Hyundai is killing its fuel-cell Tucson without any doubt. Instead, California will get an all-new Nexo fuel-cell crossover, which is, by the way, a far more attractive option. Still, this doesn’t mean that there is not going to be the Tucson anymore. On the contrary, the SUV is going to receive a mid-cycle update for the next year. We know that because our photographers have managed to catch a prototype of the updated 2019 Hyundai Tucson already.
The vehicle may be completely camouflaged here, yet this doesn’t mean that the car manufacturer plans to change everything. Moreover, most of the exterior changes are going to happen at the ends. As far as we know, the 2019 Tucson will get a revised, most likely radiator-style grille and a pair of redesigned headlights. The new eyes will be LED of course. The front end could also see some minor changes on the hood, as well as a new air intake. Around back, the SUV will host just updated taillights and restyled rear bumper. The prototype uses an unchanged exhaust layout, though this might change when the production-ready model arrives.
Even though you don’t have to agree Hyundai currently owns one of the best infotainment systems available. So, can you imagine how good it is going to be the updated version? Excellent we suppose. Moreover, the 2019 Hyundai Tucson will reportedly get an Intelligent Personal Agent system, which will make it really serious.
Under the hood, the 2019 Tucson will reportedly host the existing options and perhaps one all-new unit. Meaning, the U.S.-specs model will use a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine with 164 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the more potent model will rely on a 1.6-liter turbo with 175-hp and 195 pound-feet of torque. There is a strong possibility to see the 2019 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid this time. The crossover will reportedly use one of the existing options, most likely the turbo, which is going to be mated to a mild 48-kWh electric motor. There are some wild rumors about the Tucson EV, yet we are not so sure is this possible to happen right now. The electric crossover is in Hyundai’s plans, but this needs more time.
As for the updated Tucson, look for the SUV in the second half of the year.
