Should you buy a used 2015-20 Hyundai Tucson?

If the range of mid-sized family SUVs you’re considering includes a Hyundai Tucson for your budget, we’d put it near the top of the list if you want no-fuss, reliable transport. However, it’s not the cleverest or most attention-getting car you can buy in this class, and it’s not particularly satisfying to drive either as a relaxing, low stress option or a feedback-filled rewarding tourer.

Some owners might find the funkier, cute Kia Sportage more appealing to look at – and technically, there’s very little between the two cars. The real challenge comes from brands with a sportier attitude baked in, however. Both the SEAT Ateca and the Mazda CX-5 offer comparable space and low running costs with a much nicer blend of steering feel, handling and ride. Your Tucson budget could even stretch to a Land Rover Discovery Sport or Range Rover Evoque if buying at the upper end of the used market – though we can’t claim to be as confident they will be trouble-free.

The Tucson has two advantages for used buyers, though – a demographic that valued the five-year warranty and generally caring, competent attitude of Hyundai dealers, and the front-wheel drive 1.7/1.6 CRDi DCT’s better reputation for reliability compared with rival automatic SUVs.

So, while buying a used Hyundai Tucson is unlikely to keep you awake with excitement waiting for the dealer to prep and deliver your next car, you’re unlikely to spend your years owning it with sleepless nights anticipating the next big repair bill either.

What we like about the Hyundai Tucson

Big, practical loadspace and passenger room to match, most models have a proper spare wheel, above-average reliability for both diesel and petrol engines, proper automatic gearboxes and a good AWD system, generous levels of equipment. Looks less strange than the current model.

What we don’t like

It’s expensive as a used buy, costing almost as much as premium rivals that were significantly more when new. None of the engine and gearbox options manages class leading economy, performance or refinement, and the steering is light and lacks feedback. Except in sport mode, when it’s just weird and lacks feedback. Looks less classy than a Volvo XC60 or Land Rover Discovery Sport.