Why the 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid exists for all the ‘right’ reasons
Hyundai Motor Philippines (HMPH) entered the local hybrid-electric vehicle (HEV) stakes last July with not one, but two all-new electrified models.
One is the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, which combines premium HEV performance with the practicality and flexibility of a cavernous three-row cabin. And the other is the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, built to take on five-seater hybrid crossovers like the Toyota RAV4 HEV and the Honda CR-V e:HEV.
We look at the factors that made models like the Tucson Hybrid possible – and why it has a bright, “green” future in the Philippines.
The law is right
Although HEVs have long tried to make a mark in the country, it wasn’t until Republic Act 11697 or the “Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act” lapsed into law last April 2022 that these electrified machines really made waves.
Besides incentives for battery EV owners, the measure extends number-coding exemptions and discounted Land Transportation Office fees for HEV owners until April 2030. Plug-in HEVs would also get to use dedicated EV parking slots and charging stations, which were made mandatory in all new public and private establishments.
Last May, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. extended the zero tariffs granted to imported EVs and parts under Executive Order No. 12 to HEVs. HMPH took full advantage of this with the all-new Tucson Hybrid, which is significantly cheaper than its Japanese rivals at just P2,290,000.
The looks are right
The Tucson Hybrid also stands out from its competitors with its striking appearance.
Using the stylish Tucson as a base, this electrified variant incorporates a revamped radiator grill and bumpers, as well as new 19-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, the new Tucson Hybrid features a 12.3-inch panoramic, curved infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Things like the Floating Type Console Box and Seat Remote Folding System provide a cleaner and roomier cabin.
The new Tucson Hybrid comes in seven colors: Pine Green, Phantom Black Pearl, White Cream, Shimmering Silver, Amazon Gray, Deep Sea and Cashmere Bronze.
The tech is right
With exceptional fuel economy now the hottest trend among crossovers, the Tuscon Hybrid goes into battle with some of the most advanced HEV technology on the market.
Its turbocharged 1.6-liter, twin-cam, 16-valve inline-4 gasoline engine is mated to an electric motor for a combined output of 232 horsepower and 367 Newton-meters of torque. All this grunt is coursed through a 6-speed automatic gearbox that uses a Steering Column-Mounted Shift-by-Wire Lever for a completely open center footwell.
Other advanced features like e-Dynamic Driving and Smart Regenerative Braking helps owners save money at the pumps. Aside from the traditional driving modes like Eco, Smart and Sport, the Tucson Hybrid has a “Baby” mode that ensures acceleration is more comfortable for young passengers.
Besides being the greenest Tucson, this is also the most powerful Tucson ever sold in the Philippines.
The Tucson Hybrid is likewise equipped with the Hyundai SmartSense active-safety suite that helps make drives safer and more convenient with features like Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping & Following Assist, Side Parking Distance Warning, Smart Cruise Control and a Surround View Monitor.
With a package like this, HMPH should have no issue bringing former HEV detractors into their fold.
