Hyundai South Africa has officially rolled out the facelifted Tucson, marking a significant refresh to its popular midsize SUV. First showcased back in November 2022, the updated model now lands with a simplified line-up, more technology, refined styling, and a surprisingly lower price tag.
As the Tucson enters its fifth year of production, the facelift aims to keep it competitive against newer rivals by emphasizing value, efficiency, and user-friendly innovation.
Streamlined Range
In a move to simplify choices, Hyundai has trimmed the Tucson range from five models to three. Gone are the 2.0-litre naturally aspirated Executive and Elite variants, as well as the diesel-powered Elite. What remains is a focused trio:
Tucson 2.0 Premium AT – Entry-level petrol
Tucson 2.0D Executive AT – Mid-range diesel
Tucson 2.0D N Line AWD AT – Performance-focused flagship
The Executive now adopts the turbodiesel engine from the outgoing Elite, while the N Line remains the only variant to feature all-wheel drive and sport-inspired enhancements.
Refreshed Exterior
The facelift brings subtle yet effective changes to the Tucson’s exterior. These include a redesigned front bumper, updated skidplates, and a reshaped grille retaining the distinctive Parametric Jewel Hidden Lights. New LED daytime running lights complete the refreshed face.
At the rear, the bumper has also been reworked, and the Hyundai badge has been moved to the lower portion of the rear window.
Exclusive to the N Line are unique styling cues such as gloss black mirrors, dual exhaust outlets, satin silver accents, and sporty 19-inch alloy wheels.
Updated Colour Palette
Hyundai has reduced the number of available colours from seven to five. Dropping Silky Bronze, Phantom Black, Deep Sea, and Crimson Red, the new colour choices include:
White Cream
Titan Grey
Shimmering Silver
Ocean Indigo Blue (new)
Ultimate Red (new)
Note: The N Line cannot be specified in Ocean Indigo Blue or Shimmering Silver.
Interior Overhaul
Inside, the facelifted Tucson features a completely redesigned dashboard inspired by Hyundai’s luxury brand Genesis. A new dual 12.3-inch digital display setup—comprising the infotainment screen and instrument cluster—is now standard across the range.
The dashboard now features full-width air vents, and the climate control system has been repositioned lower on the console with physical controls. The gear shifter has moved to the steering column—except in the N Line, which retains the older, centre-console gear lever design.
Key Features by Model
| Feature | Premium (R559,900) | Executive (R709,900) | N Line (R859,900) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Petrol (115kW) | 2.0L Diesel (137kW) | 2.0L Diesel (137kW) AWD |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Infotainment | Dual 12.3-inch displays | Dual 12.3-inch displays | Dual 12.3-inch displays |
| Wheels | 18-inch alloys | 19-inch alloys | 19-inch N Line alloys |
| Upholstery | Leather | Leather | Leather/Suede with red stitching |
| Safety | Blind Spot Monitoring, ESC | Safe Exit Assist, Lane Keep | Full ADAS suite incl. ACC |
| Sound System | 6 speakers | 6 speakers | 10-speaker Bose system |
| Seating Features | Leather, no seat heating | Heated, ventilated front seats | Heated front & rear seats |
| Other Features | Wireless charger, Cruise Control | Electric tailgate, Push Start | Panoramic sunroof, N styling |
Performance & Drivetrain
The engines remain unchanged:
Premium: 2.0L petrol, 115kW/192Nm, FWD, 6-speed auto
Executive & N Line: 2.0L turbodiesel, 137kW/416Nm, 8-speed auto
N Line: AWD as standard
Hyundai Tucson: Pricing & Warranty
Hyundai has made the facelift even more appealing by reducing the Premium model’s price by R39,000. All variants include a 7-year/200,000 km warranty and a 5-year/75,000 km service plan.
Tucson 2.0 Premium AT – R559,900
Tucson 2.0D Executive AT – R709,900
Tucson 2.0D N Line AWD AT – R859,900
The refreshed Hyundai Tucson delivers a smarter, more stylish, and better-equipped package while trimming down the range for easier decision-making. With a high-tech cabin and refined driving experience, the facelifted Tucson offers compelling value in the South African SUV market.
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