Imagine gliding from city streets onto the open highway with remarkable composure — minimal noise, maximum refinement, and a hybrid powertrain that feels effortless.
That’s exactly what the 2025 Hyundai Tucson 1.6T HEV Prestige delivers. Priced at RM197,888, it’s a hybrid SUV that balances modern style, premium comfort, and dynamic performance, all while feeling quietly confident without needing to shout.
Design
The Tucson’s refreshed design immediately signals its premium intent. Subtle updates to the front grille, sharper bumper lines, and hidden LED lighting certainly create a modern, elegant look.
Its dimensions — roughly 4,640 mm long, 1,865 mm wide, and 1,665 mm tall, with a 2,755 mm wheelbase — give it a poised stance on the road while providing excellent interior space. The design enhancements are tasteful, and the overall presence feels refined without being overstyled.
Interior
Step inside, and the transformation continues. The cabin impresses with high-quality materials, leather upholstery, and meticulous build quality. Every panel feels solid and thoughtfully assembled, giving the impression of a vehicle built to last.
The dual 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system create a sleek, modern cockpit, while the controls themselves are intuitive and responsive. From wireless charging to ambient lighting, the interior is loaded with features that make the driving experience effortless.
Space is generous both in the front and rear, with rear seats that can recline to enhance comfort during long journeys. The boot is large, easily accommodating luggage for family trips or weekend getaways, and the quiet cabin environment — thanks to impressive NVH suppression — makes every drive feel serene and composed.
Powertrain and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the Tucson pairs a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 235 PS and 367 Nm of torque. This hybrid system is exceptionally smooth, with power delivery that feels natural and immediate.
The engine transitions almost imperceptibly when switching between petrol and electric power, and the torque is strong enough to make city driving effortless while offering plenty of pull at highway speeds. Even under spirited driving, the Tucson feels composed and confident, showcasing both efficiency and performance.
Technology and Features
The list of standard equipment on the Prestige trim is extensive, rivaling many higher-end competitors. Advanced driver-assistance systems are standard, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
The infotainment system is modern and easy to use, with a responsive interface that ensures connectivity and media control are always straightforward. From convenience to safety, the Tucson feels fully equipped for modern driving.
Minor Gripes
In a car this polished, finding flaws is difficult. The only points that stood out were the placement of the signal lights and the styling of the “Hybrid” emblem, which could have benefited from a more refined font.
However, both are minor issues and don’t impact the overall quality, comfort, or performance of the vehicle in any way.
Competition
Against the Honda CR-V RS e:HEV, the Tucson holds several advantages. Its hybrid system produces more power and torque, giving it a more dynamic feel both in city traffic and on the highway.
The long wheelbase translates into generous cabin space, particularly in the rear, and the reclining rear seats and large boot further enhance comfort and practicality.
While the CR-V is known for its reliability and strong resale value, the Tucson’s modern interior, tech-rich cockpit, and slightly more engaging driving experience make it feel like a more complete package for those who value refinement and convenience.
Both SUVs are priced competitively in Malaysia, and while the CR-V appeals to brand loyalists, the Tucson 1.6T HEV Prestige impresses with a combination of style, comfort, and performance that feels more modern and premium.
Verdict
That being said, the Hyundai Tucson 1.6T HEV Prestige is a rare SUV that manages to tick almost every box. It blends performance, efficiency, comfort, and technology seamlessly, all while maintaining a quiet, refined presence on the road.
Minor styling details aside, it is a hybrid that feels polished, capable, and truly ready for Malaysian roads. For anyone seeking a hybrid SUV that excels both in practicality and driving enjoyment, the Tucson 1.6T HEV Prestige is hard to beat.
