• 2013 Hyundai Tucson

• 2012 Hyundai Tucson
• Used Hyundai Tucson
• Repairs Hyundai Tucson

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Hyundai Tucson U.S. News Best Cars 7.6
Critics' Rating:	7.9
Performance:	7.2
Interior:	7.3
Safety:	9.4
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Notable for 2013

• Standard heated seats on FWD GLS models

Pros & Cons

• Good fuel economy
• Roomy for four passengers
• Competitive price and warranty
• Strong safety rating

• Some sub-par interior materials
• Below-average cargo space
• Underpowered base engine
• Firmer ride than competitors

Research Other Years

• 2012 Hyundai Tucson
• 2011 Hyundai Tucson
• 2010 Hyundai Tucson
• 2009 Hyundai Tucson
• 2008 Hyundai Tucson
• 2007 Hyundai Tucson

The 2013 Hyundai Tucson ranks 12 out of 21 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 26 published reviews and test drives of the Hyundai Tucson, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2013 Hyundai Tucson is a good option for shoppers who want plenty of standard features. While the Tucson doesn’t have the most power or cargo space in the class, it offers a strong safety score and outstanding fuel economy ratings.

The 2013 Hyundai Tucson has a pair of four-cylinder engines to choose from: a standard 2.0-liter engine and an optional 2.4-liter engine. Test drivers think both engines are competitive for the class, though they’re not the most powerful. A five-speed manual transmission comes standard on the base Tucson and a six-speed automatic is optional. Test drivers prefer the more powerful 2.4-liter over the base engine because it performs better in freeway merging and passing while getting 21/30 mpg city/highway with the six-speed automatic, which is average for the class. Reviewers like how maneuverable the Tucson is in tight spaces, which helps with parking. However, critics find the 2.4-liter noisier and less refined than the engines in competitors like the Chevrolet Equinox. Also, unlike many compact SUVs, reviewers say the Tucson’s ride is a tad firm.

While the Tucson has a functional interior, it doesn’t quite stack up against rivals like the highly-ranked Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5. Still, reviewers find that the Tucson’s overall quality exceeds its modest price point. They are also impressed with the number of standard features in the Tucson, which comes with standard satellite radio and a USB port on the base trim. Springing for the Limited trim will get you leather seats, heated front seats and an optional navigation system reviewers say is easy to use. The Tucson seats up to five, but like most compact SUVs, the middle position in the back seat is cramped. Some critics find the seats, especially in the rear, to be lacking adequate space, while others say that the front and back offer ample leg- and headroom. Critics say the Tucson’s sloping roofline limits rearward visibility. Also, the Tucson doesn’t have the cargo space that most competitors offer.

• "Tucson offers a great blend of maneuverability, comfortable interior accommodations, and a plethora of standard features, making it a solid pick in this segment.” -- Consumer Guide
• "Now in its third year, the Tucson gains incremental changes to increase fuel efficiency, range, and refinement." -- Motor Trend (2012)
• "With its good looks and plenty of features, the 2012 Hyundai Tucson keeps pace in the compact SUV field, but its tight interior and stiff ride may deter some buyers." -- Cars.com (2012)
• "The 2012 Hyundai Tucson might not be as big as its main rivals, but it makes amends with a handsome cabin, an ample list of features, sporty handling and a low price. It's a top pick for a small crossover." -- Edmunds (2012)

Other Cars to Consider

The all-new 2013 Mazda CX-5 is a sporty compact SUV with an impressive amount of cargo space. Reviewers praise the CX-5’s corner carving abilities and smooth-shifting manual transmission. With an automatic transmission, the CX-5 achieves 26/33 mpg city/highway, which is great for the class. Inside, critics say the cabin is well-designed and comfortable. Still, test drivers feel that the CX-5 could use more power.

The completely redesigned 2013 Ford Escape delivers good fuel economy, several powertrain options and a refined interior with room for five. Critics give the Escape high marks for its car-like handling and its powerful, yet fuel-efficient, engine options. Also, the interior has quality materials along with comfortable seating for most passengers. The Escape also has more cargo space than the Tucson.

Compare the Tucson, CX-5 and Escape »

Details: 2013 Hyundai Tucson

The 2013 Hyundai Tucson is available in three trims: GL, GLS and Limited. The base GL comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission, though a six-speed automatic is optional. The top-of-the-line Limited comes standard with the six-speed automatic transmission, which is paired to a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. All-wheel drive is optional on either the GLS or Limited trims. The five-passenger Tucson was last redesigned in 2010 and is largely unchanged. Since it hasn’t changed much, this overview uses research and reviews from 2012 and 2013.

See full 2013 Hyundai Tucson specs »