Used 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

This is one of two hybrid variants in the superb Tucson SUV range. It’s driven just like a regular vehicle, though, with no need to recharge the hybrid battery. That happens automatically.

Where the 2023 Tucson Hybrid distinguishes itself from the hybrid SUV competition is its abundant interior space for people and cargo, comprehensive inventory of standard equipment (including many driver-assistance features), appealing prices, and an exterior design that veers away from the generic.

The regular, combustion-only 2023 Hyundai Tucson is reviewed separately. So is the 2023 Tucson Plug-in Hybrid, which has an electric-only range of 32 miles.

Setting a good driving position is made easy, thanks to an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat — which is, of course, raised. Outward vision is also a positive Tucson trait.

This model’s dual advantage over the non-hybrid Tucson is the extra power (226 horsepower against 187) with better fuel economy (an average of 38 mpg in Blue trim, compared with 26 mpg). Electric motors also achieve their maximum thrust immediately, enabling fast launches from a standstill or adding extra muscle on uphill stretches. The non-hybrid Tucson feels underwhelming in those same situations.

The standard all-wheel-drive system can adjust how much power goes to each wheel, bringing an extra degree of stability and effectiveness to the Tucson Hybrid’s cornering abilities. It’s not something that’s really perceptible from the driver’s seat, but still good to have. The ride quality is tuned for comfort with just the right amount of control.

Naturally, it’s a good thing that Hyundai has laid out the controls with an emphasis on easy access. Some of the buttons, though, are supposed to have a degree of tactile feedback, but this aspect hasn’t quite hit the mark.

The quality of materials and the interior design in general go a long way to make any gripes seem minor, however. Occupant space is another plus point. It’s as roomy as the non-hybrid Tucson, despite the extra hardware.

Passengers in the back enjoy a generous 41.3 inches of legroom as well as reclining seats. A luggage area of 41.2 cubic feet opens out to a maximum of 80 cubic feet when those 60/40 split/folding rear seats are down. These measurements are greater than the corresponding dimensions in the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 hybrid SUVs.

The first two trim levels have cloth upholstery, offering the option of simulated leather. The top trim comes with leather seating surfaces.

Picture the scene. You’re driving at night and the multiple lights of the 2023 Tucson Hybrid loom up in the rearview mirror, looking like some kind of alien craft. It’s good to see Hyundai playing with LED technology and coming up with something fresh, saving the Tucson from typical cookie-cutter SUV styling. Even so, there’s no compromise to practicality.

Roof rails are standard across the 2023 Tucson Hybrid lineup, so is hands-free tailgate operation. The Blue trim has 17-inch alloy wheels, the two upper trims have 19-inch alloys.

1. Hands-free tailgate operation
A standard proximity key enables a self-opening function, which is much better than trying to set off a sensor with one foot while holding shopping bags.

2. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
This is standard in Blue trim with the 8-inch infotainment touchscreen. The irritating thing is that buyers of either the SEL Convenience or Limited version (fitted with a 10.25-inch touchscreen) will have to use a cable.

3. Wireless device charging
Because the 2023 Tucson Hybrid line starts at a higher price than the gasoline-only model, it comes with more standard equipment including niceties that might be optional in rival vehicles. For example, wireless charging.

4. Hyundai Digital Key
This is yet another standard feature, allowing several users to access the 2023 Tucson Hybrid with a smartphone app. It only works with Android-based phones at the moment. Apple iPhone owners can have a special key card.

5. Smart cruise control with stop/go
Also known as adaptive cruise control, this system adjusts speed automatically to keep a safe distance to the vehicle in front, right down to a complete halt if necessary. Once the road becomes clear again, the preset speed is resumed. Again, this is standard in all three 2023 Tucson Hybrid trim levels.

6. Remote Smart Parking Assist
Drivers can inch their Tucson Hybrid SUVs into or out of a parking space while standing outside and using buttons on the key fob. As long as they’ve bought the Limited trim level.

The gasoline/electric drivetrain in the 2023 Tucson Hybrid SUV consists of a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine and an electric motor running off a lithium-ion polymer battery pack.

Combined output is 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, which goes to all four wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Regular gasoline is perfectly acceptable. However, the 2023 Tucson Hybrid has a slightly greater appetite for it than its hybrid rivals.

In combined use (a mix of 55 percent city driving and 45 percent of time spent on the highway), the Tucson Hybrid in Blue trim achieves 38 mpg, or 37 mpg in the higher trims, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid can manage 40 mpg, while the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Kia Sportage (with optional all-wheel drive) both return 38 mpg.

Still, the EPA says the Tucson Hybrid can save about $60 a month on fuel bills compared with a new, gasoline-only, all-wheel drive Tucson — which has only 187 horsepower. Gas prices fluctuate, so think of this as merely a rough guide.

1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4/permanent magnet synchronous motor
226 total horsepower
258 lb-ft total torque
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 38/38 mpg (Blue), 37/36 mpg (SEL Convenience, Limited)