(July 14, 2015) FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. — The all-new 2016 Hyundai Tucson arrives in dealerships this month offering an edgy exterior design, a pair of fuel efficient drivetrains and a stylish interior that is roomier than its predecessor.

A host of advanced safety features will be available including a Lane Departure Warning system, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross-traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist, Backup Warning Sensors and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB). The new Tucson, when equipped with AEB, is expected to receive a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).



Continuing Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design theme that debuted on the 2015 Genesis, the 2016 Tucson employs refined aesthetics with sculpted body forms and sporty contours for an athletic, bold and striking appearance. The front is dominated by a hexagonal-shaped grille — a key element of Hyundai’s design signature, enhanced by available high-efficiency LED twin-projector headlights, LED headlight accents and integrated LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). Even LED door handle approach lamps are available.



Tucson’s wheelbase increases by more than an inch, for enhanced design proportions, interior flexibility and a smoother ride. For the first time on Tucson, 19-inch alloy wheels are offered with a dynamic spoke design, housed in forward-raking wheel arches. Roof rails are sleek and low-profile for a clean, yet functional appearance. From the rear, a Z-shaped character line above the rear wheel accentuates an aggressive, sporty side profile.

The rear angle conveys stability and a wide, sporty stance, for agility both on and off-road. The taillights also apply LED technology, creating a premium design element, while providing enhanced visibility from the rear. Finally, twin, bevel-cut chrome exhaust tips and a standard rear spoiler add even more sporty cues from the rear view.

2016 Tucson powertrain offerings also have been improved with top efficiency levels as a primary target. Base models offer the Nu engine family, 2.0-liter, direct-injected four-cylinder with 164 horsepower and 151 lb.-ft. of torque, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. EPA fuel economy for the 2.0L FWD model is rated at 23 (city), 31 (highway), 26 (combined). The 26-mpg combined fuel economy rating is a one-mpg improvement over the previous mode base engine.

Eco, Sport and Limited models offer the new Gamma engine family, 1.6-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder with 175 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. Peak torque delivery starts at only 1,500 rpm and holds through 4,500 rpm, for low-RPM responsiveness and performance in everyday driving conditions.

The turbo engine is coupled to a new, first-in-segment seven-speed EcoShift dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This Hyundai-developed dual-clutch transmission offers outstanding efficiency with quick, seamless shifting and brisk acceleration. When compared with some competitors’ continuously-variable transmissions, this DCT is able to handle more torque with minimal power interruption throughout the powertrain operating range for a natural acceleration characteristic that consumers expect and offers greater durability. EPA fuel economy for this powertrain on Eco FWD models is 26 (city), 33 (highway), 29 (combined), a 5-mpg improvement over the former premium Tucson 2.4L engine.

Sport and Limited FWD turbo engine models are rated at 25 (city), 30 (highway), 27 (combined), representing a 3-mpg improvement in combined fuel economy over the former Tucson 2.4L engine. In addition, the new Tucson’s fuel tank has been increased by 1.1 gallons for even greater driving range.

On the inside, a premium, wrapped instrument panel will be offered, with extra-wide instrument panel contours to enhance occupants’ overall sense of interior roominess. A stitched, soft-touch pad is located near the driver’s right knee, for better comfort during long commutes or spirited cornering. Interior touch points have been upgraded with premium, soft-touch materials.

All interior switchgear have a more refined feel during operation. The overall ambience of roominess is further enhanced by an available full-length panoramic sunroof, allowing both front and rear passengers day or night skyward visibility.

The 2016 Tucson is longer by three inches, wider 1.1 inches and has a longer wheelbase by 1.2 inches than the previous model for greater interior volume and versatility. Overall, cargo room has been increased to 31.0 cubic feet, up more than five cubic feet over the previous model, with a dual-level rear cargo floor further enhancing cargo-carrying versatility.