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Spied: A tougher-looking Tucson heads for 2027 showrooms
Hyundai's all-new 2027 Tucson is in the final stages of winter testing, and spy photographers have captured two distinct prototypes that reveal how broad the lineup will be. One tester wears clear off-road-focused cues as the new XRT Pro trim, while a second, lower-slung example previews a more road-oriented variant. Both confirm the Tucson's boxier styling direction and a richer technology package.
Design language and rugged cues
The next-generation Tucson adopts a more angular silhouette than the outgoing model: hexagonal wheel arches, a flat clamshell hood and upright, trim-specific bumpers give it a more planted, SUV-like presence. Signature lighting has shifted too, with vertical turn signals and low-mounted headlight clusters up front, and vertically oriented rear lights that visually raise the car's stance — a design move that echoes Hyundai's larger Palisade.
On the XRT Pro, camouflage couldn't hide several dedicated off-road details: raised suspension, skid plates and chunky body cladding. The prototype also wears unique roof rails and XRT-branded black-finish alloy caps that sit behind Continental CrossContact ATR tires sized 235/60 R18, a package chosen for improved wet traction, off-road grip and long-wearing performance.
Highlights:
- Lifted ride height and trim-specific bumpers
- Continental CrossContact ATR 235/60 R18 tires
- Hexagonal wheel arches and clamshell hood
- Vertical turn signals and taller-looking rear lamps
Hardware for adventures: eLSD and HTRAC
Hyundai appears to be positioning the Tucson XRT Pro against off-road-leaning compact rivals such as Subaru's Outback-ish models and the Honda CR-V TrailSport. Expect functional recovery hooks, dedicated terrain modes and an off-road display in the instrument cluster. The XRT Pro may borrow the Palisade's electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD), which uses electronically controlled clutches to route up to 100 percent of rear-axle torque to a single wheel, offering better traction than brake-based torque-vectoring systems. That eLSD is designed to integrate with Hyundai's HTRAC AWD system for smarter torque management on loose surfaces.
Interior tech and infotainment
Inside, the 2027 Tucson should push forward in cabin tech. Spy reports say the model will debut Hyundai's Pleos Connect infotainment and will offer a 9.9-inch digital instrument cluster paired with an enormous 17-inch touchscreen infotainment display. Despite that large screen footprint, the center stack will retain numerous physical controls for commonly used functions — a practical choice for drivers who prefer tactile buttons over menus.
Powertrains: hybrid focus and a PHEV range tease
On the powertrain front, Hyundai is rolling out its TMED-II hybrid system as part of the new Tucson family. Unlike the larger Palisade's 2.5-liter application, the Tucson is expected to use an updated 1.6-liter engine tuned to meet Euro 7 emissions standards. Hyundai is also developing a plug-in hybrid with a targeted WLTP electric range of up to 100 km (about 62 miles), which would be a strong selling point in Europe and other markets where electric range is a purchasing factor.
Hyundai has also hinted at a performance-focused N variant later in the cycle. That hot model could blend hybrid assistance to boost straight-line performance while still complying with tough Euro 7 regulations — a modern take on performance that balances power and emissions.
Market positioning and what this means for buyers
The 2027 Tucson aims to broaden its appeal: a rugged XRT Pro for outdoors-oriented buyers, well-equipped mainstream trims for families, and a tech-forward interior to attract buyers who prize connectivity. With hybrid and plug-in options on the roadmap — plus a potential N flagship — Hyundai plans a Tucson range that competes across the compact SUV segment on capability, efficiency and driving excitement.
If Hyundai nails the combination of genuine off-road competence, robust infotainment and efficient electrified powertrains, the next-gen Tucson could strengthen its position as one of the brand's best-selling global models. Expect official reveal details and full specs closer to its arrival in dealer showrooms for the 2027 model year.
Source: autoevolution
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