Today, we’re thrilled to unveil a collection of exclusive spy photos of the next-generation 2027 Hyundai Tucson. This marks the first time we’ve had a chance to glimpse the interior of the upcoming 5th-generation Tucson, completely unveiled and showing off its new 17-inch Pleos Connect central screen. Rest assured, the interior retains the familiar buttons for essential functions, as seen in the new Grandeur, along with the new steering wheel, seats, and door garnish.
Design: From “Sensuous Sportiness” to “Art of Steel”
The 2027 Tucson is ditching the soft, parametric curves of the current model in favor of a rugged, chiseled aesthetic inspired by the new Santa Fe. Key design highlights include:
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Boxier Silhouette: A much more vertical front fascia and a flatter, more commanding hood.
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Clamshell Hood: The updated rendering confirms a unique “clamshell” hood that wraps over the front fenders for a seamless, premium look.
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New Lighting Signature: Gone are the “angel wing” DRLs. In their place are vertical LED turn signals and low-mounted headlight pods, similar to the upcoming Palisade.
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Hexagonal Wheel Arches: The spy shots reveal muscular, squared-off wheel arches that give the SUV a planted, wide-track stance.
The Interior Revolution: Pleos OS & Gleo AI
Inside, the Tucson is set to become a digital powerhouse. Hyundai is moving toward a minimalist, tech-heavy layout:
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Twin-Screen Setup: Expect a massive 17-inch central touchscreen paired with a 9.9-inch digital cluster.
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Pleos Operating System: This new Android-based system will debut a smartphone-like interface with an integrated app store.
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AI Assistant: Introducing “Gleo,” a ChatGPT-like AI assistant capable of handling complex natural language commands for navigation and climate control.
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Tactile Ergonomics: Despite the screens, Hyundai has listened to enthusiasts and is expected to retain physical knobs for volume and essential climate functions.
Performance: A Hybrid-First Strategy
To compete with the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, Hyundai is doubling down on electrification.
Feature2027 Tucson ExpectationsStandard EngineNext-gen TMED-II Hybrid architecturePHEV RangeTarget of 100 km (62 miles) on all-electric powerPerformance NRumored 300+ hp AWD turbo-hybrid setupDrive TechLevel 2.5 Autonomous Driving capabilities
The Adventurous XRT Pro Trim
The Arctic Circle testing also showcased a new XRT Pro variant. Unlike previous “appearance-only” packages, the 2027 XRT Pro appears to be a legitimate off-road contender featuring:
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Increased ground clearance and lifted suspension.
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Continental CrossContact all-terrain tires.
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Functional red tow hooks and heavy-duty roof rails.
Expected Launch Timeline
While the current model remains popular, the 2027 Hyundai Tucson is expected to make its global debut in late 2026, arriving in North American showrooms shortly thereafter.
With its “unashamedly boxy” identity and high-tech cabin, the NX5 Tucson isn’t just an evolution—it’s a complete reimagining of the compact SUV.
Comments
3 commentsVery nice. But I need a round steering wheel. I don't get the new trend of squarish "wheels".
Totally agree. Sometimes the classics just work better and there's no need to reinvent the wheel (literally!). We'll have to see if this is just a passing fad or if brands will eventually go back to what’s actually comfortable for drivers.
Very nice, but I need round steering wheel! I don't get the new stupid trend of "squarish" wheels.