The Hyundai Tucson III (facelift, introduced in 2018) 1.6 CRDi producing 116 horsepower represents a key variant within the third-generation Tucson lineup. Produced from 2018 through April 2019, this model aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency and practicality for European and other international markets. It occupied a mid-range position in the Tucson portfolio, slotting below the more powerful gasoline and higher-output diesel options, and above the base-level trims. This version was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing economy and reasonable performance in a compact SUV package.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Tucson |
| Generation | Tucson III (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | April, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13 kg/Hp, 77 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 185.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4FE |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1507-1666 kg (3322.37 – 3672.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 454-613 kg (1000.9 – 1351.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 513 l (18.12 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1503 l (53.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4480 mm (176.38 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Height | 1655 mm (65.16 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1604-1620 mm (63.15 – 63.78 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1615-1631 mm (63.58 – 64.21 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 172 mm (6.77 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
INTRODUCTION
The Hyundai Tucson III, launched in 2015 and facelifted in 2018, represented a significant step forward for Hyundai in the competitive compact SUV segment. The 1.6 CRDi 116 hp variant, introduced with the facelift, was specifically tailored for markets where diesel engines were favored for their fuel efficiency and torque. This engine option aimed to provide a practical and economical choice for families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle for daily commuting and longer journeys. The facelift brought updated styling, improved safety features, and refinements to the interior, enhancing the overall appeal of the Tucson.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Tucson variant is the Hyundai D4FE 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque, mitigating the typical turbo lag associated with smaller displacement engines. The engine produces 116 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 2750 rpm. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) to enhance responsiveness across the rev range. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement. While an automatic transmission was available on other Tucson trims, it wasn’t offered with this specific 1.6 CRDi engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi 116 hp Tucson offers a comfortable and composed driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 11.8 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t provide particularly brisk performance. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it well-suited for navigating city streets and tackling inclines. The manual transmission allows for precise gear selection, and the relatively long gearing contributes to improved fuel efficiency at highway speeds. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter diesel or gasoline engines available in the Tucson lineup, this variant feels less responsive, particularly when fully loaded or during overtaking maneuvers. However, the trade-off is significantly improved fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi 116 hp Tucson typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, heated seats, a rearview camera, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Tucson III utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with independent suspension at the front (typically MacPherson struts) and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The 1.6 CRDi variant, being one of the lighter engine options, generally benefits from slightly more agile handling compared to the heavier models. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for everyday driving. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 CRDi 116 hp Tucson was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical choice within the compact SUV segment. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its larger counterparts. Compared to competitors like the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and Volkswagen Tiguan, the Tucson offered a competitive package with a strong warranty and a good value proposition. Fuel economy figures of around 5.0 l/100 km (47 US mpg) combined were a key selling point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Legacy
The Hyundai D4FE 1.6 CRDi engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain when properly maintained. Common issues are typically related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF), particularly in vehicles used primarily for short journeys. Regular servicing, including oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. In the used car market, the 1.6 CRDi Tucson represents a good value proposition, offering a practical and economical SUV at an affordable price point. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs continue to make it an appealing option for buyers seeking a dependable and versatile vehicle.
