The Best Year For The Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson has been in production since 2004 and is currently in its fourth generation. However, the Tucson is more than just a long-running compact SUV; it demonstrates just how far Hyundai has come. Hyundai went from a brand known for its low-rent vehicles to one of the most reputable car manufacturers in the global market thanks to its collection of high-quality, stylish, and value-rich models.
With that said, if you’re in the market for a used compact crossover SUV, the Hyundai Tucson is undoubtedly a solid choice. However, with almost two decades of the lineup, choosing the best year for Hyundai Tucson can be tricky.
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After intensive deliberation here at CoPilot, we decided that the best year for Hyundai Tucson is the 2018 model year. Keep reading to learn why buying a used 2018 Tucson is worth investing in.
2018 Is the Best Year for Hyundai Tucson
The 2018 Hyundai Tucson is an outstanding option for an affordable compact SUV. The U.S. News ranked the 2018 Tucson as the second-best affordable compact SUV in 2018. Ultimately, we chose this model year for its stellar reliability ratings, a long list of standard features, intuitive infotainment controls, and comfortable ride.
Hot on the heels of the problematic 2016 and 2017 Tucsons, Hyundai turned things around with 2018, especially regarding reliability. Ultimately, the first and foremost selling point of the 2018 Tucson is its excellent value proposition. With a more recent model, you’ll have access to an updated infotainment system and driver assistance features. Combined with its superb reliability, buying a used 2018 Tucson is less likely to result in buyer’s remorse.
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How Much is the 2018 Hyundai Tucson?
According to Truecar.com, the average price of a used 2018 Hyundai Tucson ranges from $12,994 to $29,995. The 2018 Hyundai Tucson is available in six trims: SE, SEL, SEL Plus, Sport, Value, and Limited.
If you want an entry-level 2018 Tucson, you can find an SE Tucson with FWD and 60k miles for $13,999. Meanwhile, you can also find a relatively low mileage 2018 Tucson SE with 26k miles on the odometer for a low price of $17,900. However, many critics and customers complained that the SE trim was too basic.
Meanwhile, an SEL Plus gets you leather seats, an 8-inch touchscreen, an Infinity premium audio system, and LED door handle approach lights. The most affordable 2018 SEL Plus Tucson FWD is available for $13,600, with 200k miles driven. On the other hand, a 2018 SEL Plus Tucson with AWD and 67k miles can be yours for $18,795.
Last but not least, the Limited trim Tucson gets you an optional moonroof, a hands-free liftgate, a heated steering wheel, and available ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. You can buy the cheapest Limited 2018 Tucson with AWD and 122k miles at $14,499. Conversely, a low mileage Limited 2018 Tucson with AWD and 26k miles can be yours for $25,995.
Overall, there are plenty of great prices if you’re planning to buy a used 2018 Hyundai Tucson. We recommend going for the higher trims for more advanced features and amenities because the base model is too basic.
The Specs of the 2018 Hyundai Tucson
There’s a lot to like about the 2018 Tucson, and most have to do with its value for the money. However, it’s hard for us to recommend the base SE model because it’s too basic, and going up a trim or two gives you more features without spending too much. For example, features such as heated front seats, a power driver seat, and a 7-inch touchscreen are standard on all Tucson but the base model.
Performance-wise, three four-cylinder engines power the 2018 Tucson, and all three are available whether you choose the front- or all-wheel drive. The base 2.0-liter I-4 engine delivered 164 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque and was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission – which can feel lethargic outside of city slicking. Next, the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine cranked up the horses to 175 and 195 lb-ft of torque and paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Finally, the Sport trim gets an exclusive 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces a formidable 181 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque.
For fuel economy, the base engine with FWD has mpg ratings of 25/30/27 city/highway/combined. Meanwhile, the 2.4 liter Sport-exclusive with AWD offers a fuel economy rating of 21/25/22 city/highway/combined.
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2018 Hyundai Tucson Reliability and Recalls
According to RepairPal, the Hyundai Tucson has a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, giving it an Above Average score. As a Hyundai Tucson owner, you can look forward to low average total annual repairs and maintenance costs at $426.
As mentioned, the 2018 model follows two of the most problematic Tucsons, the 2016 and 2017 years. As per CarComplaints, the 2018 Tucson has 48 NHTSA complaints with the following worst problems:
- Failure to accelerate
- Hesitations when accelerating
- Poor fuel mileage
As of this writing, the 2018 Tucson has one recall involving the Anti-lock Brake Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), which reportedly may corrode and cause an engine compartment fire.
2018 Hyundai Tucson Safety Features and Ratings
The good news, the best year for Hyundai Tucson is a very safe compact SUV. Both the IIHS and NHTSA gave the 2018 Tucson high marks in crashworthiness and safety features.
The 2018 doesn’t have the most extensive list of standard safety features. However, it does have a compelling package of optional safety features, including blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, rear parking sensors, adaptive headlights, and brake assist with pedestrian detection.
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Other Hyundai Tucson Years to Consider
Overall, all the more recent model years, starting with the 2018 Tucson, are excellent and proven reliable options. The 2022 model year had a full redesign and several improvements. Not to mention the addition of hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. If you’re willing to buy something older, the 2007 model reportedly had top-notch reliability and a surprisingly modern interior for a 15-year-old Tucson.
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