Most significant changes: Upgraded multimedia systems with bigger screen and smartphone integration at lower trim levels
Price change: Slightly lower prices ranging from $150 less on base SE models to $350 less on the top Limited trim level
On sale: Now
Which should you buy, 2017 or 2018? Consider the 2018 for the better tech and free connectivity services for a lower price if you want a lower trim level; look at the close-out deals on the 2017 if you are loading it up with options.
Hyundai has reshuffled the deck with the largely unchanged 2018 Tucson, raising value by reconfiguring trim levels, adding technology for the volume models and lowering prices slightly.
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While the exterior and interior designs continue for 2018, price cuts range from $150 on the base SE, which now starts at $23,500 for front-wheel drive, to $350 on the top Limited trim level, which now starts at $29,775 for FWD; add $1,400 to either for all-wheel drive (all prices include the destination charge). The middle trim levels have been reconfigured to add more standard multimedia technology for the money, as well as to make optional some features formerly offered only on higher models.
There also are some new names: The SE trim level remains the base model, the SE with Popular Equipment Package becomes an SEL trim, and the 2017 SE Plus model becomes the SEL Plus for 2018. Moving up, the Value and Limited trim levels remain for 2018 with some feature changes, and 2017's Eco and Night trims have bitten the dust.
The biggest technology upgrade for the renamed SEL model is the addition of a 7-inch touchscreen (up from the base 5 inches) that includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability. Hyundai estimates this means that about 90 percent of 2018 Tucsons sold will have these features.
Among features now offered on lower trim levels, the SEL will offer heated seated and satellite radio. The SEL Plus will offer the premium Infinity audio system. The Value trim will offer an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink. And the Limited trim gets a newly available heated steering wheel.
Connectivity services are a better deal for 2018, mirroring the free services already being offered with other 2018 Hyundai vehicles. The subscription-based Hyundai Blue Link Connected Care, Remote Services and Guidance (including map updates) now are free for the first three years on the SEL Plus and Limited models.
The carryover powertrains are a 164-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder with six-speed automatic on the SE, SEL and SEL Plus models and a 175-hp, turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic on the Value and Limited models. The most advanced safety technology, including a front collision system with automatic braking, continues to be offered only in an extra-cost package on the Limited model; models from SEL Plus and above include a blind spot warning system and rear cross-traffic alert.
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