The next-generation Hyundai Tucson is in global road testing, with prototypes spotted in South Korea, Europe, and the U.S.
Hyundai hasn’t yet started talking about the NX5, but South Korean media have it on good authority that it will reach global markets during the second half of this year. In North America, the redesigned Tucson Hybrid could be presented for the 2027 model year, and here’s everything we know and expect.
‘Art of Steel’ Design
Hyundai’s newest design direction, branded “Art of Steel,” will shape the next Tucson’s look. Our exclusive renderings in this story follow that theme with a squarer silhouette, flatter body sides, and a more upright stance than today’s Tucson.
A thin full-width light bar, vertical LED signatures, a blocky grille panel, a clamshell-style hood, and heavy wheel-arch and lower-body cladding give it a tougher, more rugged look.
Hyundai should keep familiar U.S. trim names for the hybrid lineup, including Blue SE, SEL, SEL Convenience, and Limited. A high-output Tucson N performance model also looks increasingly likely as Hyundai plans to expand its N lineup to more than 7 vehicles by 2030.
New 1.6L Hybrid
New next-generation 1.6 hybrid powertrain will also be available, offering customers a wider choice.
Hyundai Motor Group, at the ‘Next-Gen Hybrid System Tech Day’, on April 21, 2025
The next Tucson Hybrid will also move to a newer hybrid architecture, the TMED-II system, which debuted in the high-spec Palisade. Hyundai has already confirmed a next-generation 1.6-liter turbo TMED-II hybrid, and the Tucson is a logical candidate to receive it.
We expect around 235 hp in the new U.S.-spec Tucson Hybrid, and an EPA-est. combined rating to reach around 40 mpg. Hyundai has also indicated a modest torque increase on its latest hybrid tech path, moving from 367 Nm to 380 Nm (270 to 280 lb-ft).
Quieter Operation & Smarter Regen
Hyundai should continue refining low-speed smoothness, which is one area we found needing improvement in our 2026 Tucson Hybrid review. The updated hybrid layout is expected to reduce idle vibration and tighten the transition between electric and engine drive.
Hyundai has also built smart regenerative braking capability into its newer hybrid systems. In practice, that means the vehicle can vary regen intensity based on traffic flow, navigation inputs, and road grade, theoretically improving deceleration consistency while recuperating more energy.
Comfier & Spacious
Spy shots of NX5 test prototypes reveal revised front seats with additional bolstering and a new upholstery pattern. Hyundai also appears to be reshaping the door and console armrests.
One test vehicle suggests Hyundai will add a Relaxation Seat function for the front passenger, allowing a one-touch recline. The rear bench also appears more premium in material and design. The squarer rear window shape and new front quarter glass panels should improve the sense of space.
V2L, AWD & XRT variants
The 2027 Tucson Hybrid should add vehicle-to-load output up to 3.6 kW, using energy from the high-voltage battery for running tools and appliances. Hyundai should continue offering HTRAC all-wheel drive, and newer chassis control features may appear depending on trim.
Reporting also suggests Hyundai could expand its XRT off-road-themed package to include the hybrid, following the direction of the Honda CR-V TrailSport and Toyota RAV4 Woodland variants.
Pleos Connect & New HMI
The next Tucson is expected to adopt a 17-inch, 16:9 center display that consolidates infotainment, navigation, and HVAC controls. The ET News report, which uncovered this development, also mentions a 9.9-inch instrument display for driving information.
Hyundai’s Pleos Connect system, built on Android Automotive OS, is all but confirmed to feature across future Tucson and Elantra variants, with user profiles and expanded app capability.
Apple CarPlay Ultra remains a possible feature. The latest CarPlay experience can extend across driver displays and blend iPhone widgets with vehicle data, but Hyundai has not confirmed it for Tucson.
Featured image: TopElectricSUV’s exclusive illustrations of the next-gen Tucson
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
