The Hyundai Tucson III facelift, specifically the 1.6 T-GDI (177 hp) model with all-wheel drive and a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), was produced from 2018 to 2020. This variant represented a key offering in Hyundai’s compact SUV lineup, positioned as a balance between fuel efficiency, performance, and available technology. It arrived as part of a mid-cycle refresh for the Tucson III (also known as the TL in some markets), bringing updated styling, improved safety features, and refined powertrain options. The Tucson, in general, played a crucial role in Hyundai’s expansion in the North American and European markets, offering a compelling alternative to established competitors like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Qashqai.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Tucson |
| Generation | Tucson III (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 T-GDI (177 Hp) AWD DCT |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 175 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 111.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 265 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (195.45 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Gamma II / G4FJ |
| Engine displacement | 1591 cm3 (97.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.44 mm (3.36 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1562-1728 kg (3443.62 – 3809.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2210 kg (4872.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 482-648 kg (1062.63 – 1428.6 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%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 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.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Tucson variant lies the Hyundai Gamma II engine family, specifically the 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injection (T-GDI) engine, designated G4FJ. This engine utilizes a four-cylinder inline configuration with 16 valves (four per cylinder). The direct injection system, coupled with a twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler, allows for efficient combustion and a broad torque curve. The engine produces 177 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4500 rpm. This power is then channeled through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which provides quick and smooth gear changes. The DCT was chosen for its efficiency and responsiveness compared to a traditional automatic transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 T-GDI with the DCT offers a noticeable step up in performance compared to lower-powered Tucson variants. While not a sports SUV, the combination provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving and highway merging. The DCT contributes to a more engaging driving experience, with quicker shifts than a conventional automatic. However, some drivers noted occasional hesitation from the DCT at low speeds. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in inclement weather conditions, making it a practical choice for regions with snow or rain. The steering is light and precise, but lacks significant feedback. Overall, the driving experience is comfortable and refined, prioritizing ease of use over outright sportiness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 T-GDI AWD DCT trim typically sat in the mid-range of the Tucson III facelift lineup. Standard features generally included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. Dashboard configurations were consistent across the range, with a focus on a clean and modern design.
Chassis & Braking
The Tucson III utilizes a front-wheel-drive based platform with available all-wheel drive. The suspension consists of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. The AWD system employs a hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. Stabilizer bars are fitted both front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning prioritizes comfort and ride quality over sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 T-GDI AWD DCT Tucson received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and well-equipped interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained under hard acceleration, and the DCT occasionally exhibited some jerkiness. Compared to the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine option, the 1.6 T-GDI offered better fuel economy and more responsive performance. Compared to diesel variants (like the 1.7 CRDi), the gasoline engine provided a quieter and smoother driving experience, but typically at the expense of fuel economy. Reliability reports have been generally favorable, with few widespread issues reported for this powertrain combination.
Legacy
The 1.6 T-GDI engine and DCT transmission combination proved to be a reliable and efficient powertrain for the Tucson III. In the used car market, these models continue to be sought after for their balance of features, performance, and fuel economy. While not without its minor quirks, the powertrain has demonstrated good long-term durability. The Tucson III facelift, as a whole, helped solidify Hyundai’s reputation for building well-rounded and value-packed SUVs, paving the way for the continued success of the Tucson nameplate.
