Orders up 40% from previous model

Top trim selection rises 15 percentage points

Hybrid share hits 55%, overtaking gasoline

The fifth-generation fully redesigned compact SUV "The All New Tucson" by Hyundai Motor. The company said Thursday that the new Tucson drew 15,045 orders on its first day of sales, which opened Wednesday. [Hyundai Motor]
The fifth-generation fully redesigned compact SUV "The All New Tucson" by Hyundai Motor. The company said Thursday that the new Tucson drew 15,045 orders on its first day of sales, which opened Wednesday. [Hyundai Motor]

The fifth-generation Tucson, Hyundai Motor's first full redesign of the compact SUV in six years, drew more than 15,000 orders on its opening day — breaking the model's own first-day sales record. More than half of buyers chose the hybrid variant, and the share opting for the top trim rose sharply.

Hyundai Motor said Thursday that "The All New Tucson" received 15,045 orders on Wednesday, the first day contracts were accepted.

That figure surpasses the 10,842 first-day orders logged when the fourth-generation Tucson launched in September 2020, an increase of 4,203 units, or 38.8 percent. Analysts attributed the strong opening-day demand to concentrated early interest in a fully redesigned model amid intensifying competition in the SUV segment.

Two trends stood out in the order data: a simultaneous surge in demand for both the hybrid powertrain and the highest trim level.

By powertrain, the hybrid accounted for 55 percent of orders, overtaking the gasoline model at 45 percent. The previous Tucson's hybrid share stood at 48 percent, meaning the new model gained 7 percentage points.

Hyundai Motor attributed the shift to a next-generation hybrid system that improves both performance and fuel efficiency. The new Tucson hybrid's peak system output rises by 10 horsepower to 245 horsepower, and its combined fuel economy reaches 17.4 kilometers per liter on the two-wheel-drive variant fitted with 17-inch wheels.

The gasoline model also gains power, with a larger-capacity turbocharger lifting peak output by 13 horsepower to 193 horsepower. The transmission has been upgraded from a seven-speed dual-clutch unit to an eight-speed automatic, with a focus on smoother gear changes.

By trim, the top-of-the-line Inspiration was the most popular choice, selected by 44 percent of buyers — up 15 percentage points from 29 percent on the outgoing model. The base H-Pick trim followed at 33 percent, the Exclusive at 22 percent, and the off-road-styled XRT at 1 percent.

The Inspiration comes standard with a range of convenience features, including Pleos Connect, an in-vehicle infotainment system built around a 17-inch display, Highway Driving Assist 2, and dual wireless smartphone charging.

The 33 percent share for the base H-Pick trim is also notable. Hyundai Motor expanded the safety and convenience features available from the entry level, broadening the appeal of the base configuration.

The H-Pick comes standard with Pleos Connect and over-the-air software updates, allowing owners to update the vehicle's software after purchase. Drivers can also access vehicle applications suited to their preferences through an open app marketplace.

Safety features have been reinforced as well. A dual-power door unlock system — a first for Hyundai Motor — allows the door to be unlocked using a separate power source even when the vehicle's main power supply is cut.

Additional standard equipment includes pedal misapplication safety assist, navigation-based Smart Cruise Control 2, electronic shift-by-wire emergency braking in park mode, and nine airbags. Parking and convenience features have also been upgraded, with a surround-view monitor including a transparent-view function, front and rear parking collision avoidance assist, and walk-away locking.

The new Tucson is also larger than its predecessor. Overall length grows by 60 millimeters, width by 40 millimeters, and wheelbase by 30 millimeters, expanding interior space. Body rigidity, cabin quietness and ride comfort have all been improved to enhance the model's appeal as a family SUV.

The new Tucson starts at 31.4 million won ($23,700) for the 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline model and 36.15 million won for the 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid.

"The All New Tucson is an attractive model with strong product value from the base trim up, built on bold design and generous interior space," a Hyundai Motor official said. "We will continue to put customers first and deliver ever-greater value."


kwater@heraldcorp.com