2019 Hyundai Tucson: A Comprehensive Review of Its Refreshed Features
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.
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)
- 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.