Tuscon PHEV
As one of the newest automotive brands in the United States car market, selling its first model in 1986, Hyundai has had to get creative regarding design and generous regarding features in order to compete—its five-year bumper-to-bumper, 10-year powertrain warranty is a worthy example. Redesigned in 2022, the Tucson compact SUV 
bears Hyundai’s new look but also its creativity, regarding technology and generosity, vis-à-vis standard and available features that help it stand out in its segment. Latino Traffic Report (LTR) has had the chance to test drive two different Tucson models, the Limited and the PHEV plug-in hybrid.
Tucson Limited
Blind spot camera view in IP.
There was a lot to like about the Tucson Limited with AWD especially the Nixie tube display option on the infotainment system, heated and cooled seats, panoramic sunroof, a blind spot camera display in the instrument panel (IP), and an average of 31.1 miles per gallon (mpg) on the test drive. Powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine matched to an eight-speed transmission with paddle shifters, it was slow to accelerate but the Sport drive mode (one of three) added more power and improved the response. The as-tested MSRP came to $37,454.
Hyundai elevated its low emission vehicles further with the Tucson plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), also tested by LTR. For those concerned with the environment but are still not ready to give up the combustion engine, plug-in hybrids offer a good transition because they help stretch fuel economy by offering some miles of electric-only range. In the case of the Tucson PHEV, overnight charging produced 33 miles of range, enough for a trip to the grocery store or back and forth to work, if located nearby. Also significant is that charging was done on the standard 120-volt plug when more and more electric vehicles are requiring a Stage 2, 240-outlet plug or charger for overnight charging.
Tucson PHEV dash.
During the test drive, the PHEV achieved an average mpg of 41.9 mpg and 51 mpg with the electric mileage included in the calculation.
Unfortunately, hybrids, plug-ins, and EVs remain the top-of-the-line models in any segment, which translates into a hefty price tag, and the Tucson PHEV was no exception. The as-tested price came to $46,105.
It also translates into more bells and whistles, like a panoramic sunroof, a proximity key with push-button start, heated and ventilated front seats, smart cruise control, and a 10.25-inch IP and center-stack touchscreen.
Pricing for the 2024 Tucson starts at $28,875.
Sí: Both Tucsons tested offered extra features and cool technology, plus exceptional fuel economy.
No: The Tucson PHEV is costly and the Tucson Limited’s engine was wheezy and lacked power.
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