The Most Fuel-Efficient SUV – Hyundai Tucson

Fuel efficiency is a huge consideration for many potential car buyers, especially in heavier SUV classes that can be costly in the long run. Hyundai has always aimed to establish itself at least partly for its economic designs and clever tweaks to maximize efficiency. When they released the 2022 Hyundai Tucson, many wondered if it could compete with its counterparts in lighter classes.

Not only did the 2022 Tucson stay true to Hyundai’s commitment to fuel economy,  it even impressed in certain areas. Of course, the base model isn’t the only one on offer. The 2022 Tucson comes with several trim options, as well as two hybrid models designed specifically for economy.

So how exactly does the 2022 Hyundai Tucson stack up for fuel economy and efficiency? Let’s take a look.

Gas-only Tucson

The standard Hyundai Tucson is a gas-only SUV fitted with all the quality comforts buyers have come to expect from the series.  With a Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price starting at $26 135, it costs slightly more than last year’s model. Part of the reason behind this is the introduction of the two hybrid models that offer drivers more efficient powertrains.

Still, the gas-only Tucson holds its own when it comes to fuel economy. The standard 2022 Tucson posted 26 mpg in a city test, and 33 mpg on the highway. That ranks it among the best performing SUVs of 2022 when it comes to fuel economy.

The Tucson achieves this while still maintaining good performance metrics. The 2022 Hyundai Tucson comes with a 187 horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. An eight-speed automatic completes the powertrain. When it comes to the drivetrain, buyers have an option between front and all-wheel drive.

Hybrid Tucson

The first hybrid option available for the Hyundai Tucson boasts a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. Despite its more compact size, it’s very much a performance engine. Hyundai reports that it has an output of 227 horsepower, helping it get off the line much quicker than the standard model.

The hybrid Tucson was designed with electrified powertrains, and both models come with a six-speed automatic transmission. With a Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price starting at $30 235, it’s slightly pricier than the base model. But what buyers get in return is phenomenal efficiency, even compared to the solid base model.

Based on an EPA-estimated fuel efficiency rating, the hybrid Tucson posts 36 mpg on the highway and 37 mpg in the city, pushing it above many of its peers.

Plug-in Hybrid Tucson

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid is the last model we need to look at for fuel economy. It’s powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 261 horsepower. The Plug-in Hybrid’s Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price starts at $34 750, with drivers getting access to great performance on the road that doesn’t compromise fuel economy.

The Plug-in Hybrid’s efficiency is measured in electric miles, although they’ve been converted here to the standard. On average, the Plug-in Hybrid has an electric range of 33 miles, which translates to 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway – the same figures as the gas-only model with much-improved performance features.

If you’d like help finding the right Hyundai Tucson model for you, visit almhyundai.com today. Our friendly consultants are here to help!