The 2023 Hyundai Tucson Falls Short in 1 Crucial Area
We’re proud of how the Hyundai Tucson was able to turn things around. The previous generation was a bit bland, but the current model is sleek, confident, and loaded with tech. The 2023 Hyundai Tucson is a real winner, but like all SUVs, it isn’t perfect. See where it falls short.
How fast is the 2023 Hyundai Tucson?
It is the slowest option in the class. If you get the 2023 Hyundai Tucson with the base engine, then don’t expect it to fill the need for speed. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 10.2 seconds.
According to AutoBlog, the Tucson feels blah with the base engine. The word blah is used to refer to something that is boring or without meaningful content, so it seems a bit harsh. But you don’t have to settle for a dull Tucson by upgrading to a different powertrain option.
The base engine is a 2.5-liter inline-four option with 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. But the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid pairs a 1.6-liter inline-four engine with an electric motor to crank out 226 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque.
You can upgrade to the Hyundai Tucson PHEV for a larger battery pack and electric motor that generate 261 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid reaches 60 mph in about 7.8 seconds, and the PHEV makes it there in 7.1 seconds.
Is the new Hyundai Tucson worth buying?
Yes, aside from the lackluster base engine, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson has plenty of value and excellent features to offer, including an efficient fuel economy.
With the gas engine, the Tucson gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and up to 33 mpg on the highway. The hybrid setup increases these figures to about 37 mpg in the city and up to 36 mpg on the highway. The PHEV gets around 80 MPG-e with 33 miles of electric range.
While the Tuscon isn’t exactly sporty, it provides near-luxury comfort. The suspension absorbs impacts with ease for a smooth ride. Plus, the cabin is well insulated to provide a peaceful ride. Even at highway speeds, wind and road noise are kept at bay.
We wouldn’t exactly call the Tuscon an off-roader, but all-wheel drive can be added across the entire lineup. It has features like Hill Start Assist and a Snow Mode to help you traverse slippery conditions with ease.
The Hyundai Tucson can tow up to 2,000 lbs when equipped with the trailer brakes. Without them, it can tow up to 1,600 lbs.
What comes with the 2023 Tucson?
The 2023 Hyundai Tucson base model comes with an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, Wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Also, it rides on 17-inch wheels. You can upgrade to a 10.25-inch screen.
Moving up in trim levels provides access to leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power liftgate, upgraded LED lighting, and ventilated seats in the front.
If you opt for the N-Line, you can feel sportier with upgraded 19-inch alloy wheels, sport front seats, exterior upgrades such as a revised bumper and spoiler, and suede seats with pedal covers.
The 2023 Hyundai Tucson is expected to start at around $26,000 and provides plenty of value as a comfortable daily driver. But you may want to consider upgrading from the base engine.