The Hyundai Tucson III (facelift, introduced in 2018) 1.6 CRDi 136 hp All-Wheel Drive (AWD) represents a significant iteration of Hyundai’s popular compact SUV. Produced from 2018 through April 2019, this variant occupied a middle ground within the Tucson III range, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and all-weather capability. It was positioned as an alternative to the more powerful gasoline engines and the higher-torque diesel options, appealing to buyers prioritizing economy and practicality. This model is based on the Hyundai-Kia’s platform, offering a comfortable ride and a spacious interior for its class.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Tucson |
| Generation | Tucson III (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (136 Hp) AWD |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | April, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 138 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 202.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000-2250 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2250 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 | 1578-1735 kg (3478.89 – 3825.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2195 kg (4839.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460-617 kg (1014.13 – 1360.25 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.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Tucson variant is the Hyundai D4FE 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider RPM range. The D4FE engine is known for its relatively quiet operation compared to some other diesel engines of the era. The engine produces 136 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 2,000 and 2,250 rpm. This torque band provides good low-end responsiveness, useful for everyday driving and towing. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this configuration, providing a balance between fuel efficiency and driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi AWD Tucson offers a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine provides adequate power for most driving situations. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.8 seconds, and the top speed is 111.85 mph. The AWD system enhances traction, particularly in inclement weather or on slippery surfaces. The 6-speed manual transmission allows for precise gear selection, but the gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy rather than outright acceleration. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter gasoline engine, the 1.6 CRDi feels less responsive, especially at higher speeds. However, it offers significantly better fuel economy. Compared to the 1.7 CRDi, the 1.6 offers a slight power advantage, but the 1.7 often delivers better real-world fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi AWD Tucson typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered additional features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a more advanced infotainment system with navigation. Optional extras included parking sensors, a rearview camera, and a premium sound system.
Chassis & Braking
The Tucson III utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The AWD system employs a 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, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension is tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars are present at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 CRDi AWD Tucson was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient SUV. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and all-weather capability. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the gasoline-powered Tucson models, the 1.6 CRDi offered significantly better fuel economy. Compared to other diesel-powered SUVs in its class, the Tucson offered a competitive combination of price, features, and fuel efficiency. Reliability reports suggest that the D4FE engine is generally durable, but regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues with the turbocharger and fuel injection system.
Legacy
The Hyundai Tucson III 1.6 CRDi AWD has established itself as a reliable and affordable used car option. The D4FE engine, while not known for blistering performance, has proven to be relatively durable with proper maintenance. The availability of parts and service is good, making it a relatively easy vehicle to maintain. Today, these Tucsons can be found at reasonable prices, making them an attractive option for buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient SUV. The model represents a key step in Hyundai’s evolution as a mainstream automotive manufacturer, demonstrating its ability to produce vehicles that compete effectively with established brands.
