2027 Hyundai Tucson First Look

The Hyundai Tucson has always been a practical choice for families, but the 2027 model has a completely different attitude. The exterior design stands out immediately. It looks tougher, more rugged and, honestly, more interesting than before. I think the new look suits the Tucson really well, especially with the addition of the XRT PRO trim.

A More Rugged Look

The new Tucson gets a significant exterior redesign, with a longer, wider and taller body and a much more substantial stance. Hyundai’s new “Art of Steel” design language brings more pronounced fenders, sharper body lines and a stronger overall shape. It is 60 mm longer, 40 mm wider and 20 mm taller than the previous Tucson.

I really like the direction Hyundai has taken here. The previous Tucson had a more mainstream look, but the new one feels more rugged and ready for adventure. The new H-Edge front lighting and Prism Rear Lamps give it a distinctive look, while colours like Ranger Green and Red Rock Orange work reallywell with the new design.

The XRT PRO takes that idea even further. It gets all-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, front recovery hooks, more ground clearance and more aggressive approach and departure angles. Ground clearance is 210 mm on the XRT PRO, compared with 180 mm on the standard Tucson.

For me, this is one of the most interesting parts of the new Tucson. Most families don’t need a serious off-road vehicle, but having some extra capability for camping trips, gravel roads or getting out to a trailhead is useful. The XRT PRO makes the Tucson look like it actually wants to do those things.

More Space Inside

The changes inside are just as important, especially for families. Hyundai has redesigned the cabin with a simpler dashboard, more storage and softer surfaces. There is also a mix of touchscreen technology and physical controls, which I think is necessary for things like climate and audio controls.

The Tucson is larger overall, and that means more room for passengers. Rear legroom is now 1,064 mm, and front shoulder room is 1,470 mm. One change that I think families will really appreciate is the larger rear door opening. The doors now open to 83 degrees, compared with 73 degrees on the previous model.

That may not sound like a huge change, but it makes a difference when you’re trying to get a child into a car seat, load a stroller or squeeze something bulky into the back seat. These are the little details that matter when you’re actually living with a vehicle. (Watch my YouTube video to see this in action)

The new Tucson also gets Hyundai’s Pleos Connect infotainment system, with a 17-inch or 12.9-inch centre display depending on the configuration, along with a 9.9-inch driver display. Gleo AI is also built into the system, allowing you to use natural voice commands for things like navigation and vehicle functions but also asking research, weather and other types of questions.

Powertrain Choices

The 2027 Tucson will be available with gasoline, new generation hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, although the latter won’t be available in North America. The gas model produces 184 horsepower, while the new hybrid produces 233 horsepower and targets up to 5.6L/100 KM in a two-wheel-drive configuration with 17-inch wheels.

First Impressions

My first impression of the new Tucson is that Hyundai has made some smart changes without losing what made this SUV popular in the first place. It has more space, a more useful rear seat area and a bigger rear door opening, all things that make sense for families.

But what I like most is the new personality. The Tucson looks tougher now, and the XRT PRO gives it some real capability to go along with that look. It’s still a practical family SUV, but it doesn’t look like it only belongs in the school pickup line.

Pricing will come in 2027.