New Hyundai Tucson to get 48v mild hybrid tech
The updated Hyundai Tucson is to be offered as a 48v mild hybrid diesel – a first for the Korean manufacturer
First revealed at the 2018 New York Motor Show, the facelifted Hyundai Tucson SUV is set to be offered with a 48v mild-hybrid diesel powertrain when it is launched this summer. The use of 48v tech is a first for the brand, which claims that it will reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 7 per cent.
Initially, only the most powerful 183bhp 2.0-litre Tucson diesel engine (which also comes with four-wheel drive as standard) will be offered with 48v electrification. But motorists will be able to choose between either a 6-speed manual or Hyundai’s new 8-speed automatic. The electric motor used is a ‘Mild Hybrid Starter Generator’, which can supply up to 12kW of additional power, while the battery pack is a 0.44kWh lithium-ion unit.
Even though the hybrid system is currently limited to a single engine, Hyundai has stated that by early 2019 the 48V mild-hybrid tech will be available with Tucson models fitted with its new Smart Stream 1.6-litre diesel.
New 2018 Hyundai Tuscon design changes
Starting with the changes made up front, you’ll find full-LED headlights, a re-designed bumper and skid plate, as well as Hyundai’s familiar cascading grille. The rear gets new tail-lights, as well as a new bumper and exhaust tip – giving the Tucson a fresher look.
Inside there is a seven-inch screen, which can support Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth connectivity. A bigger eight-inch screen is also available, offering 3D maps and a seven-year subscription to LIVE services, which includes updated real time traffic information.
Rear passengers get an extra USB port, while other features include a Krell sound system and wireless QI phone charging. The new Tucson features Hyundai’s Surround View Monitor, which uses 360-degree cameras for help when parking. Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist and Driver Attention Warning also feature, which should help the Tucson keep its five-star Euro NCAP rating.
Hyundai’s Mazda CX-5 and Volkswagen Tiguan rival will be launched globally with a choice of five engines; three diesels and two petrols.
The current 113bhp 1.7-litre diesel will be replaced with more fuel-efficient Smart Stream 1.6-litre diesel, with two power outputs; 113bhp or 131bhp. The more powerful engine will be the first available with Hyundai’s new seven-speed double-clutch gearbox, which gives better fuel consumption and CO2 emissions than the current six-speed transmission.
The petrol variants include a 113bhp 1.6 GDI and a 174bhp T-GDI. The latter comes with the option of front or four-wheel drive, and can be ordered with the new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The less powerful non-turbo petrol engine comes standard with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox.
The Hyundai Tucson is the brand’s best-selling model worldwide and will make its European debut in the coming weeks. Prices will be announced nearer the time, though it’s unlikely to cost much more than the outgoing car, which starts from £19,855. First deliveries are expected this summer.
What does the updated Hyundai Tucson have to beat? These are the best 4x4s and SUVs on sale right now...
Get the latest electric car news, reviews and analysis on DrivingElectric.com
