Hyundai Unveils New Tucson With Hybrid Power and Pleos Connect

Hyundai Motor Company has introduced its redesigned Tucson, combining updated SUV styling, next-generation hybrid technology and a new infotainment platform designed to evolve through software updates. The global unveiling took place in New York on October 1, while Hyundai Auto Canada confirmed that the 2027 Tucson will introduce Pleos Connect to Canadian customers, with its local launch date still unannounced.

The new Tucson builds on Hyundai’s Art of Steel design language, which emphasizes sculpted surfaces and a robust appearance. According to information published by Flotauto on October 8, the European model measures 4,560 mm long, 1,900 mm wide and 1,670 mm tall, representing increases of 35 mm in length, 35 mm in width and 20 mm in height over its predecessor.

The redesigned body also features a front overhang extended by 20 mm to meet pedestrian protection requirements. Hyundai increased the door opening angle from 73 to 83 degrees to make entering and exiting the vehicle easier.

At the New York premiere, Hyundai Motor Company President and CEO José Muñoz described the model's importance to the automaker's global business.

"So when we redesign this car, we are not working on one model. We are working on the center of our business, for customers on six continents." José Muñoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, said.

The event also highlighted the SUV's design, hybrid development and software capabilities. Hyundai Head of Hyundai and Genesis Global Design SangYup Lee explained the design principles behind the vehicle.

"From the way TUCSON holds its ground, to the way it supports you inside—boldness is expressed through every detail." SangYup Lee, Head of Hyundai and Genesis Global Design, said.

Hyundai Head of Vehicle Development Tech Unit 2 JinHwan Jung outlined the company's approach to balancing efficiency and driving performance through its next-generation hybrid system.

"Intelligent Efficiency is precise control that adapts to driver’s intention and road conditions by delivering optimal efficiency and performance." JinHwan Jung, Head of Vehicle Development Tech Unit 2, said.

The redesigned lineup includes hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. According to Hyundai's European specifications, the hybrid produces 180 kW, or 245 PS, while the plug-in hybrid delivers up to 215 kW, or 292 PS, with a 17.1 kWh battery.

The plug-in hybrid's estimated electric driving range varies with wheel size. Hyundai's European information lists up to 81 km with 17-inch wheels, while the N Line specification provides up to 67 km with its 20-inch wheels. The plug-in hybrid is available with front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

Hyundai also presented the Tucson N Line at the Paris Motor Show on October 12. The sportier variant adds model-specific 20-inch alloy wheels, a more angular front bumper, gloss-black exterior details and a sculpted rear bumper with diffuser-style elements.

Inside, the N Line features a black interior, red stitching, leather and textile-suede seats, metal pedals and a distinctive steering wheel. Despite its sportier appearance, the model retains up to 613 liters of rear cargo capacity under the VDA measurement standard, along with a sliding rear bench and a 4:2:4 split-folding configuration.

Hyundai's SmartSense driver-assistance suite includes autonomous emergency braking, highway driving assistance and an intelligent speed-limit assistance system. Navigation-linked cruise control can also adjust vehicle speed according to traffic conditions identified through GPS, according to the European model information.

The new infotainment platform, Pleos Connect, is based on Android Automotive OS and integrates vehicle functions, connected services and compatible applications. Hyundai Auto Canada said the system will arrive in Canada with the 2027 Tucson, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

Depending on configuration, the system will feature a 12.9-inch or 17-inch central display, each with a 2560-by-1440-pixel resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio. A separate 9.9-inch driver display sits above the steering wheel.

Eric Wood, senior vice president of product experience at 42dot, the Hyundai Motor Group software center responsible for developing Pleos Connect, described the platform's intended role throughout a vehicle's lifespan.

"Pleos Connect represents a fundamental shift in how customers experience their vehicles over time," Eric Wood, senior vice president of product experience at 42dot, said.

Wood said the software-defined architecture supports ongoing improvements, artificial intelligence capabilities and an open application ecosystem.

"Built on a software-defined vehicle architecture, Pleos Connect is designed to enable continuous value evolution through over-the-air updates, advanced AI capabilities and an open ecosystem that allows new services and experiences to be added throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle. Rather than viewing the vehicle as a product that is complete at delivery, we see it as a platform that can adapt, improve and become more personalized over time." Eric Wood, senior vice president of product experience at 42dot, said.

Pleos Connect also supports the Gleo AI voice assistant, which can provide AI-powered voice interaction, while over-the-air updates allow selected software and infotainment functions to be updated remotely. Hyundai has not announced a Canadian launch date for the 2027 Tucson.