Is worth it? 2026 Hyundai Tucson PHEV Review
#phev #hybrid #tucson #rav4
Hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains
Tucson’s hybrid models provide a balanced combination of fun-to-drive performance and excellent economy compared with some competitors’ pure efficiency focus. 2025 Tucson hybrid and plug-in models now offer driver-adjustable levels of regenerative braking for improved control and comfort.
The Hybrid powertrain’s 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine produces an estimated 178 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque, with an estimated 231 total hybrid system horsepower. This hybrid system also produces a total estimated 258 lb.-ft. of torque thanks to a powerful 47.7-kW electric motor (formerly 44.2 kW) and a 1.49-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Tucson Hybrid delivers its abundant power through a specially tuned six-speed automatic transmission for smooth, quiet, and efficient performance.
Plug-In Hybrid models feature a high-output 1.6-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four coupled with a specially tuned six-speed automatic transmission and a more powerful 72.0-kW electric motor (increased from 66.9 kW). Plug-in Hybrid total system output is rated at a robust 268 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. The Plug-In Hybrid battery is larger than the Hybrid pack, offering 13.8 kWh of lithium-ion power. Level 2 AC charging5 takes fewer than two hours to recharge the PHEV’s battery using its 7.2-kW onboard charger.
The 2025 Tucson SUV is photographed in California City, Calif., on Feb. 22, 2024.
Shared hybrid and plug-in hybrid technologies
Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models include standard HTRAC® all-wheel drive (AWD) to meet the needs of eco-minded buyers seeking enhanced capability in inclement weather and limited-traction situations. Driver-selectable HTRAC® Normal, Sport, Snow, and (new for 2025) My Drive modes offer confident driver control in a wide range of conditions. Moreover, within the new My Drive sub-menu, a driver-selectable Baby Mode helps reduce the sharpness of initial acceleration, smoothing out driver inputs for a gentler acceleration feeling for passengers. This more serene experience helps reduce potential disturbances that may upset infants or pets. Additionally, a new Green Zone drive mode optimizes pure EV mode for use in urban zones with specific eco-focused requirements. The Sport setting gives Tucson a more agile feel by sending additional torque to the rear wheels for a sporty, dynamic experience.
00:00 – Start
01:08 – Power / Range
03:38 – Exterior / Cargo / Backseat
04:31 – Cockpit
07:40 – Driving Impressions
14:29 – Shopping for PHEVs
18:01 – Final SCORE
