The 2021 Hyundai Tucson is the new standard of stylish functionality, delivering a perfect blend of comfort, technology, and safety. Designed for families, the Tucson is comfortable and roomy. Just one look at the Tucson reveals the difference in how it feels from other vehicles: its wide stance, short overhangs, and taut proportions give it a youthful, sporty look. However, there aren’t any significant changes in the 2021 iteration when compared to the outgoing 2020 Tucson.
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Ratings
Pricing and Features
9.0
Engine and Performance
8.0
Fuel Economy
7.9
Interior
8.2
Exterior
6.8
Safety
8.1
Competition
7.0
Final Verdict
7.0
7.8
OVERALL RATING
Expert Review, Pricing Analysis and Buying Guide
7.8
Overall Rating
Tucson's third generation will end after this update, and the much-awaited Hyundai Tucson generation change will be coming in the year 2022. Regardless of its purpose, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson has a versatile design that exceeds expectations. As a vehicle that can accommodate five passengers comfortably and has many family-friendly features, the Hyundai Tucson is an excellent option for many different families. This mid-size SUV buckles up against the likes of Kia Sportage, Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5.
2021 Hyundai Tucson SUV Three Quarter Front View
2021 Hyundai Tucson SUV Three Quarter Rear View
8.0/10 Engine and Performance
7.9/10 Fuel Economy
8.2/10 Interior
6.8/10 Exterior
8.1/10 Safety
7.0/10 Competition
7.0/10 Final Verdict
2021 Hyundai Tucson Features
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson is available in a selection of six trim levels, including SE, Value, SEL, Sport, Limited, and Ultimate. The 2021 Tucson Lineup is powered by two engines. The SE and Value models come with a 2.0-liter Inline-4 engine, while the rest of the trims are powered by a more powerful 2.4-liter engine. Front-wheel drive is standard across all trims with all-wheel drive available as an option. The base SE trim for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson starts at $23,700 and reaches $32,050 for the top of the line Ultimate trim.
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson comes equipped with several features like a two-tone interior, LED headlights and taillights, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated side mirrors and steering wheel, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift controls, sport-style gauges, six-speaker audio system and 7-inch touchscreen. Among other features, we get heated rear seats, an 8-inch touchscreen, leather-trimmed seats, rain-sensitive wipers, and an eight-speaker Infinity audio system on the higher trim levels.
Trims
SE
Value
SEL
Sport
Limited
Ultimate
MSRP (FWD)
$23,700
$25,150
$26,100
$28,250
$29,400
$32,050
MSRP (AWD)
$25,100
$26,550
$27,500
$29,650
$30,800
$33,450
Key Features
Automatic Headlights
Adds/upgrades the features of SE trim
It adds/upgrades features of Value trim
It adds/upgrades features of SEL trim
It adds/upgrades features of Sport trim
It adds/upgrades features of Limited trim
7-inch touchscreen
Heated front seats
Rear air vents
LED Headlights
Heated steering wheel
Heated rear seats
17-inch alloy wheels
Heated side mirrors
Dual-zone climate control
Hands-free liftgate
Power passenger seat
8-inch touchscreen
Six-speaker audio system
HD Radio
Rear USB port
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Leather upholstery
Integrated navigation system
Height adjustable driver’s seat
Power-adjustable driver’s Seat
18-inch alloy wheels
19-inch wheels
18-inch wheels
Ventialed front seats
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Satellite radio
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Chrome exterior trim
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Forward collision warning
Roof rails
Wireless charging pad
Surround-view mirror
Panoramic sunroof
Automatic emergency braking
Blind-spot monitor
8-speaker Infinity audio system
Adaptive cruise control
Which trim should you buy?
All trim levels of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson come equipped with a multitude of driver-assist, connectivity, and safety features, so you can embrace every drive. Our recommendation would be to upgrade to the Limited trim for its tech-rich interior and rear air vents to satisfy backseat passengers. Furthermore, the Limited variant is stuffed full of safety technology as well.
2021 Hyundai Tucson Engine and Performance
8.0/10
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson comes in six trim levels: SE, Value, SEL, Sport, Limited, and Ultimate. A 2.0L Inline-4 engine that produces 164 horsepower and 150 pounds-feet of torque powers the SE and Value models. On the other hand, the remaining trims are powered by a 2.4L Inline-4 that delivers 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque.
2021 Hyundai Tucson SUV Engine Bay
Power is sent to the front wheels by default, and the 6-speed automatic transmission is standard. However, an all-wheel drivetrain can be added as an option. In about 8.8 seconds, the Hyundai Tucson 2021 can accelerate from 0-60 mph with its 2.0L engine and can complete a quarter-mile run in 16.8 seconds. With a 2.4L engine and all-wheel drive, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds.
Models
2021 Hyundai Tucson
2021 Kia Sportage
2021 Toyota RAV4
2021 Mazda CX-5
MSRP
$23,700
$24,090
$26,050
$25,190
Engine
2.0-liter Naturally Aspirated Inline-4
2.0-liter Naturally Aspirated Inline-4
2.5-liter Inline-4
2.5-liter Naturally Aspirated Inline-4
Drivetrain
FWD
FWD
FWD
FWD
Transmission
6-speed Automatic
6-speed Automatic
8-speed Automatic
6-speed Shiftable Automatic
Power
161 hp @ 6,200 rpm
181 hp @ 6,200 rpm
203 hp @ 6,600 rpm
187 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque
150lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm
175lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm
184lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
186lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
0-60 mph (sec)
8.8 seconds
8.4 seconds
8.1 seconds
8.3 seconds
Quarter Mile (sec)
16.8 seconds
16.4 seconds
16.6 seconds
16.6 seconds
Top Speed (mph)
130 mph
125 mph
130 mph
130 mph
Performance-wise, the Hyundai Tucson is the slowest and actually scores lower than its rivals on power ratings as well. Toyota RAV4 leads the index with its whopping 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It is also the segment's fastest accelerating car. Mazda's CX-5 is closest to it in terms of performance.
How well does the 2021 Hyundai Tucson handle?
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson sport utility vehicle is designed to hug the road and help make vehicle handling more responsive. Its MacPherson strut system ensures a smooth and stable driving experience by reducing the effects of torque steer. Despite high speeds, the Tucson stays stable.
2021 Hyundai Tucson SUV Front Angle Driving View
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson feels solid and stable on the highway despite its short wheelbase and low center of gravity. Neither you nor your passengers will be disturbed as the ride is controlled and quiet without being harsh. Let your ears take in the music, while taking turns up the curvy and undulating roads. You'll enjoy a weekend getaway comfortably with hassle-free driving in the 2021 Tucson.
2021 Hyundai Tucson Braking Performance
With less pedal travel and better braking performance, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson will provide a more engaging driving experience. Any time you put the brake pedal down, you will come to a more controlled, confident stop. Designed to deliver maximum responsiveness, the Tucson's independent front disc brakes have lightweight ventilated designs. Moreover, Antilock Braking System (ABS) ensures that stopping power continues in all driving conditions, including emergency stops where only a few seconds remain to react.
Models
2021 Hyundai Tucson
2021 Kia Sportage
2021 Toyota RAV4
2021 Mazda CX-5
Brake Rotors: Front (inches)
12
12.6
12.0
11.7
Brake Rotors: Rear (inches)
11.9
11.9
11.1
11.9
Curb Weight (lbs)
3,309
3,305
3,370
3,541
60-0 (feet)
118
114
124
N/A
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson comes with 12-inch rotors in the front and 11.9-inch rotors at the rear, which are an essential part of the process. Circular brake rotors in front dampen vibrations and provide responsive handling. 118 feet is the distance it takes for the Tucson to come to a complete stop from 60 mph.
2021 Hyundai Tucson Fuel Economy
7.9/10
While the 2021 Hyundai Tucson is good at helping you get around town, whether you're running errands or driving to the office, its rivals provide better fuel economy. A front-wheel drive Hyundai with the base 2.0-liter inline-4 gets EPA ratings of 23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. With the All-wheel drivetrain, fuel economy drops to 22 mpg city, 25 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined. For combined use, the front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions powered by the 2.4-liter Inline-4 return 25 and 23 miles per gallon, respectively.
Models
2021 Hyundai Tucson
2021 Kia Sportage
2021 Toyota RAV4
2021 Mazda CX-5
MPG (City)
23
23
26
25
MPG (Highway)
28
30
35
31
MPG (Combined)
25
26
30
28
Fuel Capacity (gallons)
16.4
16.4
14.5
14.8
Range (City/ Highway/ Combined)
377.2/459.2/492.0
337.2/492.0/426.4
377/508/450
370/459/414
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson is outperformed by its rivals in terms of fuel efficiency. With its high fuel efficiency among this group of SUVs, the Toyota RAV4 is a surprise considering that it has the most power. In comparison to the Tucson, the Mazda CX-5 has much better MPG figures.
2021 Hyundai Tucson Interior
8.2/10
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson builds on the strengths of the current model. The Tucson's small size and roomy interior make it a popular choice for both families and active singles alike, while its practical interior, and affordable price let you do the driving. With generous amounts of passenger space, the cabin offers comfort and technology. Moreover, the interior is designed with dual-tone elements.
2021 Hyundai Tucson SUV Front Row Seats
Inside the 2021 Tucson, you’ll find all the materials you like, plus great seats, intuitive technology and tons of storage space. All trims are cloth-upholstered, but only the Limited and Ultimate trims are leatherette-upholstered. Despite being a compact SUV, the Tucson packs all the comfort and convenience you might expect from a premium SUV. Furthermore, even in the most challenging ride situations, the Hyundai Tucson provides enough room for 5 passengers to sit comfortably.
Models
2021 Hyundai Tucson
2021 Kia Sportage
2021 Toyota RAV4
2021 Mazda CX-5
Seating Capacity
5
5
5
5
Front (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)
39.6/57.1/41.5
39.3/57.1/41.5
39.5/57.8/41.0
39.7/57.1/41.0
Rear (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)
39.2/55.5/38.2
39.1/55.1/38.2
39.5/56.4/37.8
39.0/54.8/39.6
Cargo Volume (cubic feet)
32.0 cu-ft
30.7 cu-ft
37.6 cu-ft
30.9 cu-ft
With a cargo capacity of 32 cubic feet, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson is ideal for your weekend getaway with the family. A 60:40 split is available for the rear seats on the 2021 Hyundai Tucson as well. With the 2nd row flattened out, the 2021 Tucson offers a maximum trunk capacity of 61.9 cubic feet. In the competitive landscape, it is all too common to find cars that carry five passengers with good head, shoulders, and headroom for both front and rear occupants. Therefore, no reason to complain.
Standard interior features of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson include:
Heated Leather Wrapped Steering wheel
Heated Front Seats
Cloth upholstery and available leather upholstery
Manually adjustable front seats
Automatic climate control
Push-button start and Proximity keyless entry
Rear door alert
Blind-spot monitoring
8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat in SL Plus trim
How intuitive is the 2021 Hyundai Tucson Infotainment System?
The infotainment system in the 2021 Hyundai Tucson offers versatile connectivity as standard across the range. With its intuitive interface, it offers easy access to smart phones and is easy to use.
2021 Hyundai Tucson SUV Infotainemnt System
The 2021 Tucson’s infotainment system is packed with features like Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, 6-speaker audio system and a 7-inch touchscreen. Spend some extra money, and you'll get a wireless charger, an 8-speaker sound system, and an 8-inch touchscreen.
All the standard Infotainment features are listed below:
Drivers of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson enjoy the sophistication of an upscale car, the fun of a sport-utility vehicle and the versatility of a crossover. Its sleek, bold design is anchored by chiseled lines, a wide stance and athletic proportions. This SUV is presented with the usual Hyundai grille and LED DRLs on the sides, as well as a couple of fog lamps and air vents. The machine's bonnet is raised up, while creases define the profile of the machine's sides.
2021 Hyundai Tucson SUV Side View
As for the technology, the car is equipped with LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights. On top of that we get a rear privacy glass and a lip spoiler on the rear. Rain-sensing windshield wipers are standard for customers who select the Ultimate trim. The wheel sizes range from 17 inches to 18 inches to 19 inches, depending on the trim level. As a whole, with the Tucson, the otherwise boring crossover segment gets more zest and attitude.
Models
2021 Hyundai Tucson
2021 Kia Sportage
2021 Toyota RAV4
2021 Mazda CX-5
Curb Weight (lbs)
3,309 lbs
3,305 lbs
3,370 lbs
3,541 lbs
Length (inches)
176.4
184.1
180.9
179.1
Width (inches)
72.8
73
73.0
72.5
Height (inches)
65.0
64.4
67.0
66.2
Ground Clearance (inches)
7.5
6.4
8.4
7.5
Wheelbase (inches)
105.1
107.1
105.9
106.2
Dimensionally, the 2021 Tucson is the most compact SUV among its competitors. The Kia Sportage has the longest wheelbase compared to other vehicles, which also translates into its interior space being more generous. For its part, the Toyota RAV4 has the highest ground clearance of the lot, something that SUV drivers value very highly.
Some standout exterior features of the Hyundai Tucson include:
Just like its predecessor, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson bagged an overall 5-star rating in NHTSA testing, while the IIHS hasn’t tested the 2021 Tucson yet. The 2021 Tucson comes pre-equipped with a long-list of safety features like forward-collision warning, emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and lane-departure warning. The upper trims grab features like surround-view monitor, driver attention warning and anti-theft system.
Standard and available safety features include:
Lane keep assist
Lane departure warning
Forward collision warning
Driver drowsiness monitoring
Rearview camera
Automatic emergency braking
Available Adaptive cruise control
Available Pedestrian detection
Available Surround-view Praking camera system
Available Automatic high-beam headlights
Available Blind-spot monitoring system
Available Rear cross traffic alert system
2021 Hyundai Tucson Competition
7.0/10
2021 Hyundai Tucson vs 2021 Kia Sportage
Sportage and Tucson have many similarities due to the fact that both models are part of the same family. In addition to sharing many of the same safety and technology features, these compact SUVs are similar in size and price.
2021 Kia Sportage
Furthermore, both automobiles provide composed handling, a smooth ride, and a lengthy warranty period. However, the Sportage offers a nicer cabin than the Tucson, as well as a more intriguing design.
2021 Hyundai Tucson vs 2021 Toyota RAV4
Both the RAV4 and Tucson are compact SUVs with many qualities consumers are looking for, so it can be difficult to choose between them. A rugged design defines the RAV4, while the Tucson sports a more modern appearance.
2021 Toyota RAV4
However, it trails the Toyota RAV4 by a few points. Despite the higher price, the RAV4 offers better safety features, a better fuel economy rating, and more trims to choose from, including an off-roading model.
2021 Hyundai Tucson vs 2021 Mazda CX-5
Truth to be told, the Hyundai Tucson is outperformed and outshone by the Mazda CX-5 on every performance test. With a less powerful engine than the CX-5, the Hyundai Tucson scores lower MPG yet also underperforms.
2021 Mazda CX-5
While the Hyundai vehicle is significantly less expensive than the Mazda, the Hyundai vehicle comes with much better warranty packages. In general, Mazda has had a tough time staying afloat due to Hyundai's reputation for offering the best warranty in the industry.
2021 Hyundai Tucson Final Verdict
7.0/10
It is the perfect vehicle for a driver who wants to enjoy a fun driving experience and experience the latest Hyundai innovations. A gas engine with an automatic transmission provides fuel efficiency and smooth shifting. There are many safety features in this vehicle as well. The advanced technologies on board will ensure safety and ensure that you never get lost on your journey back home. In short, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson was designed to be an easy and convenient commuting vehicle for your daily use.
Pros - Advanced safety and infotainment system, roomy interior and very reliable
Cons - Some of the interior materials are low quality, slow acceleration and terror on rough roads
SUV with an underpowered engine. My trip from Vegas to New Mexico was a horror show. I was supposed to reach NM in 10 hours but thanks to Tucson, we started our journey at 7am in the morning and we reached NM by 12pm the next day. My brother started cursing me and my cousins because of the performance of the car. Comfort wise it is really good but I will never drive or let anyone in my family drive Tucson for a long distance. The service technician was kind, and my car was done fast and within the time period he gav...
Cons - *Faulty Air conditioning system *Delayed cooling effect
Punchy and fuel-efficient rides The Hyundai Tucson drives smoother with a punchy performance on highways. It fits my commuting requirements perfectly since the 1.6L turbo engine renders an excellent real-world gas mileage of 25+mpg. Its dual-clutch automated manual transmission responds quickly to the gas pedal with minimal gas consumption. The cabins are well-spaced and have proper legroom to keep the knees flexed during long travels. But Hyundai needs to improve a lot with their reliability since the AC compressor requi...
Reliability matters The Hyundai Tucson is the worst car I've ever owned in my lifetime; its AMT transmission died with 45K miles and the dealership recommended replacing the entire unit using the warranty program. They didn't demand dollars but my respect towards Hyundai got thrashed since the build quality is scanty. But after replacing the gearbox, I've found the rides smooth and the engine started consuming the gas adequately. Anyways, I'm looking to trade it ASAP with a new Mazda CX-9. The servicemen were awesom...
