The Hyundai Tucson III (facelift, produced 2018-2020) 2.0 CRDi 185 Hp Mild Hybrid All-Wheel Drive represents a significant step in Hyundai’s compact SUV offerings. Introduced as part of the Tucson III’s mid-cycle refresh, this variant combined a diesel engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system and all-wheel drive, aiming to balance fuel efficiency with capable performance. Positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level within the Tucson III range, it catered to buyers seeking a refined driving experience and improved economy compared to the base models, while offering a more accessible price point than the fully-hybrid options. This model was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where diesel engines remained popular, offering a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered SUVs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Tucson |
| Generation | Tucson III (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CRDi (185 Hp) Mild Hybrid AWD |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 180 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3-5.4 l/100 km (44.4-43.6 US mpg, 53.3-52.3 UK mpg, 18.9-18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1-5.2 l/100 km (46.1-45.2 US mpg, 55.4-54.3 UK mpg, 19.6-19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2-5.4 l/100 km (45.2-43.6 US mpg, 54.3-52.3 UK mpg, 19.2-18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 138-142 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 114.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 246.8 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 0.44 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-polymer (LiPo) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| Recuperation output | 12 kW |
| Electric motor power | 16 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 55 Nm (40.57 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front, Transverse |
| Power | 185 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R II / D4HA |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt, 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt, 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1621-1789 kg (3573.69 – 3944.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2230 kg (4916.31 lbs.) |
| Max load | 441-609 kg (972.24 – 1342.62 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 459 l (16.21 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1449 l (51.17 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal, 13.64 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank capacity | 14 l (3.7 US gal, 3.08 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 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.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2065 mm (81.3 in.) |
| Height | 1655 mm (65.16 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1604-1608 mm (63.15 – 63.31 in.) |
| Rear track | 1615-1620 mm (63.58 – 63.78 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 172 mm (6.77 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive front wheels, rear drive via clutch |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 225/55 R18; 245/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 18; 7.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Hyundai Tucson III facelift, launched in 2018, represented a significant update to Hyundai’s popular compact SUV. This iteration of the Tucson brought revised styling, updated technology, and a range of efficient powertrain options. The 2.0 CRDi 185 Hp Mild Hybrid AWD variant was a key offering, designed to appeal to European and other international markets where diesel remained a prevalent fuel choice. It sat within the Tucson III range, offering a balance between performance, fuel economy, and all-weather capability. The Tucson III itself was built on the Hyundai-Kia PX platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), shared with the Kia Sportage and other models.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Tucson variant lies the Hyundai R II 2.0-liter CRDi diesel engine, designated with the code D4HA. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, utilizing a common-rail direct injection system for optimized fuel delivery and combustion. The engine produces 185 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2750 rpm. The turbocharger with intercooler significantly boosts performance. The “CRDi” designation stands for Common Rail Direct Injection, a technology that allows for precise fuel metering and improved efficiency. The mild hybrid system, a 48V setup, incorporates a small electric motor and battery pack. This system provides a power assist during acceleration, allowing the engine to shut off during coasting and braking to recapture energy (recuperation), improving fuel economy. The electric motor contributes an additional 16 hp and 55 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, sending power to all four wheels via Hyundai’s all-wheel-drive system.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 CRDi 185 Hp Mild Hybrid AWD Tucson offers a composed and refined driving experience. The 400 Nm of torque available from relatively low engine speeds provides ample pulling power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. While not a sports SUV, the 0-60 mph time of around 9.4 seconds is respectable for its class. The mild hybrid system provides a subtle but noticeable boost during acceleration, and the engine shut-off feature contributes to improved fuel economy in urban environments. Compared to the base gasoline engines, the diesel offers significantly more torque and better fuel efficiency. Compared to higher-output diesel variants (often with more powerful turbochargers), this version prioritizes fuel economy and refinement over outright performance. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability in adverse weather conditions, making it a capable all-season vehicle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CRDi 185 Hp Mild Hybrid AWD trim typically included a generous level of standard equipment. This often included features such as alloy wheels (typically 18 or 19 inch), automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and a suite of safety features including ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered options such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Interior upholstery was typically cloth or a combination of cloth and leatherette, depending on the specific trim package.
Chassis & Braking
The Tucson III utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The all-wheel-drive system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability. The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Tucson III facelift, particularly the 2.0 CRDi Mild Hybrid AWD variant, was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel-efficient powertrain. The mild hybrid system was seen as a positive step towards reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. Compared to competitors like the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and Volkswagen Tiguan, the Tucson offered a compelling value proposition with a generous level of standard equipment and a long warranty. Fuel economy figures of around 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) were competitive within its segment. Reliability reports generally indicated good dependability, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) maintenance was a consideration for owners primarily driving short distances.
Legacy
The Hyundai Tucson III 2.0 CRDi 185 Hp Mild Hybrid AWD remains a popular choice in the used car market. The R II diesel engine, while subject to increasing scrutiny regarding emissions regulations, is generally considered durable and reliable when properly maintained. The mild hybrid system has proven to be relatively trouble-free. However, potential buyers should be aware of the need for regular DPF maintenance and the potential for issues with the fuel injection system. Overall, this Tucson variant represents a well-rounded and practical SUV that offers a good balance of performance, efficiency, and comfort.
