2021 Hyundai Tucson

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Rating7.1

Ranked #8 in 

Compact SUV
Write Review
$23,700 - $33,450
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on November 1, 2023

ProsConsWhat's New

Plenty of standard features

Acceleration doesn't feel lively

No significant changes

Class-leading warranty

Smaller luggage room compared to the competitors

Refined ride quality

Intutive infotainment system

Specs & Features

$23,700

price

161 hp @ 6200 rpm

horsepower

150 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm

torque

6-Speed Shiftable Automatic

transmission

2.0L 4cyl FWD 6A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson is the new standard of stylish functionality, delivering a perfect blend of comfort, technology, and safety. Designed for families, the Tucson is comfortable and roomy. Just one look at the Tucson reveals the difference in how it feels from other vehicles: its wide stance, short overhangs, and taut proportions give it a youthful, sporty look. However, there aren’t any significant changes in the 2021 iteration when compared to the outgoing 2020 Tucson. 

Buying Advice

All trim levels of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson come equipped with a multitude of driver-assist, connectivity, and safety features, so you can embrace every drive. Our recommendation would be to upgrade to the Limited trim for its tech-rich interior and rear air vents to satisfy backseat passengers. Furthermore, the Limited variant is stuffed full of safety technology as well.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

Tucson's third generation will end after this update, and the much-awaited Hyundai Tucson generation change will be coming in the year 2022. Regardless of its purpose, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson has a versatile design that exceeds expectations. As a vehicle that can accommodate five passengers comfortably and has many family-friendly features, the Hyundai Tucson is an excellent option for many different families. This mid-size SUV buckles up against the likes of Kia Sportage, Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5.

Features
9.0/10

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson is available in a selection of six trim levels, including SE, Value, SEL, Sport, Limited, and Ultimate. The 2021 Tucson Lineup is powered by two engines. The SE and Value models come with a 2.0-liter Inline-4 engine, while the rest of the trims are powered by a more powerful 2.4-liter engine. Front-wheel drive is standard across all trims with all-wheel drive available as an option. The base SE trim for the 2021 Hyundai Tucson starts at $23,700 and reaches $32,050 for the top of the line Ultimate trim. 

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson comes equipped with several features like a two-tone interior, LED headlights and taillights, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated side mirrors and steering wheel, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift controls, sport-style gauges, six-speaker audio system and 7-inch touchscreen. Among other features, we get heated rear seats, an 8-inch touchscreen, leather-trimmed seats, rain-sensitive wipers, and an eight-speaker Infinity audio system on the higher trim levels.

Trims

SE

Value

SEL

Sport 

Limited

Ultimate

MSRP (FWD)

$23,700

$25,150

$26,100

$28,250

$29,400

$32,050

MSRP (AWD)

$25,100

$26,550

$27,500

$29,650

$30,800

$33,450

Key Features

Automatic Headlights

Adds/upgrades the features of SE trim

It adds/upgrades features of Value trim 

It adds/upgrades features of SEL trim 

It adds/upgrades features of Sport trim 

It adds/upgrades features of Limited trim 

 

7-inch touchscreen

Heated front seats

Rear air vents

LED Headlights

Heated steering wheel

Heated rear seats

 

17-inch alloy wheels

Heated side mirrors

Dual-zone climate control

Hands-free liftgate

Power passenger seat

8-inch touchscreen

 

Six-speaker audio system

HD Radio

Rear USB port

Leather-wrapped steering wheel

Leather upholstery

Integrated navigation system

 

Height adjustable driver’s seat

Power-adjustable driver’s Seat

18-inch alloy wheels

19-inch wheels

18-inch wheels

Ventialed front seats

 

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility

Satellite radio

 

Auto-dimming rearview mirror

Chrome exterior trim

Rain-sensing windshield wipers

 

Forward collision warning

Roof rails

 

Wireless charging pad

Surround-view mirror

Panoramic sunroof

 

Automatic emergency braking

Blind-spot monitor

 

8-speaker Infinity audio system

 

Adaptive cruise control

Which trim should you buy? 

All trim levels of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson come equipped with a multitude of driver-assist, connectivity, and safety features, so you can embrace every drive. Our recommendation would be to upgrade to the Limited trim for its tech-rich interior and rear air vents to satisfy backseat passengers. Furthermore, the Limited variant is stuffed full of safety technology as well.

Fuel Economy
5.0/10

While the 2021 Hyundai Tucson is good at helping you get around town, whether you're running errands or driving to the office, its rivals provide better fuel economy. A front-wheel drive Hyundai with the base 2.0-liter inline-4 gets EPA ratings of 23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. With the All-wheel drivetrain, fuel economy drops to 22 mpg city, 25 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined. For combined use, the front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions powered by the 2.4-liter Inline-4 return 25 and 23 miles per gallon, respectively. 

Models

2021 Hyundai Tucson

2021 Kia Sportage

2021 Toyota RAV4

2021 Mazda CX-5

MPG (City)

23

23

26

25

MPG (Highway)

28

30

35

31

MPG (Combined)

25

26

30

28

Fuel Capacity (gallons)

16.4

16.4

14.5

14.8

Range (City/ Highway/ Combined)

377.2/459.2/492.0

337.2/492.0/426.4

377/508/450

370/459/414

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson is outperformed by its rivals in terms of fuel efficiency. With its high fuel efficiency among this group of SUVs, the Toyota RAV4 is a surprise considering that it has the most power. In comparison to the Tucson, the Mazda CX-5 has much better MPG figures.

Interior
7.0/10

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson builds on the strengths of the current model. The Tucson's small size and roomy interior make it a popular choice for both families and active singles alike, while its practical interior, and affordable price let you do the driving. With generous amounts of passenger space, the cabin offers comfort and technology. Moreover, the interior is designed with dual-tone elements.

Inside the 2021 Tucson, you’ll find all the materials you like, plus great seats, intuitive technology and tons of storage space. All trims are cloth-upholstered, but only the Limited and Ultimate trims are leatherette-upholstered. Despite being a compact SUV, the Tucson packs all the comfort and convenience you might expect from a premium SUV. Furthermore, even in the most challenging ride situations, the Hyundai Tucson provides enough room for 5 passengers to sit comfortably. 

Models

2021 Hyundai Tucson

2021 Kia Sportage

2021 Toyota RAV4

2021 Mazda CX-5

Seating Capacity

5

5

5

5

Front (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)

39.6/57.1/41.5

39.3/57.1/41.5

39.5/57.8/41.0

39.7/57.1/41.0

Rear (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)

39.2/55.5/38.2

39.1/55.1/38.2

39.5/56.4/37.8

39.0/54.8/39.6

Cargo Volume (cubic feet)

32.0 cu-ft

30.7 cu-ft

37.6 cu-ft

30.9 cu-ft

With a cargo capacity of 32 cubic feet, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson is ideal for your weekend getaway with the family. A 60:40 split is available for the rear seats on the 2021 Hyundai Tucson as well. With the 2nd row flattened out, the 2021 Tucson offers a maximum trunk capacity of 61.9 cubic feet. In the competitive landscape, it is all too common to find cars that carry five passengers with good head, shoulders, and headroom for both front and rear occupants. Therefore, no reason to complain.

Standard interior features of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson include:

  • Heated Leather Wrapped Steering wheel
  • Heated Front Seats
  • Cloth upholstery and available leather upholstery
  • Manually adjustable front seats
  • Automatic climate control
  • Push-button start and Proximity keyless entry
  • Rear door alert
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat in SL Plus trim

How intuitive is the 2021 Hyundai Tucson Infotainment System?

The infotainment system in the 2021 Hyundai Tucson offers versatile connectivity as standard across the range. With its intuitive interface, it offers easy access to smart phones and is easy to use.

The 2021 Tucson’s infotainment system is packed with features like Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, 6-speaker audio system and a 7-inch touchscreen. Spend some extra money, and you'll get a wireless charger, an 8-speaker sound system, and an 8-inch touchscreen. 

All the standard Infotainment features are listed below:

  • 7-inch touch screen
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
  • Bluetooth Audio streaming 
  • 6-speaker audio system
  • One USB port
  • Available 8-inch Touchscreen
  • Available HD Radio
  • Available 8-speaker sound system
  • Available Navigation System
  • Available wireless device charging

Exterior
5.0/10

Drivers of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson enjoy the sophistication of an upscale car, the fun of a sport-utility vehicle and the versatility of a crossover. Its sleek, bold design is anchored by chiseled lines, a wide stance and athletic proportions. This SUV is presented with the usual Hyundai grille and LED DRLs on the sides, as well as a couple of fog lamps and air vents. The machine's bonnet is raised up, while creases define the profile of the machine's sides.

As for the technology, the car is equipped with LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights. On top of that we get a rear privacy glass and a lip spoiler on the rear. Rain-sensing windshield wipers are standard for customers who select the Ultimate trim. The wheel sizes range from 17 inches to 18 inches to 19 inches, depending on the trim level. As a whole, with the Tucson, the otherwise boring crossover segment gets more zest and attitude.

Models

2021 Hyundai Tucson

2021 Kia Sportage

2021 Toyota RAV4

2021 Mazda CX-5

Curb Weight (lbs)

3,309 lbs

3,305 lbs

3,370 lbs

3,541 lbs

Length (inches)

176.4

184.1

180.9

179.1

Width (inches)

72.8

73

73.0

72.5

Height (inches)

65.0

64.4

67.0

66.2

Ground Clearance (inches)

7.5

6.4

8.4

7.5

Wheelbase (inches)

105.1

107.1

105.9

106.2

Dimensionally, the 2021 Tucson is the most compact SUV among its competitors. The Kia Sportage has the longest wheelbase compared to other vehicles, which also translates into its interior space being more generous. For its part, the Toyota RAV4 has the highest ground clearance of the lot, something that SUV drivers value very highly.

Some standout exterior features of the Hyundai Tucson include:

  • LED Headlights with DRLs
  • Rain-sensing windshield wipers
  • Fog Lights
  • 17-inch wheels
  • Rear Privacy Glass
  • Auto High Beam Assist
  • Heated Mirrors

Safety
8.0/10

Just like its predecessor, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson bagged an overall 5-star rating in NHTSA testing, while the IIHS hasn’t tested the 2021 Tucson yet. The 2021 Tucson comes pre-equipped with a long-list of safety features like forward-collision warning, emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and lane-departure warning. The upper trims grab features like surround-view monitor, driver attention warning and anti-theft system. 

Standard and available safety features include:

  • Lane keep assist
  • Lane departure warning
  • Forward collision warning
  • Driver drowsiness monitoring
  • Rearview camera
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Available Adaptive cruise control
  • Available Pedestrian detection
  • Available Surround-view Praking camera system
  • Available Automatic high-beam headlights
  • Available Blind-spot monitoring system
  • Available Rear cross traffic alert system

Competition
7.0/10

2021 Hyundai Tucson vs 2021 Kia Sportage

Sportage and Tucson have many similarities due to the fact that both models are part of the same family. In addition to sharing many of the same safety and technology features, these compact SUVs are similar in size and price.

Furthermore, both automobiles provide composed handling, a smooth ride, and a lengthy warranty period. However, the Sportage offers a nicer cabin than the Tucson, as well as a more intriguing design. 

2021 Hyundai Tucson vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

Both the RAV4 and Tucson are compact SUVs with many qualities consumers are looking for, so it can be difficult to choose between them. A rugged design defines the RAV4, while the Tucson sports a more modern appearance.

However, it trails the Toyota RAV4 by a few points. Despite the higher price, the RAV4 offers better safety features, a better fuel economy rating, and more trims to choose from, including an off-roading model.

2021 Hyundai Tucson vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

Truth to be told, the Hyundai Tucson is outperformed and outshone by the Mazda CX-5 on every performance test. With a less powerful engine than the CX-5, the Hyundai Tucson scores lower MPG yet also underperforms.

While the Hyundai vehicle is significantly less expensive than the Mazda, the Hyundai vehicle comes with much better warranty packages. In general, Mazda has had a tough time staying afloat due to Hyundai's reputation for offering the best warranty in the industry. 

Final Verdict
7.0/10

It is the perfect vehicle for a driver who wants to enjoy a fun driving experience and experience the latest Hyundai innovations. A gas engine with an automatic transmission provides fuel efficiency and smooth shifting. There are many safety features in this vehicle as well. The advanced technologies on board will ensure safety and ensure that you never get lost on your journey back home. In short, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson was designed to be an easy and convenient commuting vehicle for your daily use. 

Trims

    SE
    $23,700 onwards
    • 7-Inch touchscreen
    • Automatic headlights
    • Forward collision mitigation
    • Height-Adjustable driver's seat
    • Six-Speaker audio system
    Value
    $25,150 onwards
    • Heated Front Seats
    • Heated mirrors
    • Keyless entry and ignition
    • Rear cross-traffic alert
    • Roof rails
    SEL
    $26,100 onwards
    • 18-Inch alloy wheels
    • Dual exhaust outlets
    • Rear air vents
    • Rear USB port
    • Soft-Touch plastic door trim
    Sport
    $28,250 onwards
    • Auto-Dimming rearview mirror
    • Hands-Free liftgate
    • Leather-Wrapped steering wheel
    • Wireless charging pad
    Limited
    $29,400 onwards
    • Chrome exterior trim
    • Heated steering wheel
    • Power Passenger Seat
    • Surround-View camera system
    Ultimate
    $32,050 onwards
    • 8-Inch touchscreen
    • Adaptive cruise control
    • Automatic wipers
    • Panoramic sunroof
    • Ventilated front seats

Compare to similar cars

Price

$23,700- $33,450

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

7.09

Horsepower

181 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque

311 lb.-ft. @ 1700 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$23,200- $26,100

Gasoline

8.25

155 hp @ 5600 rpm

177 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

5

Read Review

$26,850- $42,450

Gasoline

7.59

191 hp @ 6100 rpm

181 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

5

Read Review

$24,795- $34,895

Gasoline

7.07

182 hp @ 5800 rpm

176 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm

5

Read Review

$24,495- $31,395

Gasoline

6.14

180 hp @ 6400 rpm

175 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm

5

Read Review

$27,210- $38,975

Gasoline

6.13

180 hp @ 6250 rpm

171 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm

-

Read Review

$21,020- $29,340

Gasoline

6.03

141 hp @ 6500 rpm

127 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm

5

Read Review

$26,050- $37,230

Gasoline

6.93

201 hp @ 5600 rpm

225 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

5

Read Review

$25,245- $39,095

Gasoline

6.93

184 hp @ 4360 rpm

221 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

7

Read Review

$24,885- $36,155

Gasoline

7.26

181 hp @ 6000 rpm

190 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm

5

Read Review

2021 Hyundai Tucson vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    9.5 sec--
    6.5 sec15.0 sec135 mph
    6.8 sec15.2 sec-
    7 sec--
    7.8 sec15.6 sec119 mph
    8.1 sec16.2 sec-

    2021 Hyundai Tucson vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      23 mpg28 mpg25 mpg16.4 gal.377.2/459.2 mi.
      2021 Kia Niro

      Ranked #1

      53 mpg48 mpg50 mpg11.9 gal.630.70/571.20 mi.
      27 mpg35 mpg30 mpg14.5 gal.391.5/507.5 mi.
      27 mpg35 mpg30 mpg14.5 gal.391.5/507.5 mi.
      28 mpg34 mpg30 mpg13.2 gal.369.6/448.8 mi.
      26 mpg33 mpg29 mpg16.6 gal.431.6/547.8 mi.

      2021 Hyundai Tucson vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        176.4 in.72.8 in.64.8 in.6.4 in.105.1 in.
        188.9 in.74.8 in.66.7 in.6.9 in.110.8 in.
        188.4 in.74.8 in.66.3 in.8.2 in.108.9 in.

        2021 Mitsubishi Outlander

        Ranked #3

        185.8 in.71.3 in.67.3 in.8.5 in.105.1 in.
        185.1 in.72.4 in.66.3 in.7.9 in.109.8 in.
        183.1 in.72.6 in.65.4 in.7.6 in.107.3 in.

        2021 Hyundai Tucson vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          31 cu.ft.102.2 cu.ft.61.9 cu.ft.
          18.8 cu.ft.92.8 cu.ft.48.4 cu.ft.
          31.1 cu.ft.111.9 cu.ft.76.1 cu.ft.
          31.6 cu.ft.105.4 cu.ft.74.1 cu.ft.
          37.6 cu.ft.98.9 cu.ft.69.8 cu.ft.
          24.3 cu.ft.100.1 cu.ft.58.8 cu.ft.

          2021 Hyundai Tucson vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            6.8 cu.ft.31 cu.ft.61.9 cu.ft.-
            74.1 cu.ft.31.6 cu.ft.74.1 cu.ft.-
            65.7 cu.ft.12 cu.ft.65.7 cu.ft.-
            76.1 cu.ft.31.1 cu.ft.76.1 cu.ft.-
            60.1 cu.ft.30.7 cu.ft.60.1 cu.ft.-
            63.3 cu.ft.29.6 cu.ft.63.3 cu.ft.-

            2021 Hyundai Tucson vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              1500 lbs.1146 lbs.3309 lbs.
              2021 Kia Niro

              Ranked #1

              2800 lbs.849 lbs.3100 lbs.
              2000 lbs.1202 lbs.3305 lbs.
              2000 lbs.1034 lbs.3552 lbs.
              2000 lbs.1521 lbs.3794 lbs.
              2000 lbs.1488 lbs.3649 lbs.

              2021 Hyundai Tucson SUV Problems, Issues, Complaints, Recalls, and which year to avoid?

              1

              Recalls

              1

              Investigations

              45

              Complaints
              Overall Safety Rating
              Read More

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              Horsepower : 161 hp @ 6200 rpm

              MPG Combined : 25 mpg

              0-60 : 9.5 sec

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              2021 Hyundai Tucson User Reviews

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              POPULAR TAGS

              Mr

              Mohammad reza

              2021 Hyundai Tucson

              Limited 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A)

              Not Rated

              User Overall Rating

              Posted On: July 29, 2024

              Super pleased with daily drive. Gas saver with comfort.

              Pros - ["Low maintenance, awesome on GAS, Super smooth ride. No engine cabin noise. Nice steering feedback.", "Nice and smooth Automatic transmission shifting. No cabin noise . No road noise. Avg 36.6 MPG got.", "Neve give me feel of economy car on drive. Compact with roomy inside. Soft steering. Nice pop-up info display."]

              Cons - ["Missing push start and remote start although its base model.", "Start up engine sound noisy then calm down . Halogen headlight .", "6 speed AT always gear hunger."]

              I bought this SUV 2021 model SE Tucson used as it was lease car before from private dealer. It had minor accident while it was under lease and was fixed by Hyundai dealer. Still car under warranty , that gives me peace of mind. I drove each and every model of eco cars, but i did not expect such a nice driving experience with this SUV. It's really super smooth and soundless while driving. Only com...

              Not Rated
              Features
              Not Rated
              Interior
              Not Rated
              Design
              Not Rated
              Safety
              Not Rated
              Reliability
              Not Rated
              Deal Value
              Not Rated
              Dealer Review

              TS

              Thomas Sherrill

              2021 Hyundai Tucson

              SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 6A)

              Not Rated

              User Overall Rating

              Posted On: April 23, 2024

              Kia and Hyundia.. hmmm

              Pros - The Color is crimson red, The Interior is comfortable

              Cons - All the Noises, Any problems that might arise

              I was very happy to get this vehicle because I had a 2017 and loved it. But now with all the problems coming up with Kia and Hyundai. I don't know what to do or think of this company ? I am afraid that this will become a very big problem in the future. Love the cars they have but so many problems that are showing up .

              Not Rated
              Features
              Not Rated
              Interior
              Not Rated
              Design
              Not Rated
              Safety
              Not Rated
              Reliability
              Not Rated
              Deal Value
              Not Rated
              Dealer Review