2019 Hyundai Tucson Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

Over the last few years, the small crossover segment has become quite crowded. Nevertheless, the Hyundai Tucson has been able to remain a top choice. A family-friendly interior and value-packed features make it hard to overlook. You can also take advantage of Hyundai's excellent warranty, which includes 60,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage.

For 2019, improvements have made the Tucson an even better bang for the buck. Not only do more safety technologies now come standard, but the SUV also flaunts a more striking look. Likely due to a lack of interest from buyers, last year's available turbocharged engine has been dropped from the lineup.

With a total of six available trims, the 2019 Hyundai Tucson can accommodate a wide range of different budgets. Let's find out what separates one trim from the next.

 

Compare the 2019 Hyundai Tucson SE vs Value Trims. What is the difference?

With an MSRP of $23,200, the base Tucson SE is more than just a money saver. It's stylish, loaded with equipment, and enjoyable to drive. A new cascading grille and headlights make it look more modern than last year's model. Dusk Blue, White Pearl, and Gemstone Red are just a sample of the available paint colors.

Power comes from a non-turbocharged 2.0-liter, GDI four-cylinder engine. Hyundai rates it to develop a satisfactory 164 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Like every new Tucson, the base SE trim comes equipped with a six-speed automatic. While most buyers will stick with the standard front-wheel-drive setup, an AWD system is optional.

On the inside, YES Essentials cloth upholstery covers the seats. A decent amount of technology also comes on the base SE trim. Some of the highlights include a 7.0-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth integration, and a rearview monitor. Most importantly, more safety features have been added for 2019. You'll enjoy Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, driver attention warning, and lane departure intervention.

Priced only $1,400 more than the Tucson SE, the Tucson Value is probably an even better buy. When the temperature starts to drop, you'll be thankful for the heated front seats. Other upgrades found on the Value trim include a Proximity Key with push-button start, satellite radio, and a Blue Link communications system. In contrast to the base model, the Tucson Value provides blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert. Aside from the addition of roof rails, there's not many styling differences between the Tucson SE and the Tucson Value.

Compare the 2019 Tucson Value vs SEL Trims. What is the difference?

The Tucson SEL is another notch up the trim ladder. Upgraded 18-inch alloy wheels and a few more styling tweaks help bolster the SEL trim's appearance. Meanwhile, passengers sitting in the back can benefit from the second-row USB port and rear air vents. Dual-zone automatic climate control is also found on the Tucson SEL.

Stepping up to the Tucson SEL gets you a bit more power under the hood. Its larger 2.4-liter engine generates 181 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive remains an option.

Compare the Tucson SEL vs Sport Trims. What is the difference?

Although the Tucson Sport may not benefit from any performance upgrades, it does have a hotter look. A sporty set of 19-inch alloy wheels help this trim to leave a lasting impression. You'll also receive LED headlights and taillights.

There's also a greater number of premium features on the Tucson Sport. The hands-free smart liftgate will make loading cargo an easier chore. To keep music fans rocking, Hyundai equips the the Tucson Sport with a Infinity premium sound system. Wireless charging enables you to keep your smartphone's battery juiced up.

Compare the Tucson Sport vs Limited Trims. What is the difference?

In terms of luxury, the Tucson Limited is a step ahead of the Tucson Sport. It replaces the Tucson Sport's cloth upholstery with genuine leather. Upgraded door trim also helps give the interior a more expensive feel. You can also make good use of the Tucson Limited's surround-view parking camera, which gives you an unobstructed view of any obstacles. A heated steering wheel also comes equipped on the Tucson Limited. From a styling standpoint, smaller 18-inch wheels and a different grille design give the Limited trim a slightly different look.

Compare the 2019 Tucson Limited vs Ultimate Trims. What is the difference?

If you want it all, the fully loaded Tucson Ultimate promises to impress. While an 8.0-inch touch screen with navigation helps guide you to out-of-town destinations, ventilated front seats and heated rear seats seek to provide a more pleasurable ride. An upgraded driver information display and a panoramic sunroof are also found on the Ultimate trim. Appearance-wise, the Tucson Ultimate is no different from the Tucson Limited.

When driving the Tucson Ultimate, you'll be surrounded by more safety technologies. Nighttime driving is made more secure by the automatic high beams. The upgraded forward collision system includes pedestrian detection, which will provide more protection in crowded urban areas. Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go is another one of the Tucson Ultimate's valuable driving aids.

 

Final Thoughts

All 2019 Hyundai Tucson trims are competitively priced. If you find some of the available upgrades to be a waste of money, the base SE trim will be a great choice. Refreshed exterior styling makes the base Tucson look better than ever. It comes loaded with all of the most popular smartphone integration technologies. You'll also enjoy forward collision braking and lane-keep assist safety systems.

Because the Tucson Value is so close in price, it may be an even sweeter deal than the base model. It adds blind-spot monitoring, which is among today's most valuable driver-assist technologies. Satellite radio will also appeal to the drivers who desire more music options.

Don't hesitate to grab the mid-level Tucson SEL. It's more stylish 18-inch wheels and dual zone climate control with rear air vents may prove to be worth it. Furthermore, the SEL trim's larger four-cylinder engine rewards you with a more responsive performance.

Younger buyers will be drawn to the sharp-looking Tucson Sport, which is also among the more luxurious models. The Infinity sound system's hard-hitting bass will be greatly appreciated. This trim may actually prove to be a better choice than the Limited trim. You probably won't miss the Limited trim's 360-degree parking camera and leather upholstery.

It's hard to argue with anyone who decides to buy the range-topping Tucson Ultimate. It packs all of the goodies. While the Tucson Ultimate has an MSRP of $31,550, you'll find it to be almost as luxurious as a $40,000 model. This is the perfect Tucson trim for the drivers who'll be taking at least a few road trips every year.

2019 Hyundai Tucson Key Features

With the discontinuation of last year's turbocharged engine, you now have access to a new upgraded four-cylinder engine. It's stronger than the base engine and proves to be nearly as efficient. While the base 2.0L engine returns a combined 26 mpg, the larger 2.4L delivers a combined 24 mpg. In regard to overall performance, the base engine does make for a less exciting drive. Remember, all-wheel drive can be paired with both engines. Although the the four-wheel traction will help in the snow, the 2019 Hyundai Tucson is still not an ideal SUV for going off-road.

Regardless of which Tucson trim you decide to choose, a touch-screen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will come standard. Even the base 7.0-inch touch screen is designed for easy use. However, the larger 8.0-inch display does provide navigation.

Aside from posting solid crash scores, the 2019 Hyundai Tucson offers some helpful safety tech. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist comes standard, which can automatically trigger the brakes during emergencies. Lane-keep assist also manages to effectively prevent wandering on the highway. Except for the base SE trim, all of the other trims provide blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Although the 360-degree parking camera isn't a necessity, it will make daily commuting safer.

Some worthwhile creature comforts are available on the 2019 Hyundai Tucson. The heated front seats, which come standard on most models, provide a nice touch of warmth on bitterly cold days. You will also like the Ultimate trim's ventilated seat cushions, which circulate cool air underneath your body. Remember, heated rear seats come standard on the luxurious Tucson Ultimate.

Hyundai's Blue Link Connected Car Service feature is a convenience you'll grow to love. With your smartphone in hand, the system enables you to remotely start the vehicle and set the cabin temperature. You can also use Blue Link Connected Car Service to summon Google driving directions and keep tabs on a teen driver.

If you're simply looking to stay entertained on your morning drive to work, the standard six-speaker sound system won't be a major letdown. However, drivers who crave more definition in their music will want the Infinity premium sound system. An external amplifier sends a total of 355 watts to eight speakers. A subwoofer enables you to feel forceful bass notes. Meanwhile, Clari-Fi technology makes your favorite songs sound more like a live performance.