Spotted: Hyundai Tucson's Upcoming Model Presents a More Square Appearance in spy photos
Hyundai's New Tucson to Embrace Rugged Design and Hybrid Powertrain
Hyundai has announced that the upcoming fifth-generation Tucson, codenamed NX5, will be unveiled in 2027 or 2028. The new model will undergo a significant design transformation, moving towards a more rugged and boxy look, inspired by the current Santa Fe SUV and the 2026 Nexo.
The Tucson's redesign began at the start of the pandemic, and it will adopt Hyundai's new "Art of Steel" design language, featuring sharper lines, an angular grille, pixel-inspired headlights, and rugged body panels.
Under the hood, the Tucson will top its range with a plug-in hybrid engine, specifically a 1.6-liter TMED-II hybrid system. This system, a refined version of the current TMED-I hybrid, is expected to deliver around 275 horsepower and 280 lb-ft torque, with an estimated EPA combined fuel economy of 38-40 mpg.
In addition to the plug-in hybrid, a standard, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine will anchor the bottom end of the new Tucson's lineup. Turbocharging is not expected to be a significant feature in the new Tucson's engine lineup, and there might be a possibility of an efficiency-minded turbo for the entry-level models.
No boosted version without some battery assistance is anticipated in the new Tucson unless Hyundai opts for an efficiency-minded turbo. Furthermore, no specific details about the timing of the engine lineup reveal have been provided.
The 2027 Tucson is also set to debut Hyundai's new Pleos infotainment system, marking a step into software-defined vehicles.
The new generation Tucson NX5 is planned to launch in South Korea in the first half of 2026, with more detailed information and official reveals expected throughout late 2025 and early 2026, ahead of wider market availability for the 2027 model year.
In summary, the 2027 Hyundai Tucson will feature a rugged, boxy exterior design with "Art of Steel" styling cues, a new 1.6L TMED-II hybrid turbocharged engine, improved fuel economy, and the new Pleos infotainment system. Official specifications and more comprehensive details will likely be available starting in late 2025 through early 2026.
The upcoming Tucson's transition into the automotive industry will be marked by its rugged design, effortlessly blending into various lifestyles. Finance-wise, this new model will offer an efficient hybrid powertrain, aiming for improved fuel economy, particularly with the 1.6L TMED-II hybrid engine. As for transportation, buyers can expect car-maintenance to be simpler with the adoption of Hyundai's new infotainment system, Pleos, which is set to bring innovations in software-defined vehicles.
