The Hyundai Tucson IV 1.6 T-GDI HEV 4WD Automatic, produced from December 2020 to May 2024, represents a significant offering within the fourth generation (NX4) Tucson lineup. This variant combines a turbocharged gasoline engine with a full hybrid electric vehicle (FHEV) system and all-wheel drive, positioning itself as a mid-to-upper trim level focused on fuel efficiency and all-weather capability. It’s built on the N3 platform, shared with the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Sonata, and aimed primarily at the North American and European markets where compact SUVs with hybrid powertrains are increasingly popular.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Tucson |
| Generation | Tucson IV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 T-GDI (230 Hp) HEV 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | December, 2020 |
| End of production | May, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 149 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 140.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 162.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 1.49 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 270 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-polymer (LiPo) |
| Electric motor power | 60 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 264 Nm @ 1600 rpm (194.72 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| System power | 230 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Internal combustion engine power | 180 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 112.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 265 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (195.45 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4FT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.8 l (8.24 US qt | 6.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1634-1755 kg (3602.35 – 3869.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2245 kg (4949.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490-611 kg (1080.27 – 1347.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 616 l (21.75 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1795 l (63.39 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4500 mm (177.17 in.) |
| Width | 1865 mm (73.43 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2130 mm (83.86 in.) |
| Height | 1651 mm (65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2680 mm (105.51 in.) |
| Front track | 1615-1630 mm (63.58 – 64.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1622-1637 mm (63.86 – 64.45 in.) |
| Front overhang | 895 mm (35.24 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 925 mm (36.42 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm (6.69 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.315 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.92 m (35.83 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17.4° |
| Departure angle | 25.7° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 17.3° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor permanently drive the front wheels of the vehicle, capable of running in full electric or mixed mode, and if necessary through the electrically or mechanically controlled clutch, the rear wheels are driven. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 291 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 302 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R17; 235/50 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 17; 7.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Hyundai Tucson IV 1.6 T-GDI HEV 4WD Automatic is a front-wheel-drive based SUV with on-demand all-wheel drive, launched in late 2020 as part of the comprehensively redesigned fourth-generation Tucson (NX4). This variant utilizes a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with a 44.1 kW electric motor and a 1.49 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack, delivering a combined system output of 230 horsepower. It was positioned as a compelling alternative to established competitors like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, and Nissan Rogue Hybrid, offering a blend of fuel efficiency, technology, and all-weather capability. The Tucson IV represented a significant leap forward in design and technology for Hyundai, and this particular powertrain option aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a refined and economical SUV experience.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Tucson IV 1.6 T-GDI HEV lies the Hyundai-Kia Smartstream G4FT engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine features direct injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and a cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. The engine code is often associated with variations, but the core architecture remains consistent. The engine produces 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid system incorporates a 44.1 kW (60 hp) electric motor integrated with a six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is specifically designed for hybrid applications, featuring optimized gear ratios for both fuel efficiency and performance. The electric motor draws power from a 1.49 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack located under the rear seats. The system operates in various modes, including all-electric, hybrid, and regenerative braking to maximize efficiency. The engine utilizes a timing chain, reducing maintenance compared to timing belts.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 T-GDI HEV 4WD Automatic delivers a smooth and refined driving experience. The electric motor provides instant torque, resulting in brisk acceleration, especially from a standstill. The combined system output of 230 hp allows for a 0-60 mph time of around 7.9 seconds. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, and the all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in various weather conditions. Compared to the base 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, the 1.6 T-GDI HEV offers significantly improved fuel economy and a more responsive driving feel. While not as sporty as some competitors, the Tucson IV HEV provides a comfortable and capable ride for everyday driving. The hybrid system seamlessly blends power from the engine and motor, minimizing engine noise and maximizing efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 T-GDI HEV 4WD Automatic was typically offered in SEL Convenience, Limited, and Ultimate trim levels. Standard features generally included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Hyundai SmartSense safety suite (including forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, and driver attention warning), LED headlights, and automatic climate control. Higher trim levels added features such as a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional extras included a digital key, wireless charging, and a head-up display.
Chassis & Braking
The Tucson IV utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to balance ride comfort and handling. The all-wheel-drive 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. The Tucson IV is equipped with ABS, electronic stability control, and traction control as standard features. Steering is provided by an electric power steering system, offering light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Tucson IV 1.6 T-GDI HEV 4WD Automatic was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, spacious interior, and comprehensive suite of technology features. Compared to other hybrid SUVs in its class, the Tucson IV offered a competitive price point and a longer warranty. Some reviewers noted that the infotainment system could be slightly complex to navigate, and the styling was polarizing. However, overall, the Tucson IV HEV was considered a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.
Legacy
The Hyundai Tucson IV 1.6 T-GDI HEV 4WD Automatic has established itself as a reliable and fuel-efficient option in the used car market. The Smartstream engine and hybrid system have proven to be relatively durable, with few widespread issues reported. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for long-term reliability. The availability of affordable parts and a strong dealer network contribute to the Tucson IV’s appeal as a used vehicle. As hybrid technology continues to gain popularity, the Tucson IV 1.6 T-GDI HEV is likely to remain a desirable and practical choice for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and capable SUV.
