Make more informed purchasing decisions. Our comprehensive guide will assist you in choosing the best Hyundai Tucson model year for yourself.
In this article, we will examine the peaks and lows of Hyundai Tucson’s performance over the years, spotlighting its finest and worst model years.
Leveraging extensive research and a real consumer data, we offer a comprehensive guide to this popular compact SUV’s historical performance.
The Tucson is the best-selling Hyundai SUV model, with more than 7 million units sold globally since it launched in 2004. We’ll delve deep into each generation, revealing both outstanding features and potential pitfalls, making this an essential read for prospective Tucson buyers.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the different Hyundai Tucson generations.
Table of ContentsShow
Hyundai Tucson Generations
Introduced in 2005, the Hyundai Tucson has seen four generations, each with unique designs, features, and performance attributes.
The following table demonstrates all Hyundai Tucson generations from 2005 to the current day:
| Generation | Years |
|---|---|
| 1st generation (JM) | 2005-2009 |
| 2nd generation (LM) | 2010-2015 |
| 3rd generation (TL) | 2016-2021 |
| 4th generation (NX4) | 2022-Present |
This generational breakdown provides a lucid overview and will help potential buyers make informed decisions, considering the substantial changes that have occurred between generations.
Hyundai Tucson Best, Neutral and Worst Years
In our classification of the best and worst model years, we examine various factors and reliable sources, such as:
- Owner-reported reliability (surveys)
- Annual maintenance costs
- Safety rating
- Consumer Reports reliability score
- Consumer Reports owner satisfaction score
- NHTSA recalls, investigations, and complaints
- Edmunds owner ratings
- JD Power owner ratings
- Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB) owner ratings
- VehicleHistory owner ratings
- Cars.com owner ratings
These components aid us in developing a thorough comprehension of each model year.
And here’s a graph that shows the combined ratings from these sources.
The following table categorizes each generation into best, neutral, and worst years:
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st generation (JM) | 2005 2006 | 2007 2008 | 2009 |
| 2nd generation (LM) | 2010 2011 | 2014 | 2012 2013 2015 |
| 3rd generation (TL) | 2020 | 2018 2019 2021 | 2016 2017 |
| 4th generation (NX4) | 2023 | N/A | 2022 |
“Neutral Years” describes model years that neither excel nor lag in the mentioned parameters. They perform moderately in all areas and provide a balanced experience.
Factors such as NHTSA recalls adversely impact our scores, lowering the car’s reliability and, therefore, its rating. The greater the number of complaints and recalls, the lower the car’s reliability is.
With the parameters set, let’s analyze the specifications of the best, neutral, and worst years.
Best & Worst Years for Hyundai Tucson 1st Generation (2005-2009)
The Hyundai Tucson was launched in 2005, marking a robust entry for Hyundai into the compact SUV market. Offering remarkable features at an affordable price point, it aimed to deliver great value to customers.
The Best Years: 2005, 2006
The 2005 and 2006 models stood out for their dependability, affordability, and impressive feature sets. Two engine options were available: a 2.0L inline four-cylinder engine and a 2.7L V6. Both engines were mated to either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
Innovative for its time, the Tucson offered Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which was a significant safety feature that helps drivers maintain control on slippery roads or during rapid steering maneuvers. Six airbags, including side-curtain airbags, were standard, providing additional safety for occupants.
The Neutral Years: 2007, 2008
The 2007 and 2008 models didn’t bring many significant upgrades but maintained the reliability and performance standards set by their predecessors. These models continued to provide value with their 2.0L four-cylinder and optional 2.7L V6 engines.
Safety features remained consistent with the earlier models, ensuring they continued to meet the needs of safety-conscious buyers.
The Worst Years: 2009
The 2009 Hyundai Tucson, despite maintaining similar features to its predecessors, saw a dip in its overall reception and performance.
The primary issue that affected the reliability of the 2009 model was problems with the airbags. Some owners reported that airbags did not deploy correctly in accidents, posing a significant safety risk.
It’s important to note that while this issue was prevalent, not every 2009 Tucson experienced this problem. However, the potential risk to safety played a significant role in defining the 2009 model Tucson as the worst year for the first generation.
Best & Worst Years for Hyundai Tucson 2nd Generation (2010-2015)
The second-generation Hyundai Tucson (marketed as Hyundai ix35 in several markets) made its debut in 2010, marking a significant leap forward in terms of style, performance, and features.
These models implemented Hyundai’s ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ design language, giving the Tucson a sleeker and more aerodynamic look.
The Best Years: 2010, 2011
On the performance front, the 2010 and 2011 models introduced a more fuel-efficient 2.4L four-cylinder engine that replaced the previous generation’s 2.7L V6. This new engine offered better fuel economy without sacrificing much in terms of power, making these years a favorite among consumers.
On the technology front, these models offered modern tech features for the time, including an available touchscreen navigation system and a backup camera, greatly enhancing the convenience and safety of the vehicle.
The Neutral Year: 2014
The 2014 Hyundai Tucson saw some incremental updates over its predecessors. It introduced two new engines: a 2.0L four-cylinder engine and a more powerful 2.4L four-cylinder.
While these engines improved performance and fuel economy, the changes weren’t as dramatic or impactful as those in the best years. The 2014 model maintained the stylish design and safety features of its predecessors and offered a smooth, comfortable ride.
The Worst Years: 2012, 2013, 2015
While the second-generation Tucson had its significant points, it was not without its drawbacks. The 2012 and 2013 models were particularly troublesome, with many owners reporting severe engine problems, including engine failure and powertrain issues that required expensive repairs.
The 2015 Tucson had its share of problems too. Owners reported engine issues, including engine failure and power loss. There were also reports of difficulties with the service brakes, including instances of brake failure.
These problems not only resulted in significant repair costs for owners but also raised serious safety concerns. Therefore, the 2012, 2013, and 2015 models were categorized as the worst years of the second-generation Tucson.
Best & Worst Years for Hyundai Tucson 3rd Generation (2016-2021)
The third iteration of Hyundai Tucson commenced in 2016, with the company reverting back to the Tucson name across all markets.
The Best Year: 2020
However, it was in 2020 where the model excelled the most. The 2020 model introduced several substantial updates, the most significant being the introduction of a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that boosted performance and fuel efficiency.
Safety-wise, the 2020 Tucson came standard with several advanced safety features as part of Hyundai’s SmartSense package, including automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and a driver attention warning system.
It also featured technological improvements such as a 7-inch color touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a six-speaker sound system.
The Neutral Years: 2018, 2019, 2021
The 2018, 2019, and 2021 Hyundai Tucson models are regarded as the impartial years of the third generation. These models introduced progressive improvements and adjustments in design, technology, and performance.
For instance, in 2018, Hyundai offered a 7-inch interactive touchscreen display as standard across all Tucson models.
In 2019, the Tucson received a slight facelift, with new headlights and taillights, a revised grille, and new wheel designs.
As for the 2021 model, it boasted the same solid reliability and performance, but didn’t bring many significant changes or advancements.
The Worst Years: 2016, 2017
The 2016 and 2017 models of the Hyundai Tucson were plagued by numerous problems that led to them being classified as the worst years of the third generation.
A significant number of owners reported powertrain and engine issues, including excessive oil consumption, which led to costly repairs.
The 2016 model, being the debut year of the new generation, suffered from some teething problems, with numerous reports of transmission issues, including hesitation and jerky shifts.
The 2017 model, while addressing some of these issues, still had a considerable number of complaints, primarily concerning the engine and powertrain.
See NHTSA 2016, 2017 Hyundai Tucson recalls and complaints.
Best & Worst Years for Hyundai Tucson 4th Generation (2022-Present)
The fourth generation of the Hyundai Tucson, also known as the NX4, represented a substantial step forward for the model, with the 2023 model standing out as the finest year in this generation so far.
The Best Year: 2023
This model introduced a bold new design language, cutting-edge technologies, and an upgraded engine lineup that includes both hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.
The 2023 model saw the introduction of advanced safety features as standard, such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), and High Beam Assist (HBA).
Technology-wise, the 2023 model boasts a 10.25-inch full-touch infotainment screen, Hyundai’s latest BlueLink-connected car services, and a high-end Bose audio system.
The 2023 Hyundai Tucson model stands out for its abundance of standard features, commitment to safety, and alternative fuel options, hence being categorized as the finest year in this generation.
The Worst Year: 2022
While the 2022 Hyundai Tucson represented a major leap forward for the model in terms of design and features, it suffered from several significant issues that led to it being classified as the worst year of this generation.
Most notably, numerous owners reported engine and powertrain problems. These included instances of the engine losing power, rough shifts, and instances of the engine stalling.
These mechanical issues led to an increase in maintenance costs and significantly affected the reliability of the vehicle.
Hyundai Tucson Average Resale Values
The following graph provides a comprehensive perspective on the average resale values of various model years of the Hyundai Tucson.
Conclusion
You’re now able to distinguish between the best and worst Hyundai Tucson model years. Pay attention to the worst model year problems and go for the best.
Reflecting on your preferences and requirements, which Hyundai Tucson year strikes the balance between performance and reliability for you?
Share your responses and insights in the comments below!
