Hyundai Tucson SE: A Budget-Friendly Crossover with Premium Features
The Hyundai Tucson SE stands out as one of the most affordable crossovers in the market without compromising on essential features. As a compact SUV, it offers a perfect blend of practicality, modern styling, and fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers. The Tucson SE is the base trim of the Hyundai Tucson lineup, yet it comes equipped with a surprising number of standard amenities that elevate its value proposition.
With its sleek design, spacious interior, and advanced safety technologies, the Hyundai Tucson SE competes favorably against rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape.
This article explores the Hyundai Tucson SE in detail, covering its performance, interior features, safety ratings, and how it compares to other affordable crossovers. By the end, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of why the Tucson SE is a smart choice for those seeking a well-rounded vehicle without breaking the bank.
The Hyundai Tucson SE is a compact crossover that strikes a balance between affordability and functionality. It is powered by a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that delivers 187 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The Tucson SE offers a smooth ride, responsive handling, and impressive fuel economy, making it ideal for daily commutes and longer journeys alike.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The Tucson SE's 2.5L engine provides adequate power for most driving scenarios, whether merging onto highways or navigating urban traffic. The eight-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth gear shifts, contributing to a refined driving experience. Fuel efficiency is a strong suit, with EPA estimates of 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model. All-wheel-drive variants see a slight dip, returning 24 MPG city and 29 MPG highway.
Interior and Comfort
Despite being the base trim, the Tucson SE boasts a well-appointed cabin with user-friendly technology. Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-speaker audio system, and cloth upholstery. The interior is spacious, offering ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. Cargo capacity stands at 38.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 74.8 cubic feet when the seats are folded down.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Hyundai equips the Tucson SE with a suite of advanced safety features under the Hyundai SmartSense umbrella. Standard safety technologies include forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, and driver attention warning. These features enhance driver confidence and contribute to the Tucson SE's strong safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Comparison Table: Hyundai Tucson SE vs. Competitors
| Feature | Hyundai Tucson SE | Honda CR-V LX | Toyota RAV4 LE | Ford Escape S |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price (USD) | $26,500 | $28,500 | $28,500 | $27,500 |
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder | 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1.5L Turbo 3-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 187 HP | 190 HP | 203 HP | 181 HP |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 26/33 MPG | 28/34 MPG | 27/35 MPG | 28/34 MPG |
| Infotainment Screen | 8-inch | 7-inch | 7-inch | 8-inch |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Final Thoughts
The Hyundai Tucson SE is a compelling option for buyers seeking an affordable yet well-equipped crossover. Its combination of modern features, strong safety credentials, and competitive pricing makes it a standout in its segment. While rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 offer slightly better fuel efficiency, the Tucson SE undercuts them in price while delivering comparable comfort and technology. For those prioritizing value without sacrificing quality, the Hyundai Tucson SE is a smart choice.
References:
Hyundai USA
NHTSA
IIHS
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