Hyundai Tucson IV (NX4) (2020 – 2025)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The Hyundai Tucson IV (NX4) represents a radical departure from its predecessor, introducing the brand's 'Sensuous Sportiness' design language with its distinctive parametric hidden lights. Launched in late 2020, it offers a massive leap in interior quality, technology, and packaging. Built on the N3 platform, it is available in two wheelbases (Short Wheelbase for Europe/Middle East, Long Wheelbase for North America/Australia/Korea). While the market trend heavily favors the excellent Hybrid (HEV) and Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) variants, Hyundai continued to offer diesel powertrains (1.6 CRDi in Europe, 2.0 CRDi in other markets) to cater to high-mileage fleet drivers and towing needs. A major facelift was introduced for the 2024/2025 model year, replacing the dual-screen center console with a

✅ Strengths

Striking, futuristic exterior design that stands out in the segment
Class-leading interior space and cargo capacity (especially Long Wheelbase models)
Excellent Hybrid (HEV) powertrain: smooth, efficient, and uses a reliable 6-speed automatic
High-quality interior materials and assembly (massive improvement over previous generation)
Comprehensive suite of standard ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)
Long manufacturer warranty (5 years unlimited mileage in EU, 10 years/100k miles powertrain in US)

⚠️ Weaknesses

1.6 CRDi diesel is highly intolerant of urban driving (DPF/EGR issues)
7-speed dry DCT (on non-hybrid 1.6 models) is jerky at low speeds and prone to clutch wear
Pre-facelift models (2020-2023) rely too heavily on touch-sensitive climate controls
Excessive use of scratch-prone piano black plastic in the pre-facelift interior
Inverter coolant crystallization issue on early HEV/PHEV models
Rear visibility is somewhat compromised by the thick C-pillars

🎯 Verdict

The Hyundai Tucson IV (NX4) is a highly accomplished family SUV that excels in design, practicality, and technology. Regarding the Diesel (1.6 CRDi / 2.0 CRDi): While the diesel engines are mechanically sound, they belong to a dying breed. The 1.6 CRDi is strictly recommended only if you drive more than 25,000 km annually, primarily on highways. If used for school runs or city commuting, the DPF will clog, the AdBlue system will likely fail, and the 7DCT transmission will suffer premature wear. The 2.0 CRDi (available outside Europe) is much better thanks to its 8-speed torque converter automatic, making it a great tow vehicle. Overall Recommendation: For 80% of buyers, the 1.6 T-GDI HEV (Hybrid 230 hp) is the absolute best choice. It bypasses the problematic 7DCT in favor of a robust 6-speed automatic, offers excellent fuel economy, and avoids the emissions-system headaches of the diesel.