Hyundai Tucson PHEV revealed – but will it come to Australia?

Hyundai has pulled the covers off its latest plug-in hybrid SUV, with the new Tucson PHEV breaking cover in Europe. But the electrified Tucson is no sure starter for Australia, despite the popularity of cars like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

The Tucson PHEV pairs a 1.6-litre petrol engine with a 66.9kW electric motor, as well as a 13.8kWH lithium polymer battery. Combined system outputs are listed at 195kW and 350Nm. That power is fed through a six-speed automatic transmission and sent to all four wheels.

Hyundai says its latest PHEV will deliver an all-electric driving range of 50km, and a clever Active Air Flap adjusts air intake according to conditions to further maximise efficiency.

Hyundai says you can expect plenty of space, too, with a total 558 litres of luggage space with the rear seats in place, and to 1737 litres with them folded flat, as well as increased space for front and rear passengers.

While the Tucson PHEV hasn’t been ruled out for our market, it remains a long way from being a lock, with the brand instead suggesting it remains “under evaluation” for Australia.

“That vehicle is under evaluation, but we’re unable to confirm it for our market yet,” says Hyundai’s communications chief, Bill Thomas. “We can see the potential in plug-in hybrids, but at this point it remains under evaluation.”