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We’re a little worried that the Hyundai Tucson got the short end of the stick. It’s one of the best SUVs that you can buy, and tons of critics provide it with high scores. However, it didn’t land on this best SUV list. Let’s see why the 2023 Hyundai Tucson didn’t make the cut. 

Is the 2023 Hyundai Tucson one of the best SUVs? 

A red 2022 Hyundai Tucson is parked.
The 2022 Hyundai Tucson | Hyundai

Yes, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson is one of the best SUVs available, and we’ve personally tested it. It’s affordable, spacious, includes plenty of standard features, and provides a smooth ride over most surfaces. 

But according to Auto Blog, it’s not in the top of the class. On their list of the Best Compact SUVs for 2023. Instead, the 2023 Mazda CX-30, 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid, 2023 Honda CR-V, and 2022 Toyota RAV4 round out the list. 

This is a little surprising as the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson share components. Plus, one could argue that the Tucson outranks the Toyota RAV4 because it has a better ride quality and more modern tech. 

Auto Blog even shared that the RAV4 has antiquated tech and an unrefined base engine. But these rankings are based on its top recommended choices for the model year. 

What’s wrong with the 2023 Tucson?

We dove a little deeper to see what complaints impact the 2023 Hyundai Tucson’s rankings. One significant issue to consider is the weak base engine. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine only cranks out 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. 

With this engine, the Tucson can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 10.2 seconds, making it one of the slowest options. 

But it doesn’t cost much to the upgraded turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine that churns out 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The Hybrid Tucson can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.8 seconds. 

Also, when equipped with all-wheel drive, the Tucson gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and up to 29 mpg on the highway. This isn’t exactly bad, but it falls short compared to the Nissan Rogue and Honda CR-V. 

Another source of frustration is related to the tech. Most of the controls are on the touchscreen or accessed by flat, featureless buttons. They don’t provide feedback when touched, and the infotainment screen can be hard to reach. 

What do critics like about the 2023 Tucson? 

Front angle view of Shimmering Silver 2023 Hyundai Tucson crossover SUV
Shimmering Silver 2023 Hyundai Tucson | Hyundai

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson receives praise for its near-luxury ride quality. The suspension absorbs impacts with ease to provide one of the most comfortable and relaxing rides in the class. 

Plus, the interior is peaceful. The triple-laminated windshield keeps wind and road noise at bay. The large seats are plush and well-padded for plenty of support during long rides. 

The 10.25-inch touchscreen is easy to use with modern graphics. Also, the voice recognition system and built-in navigation are fast and responsive. \

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.