the Tucson
Hyundai has frequently taken a dramatic approach when redesigning its core models, with the Elantra, Santa Fe, Palisade and Tucson each receiving significant visual changes between generations.
The fifth-generation Tucson continues that approach. Like the Elantra that debuted shortly before it, the new Tucson features a squared-off, futuristic design both inside and out, giving it little visual resemblance to the model it will replace.
2027 Tucson Set for South Korean Launch
The new-generation Tucson made its world premiere a few weeks ago, and Hyundai is preparing to open its sales books in South Korea this October. The Elantra, known as the Avante in its home market, reached showrooms in August.
Before South Korean customers can place orders, Hyundai has revealed additional details about the Tucson, including its updated powertrains and the return of the XRT trim.
These specifications apply to the South Korean-market model. Hyundai has not confirmed that the U.S. version will receive exactly the same specifications, so changes could still be made for the American market.
More Power From the 1.6-Liter Turbo
South Korea has not used the 2.5-liter engine that has served as the U.S. Tucson’s base engine for quite some time. Instead, the South Korean model has relied on a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine as its entry-level powertrain.
For 2027, that engine remains in place but produces more power. Output rises from 178 hp and 195 lb-ft in the current model to 190 hp, while torque remains unchanged at 195 lb-ft.
The transmission also changes, with the new Tucson replacing its dual-clutch transmission with an eight-speed automatic.
At 190 hp, the updated 1.6-liter turbo produces more power than the 2.5-liter engine used in U.S. models, which produces 187 hp and 178 lb-ft. The South Korean powertrain could potentially replace the U.S. engine.
2027 Tucson Hybrid Gets a Power Increase
The Tucson Hybrid also receives a power increase while retaining its electrified 1.6-liter turbocharged setup. For 2027, output rises to 242 hp and 280 lb-ft.
That represents gains of 11 hp and 9 lb-ft compared with the current model’s 231 hp and 271 lb-ft.
The six-speed automatic is also being replaced. The 2027 Tucson Hybrid uses a DHT, or Dedicated Hybrid Transmission.
Hyundai claims the hybrid can achieve 41 mpg under combined driving cycles, although those figures have not yet been EPA-certified.
New Hyundai Tucson XRT Adds a Rugged Look
The Tucson XRT returns for the new generation, with Hyundai saying the trim now has a more distinctive appearance compared with standard Tucson models.
The XRT features a significantly different front end, along with unique bumpers, wheels and body cladding. It also receives a skid plate.
Inside, the XRT gets model-exclusive details on the seats, dashboard and trim pieces to reinforce its more rugged design.
Could the Tucson XRT Get Hybrid Power?
Hyundai has not yet confirmed whether the new XRT will be offered with a hybrid powertrain. The current Tucson XRT does not have a hybrid option.
The possibility would add an electrified choice to the rugged-looking trim, while the Toyota RAV4 has the Woodland Edition and the Honda CR-V has the Trailsport. Subaru has also premiered the Wilderness Edition with hybrid power.
Whether Hyundai will offer an electrified XRT for the Tucson remains unconfirmed.
When Will the 2027 Tucson Reach Other Markets?
Order books for the new Tucson will open next month in South Korea, with the model expected to gradually reach global markets afterward.
As for production, there is a possibility that the new Tucson could be built in the U.S., given the current economic climate, but that has not been confirmed.
