Next-Generation Hyundai Tucson To Have A Santa Fe-Inspired Face

Hyundai has started testing the next-generation Tucson and according to our sources, big changes are afoot for the SUV.

Let’s start with the looks, shall we? The following Tucson prototype is bathed in thick camouflage and body cladding but even still, there are some obvious styling elements that will differentiate it from all previous Tucson models.

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First and foremost, the new Tucson appears set to receive the similar split headlights to the Hyundai Santa Fe, Kona, and Venue. Complementing these new lights will be a re-designed front grille that drastically alters the look of the new car. It is impossible to determine what the rear of the new SUV will look like but it will certainly share some traits with other Hyundai models.

It’s not just the looks that will separate the new Tucson from the old one. Sources tell us that it will be powered by Hyundai’s new Theta3 2.5-liter engine complete with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine will be sold in both naturally-aspirated and turbocharged configurations and likely be the sole powertrain options in the United States.

Buyers across Europe are likely to be offered 1.6-liter GDI and 1.6-liter turbo T-GDI engines as well as an unspecified diesel. It is also possible the new 2.0 GDI HEV hybrid engine from the Hyundai Sonata will be offered in select Tucson models. Both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations will be available.

Few other details about the next-generation Hyundai Tucson are known but, with that being said, the South Korean car manufacturer has decided to base its forthcoming Santa Cruz medium-sized pickup truck on the same architecture as the new Tucson. Consequently, it will likely share the same engines.

Both the next-generation Hyundai Tucson and the upcoming Santa Cruz pickup will probably be built at Hyundai’s plant in Alabama.