2026 Hyundai Tucson imagined with retro new look

The next-generation Hyundai Tucson medium SUV has been imagined as expectations of a 2026 global debut continue to grow.

Extrapolating previous timelines suggests the reveal will happen in the second half of next year ahead of a probable introduction Down Under in the first half of 2027.

The current model made headlines with its bold and futuristic exterior design when it debuted in September 2020, its front lighting signature giving it a unique and immediately recognisable presence on the road.

Well now it seems Hyundai’s going to do something similar with the replacement, albeit with a much squarer, bordering on retro aesthetic inspired by the stunning N Vision 74 hydrogen rolling lab.

These renders cooked up by digital creator NYMammoth preview exactly that, overlaying the current model’s stature and proportions with a retro-inspired body and front fascia derived from the next-generation – and smaller – Hyundai Nexo.

This squarer motif is expected to make its way across the Korean brand’s portfolio, including the swoopy i30 and Sonata sedans.

Very little is known about the new Tucson but reports out of Asia have suggested it will continue offering petrol and hybrid powertrains, the latter being a derivative of the ‘TMED-II’ system as seen in the 2026 Hyundai Palisade three-row SUV, albeit with a downsized internal combustion engine.

The Hyundai Group’s advanced ‘Pleos Connect’ infotainment system is also rumoured to be on the cards, having been announced in March this year as the eventual replacement for the current ccNc system.

The existing Tucson ditched diesel power when it was updated in mid-2024 and is currently Hyundai Australia’s second-best-selling model behind the smaller Kona with 1794 registrations so far this year ending May.

Join the conversation at our Facebook page
Or email us at editor@carsales.com.au