Similar to Hyundai’s other newer models, the new Tucson has undergone a sharper, boxier transformation
Hyundai is working on the 5th-gen Tucson (codenamed NX5), which is expected to make its global debut later this year. Launch in India is expected in 2027. Ahead of that, a spy shot of the interior display screen has inadvertently revealed the front design of new-gen Tucson. It closely matches features that were revealed in earlier test mule sightings and digital renders.
New Tucson front revealed
Hyundai is transitioning from its ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ to an all-new ‘Art of Steel’ design philosophy. This is clearly evident with the fascia of 5th-gen Tucson. An upright front and chiselled lines ensure a striking presence. There appears to be a top-mounted LED strip connecting the vertically stacked DRLs, creating a distinctive ‘H’ layout.
New Tucson gets a clamshell bonnet, which complements the overall boxy aesthetic. The core design approach applied at the front appears similar to that of the new Santa Fe. Headlights are mounted lower, something similar to the setup seen with the upcoming Palisade. In the Indian market, the Palisade hybrid is expected to be introduced in 2028.
Other features of new Tucson include squared-off wheel arches and body cladding. In earlier test mule sightings, the 5th-gen Tucson was seen with a new design for the alloy wheels. ORVMs are new as well and come in a dual-tone finish. Curvaceous panelling and roof design of the current model have been replaced with sharp, geometric sheet-metal folds. The roof has a gentle flat incline, enhancing the SUV’s sporty presence.
Interior features
Inside, the new Tucson is expected to be equipped with the advanced Pleos suite, which comprises both software and hardware components. One of the key highlights is a large 17-inch central touchscreen. This will be powered by an Android-based system, offering users a seamless smartphone-like experience. Pleos integrates various functions and controls onto a single screen.
A smaller 9.9-inch digital cluster is also provided to access important driving related information such as speed, turn-by-turn navigation, etc. For enhanced practicality, new Tucson retains the physical buttons and knobs for audio and AC controls. Users will be able to manage various tasks with natural language commands with the Gleo AI assistant. This will help improve focus on the road ahead.
Powertrain options
New Tucson will put greater emphasis on hybridization. Both strong hybrid and PHEV versions are expected to be available. The standard engine will be based on the next-gen TMED-II Hybrid architecture. New Tucson’s strong hybrid and PHEV versions could be using a 1.6-litre petrol engine in combination with an electric motor and a battery pack.
PHEV version will have a higher-output electric motor and a larger battery pack. It is expected to have an all-electric drive range of around 100 km. There is also talk about a Performance N variant, which could get a 300+ hp AWD turbo-hybrid setup. The 2.0-litre diesel engine offered with the current Tucson in India is likely to be discontinued. New Tucson will have Level 2.5 autonomous driving capabilities.
Earlier spy shots have also revealed Tucson’s XRT Pro variant. In addition to its more rugged aesthetic, the XRT Pro variant also has dedicated off-roading features. For example, this variant was seen with higher ground clearance and lifted suspension. Other highlights include functional red tow hooks, robust roof rails and Continental CrossContact all-terrain tires.
