LOS OLIVOS, California – The 2025 Hyundai Tucson, a popular compact SUV, introduces several improvements aimed at providing a safer and more comfortable experience for children and pets. This model is Hyundai’s top seller in the United States.

Changes to the exterior include broader running lights and updated designs for the grille and front and rear sections.

The Tucson lineup includes various options, such as front-wheel and all-wheel drive, as well as gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid models. Gasoline variants are manufactured in Alabama, while hybrids and PHEVs are produced in South Korea.

All versions of the 2025 Tucson are currently available at dealerships, with prices ranging from $28,355 to $47,090, not including a $1,395 destination fee.

The 2025 Santa Cruz compact pickup shares many of these updates and is also on the market now.

I had the chance to drive a well-equipped Tucson Limited hybrid for a day through the scenic hills and highways near quiet Los Olivos, just north of Santa Barbara.

2025 Hyundai Tucson Pricing and Trim Levels

• SE FWD: $28,355
• SEL FWD: $30,215
• SEL Convenience FWD: $32,655
• XRT FWD: $32,665
• Limited FWD: $38,295
• SE AWD: $29,855
• SEL AWD: $31,715
• SEL Convenience AWD: $34,165
• XRT AWD: $34,165
• Limited AWD: $39,795
• Tucson Blue hybrid AWD: $33,115
• Tucson Convenience hybrid AWD: $36,225
• Tucson N Line hybrid AWD: $37,865
• Tucson Limited hybrid AWD: $40,945
• Tucson SEL plug-in hybrid AWD: $39,380
• Tucson Limited plug-in hybrid AWD: $47,090

Source: Edmunds. Prices do not include the $1,395 destination fee.

Enhanced Interior with Buttons and an Increased Screen Size

The Tucson’s cabin has undergone some thoughtful updates.

A sleek display integrates a 12.3-inch instrument cluster with a 12.3-inch touch screen into one single unit. The screen is visually pleasing and easy to read, while the touch controls are conveniently located and responsive.

Although some users may not prefer screens that protrude rather than being seamlessly built into the dashboard like traditional gauges, Hyundai has successfully achieved a balance: its unique curved screen rises from a shelf in the dash, aligning the top of the display with the rear trim.

Moreover, in a positive redesign effort, the Tucson has integrated physical buttons and dials for commonly used features like volume control, tuning, temperature adjustments, and map shortcuts. Other features, such as heated and ventilated seats, defrost, and fan speed, are still accessed through flat-panel touch controls in the center stack.

Overall, the user experience in the 2025 Tucson has significantly improved.

What is Baby Mode?

The hybrid powertrain has also received some adjustments to enhance usability.

A standout feature is “baby mode,” which alters throttle response and torque for smoother acceleration. This aims to provide gentle starts that prevent infants from jerking forward and help pets maintain their balance.

Unfortunately, Hyundai did not have infants available for testing, but the acceleration felt notably different in this mode. My canine companions, Rocket and Quigley, will offer their feedback on the Tucson during our testing later this fall.

Why is Radar Important in Cars?

The Tucson is among the first vehicles to feature interior radar, which is set to become one of the must-have tech advancements of 2025. This radar is designed to detect infants and pets left in the back seat.

It is sensitive enough to recognize the breathing of a sleeping infant under a blanket, alerting the driver if any living beings are left behind in the vehicle.

New Features of the 2025 Hyundai Tucson

• Detection system in the rear seats for infants and pets
• Special driving mode for infants and pets
• Physical buttons and dials for some climate and audio settings
• 12-inch color head-up display

Additional Interior Updates

All Tucson models now come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were previously limited to select trims.

More features will now receive over-the-air updates.

The phone-as-key function has been enhanced to unlock the car as you approach it. Previously, you had to bring your phone close to the door handle, which undermined the feature’s convenience.

A fingerprint scanner is also an option for recognizing authorized drivers.

Key Competitors

• Chevrolet Equinox
• Ford Escape
• Honda CR-V
• Kia Sportage
• Nissan Rogue
• Subaru Outback
• Toyota RAV4
• Volkswagen Tiguan

Reasons to Consider the 2025 Hyundai Tucson

The 2025 Tucson stands out as one of the most visually impressive compact SUVs on the market, particularly due to its bold grille and lighting design.

I recorded a fuel economy of 33.8 mpg effortlessly during my day of driving, meaning those focused on efficiency should easily achieve better results.

The Tucson offers ample space in its class, provides a comfortable ride, and features user-friendly controls. Unique elements such as the radar detection system for rear occupants and special driving modes for infants and pets enhance its attractiveness.

The Tucson is a compelling option, whether you are looking for an entry-level vehicle or seeking a plug-in hybrid with a 32-mile electric range.

Overview of the 2025 Hyundai Tucson

A compact SUV that can seat five, available with front or all-wheel drive.

Starting price: $28,355 (All prices exclude $1,395 destination fee)

Model reviewed: Tucson Limited AWD hybrid

Tested price: $39,550

Specifications based on testing:

Engine: 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder paired with an electric motor

Total power output: 231 horsepower; 271 pound-feet of torque

Transmission: Six-speed automatic

EPA estimated fuel efficiency: 35 mpg city/35 mpg highway/35 mpg combined, using regular gasoline.

Wheelbase: 108.5 inches

Overall length: 182.7 inches

Width: 73.4 inches

Height: 66.3 inches (AWD) or 65.6 inches (FWD)

Ground clearance: 8.3 inches (AWD) or 7.1 inches (FWD)

Interior capacity: 103.8 cubic feet

Roof rack capacity: 220 pounds

Total passenger space: 105.9 cubic feet (without the panoramic sunroof)

Trunk space: 31.9 cubic feet with back seats up; 71.8 cubic feet with seats folded down

Towing capability: 2,000 pounds

Manufactured in Ulsan, South Korea

Contact Mark Phelan at 313-222-6731 or mmphelan@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter at @mark_phelan.