You Want a Tucson? Buckle Up, Buttercup: A Guide to the Good, the Bad, and the Totally Tubular Tucson Years
The Hyundai Tucson: it's like a chameleon of the compact SUV world, constantly changing its look to keep things interesting. But with all this year-to-year shuffling, how do you, the discerning car-lover, know which Tucson is the right one for you? Well, fret no more, because we're here to crack the code on what are the best years to buy a Hyundai Tucson (without your head exploding from all the info).
What Are The Best Years To Buy Hyundai Tucson |
The Golden Age of Tucson (According to Reliability):
Let's be honest, nobody wants a car that spends more time at the mechanic than they do cruising down the highway. When it comes to reliability, these Tucson years stand out like a disco ball at a karaoke night:
- 2019-2022: These new-ish models boast stellar ratings from sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. You're getting the latest tech, safety features that practically drive themselves (with supervision, of course!), and a warranty that'll make your wallet do a happy dance.
- 2007 & 2009: Now, these aren't exactly the tech-drenched rides of the 2020s, but they're known for being tanks. Built like a brick outhouse (with significantly better aesthetics, hopefully), these early Tucsons will get you where you need to go, and they won't nickel and dime you along the way.
Word to the Wise: These reliable years might also come with a slightly higher price tag, especially for the newer models. But hey, a little extra cash now can save you a ton of headaches (and tears) down the road.
The "Meh" Middle Ground:
There are some Tucson years that aren't bad, but they aren't exactly setting the world on fire, either. These are the years that fall under the category of "perfectly adequate":
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
- 2010-2015: These guys are kind of the middle child of the Tucson family. They're not the most exciting, but they're also not riddled with problems (for the most part). Just be sure to do your research and get a pre-purchase inspection before you buy.
The Ones to Avoid (Unless You Like Taking Risks):
We all know there's a black sheep in every family, and the Tucson family is no exception. Here are the years that might be best left on the dealership lot:
- 2014 (2.0L engine only): There have been reports of some engine issues with this specific model year and engine combo.
- 2017-2018: While not a total disaster, these years had some gremlins when it came to the infotainment system. If you can't live without your daily dose of Spotify, you might want to steer clear.
Remember: This is just a general guideline. Every car is an individual, so always get a history report and have it inspected by a mechanic before you buy.
Frequently Asked Tucson Questions:
How to find a good deal on a Hyundai Tucson?
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
Shop around! Get quotes from multiple dealerships and be prepared to negotiate.
How much cargo space does a Hyundai Tucson have?
It depends on the year, but newer models offer around 38 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats.
Tip: Don’t skim — absorb.
How much does it cost to maintain a Hyundai Tucson?
Maintenance costs can vary depending on your driving habits and the specific model year, but they're generally considered to be affordable.
How safe is a Hyundai Tucson?
Tip: Keep your attention on the main thread.
The newer models have earned good safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
How do I change a tire on a Hyundai Tucson?
The owner's manual will have specific instructions for your model year. It's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with these procedures before you hit the road.
So, there you have it! With a little research and this handy guide, you'll be a Tucson-buying pro in no time. Now get out there and find your perfect adventure buddy!