Hyundai Launches Tucson PHEV in Israel Cheaper Than Kia Sportage

Hyundai has introduced the Tucson plug-in hybrid (PHEV) to the Israeli market for the first time, offering two trim levels and a starting price 20,000 shekels lower than the Kia Sportage PHEV. While Hyundai unveiled the Tucson PHEV version back in late 2020, it never reached Israel until now, whereas Kia offered its Sportage PHEV here from its initial launch. Kia recently reintroduced the Sportage PHEV at 220,000 shekels, prompting Hyundai to respond with a more affordable Tucson PHEV priced from 200,000 shekels, aiming to attract fleet buyers as well.

The Tucson PHEV features a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with a 107-horsepower electric motor, delivering a combined output of 283 horsepower. It uses a six-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive and accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds, matching the Sportage’s performance despite being 5 horsepower less. Both models have a 13.8 kWh battery, providing an electric-only range of 68 to 71 kilometers depending on trim. Hyundai reports fuel consumption of 16.4 to 16.9 km per liter when the battery is depleted, slightly less efficient than the Tucson hybrid’s 17.2 to 17.8 km per liter, emphasizing the importance of regular charging. The onboard charger supports 7.2 kW charging, with a full charge taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Unlike the Sportage PHEV, which offers a single trim, the Tucson PHEV comes in two trims: One and Icon. The base One trim includes a basic digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch multimedia screen, wireless charging, parking sensors, rearview camera, heated front seats, split climate control, and a comprehensive safety package rated 8 out of 8 by the Israeli Ministry of Transport. Safety features include seven airbags, pedestrian and cross-traffic collision warnings with automatic braking, blind-spot detection, driver attention alert, and more.

The Icon trim adds a 12.3-inch customizable digital cluster, 360-degree cameras, leather upholstery, power-adjustable and ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof, LED interior lighting, premium Krell audio system with eight speakers, LED rear lights, black front grille, and 19-inch wheels. It also includes a parking speed warning and braking system. Compared to the Sportage PHEV, the Tucson’s top trim offers 360-degree cameras and child reminder alerts not available on the Sportage, while the Sportage provides driver seat memory and hands-free trunk opening.

Pricing for the Tucson lineup is as follows: Hybrid One at 190,000 shekels, Hybrid Pro at 210,000 shekels, Hybrid Icon at 220,000 shekels, PHEV One at 200,000 shekels, and PHEV Icon at 230,000 shekels. All models come with a 5-year/100,000 km warranty and a 7-year/155,000 km battery warranty. Service intervals are every year or 15,000 km. As part of the launch promotion, buyers of the Tucson PHEV receive a 4,000 shekel discount and a free charging station (installation not included).