Which Powertrain Should You Choose in Your 2024 Hyundai Tucson?
Which Powertrain Should You Choose in Your 2024 Hyundai Tucson?
Posted on June 20, 2024
The 2024 Hyundai Tucson offers an impressive array of features, including three distinct powertrain options that cater to a variety of driving preferences and needs. Whether you value performance, fuel efficiency, or a combination of both, there's a Tucson for you. Let’s explore each powertrain in detail to help you make an informed decision.
Gas: Performance and Efficiency
The standard Smartstream 2.5L GDI engine delivers a solid mix of power and efficiency, making it a versatile choice for many drivers. With 187 horsepower and 178 lb.-ft. of torque, this engine provides ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. It offers a fuel economy of 10.0 L/100 km in the city, 7.9 L/100 km on the highway, and a combined 9.1 L/100 km. This makes it a practical choice for those who want reliable performance without sacrificing too much on fuel costs. As the standard option, it's also likely the most affordable, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Hybrid: Go the Distance
For those who prioritize fuel efficiency but still want robust performance, the hybrid option is ideal. The Smartstream 1.6L Turbocharged Hybrid engine, combined with a 44.2 kW electric motor and a 1.49 kWh lithium-ion battery, delivers a total of 226 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. This hybrid setup ensures that you can go further on less fuel, with fuel economy ratings of 6.3 L/100 km in the city, 6.6 L/100 km on the highway, and a combined 6.4 L/100 km. The hybrid powertrain is perfect for those who want the space and versatility of a compact SUV with the efficiency advantages of a hybrid powertrain without having to think about charging or electric range.
Plug-in Hybrid: Electric When You Want It, Gas When You Need It
The plug-in hybrid model offers the best of both worlds, allowing you to drive on electric power alone for shorter trips and relying on the gasoline engine for longer journeys. This powertrain features a Smartstream 1.6L Turbocharged engine paired with a 66.9 kW electric motor and a larger 13.8 kWh lithium-ion battery, producing a combined 261 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. It offers up to 53 kilometres of all-electric driving range, making it perfect for daily commutes and errands. When you need to go further, the gasoline engine kicks in seamlessly.
Charging the plug-in hybrid is straightforward. Using a standard 110V/120V household outlet (Level 1), it takes about 10.6 hours to fully charge the battery. For faster charging, a 220V/240V outlet (Level 2) reduces the charging time to approximately 1.7 hours. This flexibility in charging options ensures that you can easily keep your vehicle powered up whether you're at home or on the go. The 2024 Hyundai Tucson PHEV is by far the most efficient option in the Tucson lineup. For many owners, commuting during the week without using a single drop of fuel is possible while the gas engine offers the flexibility of longer trips on a whim.
Summary Table
| Specification | 2.5L GDI Gas | 1.6L Turbo Hybrid | 1.6L Turbo Plug-in Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horsepower (hp) | 187 | 226 | 261 |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 178 | 258 | 258 |
| Fuel Economy City (L/100 km) | 10.0 | 6.3 | N/A |
| Fuel Economy Highway (L/100 km) | 7.9 | 6.6 | N/A |
| Fuel Economy Combined (L/100 km) | 9.1 | 6.4 | 2.9 Le/100 km |
| All-Electric Range | N/A | N/A | Up to 53 km |
| Charging Time (110V/120V Level 1) | N/A | N/A | 10.6 hours |
| Charging Time (220V/240V Level 2) | N/A | N/A | 1.7 hours |
Choosing the right powertrain for your 2024 Hyundai Tucson depends on your driving habits and priorities. The standard gas engine offers a great balance of performance and affordability, the hybrid provides excellent fuel efficiency with ample power, and the plug-in hybrid offers maximum flexibility with the ability to drive on electric power alone for short distances. Whatever your needs, the Tucson has a powertrain to match.