Hyundai Tucson III: A Kaliningrad Assembly, Shared DNA with the Kia Sportage
The third-generation Hyundai Tucson crossover has been built in Kaliningrad since 2016, evolving alongside the fourth-generation Kia Sportage. The two models share a common chassis and most major components and assemblies, reflecting a joint engineering approach that underpins their performance and reliability in the market today.
The 2018 restyling refreshed both the exterior and interior, while introducing several new drivetrain options. These included a 2.4-liter petrol engine, a 1.6-liter diesel engine, a robotic transmission, and an eight-speed automatic with hydraulic control. The manual transmission remains rare in the secondary market, accounting for about 6% of sales, with roughly two-thirds of Tucson units equipped with all-wheel drive.
Hyundai Tucson III advantages
- One of the strongest points is the absence of glaring flaws, offering a broad spectrum of engine-transmission-drive configurations that suit different needs.
- A wide range of options ensures a flexible setup for buyers seeking varied performance characteristics.
The trunk delivers a practical shape, yet in some trims the compartment behind the rear seats measures around 364 liters, which may differ based on configuration and seating layout.
Defects or drawbacks
- The paint can be prone to chips and scratches, and chrome trim may develop a cloudy appearance over time.
- Ground clearance of about 165 mm means it is not intended for serious off-road use in its standard form.
Engines
About seven in ten Tucson models use the G4NA 2.0-liter engine rated at 150 horsepower. This engine family has faced scrutiny after a series of reliability concerns. Early reports pointed to ceramic dust entering cylinders through the inverter, while later issues involved oil lubrication and warming-up habits. Official data indicate that a notable share of engines show no remaining warranty coverage once high mileage is reached, though many vehicles still perform well with proper maintenance. Engine wear and tuning responses appear influenced by fuel quality and octane as well as lubrication practices. The G4NA can tolerate certain fuel grades when operators follow recommended service intervals and oiling routines. The 2.4-liter version (184–190 hp) shares a similar behavior profile: with correct maintenance, it can deliver solid long-term performance.
Diesel variants, particularly the 2.0-liter diesel at 185 hp, demand careful fuel and oil management. Inconsistent quality can degrade performance, but with meticulous care they are known for high mileage durability, often surpassing 400,000 km. The 1.6-liter diesel (D4FD, 136 hp) and the turbocharged 1.6-liter petrol (G4FJ, 177 hp) are more temperamental. These units can consume more oil on shorter runs and typically pair with a robotized transmission, making ownership more nuanced.
Transmission
The seven-speed dual-clutch unit with two clutches is prone to rough engagement after higher mileage: jerking, clutch wear, and occasionally the flywheel can show issues. Factory interventions include warranty clutch replacement and firmware updates to the electronic control system. While some examples can approach 250,000 km, the total cost of ownership remains a consideration. For other transmissions, manual boxes and conventional automatics generally require attention closer to 150,000 km. The third-gear synchronizer in some units is at risk. The new eight-speed automatic (A8LF2) performs well but is sensitive to slipping and may enter emergency mode under stress. The four-wheel-drive system, especially the clutch and splines, can be delicate when harsh mud or off-road conditions are attempted.
Operational concerns
- Wheel bearings, ball joints, and shock absorbers tend to wear out, sometimes being replaced under warranty. A careful drive can extend life to around 80–100 thousand kilometers, but the wheelhouse area often sees repairs around 50–60 thousand kilometers.
- The inverter has shown wear around 40–60 thousand kilometers. Some owners opt to replace it with a cheaper aftermarket solution or bypass it with a flame-arrestor setup, though such modifications are generally not approved by manufacturers.
- Early brake pads tended to wear quickly, and discs could deteriorate within 10–20 thousand kilometers. The issue was later addressed, but rear calipers require attention to avoid acidification and should be cleaned and lubricated regularly.
Euro NCAP rating for 2015 awarded five stars with driver and passenger protection rated at 86%, child protection at 85%, pedestrian protection at 71%, and safety assist at 71%.
The most commonly available resale version is the Tucson 2.0 with automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. For those seeking value, the Tuscon 2.0 with either manual or automatic transmission and two-wheel drive remains an appealing option. Competitors in the same price segment include the Audi Q3, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, and Nissan X-Trail. A collection of five crossovers with known mileage and traditionally reliable automatics is available for reference, and video reviews of driving experiences can be found on YouTube for interested buyers. (Citation: Automotive market reports, Canada/USA region.)