2016 Hyundai Tucson

2016 Hyundai Tucson Highlights

The 2016 Hyundai Tucson is a fresh start for the model. It’s been completely overhauled with more exterior and interior space, a freshened appearance, a new engine option, more tech, and a much more rigid structure. Gone is the 2.4-liter four-cylinder, and in its place is a turbocharged 1.6-liter four that makes slightly less horsepower but far more torque.

Key Details

• Compact crossover SUV body style
• Two-row seating for up to five passengers
• Two engine options: 2.0-liter four-cylinder and 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
• Available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Increased overall size
• Redesigned exterior with more modern styling
• Revamped interior with upgraded materials
• Addition of new technology and safety features
• Improved structural rigidity for better handling and safety

Benefits

• 1.6-liter turbo four is a massive upgrade over the outgoing 2.4-liter four-cylinder
• Interior quality and room are improved
• Stiff structure makes for excellent ride quality and handling
• Revised styling is more attractive
• New technology and safety features

Learn More: Here Are The Hyundai Tucson Years To Avoid

2016 Hyundai Tucson Overview

Performance

The 2016 Hyundai Tucson offers two engine options:

2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (SE trim):

• 164 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque
• Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission

1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (Eco, Sport, and Limited trims):

• 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque
• Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission

Both engines are available with FWD or AWD. The new turbocharged engine replaces the previous 2.4-liter four-cylinder, which had 182 hp but only 177 lb-ft of torque.

The AWD system includes Active Cornering Control, which improves traction and stability.

Performance features include:

• Drive Mode Select (Normal, Eco, and Sport modes)
• Hill start assist control
• Downhill brake control

Towing capacity for the Tucson is modest:

• Up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2016 Hyundai Tucson a top five-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2016 Tucson a Top Safety Pick+, the group’s highest designation.

Standard safety features across all 2016 Hyundai Tucson models include:

• Six airbags (front, front side-impact, and side-curtain)
• Vehicle stability management (VSM)
• Electronic stability control (ESC)
• Traction control system (TCS)
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD)
• Rearview camera

Advanced driver assistance technologies, available on higher trims, include:

• Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Lane departure warning
• Blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert
• Rear parking sensors
• Surround-view monitor

Driving

While it is much improved, the 2016 Hyundai Tucson doesn’t reach the sportiness of some rivals. That said, with a more rigid structure, ride quality and handling have both improved significantly over the 2015 models. The steering feel is still somewhat numb, but it is precise.

The base 2.0-liter engine is adequate and only available in the 2016 Hyundai Tucson SE trim. It is lackluster in performance and comes with a regular six-speed auto. The new 1.6-liter turbocharged engine provides far more power and torque and gets the new smooth, quick-shifting, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Ride quality is excellent thanks to a suspension that effectively absorbs road imperfections. The redesigned chassis and improved structural rigidity improve handling and reduce body roll in corners.

Interior

The 2016 Hyundai Tucson's interior offers significant improvements over its predecessor, with better materials, improved ergonomics, and increased passenger and cargo space.

Key interior features include:

• Available leather seating surfaces
• Power-adjustable driver's seat (optional)
• Heated front seats (optional)
• Ventilated front seats (Limited trim)
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
• Dual-zone automatic climate control (optional)

Front seat occupants will experience good comfort and support, and there’s no shortage of head and legroom. The redesign has increased rear seat space, providing more legroom for adult passengers. Plus, the rear seats also recline for added comfort on long journeys.

Cargo space has been improved for 2016:

• 31 cubic feet behind the rear seats
• 61.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded

The available hands-free liftgate makes it easy to load cargo with full hands.

Material quality is notably improved throughout the cabin. The 2016 Hyundai Tucson Limited gets the most premium touches, including leather upholstery and accent stitching.

The dashboard design is modern and functional, with controls logically arranged and easy to reach. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is well-integrated into the center stack, providing easy access to various functions.

Technology

The 2016 Hyundai Tucson’s technology varies by trim, with higher trims offering more advanced features.

Key technology features include:

• 5-inch color touchscreen audio system (standard)
• Available 8-inch touchscreen navigation system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility (late availability)
• Bluetooth hands-free phone system
• USB and auxiliary input jacks
• Available Infinity premium audio system
• Bluelink telematics system (includes remote start via smartphone app)

The infotainment system is generally user-friendly, with responsive touch inputs and intuitive menu layouts. The larger 8-inch screen in higher trims provides better visibility and easier driving operation.

Additional technology features available on higher trims include:

• Panoramic sunroof
• Hands-free smart liftgate
• Proximity key with push-button start

The Tucson also offers practical tech features, such as multiple USB charging ports and a 12-volt outlet in the cargo area.

Fuel Economy

The 2016 Hyundai Tucson's fuel economy varies depending on the engine and drivetrain. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

2.0-liter four-cylinder engine:

• FWD (mpg): 23 city / 30 highway / 26 combined
• AWD (mpg): 21 city / 26 highway / 23 combined

1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine:

• FWD Eco trim (mpg): 26 city / 32 highway / 28 combined
• FWD Sport and Limited trims (mpg): 25 city / 30 highway / 27 combined
• AWD Eco trim (mpg): 25 city / 30 highway / 27 combined
• AWD (mpg): 24 city / 28 highway / 25 combined

The Tucson also features an Active Eco system, which modifies engine and transmission control to smooth out throttle response and increase fuel economy.

2016 Hyundai Tucson Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book gave the 2016 Hyundai Tucson an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5. Owners praise the Tucson for its styling, comfort, and value.

Reasons to Buy It

• Stylish exterior design
• Improved fuel efficiency, especially with turbo engine
• Comfortable and quiet ride
• Spacious interior with quality materials
• Available advanced safety features
• User-friendly technology

Problems

• The base engine may feel underpowered for some drivers
• Some advanced safety features are only available on higher trims
• Dual-clutch transmission may feel different from traditional automatics
• Less cargo space than some competitors
• Sport mode doesn't significantly change driving dynamics

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CoPilot's Take

Hyundai’s complete redesign for the 2016 Tucson addresses many of the previous model's shortcomings while building on its strengths. The new turbocharged engine option, improved interior quality, stiffer structure, and new safety tech transform it from an also-ran to a real competitor in the cutthroat compact crossover segment.

The redesigned exterior gives it a more modern and upscale appearance, while the revamped interior offers improved materials and more space. The new 1.6-liter turbo engine is much more lively and eager than the old 2.4 or the base 2.0, especially in the Eco. Yes, while the 2016 Hyundai Tucson Sport trim might seem like the one to buy for the best performance, it isn’t. The Eco trim has fewer niceties but significantly less weight. While this does boost mileage figures, it also makes it the quickest 2016 Tucson you can buy.

A few nitpicks: Some advanced safety features are limited to higher trims, which may disappoint buyers of lower-end models. While generally smooth, the dual-clutch transmission may take some time for drivers accustomed to traditional automatics. Additionally, while cargo space has improved, it still falls short of some competitors in the class.

2016 Hyundai Tucson FAQs

Is the Hyundai Tucson 2016 a good car?

Yes, the 2016 Hyundai Tucson is generally considered a good car. It offers a comfortable ride, good fuel economy (especially with the turbocharged engine), a fresh exterior design, and more modern features.

Are there any problems with the 2016 Hyundai Tucson?

2016 Hyundai Tucson problems are few, but some reported issues include:

• Dual-clutch transmission hesitation or jerking in some units
• Occasional electrical issues, particularly with the infotainment system
• Some complaints about the engine stalling or hesitating
• A few reports of excessive oil consumption

Some 2016 Hyundai Tucsons have also been recalled to address some of the above issues, and a history report will show whether a particular example has had the appropriate repairs.

How long should a 2016 Hyundai Tucson last?

A 2016 Hyundai Tucson can last 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. Many owners report their Tucsons running well past the 150,000-mile mark.

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