2021 Hyundai Tucson Review
Price Range: $15,075 - $23,990





+306
Good
8.0
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
It's difficult to think of a more competitive segment than the one inhabited by the 2021 Hyundai Tucson. It takes a very well-rounded vehicle to stand out, and the Tucson is exactly that. Its mix of value, ease of use, comfort and inherent practicality make it a strong choice in this class.
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2021 Hyundai Tucson Review
Pros
- A wealth of features for your money
- Easy-to-use infotainment system
- Comfortable ride on rough roads
Cons
- Slow acceleration with the base engine
- Less cargo space than top rivals
- Lower fuel economy than class leaders
What's new
- No significant changes for the 2021 Tucson
- Part of the third Tucson generation introduced in 2016
Overview

There are so many small SUVs on sale today that it can be hard to figure out which one's going to be best for you. The Hyundai Tucson, for example, easily gets overlooked compared to the likes of the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. But it's a viable alternative that earns high marks for its excellent infotainment system, comfortable ride and roomy interior. It also costs thousands of dollars less than similarly equipped rivals, ensuring you can get a competitive small SUV at a budget-friendly price.
For sale near Boydton, VA
33 listings
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- $18,419good price$1,043 below market
- 38,819 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use
- 5 Seats, 22 City / 28 Hwy MPG
- Murphy Motor Co of Oxford (27 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Blind Spot Monitorin...
- Power Driver Seat
Close
Located in Oxford, NC
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (22 City/28 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: KM8J33AL0MU361972
Stock: 361972
Certified Pre-Owned: No - $15,075great price$2,742 below market
- 58,887 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 5 Seats, 23 City / 28 Hwy MPG
- Driveway (2,341 mi away)
- Home delivery*
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Blind Spot Monitorin...
- Power Driver Seat
Close
Located in Elk Grove, CA
CarFax No Accidents Reported,Rare Find,Apple CarPlay,Back-Up Camera,Blind Spot Monitor,Bluetooth,Brake Assist,Heated Seats,Keyless Start,Lane Keeping ...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (23 City/28 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: KM8J33A42MU396893
Stock: MU396893P
Certified Pre-Owned: No
The Tucson doesn't have many downsides, though both of its available engines are lackluster in terms of fuel economy and acceleration. The Tucson's cargo area is also a bit smaller than some of the more spacious choices in the class. Look for improvements in these areas on the redesigned Hyundai Tucson, which we expect will be released next year.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Good
8.0
out of 10
We drove the 2021 Hyundai Tucson on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.
Performance
8/10
How does the Tucson drive? If the Tucson had a bit more horsepower, it'd be very difficult to find fault with how it performs. Braking and handling are more than competent and impart a better feeling of control than you find in other SUVs. It even has well-balanced steering — light at low speeds but with enough heft to give you confidence on the highway.
Despite a well-calibrated transmission, the engine's lack of power is noticeable. Small SUVs aren't known for rip-roaring acceleration, but even with this in mind, the Tucson feels sluggish. The standard 2.0-liter has even less oomph.
Despite a well-calibrated transmission, the engine's lack of power is noticeable. Small SUVs aren't known for rip-roaring acceleration, but even with this in mind, the Tucson feels sluggish. The standard 2.0-liter has even less oomph.
Comfort
8.5/10
How comfortable is the Tucson? If a smooth ride and comfortable interior are what you seek in a compact SUV, the Tucson needs to be at the top of your list of test-drive candidates. It easily equals the best vehicles in the class and is head and shoulders above the others. Indeed, the Tucson is a relaxing place to be during a long drive. It handles road irregularities exceptionally well, suppressing dips and seams without jarring the occupants.
Neither overly bolstered nor too flat, the front seats support a wide range of body types. The upper trim offers heating and ventilation — a rarity in this class — and the rear seats are heated too. Though wind noise is present at higher speeds, road and engine noise is controlled. This Hyundai has one of the quieter cabins in the segment.
Neither overly bolstered nor too flat, the front seats support a wide range of body types. The upper trim offers heating and ventilation — a rarity in this class — and the rear seats are heated too. Though wind noise is present at higher speeds, road and engine noise is controlled. This Hyundai has one of the quieter cabins in the segment.
Interior
8/10
How’s the interior? There's a good sense of room, and anybody 6 foot tall or shorter will have plenty of legroom and headroom. Taller occupants will want a bit more of each, especially with the headroom-gobbling panoramic sunroof. There's good outward visibility all around with minimal blind spots. That said, the rearview camera is low-resolution and the details are often blurry when backing up.
It doesn't take long to get familiar with the Tucson. Every interface is straightforward, and its controls are clearly marked. It seems simple, but as vehicles get more and more complicated, that itself is turning into a bit of a luxury.
It doesn't take long to get familiar with the Tucson. Every interface is straightforward, and its controls are clearly marked. It seems simple, but as vehicles get more and more complicated, that itself is turning into a bit of a luxury.
Technology
8/10
How’s the tech? Hyundai's infotainment system is one of the more straightforward and easy-to-use systems on the market, let alone in the class. Its display isn't the prettiest, but it's darn functional. Voice controls are similarly easy to operate and don't require exact syntax.
Other highlights are a powerful optional Infinity-branded audio system, smart advanced driving aids and an intuitive navigation system. Drawbacks include a small touchscreen with dated graphics, but even this is a minor complaint.
Other highlights are a powerful optional Infinity-branded audio system, smart advanced driving aids and an intuitive navigation system. Drawbacks include a small touchscreen with dated graphics, but even this is a minor complaint.
Storage
7.5/10
How’s the storage? The Tucson is hardly impractical, even though it trails some of its competitors in outright cargo capacity (31 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, compared to leaders such as the Honda CR-V with 39.2 cubes). With an agreeable liftover height and quick-folding rear seats, it's at least easy to load the cargo area. The cabin also offers plenty of room throughout to store small items.
The Tucson carries a tow rating of 2,000 pounds, which is more than the CR-V or the Subaru Forester. The modestly powered engine means it'll be a little slow when doing so.
The Tucson carries a tow rating of 2,000 pounds, which is more than the CR-V or the Subaru Forester. The modestly powered engine means it'll be a little slow when doing so.
Fuel Economy
6.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? Rated at 25 mpg (22 city/28 highway), the Tucson is thirstier than the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Forester. A 16.4-gallon fuel tank goes some way toward extending the range, but we were not able to break 20 mpg over a tank of fuel in our time with the Tucson. All-wheel drive would lower the mileage even further.
Value
8/10
Is the Tucson a good value? Value for the money has always been a strong point for Hyundai. And while the Tucson does lag behind in fuel economy and horsepower, its high level of build quality, generous warranties and feature content keep it just ahead of the competitive pack. As with sister company Kia, Hyundai offers a five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Roadside assistance is covered for five years/unlimited miles, which is similarly excellent.
Wildcard
8/10
Compact SUVs score points for being so simple to drive and free of frustration that they nearly become transparent in normal use. That's exactly what the Tucson does. With its mix of electronic and comfort-oriented features, the Tucson helps to take the edge off even the toughest daily drives. It's not particularly fun, but it can handle a few bends or on-ramps without falling on its door handles.
2021 Hyundai Tucson trim level differences
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson is a small SUV sold in six trim levels: SE, Value, SEL, Sport, Limited and Ultimate. The SE and the Value come standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (161 horsepower, 150 lb-ft of torque). The SEL, the Sport and the Limited get a 2.4-liter engine (181 hp, 175 lb-ft). Both engines are paired to a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional on all trims.
Which Tucson trim does Edmunds recommend?
True to its name, the Value trim offers a fantastic set of features for the money. But we recommend paying just a little more for the SEL. It comes with the Tucson's more powerful engine plus upgraded interior trim and rear air vents to keep backseat passengers happy.
Compare 2021 Hyundai Tucson trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

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Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$148/mo for Tucson SE
Tucson SE
vs
$159/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
Reliability
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson has a 5 years / 60,000 miles basic warranty and 1 recall. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, ranks it #10 out of 29 among Compact SUVs. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Reliability Rating by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Above Average
#10 out of 29 among Compact SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$390/yr
vs. $465/yr
for Average Compact SUV
for Average Compact SUV
Frequency
1x/yr
vs. 1x/yr
for Average Compact SUV
for Average Compact SUV
Severity
11.9%
vs. 11.5%
for Average Compact SUV
for Average Compact SUV
powered by RepairPal
Recalls
1 recall foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 20V543000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 195
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 180000
- Defect Description:
- Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Tucson vehicles. The Anti-lock Brake Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) could corrode internally and cause an electrical short, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire.
- Defect Consequence:
- An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury or crash.
- Corrective Action:
- Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the HECU, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. The recall is expected to begin October 30, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 195.
Warranty
5 years / 60,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 10 years / 100,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 7 years / unlimited miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 5 years / unlimited miles
- Free maintenance Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
Hyundai Tucson Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Great Value
5 out of 5 starsBrian McInnes, 09/21/2020
2021 Hyundai Tucson Value 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
I traded my 2020 Sonata in for a Tucson value. I needed an SUV for practicality and health reasons.. all I can say is I’m very happy with Tucson Value I bought.comfortable and quiet ride. Easy to get in and out of and good storage. I thought performance and fuel consumption would be a down side of buying this car. Fuel consumption on a long highway run doing around 80 mph was just over … 34 mpg. About 30 mpg running around locally. So better than I anticipated. Performance wise. It’s adequate and if you need more zip I can select Sport mode. All in all I’m happy with my choice.
Great overall for the price
5 out of 5 starsSteve, 10/13/2020
2021 Hyundai Tucson Value 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
Smooth ride...getting 33mpg which is better than suggested which is great..nice storage area and rides very well.
Love my new Tucson
5 out of 5 starsJulie, 03/13/2021
2021 Hyundai Tucson Ultimate 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
Comfortable seating, roomy inside, but doesn’t feel boxy. Smooth quiet ride, no problems with acceleration up hills or on highway. Dash controls smartly placed, not overwhelming.
Love my 2021 Hyundai Tucson Ultimate
5 out of 5 starsTrysha, 02/08/2021
2021 Hyundai Tucson Ultimate 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
I bought a 2021 Hyundai Tucson Ultimate because I prefer the size over a Santa Fe and I have been extremely pleased with it. It has a great, smooth, quiet ride, a solid feel and lots of nice tech. And I LOVE that Sport Mode and panoramic roof! The internet keeps touting the "new" model with a few extra lights on the front, the odd looking wheels and the dents in the side. I think … mine is MUCH prettier, "tougher" looking and well...just more expensive looking. I think Hyundai makes really great vehicles though and I have bought Hyundai for the past several years. Just glad I bought my Tucson when I did.
2021 Hyundai Tucson video
Best Small SUV Comparison 2021: Tucson vs. RAV4 vs. CX-5 vs. Rogue vs. Tucson
Small SUVs are the go-to for just about every shopper, and it's easy to see why. They seamlessly blend comfort, cargo space, technology and fuel economy into one compact SUV package. In this video, Alistair Weaver and Carlos Lago compare the best and most popular small SUVs in America to find out which is the best SUV for sale in 2021. The small SUV entrants are the… Hyundai Tucson, Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4. In this ultimate SUV comparison, we give you all the information you need, including the details on mpg, cargo space, interior and tech features, to help you decide which compact SUVs is the right fit for you and your family.
2021 Tucson Highlights
SE
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $23,700 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 25 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $148/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 31.0 cu.ft. |
front wheel drive | |
Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Tucson models:
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning
- Monitors your blind spot for cars and warns you through visual and, if needed, audible alerts.
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Scans the road ahead for cars and pedestrians. First alerts you of an issue, then automatically brakes if needed.
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Helps keep you in your lane by applying some steering input when it detects the car is approaching or crossing the line.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover16.2%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedPoor
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedMarginal
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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