2009 Hyundai Tucson Review
2009 Hyundai Tucson Review





+90
Used Tucson for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Stylish and functional interior, impressive warranty, plenty of standard features.
Cons
- Performance and fuel economy are noticeably lower than most competitors.
What’s new
Engineering refinements to the transmission, torque converter, engine and steering-pump belt translate into an improvement in fuel economy of 4-6 percent for the 2009 Hyundai Tucson. The Tucson also gains a navigation system later in the model year; it's part of the new upgraded Kenwood audio system. Other upgrades this year include new wheels, a revised chrome grille and a B&M Racing Sport Shifter for models equipped with manual transmissions. Finally, the standard features list on SE Tucsons equipped with four-wheel drive now includes heated front seats and a windshield wiper de-icer, and Limited V6 models come standard with a sunroof.
Edmunds says
The 2009 Hyundai Tucson will appeal to those with value in mind, thanks to its affordable price, long list of standard features and generous warranty coverage.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2009 Hyundai Tucson GLS 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 4A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.42 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$192/mo
Tucson GLS
vs
$189/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
Vehicle overview
If, like many people, you're now considering Keystone Light instead of Sapporo Reserve and Target instead of Bloomingdale's, you know that value-oriented alternatives start looking better and better in bleak economic times. By this reasoning, one could argue that the capable yet inexpensive 2009 Hyundai Tucson has never been more appealing.
Like all Hyundais, the Tucson has much to offer for buyers craving maximum bang for their recession-pinched bucks (this is also true of its corporate twin, the Kia Sportage). The Tucson is one of the most affordable choices in the compact-SUV segment, and for the money you get a long list of standard features. Satellite radio is included, along with safety features like side curtain airbags. Also, the Tucson's warranty -- which includes 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage -- is among the most generous available.
Still, while it's a decent all-arounder, the Tucson falls short of being a major-league talent. It lacks the quickness of the Toyota RAV4 V6, the refinement of the Honda CR-V and the fun-to-drive nature of the Nissan Rogue and Saturn Vue. Also, its cargo capacity isn't anything to write home about. In the end, though, this competent, bargain-priced Hyundai has value on its side. It may not have the most compelling bundle of attributes, but it's got a very compelling price -- much like a 12-pack of Keystone Light.
Performance & mpg
Hyundai's Tucson is offered with two engines: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine good for 140 horsepower and 136 pound-feet of torque, and a 2.7-liter V6 that generates 173 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. The GLS is available only with the inline-4, but SE and Limited Tucsons may be purchased with either the inline-4 or the V6. Buyers of the Tucson four-cylinder have their choice of a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic with manual shift control; the V6 comes standard with the automatic. An all-wheel-drive system is also available as an option on V6 models.
A Tucson V6 we tested went from zero to 60 mph in 10.2 seconds, which is pretty lethargic for a V6-powered small crossover -- the peppy RAV4 V6 will do the job a full 3 seconds quicker. Four-cylinder models are slower still. The EPA estimates that the four-cylinder Tucsons with an automatic transmission will get mileage of 20 mpg city/25 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined -- about average for its class. The 4WD V6 Tucson is rated at 18 mpg city/23 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined.
Safety
An impressive complement of standard safety features is offered in the 2009 Hyundai Tucson. Included are antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability and traction control, front-seat side impact airbags, head side curtain airbags and active front head restraints. The Tucson excelled in government crash tests, scoring a perfect five stars for both frontal and side impact protection. Hyundai's compact SUV earned an "Acceptable" rating (the second highest) in frontal offset and side impact crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Driving
Get behind the wheel and you'll find that the 2009 Hyundai Tucson feels carlike on the road; while not exactly sporty, its driving dynamics are pleasant enough. Ride quality is smooth without being too isolating. Recent power hikes in other small crossovers have left the Tucson at a bit of a power deficit, however. The standard four-cylinder is anemic, so we recommend you opt for the V6, even though it can barely keep up with four-cylinder rivals. While the four-speed automatic isn't quite as fluid as the five-speed units offered by other compact SUVs, it's alert enough to keep the V6 in its power band, such as it is.
Interior
In its favor, the Tucson's cabin boasts modern design and good build quality. Front passengers have ample legroom, but larger passengers may feel cramped in the second row. This year's new navigation system has a display screen smaller than that of most other factory systems -- it's more the size of a portable navigation system -- but it's still an inexpensive way to get a built-in system.
This Hyundai's rear seats fold flat to offer up to 66 cubic feet of total capacity -- about average for a small crossover SUV. If you're carrying longer items, the Tucson's front passenger seat will fold down to accommodate the load.
2009 Hyundai Tucson models
A compact crossover SUV, the 2009 Hyundai Tucson comes in three trim levels: base GLS, midlevel SE and top-of-the-line Limited. GLS buyers enjoy standard features like 16-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, full power accessories, heated outside mirrors and a CD/MP3 stereo with satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack.
Step up to the Tucson SE and you get cruise control, premium cloth upholstery, a trip computer, foglights and a leather-wrapped steering wheel; SEs equipped with 4WD also feature heated front seats and a windshield de-icer as standard. The deluxe Limited trim adds a monochromatic exterior, leather upholstery, automatic climate control and an upgraded Kenwood audio and navigation system with a subwoofer and an SD memory card slot. Tucson Limiteds equipped with V6 engines also get a standard sunroof. Bluetooth connectivity is optional.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 Is the Edmunds Top Rated Electric SUV for 2023
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2009 Hyundai Tucson.
5 star(63%)
4 star(21%)
3 star(8%)
2 star(5%)
1 star(3%)
38 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
One of the most under rated small SUV's
Bob Senter,06/05/2016
2008 Hyundai Tucson GLS 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
Super reliable, easy to live with, easy to drive and park, carries 5 people with ease, comfortable on long trips and tons of utility and space. Not the pretties SUV ever built but definitely one of the best.
3.13 out of 5 stars
hmmmmm, jury is still out.
Salem Boicot,11/20/2008
2008 Hyundai Tucson GLS 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
So far, I like the general conservative styling of the vehicle. I have the black interior which gets rid of a lot of the tackiness and cheap feel. Audio is great. Handling is brilliant for a car in its' class. A few blind spots, but otherwise vision is good. Space is well used in car, although question to the depth of the dashboard, could be smaller so that the interior is forward with … larger boot. Fuel economy and engine performance is rubbish. Thus far have got no where near what the dealer claimed, transmission is horrible, it needs 5 gears with better ratios, and it loves a drink. You watch the fuel gauge more than the road. Don't get this if you want an economical car.
4.88 out of 5 stars
Lady Driver loves Tucson
ladydriverca1,05/12/2015
2009 Hyundai Tucson Limited 4dr SUV 4WD (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
Just a great car. At 80K miles now, with no problems whatsoever (even in scorching Arizona). Averages 22-25MPG, which I think is good compared to other 2009 SUVs. A comfortable vehicle, even on long road trips. Fun to drive, quiet, lots of interior cup holders, and the last year of this beautiful model. A perfectly not-too-big SUV that still elevates the driver. Comparable to the … old (wonderful) Isuzu Rodeo.
4.38 out of 5 stars
not enough power
cindy,08/25/2009
2009 Hyundai Tucson SE 4dr SUV (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
I love the look of it. my main complaint is lack of power. Even though it is a 4 cyl I expected a little more power. hard to make hills and inclines if you don't get a good head start. I don;t know if the streets around here are real bad because you can feel all the bumps & uneven surfaces.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2009 Hyundai Tucson, so we've included reviews for other years of the Tucson since its last redesign.
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $18,070
- MPG & Fuel
- 20 City / 26 Hwy / 22 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.3 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 140 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- Torque: 136 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 5 yr./ 60,000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 170.3 in. / Height: 66.1 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 70.7 in.
- Curb Weight: 3,240 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 22.7 cu.ft.
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Side Impact TestAcceptable
- Roof Strength TestPoor
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
- IIHS Small Overlap Front TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front TestAcceptable
People who viewed this also viewed
4.7 average Rating out of 21 reviews. |
Starting at $27,490 |
See Inventory |
4.4 average Rating out of 26 reviews. |
Starting at $31,110 |
See Inventory |
4.4 average Rating out of 24 reviews. |
Starting at $28,200 |
See Inventory |
More about the 2009 Hyundai Tucson
Used 2009 Hyundai Tucson Overview
The Used 2009 Hyundai Tucson is offered in the following submodels: Tucson SUV. Available styles include GLS 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 4A), Limited 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 4A), SE 4dr SUV (2.7L 6cyl 4A), SE 4dr SUV 4WD (2.7L 6cyl 4A), Limited 4dr SUV (2.7L 6cyl 4A), Limited 4dr SUV 4WD (2.7L 6cyl 4A), and GLS 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M). Pre-owned Hyundai Tucson models are available with a 2.0 L-liter gas engine or a 2.7 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 173 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2009 Hyundai Tucson comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 4-speed shiftable automatic.
What's a good price on a Used 2009 Hyundai Tucson?
Price comparisons for Used 2009 Hyundai Tucson trim styles:
- The Used 2009 Hyundai Tucson GLS is priced between $5,795 and$5,795 with odometer readings between 117885 and117885 miles.
- The Used 2009 Hyundai Tucson Limited is priced between $11,590 and$11,590 with odometer readings between 86618 and86618 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2009 Hyundai Tucsons are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2009 Hyundai Tucson for sale near. There are currently 2 used and CPO 2009 Tucsons listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $5,795 and mileage as low as 86618 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2009 Hyundai Tucson.
Can't find a used 2009 Hyundai Tucsons you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a used Hyundai Tucson for sale.
Find a used Hyundai for sale.
Find a used certified pre-owned Hyundai Tucson for sale.
Find a used certified pre-owned Hyundai for sale.
Should I lease or buy a 2009 Hyundai Tucson?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Hyundai lease specials
Check out Hyundai Tucson lease specials
Related Used 2009 Hyundai Tucson info
Shop similar models
Shop used vehicles in your area
- Used Mercedes-Benz R-Class 2011
- Used Audi TT 2018
- Used BMW X5 M 2016
- Used Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder 2007
- Used Buick Regal Sportback 1998
- Used GMC Canyon 2004
- Used Hyundai Tucson 2009
- Used Rolls-Royce Phantom 2011
- Used Chevrolet Cruze
- Used Audi A6 2003
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- 2023 INFINITI QX55
- 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
- 2021 Audi RS 5
- 2021 A-Class
- 2023 Cadillac Escalade
- 2022 Audi RS 5
- 2021 Genesis G80
- 2022 Cadillac XT4
- 2022 Volvo V60
- 2021 CLS-Class
Other models to consider
- 2021 Hyundai Veloster
- Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid 2023
- 2022 IONIQ 5
- 2022 NEXO
- 2021 Hyundai Veloster
- 2021 Sonata Hybrid
- Hyundai Sonata 2022
- Hyundai Elantra 2021
- 2021 Hyundai NEXO
- 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid
Research similar vehicles
- 2023 Ford Bronco Sport
- 2023 Seltos
- Kia Niro 2023
- 2023 Range Rover
- 2023 Volvo XC60
- BMW X1 2023
- 2022 Volkswagen Taos
- Chevrolet Tahoe 2023
- 2023 Lincoln Navigator
- Genesis GV70 2023
Recommended
- Best Audi A5 Lease Deals in Killeen, TX
- New Acura TLX for Sale in Grandview, MO
- New BMW X1 for Sale in Yorba Linda, CA
- New Audi Q3 for Sale in Blue Springs, MO
- Best Audi A7 Lease Deals in Elizabeth, NJ
Other models
- Used Mazda 2 in Egg Harbor Township, NJ
- New Toyota Gr-Corolla for Sale in Glenview, IL
- Used Ford Five-Hundred in Andover, MA
- Used Mitsubishi I-Miev in Jackson Heights, NY
- Used Aston-Martin Vanquish in Wakefield, MA
- Used Nissan Murano-Crosscabriolet in Oconomowoc, WI
- Used Jeep Grand-Cherokee-L in Farmington, CT
- Used Ford Transit-Connect-Passenger-Wagon in Poland, IN
- New Audi SQ8 for Sale in Willowbrook, IL
- New Toyota Tundra for Sale in Havertown, PA
- Used Audi Q4-Sportback-E-Tron in West New York, NJ
- Used Mazda Protege5 in Voorhees, NJ
- Used Mazda Mazdaspeed-6 in Matawan, NJ
- New BMW X6 for Sale in The Villages, FL
- Used Mercedes-Benz C43-Amg in Chaska, MN
- New Dodge Hornet for Sale in Sterling, VA
- Used GMC Sierra-1500Hd in Coeur D Alene, ID
- Used Maserati Coupe in Yorktown, VA
- Used Ferrari 599 in Roxbury, MA
- Used Toyota Previa in Clovis, CA
- Used Audi Q4-Sportback-E-Tron in Bountiful, UT
- Used Mercedes-Benz C43-Amg in South Bend, IN
- Used Mercedes-Benz Clk-Class in Mexico, ME
- Used Chevrolet Malibu-Hybrid in Wantagh, NY
- New Toyota Gr-Corolla for Sale in San Carlos, CA
- New Mitsubishi Outlander-Phev for Sale in Saint Cloud, FL
- New Honda Passport for Sale in Neptune, NJ
- New Mitsubishi Outlander-Phev for Sale in Kearny, NJ
- Used Lamborghini Urus in Jenison, MI
- New Honda Accord-Hybrid for Sale in Yorktown, VA