Hyundai Tucson SE: A Comprehensive Review of the Popular Compact SUV

The Hyundai Tucson SE is a well-rounded compact SUV that offers a balance of practicality and modern features. It is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup ensures smooth acceleration and decent fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The Tucson SE comes standard with front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is available as an option for those who need extra traction in challenging weather conditions.
Inside, the Tucson SE boasts a spacious cabin with seating for five and ample cargo space. The interior is designed with high-quality materials, giving it a premium feel despite its affordable price tag. Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-speaker audio system, and Hyundai’s Blue Link connected services. Safety is also a strong suit, with Hyundai SmartSense providing features like forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Performance and Handling
The Hyundai Tucson SE delivers a comfortable and composed ride, making it ideal for both city driving and highway cruising. The suspension is tuned to absorb road imperfections, ensuring a smooth experience for passengers. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While it may not be the most sporty SUV in its class, the Tucson SE excels in providing a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience.
Interior and Comfort
The Tucson SE’s cabin is designed with both driver and passenger comfort in mind. The seats are supportive and offer ample adjustability, while the rear seats provide generous legroom for adults. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with intuitive controls and crisp graphics. Storage solutions are plentiful, including a large center console, door pockets, and a spacious cargo area that can be expanded by folding the rear seats.
Safety and Technology
Hyundai has equipped the Tucson SE with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard offerings include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera. Higher trims add more advanced features like surround-view parking cameras and highway driving assist. The infotainment system supports wireless smartphone integration, and the available navigation system ensures you stay on track during long trips.
Comparison Table
Feature | Hyundai Tucson SE | Honda CR-V LX | Toyota RAV4 LE |
---|---|---|---|
Starting Price (USD) | $26,500 | $27,800 | $28,300 |
Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder | 2.5L 4-cylinder |
Horsepower | 187 hp | 190 hp | 203 hp |
Fuel Economy (city/hwy) | 26/33 mpg | 28/34 mpg | 27/35 mpg |
Infotainment Screen | 8-inch | 7-inch | 7-inch |
For more information, visit the official Hyundai website at www.hyundai.com , Honda at www.honda.com , and Toyota at www.toyota.com .