As a new model, the 2019 Hyundai Tucson stood out for being a great deal. And in the used car market, this is especially true. The 2019 Tucson is highly-rated by critics because of its modern amenities and comfort. But at the same time, some aspects of its performance make it less satisfying.

Driving the 2019 Hyundai Tucson 

As you do your research, you’ll see that reviews for the 2019 Tucson vary. Hyundai refreshed the Tucson for 2019, which brought a more refined driving experience and more in-car tech. Base models will have a 164-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder, while the upper-level trims get a 181-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Both powerplants come with a six-speed automatic transmission. 

Many critics appreciated the 2019 Tucson’s updated engine options. However, reviewers like Consumer Reports didn’t think Hyundai did enough to make the Tucson shine. For example, the Honda CR-V is more impressive for fuel economy, and the Mazda CX-5 is more entertaining to drive. Comparatively, the Tuscon’s performance is more vanilla. 

” The SUV now takes off from a stop without hesitation, and the shifts are smooth. Still, the Tucson’s 22 mpg overall is lackluster, with many competitors getting 25 mpg or better. The base 2.0-liter engine is buzzy and saddled with poky acceleration and an underwhelming 24 mpg overall that’s matched by other, quicker competitors.

Consumer Reports (2019)

Cabin comforts 

While the Tucson’s performance is so-so, its chocolatey goodness on the inside makes it more attractive. There are some cheap plastic finishings, but its interior design is nice overall. Like most of its competitors, the Tucson is a five-seater standard with cloth upholstery. Leather is available on the higher trims, and so are extras, including a sunroof and heated front and rear seats.

You’ll especially appreciate the Tucson for its quiet cabin and modern connectivity features. The 2019 Tucson comes with a user-friendly 7-inch touchscreen plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Additionally, there are a few standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking and driver drowsiness warning. Some upgraded versions will have wireless device charging and a navigation system. 

Safety and reliability 

The 2019 Tucson earned excellent ratings. The NHTSA gave the model a five-star crash-test safety score, and the IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+, its highest honor. Furthermore, Consumer Reports gave the 2019 Tucson an above-average predicted reliability rating.  

The Tucson has proved to be reliable since there aren’t a significant number of complaints about this Hyundai based on NHTSA data. However, there is one NHTSA recall on the 2019 Tucson related to its service brakes. Before you buy one, make sure the dealer properly addressed this. 

How much should I pay for a 2019 Hyundai Tucson?

The Tucson is among the most affordable compact SUVs you can buy. It has low ownership costs too. The average price for a 2019 Tucson falls between $17,750 – $26,200