When Hyundai introduced the Tucson compact crossover SUV in 2004, it quickly became a reliable part of their lineup, appealing to value-conscious people who wanted smooth handling and high storage capabilities even from a smaller vehicle. Since the late 2010s, though, the Tucson’s popularity has exploded as part of a larger shift in buying habits toward compacts. The Hyundai Tucson broke 200,000 in annual vehicle sales for the first time in 2023, making it Hyundai’s best-selling vehicle and one of the most popular small SUVs in North America. Undoubtedly, part of the appeal is that the Tucson is offered as a gas-powered, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid vehicle, serving a range of preferences and budgets.
The 2025 edition of the Hyundai Tucson for sale aims to continue the vehicle’s upward trend. For the first time since the fourth generation debuted in the 2022 model year, this compact crossover has received a significant update. In this guide to the 2025 Hyundai Tucson, I’ll go over what you need to know about the latest version and discuss which variant might be best for your needs.
What’s New on the 2025 Hyundai Tucson?
Although the basic core of the 2025 Tucson remains the same, changes are substantial even as mid-cycle refreshes go. Here are the most significant upgrades to consider when comparing to previous models.
More Hybrid Power
The Tucson Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid already offer significantly more power than the gas-only Tucson, and in 2025, that gap has widened. Thanks to a slightly retooled electric motor, the hybrid system jumps from 226 hp to 231 hp. Meanwhile, the plug-in hybrid goes from 261 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque to 268 hp and 271 lb-ft. The gas-powered Tucson powertrain remains the same, with a 2.5L inline-four engine delivering 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque.
A Technology Overhaul
All three 2025 Hyundai Tucson variants make a major leap with onboard tech and driver assistance. An enlarged 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen—more than four inches larger than the previous default screen —is standard on all trims, including wireless Android Auto/ Apple CarPlay and proximity key entry. Front USB-C ports are now standard as well, and they’ve been redesigned to charge more efficiently. You can add a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch head-up color display to review all available information, and Forward Attention Warning is a new assistance feature on select trims. Software updates are now done over the air as you drive for convenience. You can even add a biometric fingerprint sensor for the highest level of security.
Enhanced Interior and Exterior Functionality
Along with the added tech features, Hyundai has added several functions and revised key components to make them easier to use. Some of the highlights are:
- The center console and center stack have been redesigned with more physical controls for the audio and HVAC systems so drivers aren’t fully touchscreen-dependent.
- The displays have a curved housing to improve visual clarity and help you see what’s at the edges.
- All models now have bridge-style side roof rails for carrying cargo and equipment.
- There is a front passenger dash shelf to hold small items.
- When you shut the A/C off, the Tucson will automatically switch to regular fan ventilation so air keeps circulating.
- The rear wiper blade is longer to improve coverage and visibility.
- On trims with heated rear seats and steering wheel, the controls are more precise to dial in a comfortable temperature.
Refreshed Style
Prospective Tucson buyers will also be greeted by some style updates. Several items are tweaked on the interior, such as the bumpers, wheels, front fascia, and daytime running lights (DRLs), all of which make the vehicle appear wider and more aggressive. Inside the Tucson, the trim pieces on the door panels, steering wheel, and console are all new. Together, they give the vehicle a bolder appearance while simultaneously being simpler and feeling more like an upscale machine.
The N-Line: The Tucson With a Racer’s Edge
Finally, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is being offered in the N Line trim for the first time. Hyundai N is the automaker’s performance division, and the Tucson Hybrid N Line gives this crossover a track-inspired look and feel. The powertrain remains the same, but Tucson N-Line owners receive large 19-inch alloy wheels to improve traction; a unique front bumper grille, rear spoiler, and lower rear lights; sport-style bleak leather and cloth seats; premium LED DRLs; and black side mirrors. A Bose premium audio system is also standard on the N Line.
Gas, Hybrid, or Plug-In Hybrid?
The N Line leads me to the question of which series drivers should pick if they’re considering the 2025 Hyundai Tucson, especially considering each is mechanically identical aside from the powertrain. In addition to offering more power than the gas-powered Tucson, the hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions are also more fuel-efficient. The 2025 Tucson Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 38 MPG combined; the plug-in hybrid gets 35 MPG combined, and can go up to 32 miles on electric-only power when fully charged. A gas-only Tucson maxes out at an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined in FWD and 26 MPG combined in AWD.
On the other hand, a gas-powered Tucson offers the most legroom and cargo space since it doesn’t need to accommodate a hybrid system. The gas 2025 Tucson has 41.4 inches of front legroom, 41.3 inches of rear legroom, and a maximum of 80.3 cu.ft. of cargo space—all of which outpace compact crossover rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The 2025 Tucson Hybrid matches the gas-powered version for legroom but drops to 74.5 cu.ft. of cargo area. Faring worst is the plug-in hybrid with 41.4 inches of front legroom, 39.5 inches of rear legroom, and 71.8 cu.ft. of cargo space.
The gas-powered and hybrid Tucson SUVs also offer the most trim choices. If you’re considering the plug-in hybrid, it’s only available in the lower-midrange SEL and premium Limited trims. Gas-powered Tucson buyers can also pick the entry-level SE, midrange SEL Convenience, and trail-minded XRT. This last trim comes with a mix of off-road and luxury features that include a standard tow hitch, 8.3 inches of clearance, protective side cladding, and faux leather upholstery. The hybrid series adds the entry-level Blue and aforementioned N Line to the SEL and Limited.
On a related note, the more advanced hybrid technology means a higher price tag. To compare apples to apples, the MSRP for the 2025 Tucson Limited is $38,545 as a gas-only vehicle, $41,195 as a hybrid, and $47,340 as a plug-in hybrid. On the other end of the spectrum, the lowest MSRP for each series is $28,605 (Tucson SE), $33,365 (Tucson Hybrid Blue), and $39,630 (Tucson Plug-In Hybrid SEL). So buyers have to decide if the added power and efficiency of the hybrid technology is worth the added cost, reduced interior space, and fewer trim options.
Hyundai’s Bestseller Continues to Soar
Rather than resting on their success, Hyundai has continued to push the Tucson forward, giving this compact crossover even bigger appeal. The 2025 refresh brings the Tucson into the modern onboard technology age while adding much-appreciated functions, an injection of hybrid power, and a more outgoing style.
When you add the strong existing foundation that includes independent MacPherson front struts, four-wheel disc brakes, Hyundai’s SmartSense driver suite, and an IIHS Top Safety Pick Award, it stands as a strong performer regardless of sticker price. The Hyundai Tucson has won numerous awards for its performance and value in recent years, and the 2025 edition will undoubtedly be an awards contender again.
