Tucson named best Plug-in Hybrid by US News & World Report

Plug-in hybrids can offer the best of both worlds. If the daily commute is within its EV range, it can be an electric vehicle for its daily routine. For trips out of town, you don’t have to worry about charging as you travel, normally, in a very efficient hybrid. Add to that the sophistication, style, and utility of the Tucson, and you have U.S. News & World Report’s best 2023 Plug-in Hybrid of the Year for the 2nd consecutive year.

As proud as Hyundai of Mankato is of this achievement, we are not surprised. The Tuscson Plug-in Hybrid checks all the boxes in what a modern person, couple, or family would want in a car. But perhaps, it is better to let the publication express it:

“Top to bottom, Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid ranks as one of the best and most versatile plug-in hybrid SUVs on the market. Along with abundant amounts of passenger and cargo space, the Tucson Hybrid provides occupants a handsome, top-end cabin complemented by a comfortable ride in a well-appointed cabin. It is no slouch either, bringing energetic acceleration and composed handling to the table.”

The “energetic acceleration” comes from a combined 261-horsepower drivetrain, and the “composed handling” comes in part from the precision-tuned 4-wheel independent suspension and the standard HTRAK All-Wheel Drive system.

Jim Sharifi, managing editor of U.S. News Best Cars reports had this to say: “Great interior quality, ample passenger and cargo space, and one of the most competitive prices in the segment are just a few of the reasons why the Tucson Plug-in Hybrid was a shoo-in for our Best Plug-in Hybrid award.”

Winning Dirvetrains for Every Purpose

The Tuscan Plug-in Hybrid can charge overnight when plugged into a simple household outlet. A Level 2 charger will fully charge it in about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Fully charged, it is rated at having an EPA-estimated EV-only range of 33 miles. Beyond that distance, the hybrid drivetrain delivers an EPA-estimated 35 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Taken together, the EPA gives the Tuscon a rating of 80 MPGe.

Passenger Comfort, Driver Assistance 

With 105 cu. ft. of passenger volume, Tucson carries its five passengers in comfort and with a composed ride thanks in part to a class-leading 108.5 wheelbase. There is plenty of room for cargo as well, with 31.9 cu. ft. with the seats up and 66.3 cu. ft. with the seats down. Hyundai’s SmartSense is standard on all models and includes the following:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian/Cyclist/Junction Turning Detection (FCA-JT)
• Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
• Lane Following Assist (LFA)
• Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
• Safe Exit Warning (SEW)
• Rear Occupant Alert (ROA)

“Receiving U.S. News & World Report’s Best Plug-in Hybrid award for the second year in a row is a testament to the Tucson Plug-in Hybrid’s efficient powertrain, innovative technology, and stylish design,” said Olabisi Boyle, Vice President of product planning and mobility strategy, Hyundai Motor North America. “The Tucson Plug-In Hybrid is the right-sized SUV to power every lifestyle and meets the needs of drivers looking for a comfortable ride without compromising fuel efficiency.”

With features and accolades like these, anyone in the area looking for an efficient, do-it-all 5-passenger crossover should visit Hyundai of Mankato and experience the Tucson Plug-in Hybrid up close.