2018 Hyundai Tucson

2018 Hyundai Tucson Highlights

The 2018 Hyundai Tucson introduces changes to its lineup with a partially refreshed trim range and updated features in the competitive small SUV segment. With its blend of style, practicality, and value, the Tucson aims to appeal to many buyers.

Key Details

• Compact crossover SUV body style
• Two-row, five-passenger seating
• Two engine options: 2.0-liter four-cylinder and 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
• Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or available all-wheel drive (AWD)
• New SEL and SEL Plus trim levels added to the lineup
• Eco and Night trim levels were discontinued
• Sport trim receives a new engine
• Available advanced safety features

Benefits

• Stylish exterior design
• Comfortable and quiet ride
• Spacious interior with good cargo capacity
• User-friendly technology features
• Strong safety ratings
• Competitive pricing in its segment

Related: Here Are The Hyundai Tucson Years To Avoid

2018 Hyundai Tucson Overview

Performance

The 2018 Hyundai Tucson offers two engine options:

2.0-liter four-cylinder (SE, SEL):

• 164 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque
• Six-speed automatic transmission

1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (SEL Plus, Value, Sport, Limited):

• 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque
• Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission

Both engines are available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The base 2.0-liter engine provides adequate power for daily driving, offering a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, new to the Sport trim for 2018, delivers more robust acceleration and passing power, particularly noticeable in highway driving.

The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission paired with the turbocharged engine provides quick, smooth shifts, contributing to a more engaging driving experience. However, drivers may notice a slight hesitation at low speeds, a characteristic of some dual-clutch transmissions.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded Tucson a top five-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also named the 2018 Tucson a “Top Safety Pick” when equipped with front crash prevention and upgraded headlights. This is IIHS’s second-highest award.

Standard safety features across all trims include:

• Six airbags, including side curtain airbags with rollover sensors
• Vehicle stability management (VSM)
• Electronic stability control (ESC) with traction control system
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD)
• Downhill brake control and hill-start assist control

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

• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Lane change assist
• Lane departure warning
• Rear parking sensors

Driving

The 2018 Hyundai Tucson offers a driving experience that balances comfort with competent handling. The SUV's well-tuned suspension provides a smooth ride that effectively absorbs road imperfections, creating a relaxing environment for the driver and passengers. Maneuvering in tight spaces is uneventful thanks to light and precise steering, which makes for predictable handling at higher speeds.

The available all-wheel-drive system is helpful on slippery streets and modest trails, but the Tucson is far from a serious off-roader.

Interior

The 2018 Hyundai Tucson interior is well-designed, providing a comfortable setting with doses of practicality and user-friendliness. The cabin design is modern and functional, focusing on quality materials and ergonomics. The interior space is generous for its class, with ample head and legroom in both rows. The rear seats offer good comfort for adult passengers, even on longer journeys. Higher trims like the Limited offer premium touches such as leather upholstery, heated steering wheel, and ventilated front seats.

Cargo space is competitive for the segment, offering:

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

The low load floor and wide rear opening make loading and unloading cargo easy. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats add additional versatility.

Key interior features include:

• Cloth seats are standard, with leather available on higher trims
• Available eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat
• Available heated front seats
• Available dual-zone automatic climate control
• Available panoramic sunroof

Technology

The 2018 Hyundai Tucson is available with a touchscreen infotainment system. Other standard or optional equipment includes:

• 5-inch color touchscreen display (standard on SE)
• 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (standard on SEL and above)
• Available 8-inch touchscreen with navigation
• Bluetooth hands-free phone system
• Available Infinity premium audio system
• Available BlueLink-connected car system

Fuel Economy

The 2018 Hyundai Tucson's fuel economy ratings vary by powertrain. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

2.0-liter four-cylinder

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

1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder:

• FWD (mpg): 25 city / 30 highway / 27 combined
• AWD (mpg): 24 city / 28 highway / 25 combined

2018 Hyundai Tucson Reviews

2018 Hyundai Tucson consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are mostly positive, with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5. This scoring is consistent with owner rankings for quality and reliability.

Reasons to Buy It

• Attractive exterior styling
• Spacious and flexible cabin
• Excellent crash test
• Available advanced safety technology

Problems

• The base engine may feel underpowered for some drivers
• Fuel economy, while competitive, isn't class-leading
• Some advanced safety features are only available on higher trims
• The dual-clutch transmission can feel hesitant at low speeds
• Interior materials in lower trims may not match some competitors

Explore: How Long Do Hyundai Tucsons Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

CoPilot's Take

The 2018 Hyundai Tucson presents an appealing option in the small SUV category. It blends attractive styling, a comfortable interior, and a smooth ride in a package that offers good value for money. The Tucson's strengths include user-friendly technology and strong safety ratings.

Adding new SEL and SEL Plus trims for 2018 provides more options for buyers to find a configuration that suits their needs and budget. The turbocharged engine, now available in the Sport trim, offers a more engaging driving experience for those seeking additional performance.

However, potential buyers should be aware of some trade-offs. While adequate for most driving situations, the base engine may feel underpowered compared to some competitors. While generally smooth, the dual-clutch transmission paired with the turbocharged engine can exhibit some low-speed hesitation that may take getting used to.

While not widespread, there are enough reports about engine and transmission issues that buyers should approach a used 2018 Hyundai Tucson with some degree of caution. This advisory doesn’t mean looking at a different vehicle; getting a thorough pre-purchase inspection before completing any deal is recommended.

2018 Hyundai Tucson FAQs

Is the 2018 Hyundai Tucson a good car?

For the most part, the 2018 Hyundai Tucson can wear a “good car” label. It offers a comfortable ride, attractive styling, and a spacious interior. The Tucson has received strong safety ratings and provides good value for money. The base engine may feel underpowered for some, and fuel economy, while competitive, isn't class-leading. However, most complaints on file with NHTSA about the 2018 Tucson involve the engine or transmission. These reports are reminders to get a pre-purchase inspection before buying any used 2018 Hyundai Tucson.

How long can a 2018 Hyundai Tucson last?

With proper maintenance, a 2018 Hyundai Tucson can last up to 200,000 miles, possibly more, given the right circumstances. Maintenance, driving habits, and environmental conditions significantly affect a car’s longevity.

What is the best engine for the 2018 Hyundai Tucson?

The choice of the "best" engine for the 2018 Hyundai Tucson depends on individual preferences and driving needs:

2.0-liter four-cylinder (164 hp, 151 lb-ft torque):

• Best for those prioritizing fuel economy and lower initial cost
• Adequate for daily driving and city use
• Available on SE and SEL trims

1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (175 hp, 195 lb-ft torque):

• Best for those wanting more power and responsiveness
• Offers slightly better fuel economy despite higher performance
• Available on SEL Plus, Value, Sport, and Limited trims

For many buyers, the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine is considered the better choice. It offers more power, is especially noticeable in highway passing situations, and has a slightly better fuel economy. However, it comes with a dual-clutch transmission that some drivers may need to adjust to. The 2.0-liter engine, while less powerful, is paired with a conventional automatic transmission that some may find smoother in stop-and-go traffic. Ultimately, the best choice depends on personal driving style, budget, and preferences.

What trims are available for the 2018 Hyundai Tucson?

The 2018 Tucson has six trim options

• 2018 Hyundai Tucson SE
• 2018 Hyundai Tucson SEL
• 2018 Hyundai Tucson Sport
• 2018 Hyundai Tucson SEL Plus
• 2018 Hyundai Tucson Value
• 2018 Hyundai Tucson Limited

Check Out: The Best Year For The Hyundai Tucson