Our Hyundai Tucson experts will assist you in choosing the right model year. Thousands of hours have been spent categorizing each Hyundai Tucson model so you don’t have to.
Choose your purchases more wisely. With our comprehensive guide, you will be able to determine which Hyundai Tucson model year is right for you.
The purpose of this article is to examine the peaks and troughs of Hyundai Tucson’s performance over the years and focus on its best and worst years.
Using extensive research and actual consumer data, we provide a comprehensive overview of the historical performance of this popular compact SUV.
Since 2004, the Tucson has sold more than 7 million units worldwide, making it Hyundai’s best-selling SUV. For prospective Tucson buyers, this is an essential read as we explore each generation’s best features and weaknesses.
We are now ready to take a closer look at the various generations of Hyundai Tucson.
Hyundai Tucson Generations
Four generations of the Hyundai Tucson have been produced since 2005, each with its own design, features, and performance characteristics.
From 2005 to the present, Hyundai Tucson generations are shown in the following table:
Generation | Years |
1st generation (JM) | 2005-2009 |
2nd generation (LM) | 2010-2015 |
3rd generation (TL) | 2016-2021 |
4th generation (NX4) | 2022-Present |
Considering the substantial changes that have occurred between generations, this generational breakdown provides a comprehensive overview to help potential buyers make informed decisions.
Hyundai Tucson Best, Neutral and Worst Years
A variety of factors and reliable sources are considered when categorizing model years, including:
Each model year can be better understood by analyzing these components.
Each generation is categorized into optimal, neutral, and worst years in the following table:
Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
1st generation (JM) | 20052006 | 20072008 | 2009 |
2nd generation (LM) | 20102011 | 2014 | 201220132015 |
3rd generation (TL) | 2020 | 201820192021 | 20162017 |
4th generation (NX4) | 2023 | N/A | 2022 |
The term “Neutral Years” refers to model years that are neither ahead of nor behind in terms of the mentioned parameters. Providing a balanced experience, they perform well in all areas.
Recalls from the NHTSA adversely impact our scores, lowering the car’s reliability and, therefore, its rating. Vehicle dependability decreases with the number of complaints and recalls.
Now that the criteria have been established, let’s take a closer look at the most successful, neutral, and worst years.
Best & Worst Years for Hyundai Tucson 1st Generation (2005-2009)
Hyundai’s Tucson compact SUV made its debut in 2005, marking the company’s entry into this market segment. Aiming to provide customers with great value, it offered noteworthy features at an affordable price.
The Best Years: 2005, 2006
Reliability, affordability, and impressive features made the 2005 and 2006 models stand out. It was available with a 2.0L inline four-cylinder engine and a 2.7L V6 engine. Neither engine was mated to a manual transmission nor an automatic transmission.
The Tucson was one of the first cars to feature Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which helps drivers maintain control on slippery roads or when steering quickly. Airbags were standard, including side-curtain airbags, providing additional safety for occupants.
The Neutral Years: 2007, 2008
There weren’t many major upgrades with the 2007 and 2008 models, but they maintained the reliability and performance standards established by their predecessors. With its 2.0L four-cylinder engine and optional 2.7L V6 engine, these models continued to provide value.
Its safety features remained unchanged from its predecessors, ensuring they met the needs of security-conscious buyers.
The Worst Years: 2009
Despite maintaining comparable features to its predecessors, Hyundai Tucson’s overall performance and reception declined in 2009.
Airbag problems were the main reason for the 2009 model’s reliability problems. A substantial safety risk was posed when airbags did not deploy properly in accidents, according to some owners.
Even though this issue was prevalent in 2009 Tucsons, it did not affect all models. Tucson’s 2009 model was the worst year for the first generation due to a potential safety risk.
Best & Worst Years for Hyundai Tucson 2nd Generation (2010-2015)
In 2010, Hyundai Tucson’s second generation (marketed as Hyundai ix35 in some markets) made its debut, representing a significant evolution in style, performance, and features.
The Tucson’s sleek and aerodynamic design is the result of Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy.
The Best Years: 2010, 2011
Compared to the previous generation’s 2.7L V6, the 2010 and 2011 models feature a more fuel-efficient 2.4L four-cylinder engine. Fuel efficiency was improved and power was not sacrificed, making these years a favorite among consumers.
With a touchscreen navigation system and a backup camera, these models offered contemporary technology for their time, significantly improving the convenience and safety of the vehicle.
The Neutral Year: 2014
There were a few incremental changes to the Hyundai Tucson for 2014. Two new engines were introduced: a 2.0L four-cylinder and a 2.4L four-cylinder that was more powerful.
It is true that these engines improved performance and fuel economy, but they were not as significant or impactful as those in the best years. As with its predecessors, the 2014 model was stylish and offered a smooth, comfortable ride.
The Worst Years: 2012, 2013, 2015
There were some significant points to the second-generation Tucson, but there were also some disadvantages. Many owners reported severe engine problems in the 2012 and 2013 models, including engine failures and powertrain issues that required expensive repairs.
There were also issues with the 2015 Tucson. There were reports of engine problems, such as failures and power outages. Complications with service brakes, such as brake malfunctions, were also reported.
In addition to raising serious safety concerns, these problems resulted in significant repair costs for owners. Due to this, the 2012, 2013, and 2015 models of the second-generation Tucson were classified as its worst years.
Best & Worst Years for Hyundai Tucson 3rd Generation (2016-2021)
In 2016, Hyundai Tucson was renamed Tucson across all markets to reflect its third generation.
The Best Year: 2020
But the model was most successful in 2020. In the 2020 model, several significant updates were introduced, including a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that improved performance and fuel economy.
Hyundai’s SmartSense package includes several cutting-edge safety features on the 2020 Tucson, including automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and driver attention warning.
The car also had a 7-inch color touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and six speakers.
The Neutral Years: 2018, 2019, 2021
The 2018 Hyundai Tucson, 2019 Hyundai Tucson, and 2021 Hyundai Tucson models are considered impartial years of the third generation. Design, technology, and performance were improved incrementally in these models.
Hyundai, for example, standardized all Tucson models with a 7-inch touchscreen display in 2018.
New headlights and taillights, a revised grille, and new wheels were all added to the Tucson in 2019.
Despite its dependable reliability and performance, the 2021 model did not bring many significant improvements.
The Worst Years: 2016, 2017
Hyundai Tucson’s 2016 and 2017 models suffered numerous issues that led to their classification as the worst years in its third generation.
There were a significant number of owners who reported engine and powertrain problems, including excessive oil consumption, which resulted in expensive repairs.
Many reports of transmission issues were reported with the 2016 model, as it was the debut year for the new generation.
However, despite addressing some of these issues, there were still many complaints, primarily concerning the engine and powertrain.
NHTSA recollections and grievances 2016, 2017, Hyundai Tucson.
Best & Worst Years for Hyundai Tucson 4th Generation (2022-Present)
Known as the NX4, the Hyundai Tucson’s fourth generation was a substantial step forward, and its 2023 model stands out as its best.
The Best Year: 2023
With the introduction of this model, Ford introduced a bold new design language, cutting-edge technologies, and a lineup of engine options that includes both hybrids and plug-in hybrids.
Advance safety features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), and High Beam Assist (HBA) were standard on the 2023 model.
Among its technological features, the 2023 model is equipped with a 10.25-inch full-touch infotainment screen, Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car services, and high-quality Bose audio.
Hyundai Tucson’s 2023 model is the best year in this generation due to its abundance of standard features, commitment to safety, and alternative fuel options.
The Worst Year: 2022
In spite of the fact that the 2022 Hyundai Tucson represented a significant leap forward in terms of design and features, the model suffered from several major issues that led it to be classified as the worst year of this generation.
The most common problem reported by owners was engine and powertrain problems. Engine stalls, loss of power, rough shifts, and rough shifting were among these issues.
Vehicle dependability was adversely affected by these mechanical problems, which increased maintenance costs.
- Best & Worst Hyundai Elantra Years | Years To Avoid
- Best & Worst Hyundai Santa FE Years | Years To Avoid
Conclusion
With this information, you will be able to determine which Hyundai Tucson model year is the best and worst. Choose the best model year based on the worst model year problems.
According to your preferences and requirements, which Hyundai Tucson year offers the best balance between performance and reliability?
Let us know what you think in the comments!