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Hyundai Tuscon in the desert

Avoid the 2021 Hyundai Tucson

Before the 2021 Hyundai Tucson lures you in, be aware that it might not be the best model to buy. Primarily when a majority of issues from the 2020 Hyundai Tucson were carried over. This means that the new model year isn’t necessarily better.  Avoid the 2021 Hyundai Tucson  You don’t need to avoid the …

Before the 2021 Hyundai Tucson lures you in, be aware that it might not be the best model to buy. Primarily when a majority of issues from the 2020 Hyundai Tucson were carried over. This means that the new model year isn’t necessarily better. 

Avoid the 2021 Hyundai Tucson 

You don’t need to avoid the Hyundai Tucson forever. Just keep in mind that the 2021 Hyundai Tucson didn’t receive any significant updates from the 2020 model year. However, the new Hyundai Tucson will arrive in 2022. 

A silver 2020 Tucson is displayed on stage after its launch at the Auto Expo 2020
The 2020 Hyundai Tucson | MONEY SHARMA/AFP via Getty Images

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson will have a total redesign to incorporate a more confident and sportier look. Rumors suggest that the Hyundai Tucson N could arrive with 381-hp. An electrified Tucson could also arrive. 

2021 Hyundai Tucson problems 

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson isn’t a bad deal. It starts around $23,000, which is more economical than rivals. However, the Kia Seltos also starts around $23,000 and comes with standard all-wheel-drive. 

Also, the Hyundai Tucson is in class better than it should be. It should rival other subcompact SUVs like the Hyundai Kona, which starts around $20,000 or the Nissan Kicks, which starts around $18,000. 

According to TheCarConnection, It should be in a lower class because it has a weak base engine. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that provides 161-hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. The Hyundai Kona comes with a standard 147-hp, so the price for the base model Tucson could be reduced. 

The 2020 Hyundai Tucson accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds. That’s a slow pickup for a sporty SUV. However, if you want a little more power, you can upgrade to the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine for 181-hp and 175 lb-ft of torque. 

Hyundai Tuscon in the desert
Hyundai Tucson | Hyundai

Now on a positive note, the Hyundai Tucson can tow up to 2,000 lb, which is alright for its size. But Edmunds suggests that because the Tucson has a weaker engine, it may tow a bit more slowly. 

According to Edmunds, Fuel may cost you more with the 2021 Hyundai Tucson, too, because it has a lower fuel economy than rivals. The Tucson only gets up to 25 mpg combined. Meanwhile, the Toyota RAV4 gets around 30 mpg combined. 

2021 Hyundai Tucson positives 

The 201 Hyundai Tucson isn’t all bad. There are positives to mention, especially the fact that it’s comfortable. It provides a smooth and relaxing ride. There only seems to be a little wind noise at higher speeds. 

The Hyundai Tucson on display at the London Motor and Tech Show
The Hyundai Tucson | John Keeble/Getty Images

Also, the infotainment center is easy to use. There aren’t too many complicated processes to click through. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, plus it excelled in safety tests with the NHTSA and IIHS.

If you go for higher trim options, you can load the Tucson with luxury features. The leather seats are very comfortable. They can be heated and ventilated too. The Hyundai Tucson SEL comes with 18” wheels for an improved ride, and more. The Hyundai Tucson is simply a little dated right now, but it’s finally being refreshed for 2022.

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The Hyundai Tucson Fails To Outperform The Hyundai Kona