The Hyundai Tucson is one of the brand’s most important models, and it has been increasingly growing in popularity since its launch. But, as a compact crossover, it fights in one of the most competitive segments in the US market. So, for 2026, Hyundai is continuing to add features and updates to this recently refreshed model. This article is going to cover all the updates for the 2026 Hyundai Tucson but be sure to watch the video at the bottom of this article for an in-depth design review!

What’s New for 2026?

  • SEL Convenience renamed SEL Premium
  • Towing Capacity Increased
  • New terrain mode on XRT
  • Fingerprint reader removed

Trims and Pricing

MSRP for Gas FWD

SE: $29,200

SEL: $30,550

XRT: $33,225

SEL Premium: $33,550

Limited: $39,175

This review focuses on the least expensive gas model, which sees minimal price increases for 2026.

Air ball and slam dunk

Slam Dunk: the Tucson remains a great value for the segment

Air Ball: We wish the base gas engine would have a bit more power

Design and Features

As mentioned above, please watch the video linked below for a full in-depth exploration of the exterior design and differences. The Tucson was refreshed last year to add a boxier look with a fresher design, and that continues for this year. The Limited we tested adds the most luxury flare with some additional silver finishes. Additionally, gas model buyers can opt for a more rugged XRT trim to head off the beaten path.

Here is the full breakdown of what we currently know about the feature availability: 

Feature

Availability

Exterior

LED Headlights

Standard Reflector LEDs | Limited: Projector

LED Fog Lamps

Not Available

Wheels

17-19-inch alloys depending on trim

Mirrors

Standard heated, BSM | Limited adds a chrome accent

LED Taillights

Standard LED on SEL Convenience+

Dual-Exhaust Outlets

Not available

Towing Capacity

2,750 lbs for the gas model now

Forward Emergency Braking

Standard on all Tucson Models

Lane Keep Assist

Auto High Beams

Adaptive Cruise Control

Rear Auto Braking

Limited

Highway Drive Assist 1.0

Limited and SEL Premium

 

When it comes to the Interior, the Tucson will also be well-equipped on all trims.

Interior

Digital Key

SEL+

Smart Parking

Limited exclusive

Seat Materials

Cloth, H-Tex Leatherette, Real Leather

Seat Adjustment

SEL+: 10-way power | Memory: Limited

Push Button Start

Standard

Gauge Cluster

Standard: 12.3-inch screen | SEL Prem/Limited: Fully Reconfigurable

Head-up Display

Limited

Blind View Monitor

Limited

Steering Wheel

SEL Premium+: Leather Wrapped | Heating: Limited

Fingerprint Sensor

Removed for 2026

Rain-Sensing Wipers

Limited

Wireless Charging

SEL+

360 Degree Camera

Limited

Ambient Lighting

SEL Premium+

2-Zone Climate Controls

SEL+

Seat Climate

Heated Seats: SEL+ | Ventilated Seats: Limited

Audio System

Standard 6-speakers | Limited: 8-speaker Bose Audio

Screen

Standard 12.3-inch display with ccNC and Wireless phone connection

Rearview Mirror

SEL Premium/Limited: Auto-dimming

Moonroof

Conventional: SEL Premium | Panoramic: Limited

 

The rear of the Tucson is also well-equipped, making it one of the biggest in the segment.

Rear Amenities

Rear Vents and USBs

SEL+ (USBs are standard)

Heated Rear Seats

Standard on Limited

Tailgate

Hands-Free Power SEL+

 

For in depth details on the 2026 Tucson, watch our full first look review linked at the bottom of this article.

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What’s Under the Hood?

While also offering two unique hybrid powertrains, the base engine is enough to get the job done on the daily:

2.5L I-4: 187 hp | 178 lb.ft

Paired w/ 8-speed automatic

FWD is standard with available AWD. The fuel economy for each model is as follows:

FWD: 25/33/28 MPG

AWD: 24/30/26 MPG

We hope you have found this overview of the 2026 Hyundai Tucson helpful! For a more detailed first look of the Tucson, please watch our video below! What do you think of the 2026 Hyundai Tucson? Let us know in the comments!