The Hyundai Tucson has always been the company’s best-selling vehicle worldwide, and for a good reason. It fills the space between stylish looks and functional performance, rendering it one of the best options in the Indian midsize SUV market.
For 2024 and 2025 buyers, there’s a key choice to make: go with the loaded new Hyundai Tucson, or save thousands with a used Hyundai Tucson that still offers top-shelf comfort and performance? Both have advantages, and making the right choice depends on your budget, feature wants, and ownership requirements.
Here, we take a close look at both options, from features and design to price, financing, insurance, ride quality, and long-term value, so that you can make an informed and knowledgeable choice.
New Hyundai Tucson Quick Overview
First unveiled in India in August 2022, the fourth-gen Tucson brought a drastic change in styling and technology. Embarking on Hyundai’s global “Sensuous Sportiness” philosophy, it stands out for its parametric grille, geometric strokes, jewel-like LED daytime running lights, and Z-shaped tail lights. It measures 4,630 mm in length, with a 2,755 mm wheelbase, while offering segment-best space.
Under the bonnet it runs on:
- 2.0 L petrol engine (156 PS, 192 Nm) paired with a smooth 6-speed automatic
- 2.0 L diesel engine (186 PS, 416 Nm) with an 8-speed automatic
- AWD (All‑Wheel Drive) is available on the top diesel trim
Handling is refined with throttle response optimized for drive mode settings. It handles well on inner-city streets as well as when cruising along highways. It is comfortable with multi-link rear suspension, while light steering with snappier responses in inner-city traffic is from the petrol variant.
The warranty is 3 years/unlimited kilometers with a potential 5-year extension. Tucson’s ride quality, technology, and construction make it feel almost luxury‑grade for a car of this price.
Key Updates of the New Hyundai Tucson
- All‑new platform and styling: Parametric grille, hidden DRLs
- ADAS Level 2 suite: Adaptive cruise, lane keep, forward collision avoidance, blind spot monitoring
- Twin digital displays: Represent a leap in cabin tech
- Panoramic sunroof + Bose audio: Brings premium SUV appeal
- AWD diesel variant: Adds capability for varied terrains
- Terrain and drive modes: Customized experience
- Strong NVH insulation: Quiet cabin and smooth ride
- OTA update support: Future‑proofing the vehicle
- Robust safety: 6 airbags, ESC, TPMS standard
New Hyundai Tucson Ex‑Showroom Price
| Car Variant | Transmission | Ex‑Showroom Price (₹ lakh) |
| Platinum AT | Automatic | ₹29.27 |
| Signature AT | Automatic | ₹31.77 |
| Platinum Diesel AT | Automatic | ₹31.65 |
| Signature Diesel 4WD AT | Automatic | ₹35.89 |
On‑road versions, inclusive of RTO and insurance, range from ₹33 lakh to around ₹37 lakh, depending on your city and add‑ons.
Ownership Experience: New Hyundai Tucson
Drive Dynamics
Tucson handles better than most competitors thanks to a carefully tuned suspension and quick-acting steering. Petrol is snappy off the line, while diesel is suitable for motorways. AWD makes for a solid ride in inclement weather.
Tech & Infotainment
Bluelink features like voice‑activated climate control, live navigation updates, remote engine start, geofence alerts, and OTA updates keep the infotainment relevant.
Comfort & Practicality
The spacious interior, premium seats, panoramic roof, and smooth ride make long drives and urban journeys equally pleasant.
Running Costs
- Petrol automatic: ~12–14 kmpl
- Diesel automatic: ~17–19 kmpl
Fuel expenses average ₹1.5–1.75 lakh per year at ₹105/L.
Maintenance
Annual servicing costs are approximately ₹12–15,000. Maintenance includes oil change, brake/tyre checks, and fluid top‑ups, with no major outlays until 60k km unless you opt for wear‑item replacements.
Warranty & Support
Hyundai’s 3-year, unlimited km warranty is extendable. Bluelink and highway assistance further add value.
Used Hyundai Tucson Quick Overview
The third-generation Tucson was introduced in 2016 with a 2019 mid-life makeover that continued until 2022. It combined stout underpinnings with luxury trimmings and a comfortable ride, a beefy product in the used-vehicle landscape. To most buyers, it delivers top-shelf content for a smaller dollar.
The transmission and engine remain the same as those of the new one, except that it does not come with AWD or ADAS. That is:
- 2.0 L petrol automatic (155 PS) — smooth and reliable
- 2.0 L diesel automatic (185 PS) — torque-rich and refined
The cabin includes:
- LED DRLs, projector headlights
- Wireless charging pad
- 8‑inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay / Android Auto
- Dual‑zone climate control + rear vents
- Electric driver seat, leatherette upholstery
- Panoramic sunroof and powered tailgate in top trims
- Cruise control — rare under ₹25 lakh in the segment
Ride quality is comparable to that of a luxury SUV, albeit slightly noisier than a new car. Cabin trimmings exude a sense of luxury with soft-touch paneling that is nicely stitched together without any rattles, even after 60,000–80,000 km.
Second-hand vehicles are typically from well-maintained first owners with comprehensive service records. Older Tucson vehicles tend to be long-lived, with low running costs and a reputation for reliability.
Used Hyundai Tucson Price Overview
| Year | Transmission | On‑Road Price (₹ lakh) |
| 2022 | AT | ₹23–26 |
| 2021 | AT | ₹20–23 |
| 2020 | AT | ₹18–20 |
| 2019 | AT | ₹16–18 |
| 2017–18 | AT / MT | ₹13–15.5 |
Look for a 2020–2021 diesel AT Tucson under 40k km for the best value.
Ownership Experience: Used Hyundai Tucson
Driving & Performance
The older diesel engine is still punchy and efficient — perfect for highway trips. Petrol is smoother but ideal for city driving. The ride comfort remains a key strength.
Tech & Comfort
Infotainment remains relevant with smartphone mirroring, although there is no OTA or BlueLink. Steering‑wheel audio controls, voice commands, and rear AC vents make it suitable for families.
Running & Maintenance
Fuel efficiency and running costs are equal to those of a new car. Maintenance intervals and repair costs remain average, at approximately ₹ 10,000-12,000 yearly. The warranty could still be applicable or possibly extended by the dealership.
Resale & Support
Hyundai’s service network supports software updates, parts availability, and good resale value. Many Tucson owners report stress‑free ownership.
Financing Comparison: New vs Used
Let’s compare two real‑world scenarios:
- New Tucson Signature Diesel 4WD AT – ₹35.94 lakh
- Used 2021 Tucson Diesel AT – ₹21.5 lakh
Assuming a 20% down payment and typical loan terms:
| New Hyundai Tucson | Used Hyundai Tucson | |
| Ex-showroom Price | ₹35.89 lakh | ₹21.5 lakh |
| Down payment | ₹7.18 lakh | ₹4.30 lakh |
| Loan tenure | 5 years | 4 years |
| Loan amount | ₹28.71 lakh | ₹17.20 lakh |
| Interest rate | ~9% | ~11% |
| Interest paid | ₹6.42 lakh | ₹3.65 lakh |
| Total repayment | ₹35.13 lakh | ₹20.85 lakh |
| Total saved | — | ₹17.16 lakh |
You save around ₹17.16 lakh over the financing period, plus lower EMIs.
Insurance Comparison: New vs Used
Insurance costs over five years:
| New Hyundai Tucson | Used Hyundai Tucson | |
| IDV | ₹35.5–36 lakh | ₹21.50lakh |
| Annual premium (yr1) | ₹72,000-₹75,000 | ₹42,000-₹45,000 |
| 5-year total | ₹3.15 lakh | ₹2.00 lakh |
| Savings | — | ₹1.15 lakh |
By choosing a used 2021 Tucson Diesel AT model, you can save over ₹ 1 lakh, which can be used to upgrade or personalize your car.
Which to Choose?
Still on the fence? Here’s the breakdown:
New Hyundai Tucson
- Best-in-class safety and ADAS (Level 2)
- New‑car warranty + AWD diesel variant
- Dual screens, better tech, futuristic styling
- Ideal for long‑term ownership (7+ years)
- Higher EMI, insurance, and depreciation
Used Hyundai Tucson
- Same underlying platform, engine, and comfort
- Sunroof, auto seats, and premium cabin at 40–50% lower price
- Avoids steep depreciation
- Lower EMI & insurance costs
- Great for a 5‑year ownership horizon
- Misses ADAS and OTA, but nothing essential
FAQs about Hyundai Tucson
Q. Is the Tucson diesel engine reliable?
Yes, both Tucson models utilize a proven 2.0‑litre R‑Series diesel engine for durability and smoothness.
Q. How much depreciation does Tucson face?
New cars depreciate 25-30% in value within their first 3 years, while older cars retain value more effectively thereafter.
Q. What’s the real fuel efficiency of the Hyundai Tucson?
Actual mileage of Petrol AT variant of Hyundai Tucson is ~12–14 kmpl (urban + highway) while that of Diesel AT is ~17–19 kmpl. The average mileage of the AWD diesel variant is ~16–17 kmpl.
Q. Which used Tucson variant is ideal?
Look for a sunroof-equipped automatic diesel with less than 40,000 km, preferably from 2020 to 2021.
Q. Any common maintenance issues for Hyundai Tucson?
There are no significant maintenance issues on the Hyundai Tucson. Everyday wear items, occasional cleaning of DPF (diesel), and change of timing belt after 1 lakh km are required as part of the regular maintenance for the Hyundai Tucson.
