While its official debut is expected to take place at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show, given the importance of the U.S. market, Hyundai has unveiled the fifth generation of its SUV for the first time. Longer, wider and notably more distinctive in terms of design than its predecessor, the new Tucson is preparing to take on numerous rivals in its segment.
One of the key design elements defining the new model’s identity is its completely redesigned light signature. The angular lighting units feature a distinctive H-shaped design. The main headlights are now concealed and positioned lower in the bumper, while full-width light bars are featured at both the front and rear of the vehicle.
The images released by Hyundai reveal a more muscular, squared-off and upright design approach. This appearance is further emphasized by the vehicle’s increased dimensions, with its length growing by 60 mm to 4,700 mm, its width increasing by 40 mm, and its height rising by 20 mm.
The new Tucson’s wheelbase has also been extended to 2,785 mm. This change contributes positively to interior space, with second-row headroom increasing by 29 mm. Combined with the other dimensional increases, the vehicle takes on a more imposing presence, almost resembling a true off-road vehicle.
In line with this approach, the model range is also set to gain the previously unavailable Tucson XRT variant. Based on the limited images released so far, the XRT stands out with more rugged exterior styling elements and underbody protection. Combined with its dedicated tyres, these features suggest a version with an even stronger outdoor and off-road character.
The interior has also undergone significant changes. Moving towards a more minimalist yet highly technological cabin, the completely redesigned dashboard adopts a horizontal layout dominated by a large infotainment touchscreen at the centre, operated through the Pleos Connect system. Other interior highlights include a digital instrument cluster and a new two-spoke steering wheel.
As experts have also noted, the 2027 Tucson clearly demonstrates Hyundai’s move towards a more upright and angular design language across its model range. This trend, elements of which have already been seen on the new Elantra, is also expected to influence the next generation of the Creta, a compact SUV that is particularly important for the Indian and South American markets. The next-generation Creta is expected to make its debut in early 2027.
