2026 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid Review: Expert Insights, Pricing, and Trims
The 2026 Tucson Plug-In Hybrid is the fanciest and most capable version of Hyundai's small crossover. This flagship Tucson only makes sense if it's regularly plugged in and driven on electric power, though . Other plug-in hybrid compact SUV rivals include the Kia Sportage PHEV, Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid, and Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid. What's New
We don't expect major changes to the 2026 Tucson PHEV after a big 2025. Last model year, the Hyundai scored styling and tech updates that consisted of a new center console and dash with curved screen display, larger touchscreen, standard wireless phone mirroring, and driver-adjustable regenerative braking. What We Think
Although it's not for everyone, we appreciate the Tucson lineup's eye-catching, modern exterior design. Inside, the updated-for-2025 dashboard and center console continue to convey the cabin's modern, tech-focused feel. Upgrades from last year like a larger touchscreen and a newly available head-up display flesh out the theme. We like the Tucson plug-in hybrid overall, but its range doesn't come close to that of the Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid, a key disadvantage.
The Tucson Plug-in Hybrid offers a driving experience that's competent and enjoyable, though it doesn't quite match the performance benchmarks set by some competitors.
Standard all-wheel drive adds confidence with planted handling. The Tucson PHEV is a well-rounded option with strong value and a spacious cabin, but iwe strongly suggest considering the Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid, as well. MotorTrend Tested
The Tucson Plug-in Hybrid features a 1.6-liter turbo-four and six-speed automatic transmission with an integrated electric motor, akin to the Tucson Hybrid. Unlike the standard hybrid, the PHEV gets a larger-capacity 13.8-kWh battery (instead of the Hybrid's 1.49-kWh battery) and charge port. Powertrain output is rated at 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, and these Tucson variants are offered only with all-wheel drive.
We launched a same-generation 2022 Limited model to 60 mph in as little as 7.1 seconds, making the PHEV the quickest Tucson, 0.7 second quicker than the hybrid and 2.2 seconds quicker than the gas version. It has some ground to make up to catch the more powerful RAV4 PHEV, however, which can cover the same ground in under six seconds. MPGs, Range, and Charging
The mechanically identical 2025 Tucson Plug-In Hybrid rgets 32 miles of all-electric range. This year's ratings should be similar. The 2025 Toyota RAV4 PHEV comes in at 42 while Toyota promises 50 on the new 2026 model.
The Hyundai Tucson PHEV can be charged using Level 1 or Level 2 charging. Level 1 charging takes about six hours to fully charge the battery, while Level 2 charging—which is the type of connection some install in their garages—can reduce that time to around two hours. Safety Features
Entry-level models feature a generous amount of content, including: Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction detection
Blind-spot monitoring
Driver focus monitoring
Lane keeping
Rear cross-traffic monitoring
Adaptive cruise control
A rear-seat occupant reminder
The remaining driver assists are standard with the top trim. Those include navigation-based cruise control, a blind-spot monitor view, rear automatic emergency braking, parking sensors, and surround-view monitor. A Highway Driving Assist self-driving system is also unlocked with the highest grade. Cargo Space and Interior Room
Rear legroom compares favorably to other five-passenger plug-in hybrid compact SUVs like the RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid and Outlander Hybrid. There's more cargo capacity in the Toyota, though. The 2025 RAV4 represents the last of the previous model; a new RAV4 with a similar interior makes its debut for 2026. Technology
Every Tucson PHEV features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air updates, a wireless phone charger, and a foursome of USB ports, two front and two rear.
A 12.3-inch touchscreen and heated front seats come with the base model; the upgrade unlocks ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a 12.3-inch driver display. Bose premium audio, a fingerprint scanner, and heated steering wheel also come with the top model. Top-Ranked Competitors: Toyota RAV4 PHEV
Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid
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