New Hyundai Tucson Unveiled With Bold Design, AI Assistant, Hybrid Power

Hyundai officially revealed the fifth generation of its Tucson SUV on Friday in New York, billing it as the company's "boldest SUV yet." The new model features a fresh design language called "Art of Steel," an advanced multimedia system, and an enhanced hybrid powertrain. "Millions of families worldwide rely on the Hyundai Tucson, and this is the best we have ever built," stated Hyundai CEO Jose Munoz. He added that the Tucson's launch marks the beginning of Hyundai's largest model offensive, with over 100 new and updated models planned by 2030.

The interior boasts a large 17-inch central touchscreen alongside a 9.9-inch instrument cluster display. Physical buttons and dials remain for climate control, audio volume, and hazard lights. The gear selector has been moved to the steering column, freeing up storage space in the center console. A new feature is the Gleo AI assistant, which Hyundai claims understands natural conversation and context, operating within the Pleos Connect system. This system is based on Android Automotive and supports over-the-air updates and third-party apps.

Off-road variants will include a Smart Terrain Assist system that adjusts power based on real-time terrain difficulty. Gasoline versions will offer either a 1.6-liter turbo or a 2.0-liter engine, producing between 150 and 193 horsepower, with front- or all-wheel drive options. A six-speed manual transmission will be available in some markets.

The hybrid version combines a 1.6-liter turbo engine with a 1.49 kWh battery and two electric motors, delivering a combined output of up to 245 horsepower and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds. The top-tier plug-in hybrid model features a 17.1 kWh battery, producing 292 horsepower and achieving 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. Pricing and launch dates for Israel have not yet been announced.