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New-look Tucson teased by CGI render based on spy photos
Five years into the lifecycle of the fourth-generation Hyundai Tucson, the compact crossover still looks fresh after a late-2023 mid-cycle update for the 2025 model year. But Hyundai is already testing its successor, and a recent set of spy photos — translated into a detailed CGI by well-known renderer Kelsonik — gives the clearest picture yet of what the 2027 Tucson might become.
The artist used heavily camouflaged prototypes and visual cues from Hyundai's larger, new-generation Santa Fe to build a realistic preview. The result suggests a dramatic styling shift: sharper body lines, a more upright stance and a design language that narrows the gap between Tucson and Hyundai's larger SUVs.
Key visual changes
The rendering shows a vehicle that favors angles over curves. Notable exterior features include:
- A clamshell-style hood that flows over the front fenders, giving the front end a more monolithic look.
- A slim LED light bar running across the upper fascia and integrating with side DRLs, while the main headlamp clusters sit lower, beside a wide lower grille.
- Pronounced plastic trim around the wheel arches and a boxier pillar and roof profile that together emphasize a rugged, SUV-like silhouette.
- Extremely tall vertical taillights flanking a recessed tailgate area for the license plate, plus a redesigned bumper and diffuser.
The imagined Tucson keeps conventional door handles, a small but welcome detail in an era of flush-mounted solutions.
Design DNA and comparisons
From some angles the new Tucson hints at Range Rover-like upright proportions, though the overall execution aligns closely with Hyundai family styling, especially the larger Santa Fe. That connection is unsurprising: platform, packaging and market positioning often influence shared cues. If Hyundai intends to present the Tucson as a more premium compact crossover, the sharper geometry and upright stance would help it stand out in a crowded segment.
Inside: tech and semi-autonomy
Inside, reports indicate Hyundai will fit its new Pleos infotainment system, which reportedly improves voice interaction and connectivity compared with current layouts. The next Tucson is also expected to offer an advanced Level+ semi-autonomous driving package, a step above current highway assistance systems and aimed at improving comfort on long trips.
Powertrain expectations
Hyundai has signaled electrification across its lineup, and the Tucson is likely to continue that trend. Expect a range of electrified powertrains at launch, which could include:
- Mild-hybrid and full-hybrid variants for efficiency
- A plug-in hybrid option to appeal to buyers seeking short electric-only range
- Potential battery-electric architecture or closely related EV derivatives in some markets
Exact outputs, battery sizes and range estimates remain unconfirmed until Hyundai releases official specs.
Market positioning and timing
Positioned between compact crossovers and mid-size family SUVs, the Tucson must balance everyday practicality with a touch of style. The sharper, more sculpted look could attract buyers who want a bolder design while retaining the interior space and technology that make the Tucson a mainstream choice.
Early indications point to a 2027 model-year launch in many markets, though Hyundai's official timeline and regional equipment lists may vary.
Highlights
- Radical new exterior with angular surfaces and clamshell hood
- Slim LED light bar and lower headlamp clusters
- Tall vertical taillights and revised bumper design
- Pleos infotainment and Level+ semi-autonomy
- Expected electrified powertrain lineup, including hybrid and PHEV options
This preview, driven by a CGI interpretation of spy imagery, provides a well-informed glimpse at Hyundai's design direction for Tucson. Final production details and official specifications will clarify how much of this concept carries over to showroom models, but the themes are clear: sharper styling, more technology and continued electrification.
Source: autoevolution
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