New Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Offers Strong Value Despite Upcoming Redesign
Translated & summarized from Walla by baba
The European Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is now available in Israel, starting at 190,000 shekels, offering a competitive package despite the next-generation model's upcoming release. It features a modern design, a well-equipped interior with physical controls, and a spacious cabin and cargo area. The hybrid system provides 236 horsepower, with real-world fuel economy around 15.5 km/liter. The vehicle is praised for its value and features, making it a strong contender in the market.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- The European Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is now available in Israel starting at 190,000 shekels.
- The current model remains competitive despite the next-generation Tucson being revealed globally.
- The interior features a user-friendly layout with physical controls and dual 12.3-inch screens.
- It offers a spacious cabin and a large 616-liter cargo area, including a spare tire.
- The hybrid system delivers 236 horsepower, with real-world fuel economy of 15.5 km/liter.
- The Tucson is praised for its value, features, and comfort, competing well with rivals.
The European version of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is now available in Israel, starting at 190,000 shekels, with the tested Pro trim costing 210,000 shekels. This new hybrid variant joins the larger American-market hybrid already sold locally. The Tucson, historically known for powerful but thirsty engines, is adapting to market trends with this fuel-efficient hybrid option, with a plug-in version also planned.
Despite the next-generation Tucson having been revealed globally and expected in Israel by late 2027, the current model remains competitive. Its design is still considered modern and eye-catching, featuring a distinctive front lighting and a chrome strip under the roofline. The European model measures 4.52 meters long, 12 cm shorter than its American counterpart, with a wheelbase of 2.68 meters.
The interior boasts a user-friendly layout with two 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and the instrument cluster, complemented by physical buttons for climate control and media, a notable advantage over some competitors. The tested Pro trim includes leather upholstery, electric and heated front seats, and a 360-degree camera. A unique safety feature activates a side camera view when signaling, enhancing awareness of surrounding vehicles and riders.
Rear passenger space is generous for the shorter wheelbase, offering good legroom and headroom, along with dual air vents and power outlets. The cargo area is exceptionally large at 616 liters, including a spare tire, a rarity in hybrid vehicles. The base 'One' trim includes a 12.3-inch multimedia screen, split climate control, and a power tailgate, while higher trims add a digital cluster, premium audio, wireless charging, and ventilated seats.
Safety is a strong point, with the Tucson earning a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. Standard active safety features include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assist. The hybrid system delivers a combined 236 horsepower, offering brisk acceleration, with paddle shifters allowing manual control over regenerative braking. Real-world fuel economy averaged 15.5 km/liter, slightly below the manufacturer's claim of 17.5 km/liter, with larger wheels on the Pro trim impacting efficiency.
Overall, the current Tucson Hybrid is presented as a compelling option, offering good looks, ample equipment, comfort, and space for its price, especially when compared to rivals like the Toyota RAV4, which is more expensive in comparable trims. It provides a solid alternative for those not opting for plug-in hybrids, offering better performance and space than the smaller Hyundai Kona hybrid.
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