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2019 Hyundai Tucson: Key Features, Specs, and Buyer’s Guide

2019 Hyundai Tucson Review: Safety, Performance & Tech Upgrades | MotorVero

2019 Hyundai Tucson: A Comprehensive Review of Its Refreshed Features

                               2019 Hyundai Tucson

Introduction to the 2019 Refresh

The 2019 Hyundai Tucson received substantial under-the-hood improvements and tech upgrades that kept this compact SUV competitive in one of the automotive market's hottest segments. While exterior changes were minimal, Hyundai focused on enhancing safety systems, powertrain options, and cabin technology - addressing key areas that modern SUV buyers prioritize.

These strategic updates proved successful, earning the Tucson a top-three finish in MotorVero's rigorous 2019 Compact SUV Challenge, where it competed against seven newly redesigned or refreshed rivals. The Tucson's balanced approach to value, safety, and everyday usability helped it stand out in this competitive field.

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Enhanced Safety Features Across All Trims

Hyundai made significant strides in safety technology for the 2019 Tucson, with improvements that helped it achieve a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) after March 2019 headlight upgrades.

Standard Safety Equipment

  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection (standard on all trims)
  • Improved headlight performance contributing to the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating
  • Driver Attention Warning (newly available option)

Available Advanced Safety Features

  • Blind Spot Collision Warning with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (standard on Value trim and above)
  • Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go capability (newly optional)
  • Automatic High Beam Assist (newly optional)
  • Surround View Monitor (360-degree camera system)

These comprehensive safety upgrades positioned the 2019 Tucson among the best-equipped compact SUVs in its class for accident prevention and protection.

Powertrain Options and Performance

The 2019 Tucson offered two engine choices, with the more powerful option becoming standard on higher trims:

Base Engine (SE and Value trims)

Hyundai Tucson review

  • 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 161 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque
  • 6-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual control
  • EPA-estimated fuel economy: 23 mpg city/28 mpg highway

Upgraded Standard Engine (SEL, Sport, Limited, Ultimate trims)

  • 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine generating 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque
  • Same 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability
  • EPA-estimated fuel economy: 22 mpg city/26 mpg highway

While not class-leading in power output, both engines provide adequate performance for daily commuting and highway merging. The 2.4-liter option offers noticeably better acceleration when passing or climbing grades with a full load of passengers and cargo.

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Technology and Interior Upgrades

Hyundai addressed one of the Tucson's previous weak points by substantially upgrading its technology offerings for 2019:

Infotainment System

  • New 7-inch touchscreen display with tablet-style mounting on redesigned dashboard
  • Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
  • Available 8-inch navigation system with high-resolution display

Convenience Features

  • Wireless smartphone charging pad (newly available)
  • Rear-seat USB power ports (new for 2019)
  • Available Blue Link connected services with remote start and vehicle locator
  • Premium Infinity audio system available on top trims

The redesigned center stack and improved materials gave the 2019 Tucson a more upscale feel compared to previous model years, helping it compete with newer rivals in interior quality.

Trim Level Breakdown and Value Proposition

The 2019 Tucson was available in six well-equipped trim levels, each offering distinct features at competitive price points:

SE (Base Model)

  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Automatic headlights
  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
  • 5-inch touchscreen with rearview camera

Value

  • Adds blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
  • Upgraded 7-inch touchscreen
  • Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Heated front seats

SEL

  • 2.4L engine becomes standard
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Proximity key entry with push-button start

Sport

  • Unique exterior styling elements
  • Sport-tuned suspension
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob

Limited

  • Leather seating surfaces
  • Power driver seat with lumbar support
  • Auto-dimming rearview mirror

Ultimate

  • All available safety and tech features
  • Ventilated front seats
  • Surround View Monitor
  • Adaptive cruise control

The Tucson's pricing structure remained competitive, offering more standard safety features than many rivals at each price point. The Value trim particularly stood out for delivering premium safety tech at a mainstream price.



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How It Compares to the Competition

The compact SUV segment saw numerous new or redesigned competitors in 2019, making the Tucson's updates essential to remain relevant:

Against the Honda CR-V

While the CR-V offered more rear seat space and slightly better fuel economy, the 2019 Tucson countered with more standard safety features on base models and often better value at comparable trim levels.

Against the Toyota RAV4

The completely redesigned RAV4 boasted more adventurous styling and available hybrid powertrain, but the Tucson provided a quieter ride and more user-friendly infotainment system at lower price points.

Against the Mazda CX-5

The CX-5 excelled in handling and interior refinement, while the Tucson offered more standard safety tech and greater cargo capacity behind the rear seats.

Overall, the 2019 Tucson's strengths lay in its comprehensive safety suite, competitive pricing, and generous warranty coverage (5-year/60,000-mile basic, 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain).

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Ownership Experience and Reliability

Hyundai's reputation for reliability and strong warranty coverage made the 2019 Tucson an appealing choice for long-term ownership:

Predicted Reliability

Industry experts anticipated above-average reliability for the 2019 Tucson, based on:

  • Proven powertrain designs with minor updates for 2019
  • Strong track record from previous model years
  • Hyundai's improved manufacturing quality in recent years

Warranty Coverage

  • 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty
  • 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
  • 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty
  • 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance

This warranty package remains among the best in the industry, providing peace of mind that exceeds most competitors' coverage.

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Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the 2019 Tucson?

The 2019 Hyundai Tucson represents an excellent choice for:

  • Safety-conscious buyers who want advanced driver aids at lower price points
  • Value-focused shoppers seeking premium features without luxury brand pricing
  • Small families needing versatile cargo space and easy child seat installation
  • Commuter drivers who prioritize comfort and tech features for daily driving

While it may not excel in any single category, the 2019 Tucson's well-rounded package of safety, value, and practicality makes it one of the most compelling choices in the compact SUV segment. Its thoughtful updates for 2019 addressed previous shortcomings while enhancing its core strengths.

For buyers prioritizing cutting-edge safety technology and user-friendly features at competitive prices, the refreshed 2019 Tucson deserves strong consideration against newer competitors. Its combination of standard safety equipment, warranty protection, and available premium features creates a compelling value proposition that remains relevant years after its introduction.

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Last Updated On May, 31-2025

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