The Hyundai Tucson has gained its own cult following among compact SUVs available to the Philippine market. Since the early 2000s when the model was first introduced, Hyundai has been successful in its own right in delivering a practical choice for a crossover vehicle.

Moving fast and forward to 2025, the SUV rivalry is heightened by added criteria. Maximum fuel efficiency, digitalization, performance, and luxury embedded in practicality—these are all part of a new approach that either shapes the mindset or fits the demands of today’s consumer.

Enter the 1.6-liter turbocharged HEV GLS variant with electrified propulsion. With a combined output of 232hp, it trumps both the Tucson’s 2.0-liter gasoline (154hp) and 2.0-liter diesel (183hp) versions. As for the torque, its combined figure of 367Nm is dwarfed by the diesel’s 416Nm but is significantly better than the petrol’s 192Nm. We did an average hybrid fuel economy of 12.2km/L.

What sets the Tucson’s hybrid variant apart from its gas and diesel counterparts? On the exterior, all variants share the changes made to its overall striking outline. It has a visibly more aggressive anterior, which can be attributed to the parametric jewel design pattern. The grille seamlessly expands toward the daytime running lights hiding it from plain sight. As with most crossovers of this kind, the model’s shape achieves its own unique interpretation of sporty elegance standing on 19-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the cockpit’s visual appeal lies in its borderless display screen for the driver’s instrument cluster and the unit’s infotainment system, which is inclusive of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice recognition. The paddle shifters also give the Tucson a modernized touch. The center console provides a wireless charging pad and ample cubby storage.

Safety features are more than ample, including lane-following/keeping assist, forward collision avoidance, blind-spot view monitors, speed limit assist, and downhill break control.

The vehicle seats five comfortably on leather seats, although power seat adjustment is reserved mainly for the driver, while the rest are manually adjusted. The rear seats are modifiable to a 60:40-split setup, and can be folded down to accommodate more cargo if necessary.

A one-touch panoramic sunroof always makes for an attractive visual feature, which can be converted to a moonroof instead should driver and passengers prefer to be shielded from the outside elements. The insulation helps you appreciate just how quiet a six-speed automatic hybrid vehicle can be.

The HEV variant covers the same accessories and gadgetry as its gas and diesel counterparts, but fuel efficiency is always the differentiating factor, without having to commit to owning a fully electric vehicle. The reality of stop-go driving is where a hybrid can be most appreciated. It provides a quiet, stable and responsive ride with its e-Comfort technology. The smart regenerative braking feature likewise makes driving a guiltless experience, but still packs a punch in performance in comparison to the alternatives.

There’s always a premium to acquiring better fuel efficiency. Priced at P2,290,000, it’s at the top of the model lineup. For the fuel-conscious, the 2025 Tucson is a smart car made even smarter where it counts as it’s able to adjust to traffic conditions and avoid unnecessary consumption.

The Tucson may be a household name on its own, but consider this a sign of the times where today’s consumers are offered more progressive options. The hybrid variant can definitely rise to the occasion.