Hyundai Tucson IV (NX4) (2020 – 2025)

Reliability score : 8.3/10

The Hyundai Tucson IV (NX4), introduced in late 2020, represents a radical departure from its predecessor. Featuring the brand's 'Sensuous Sportiness' design language with distinctive 'Parametric Hidden Lights', it marks a significant leap in interior quality, technology, and electrification. Uniquely, Hyundai offers the NX4 in two wheelbase variations: a Short Wheelbase (SWB) primarily for Europe and the Middle East, and a Long Wheelbase (LWB) for North America, Asia, and Australia. The powertrain lineup is heavily focused on the 'Smartstream' petrol engine family, heavily integrating Mild-Hybrid (MHEV), Full Hybrid (HEV), and Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) technologies to meet stringent global emissions standards. A mid-cycle facelift was introduced for the 2024/2025 model year, bringing a comple

✅ Strengths

Striking, futuristic exterior design that stands out in the segment
High-quality interior materials with excellent fit and finish
Exceptional implementation of HEV and PHEV powertrains (smooth and efficient)
Class-leading rear legroom and cargo space (especially in LWB markets)
Comprehensive suite of standard ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)
Long manufacturer warranty (5 years in EU, 10 years/100k miles in USA)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Over-reliance on touch-capacitive buttons for climate and media in pre-facelift models (fixed in 2024/2025 facelift)
7-speed DCT on non-hybrid turbo models can be jerky in stop-and-go traffic
Piano black plastic in the interior scratches easily and attracts dust
Headlights on lower trims (reflector LEDs) have mediocre nighttime visibility
No wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on the top-tier 10.25-inch infotainment system (pre-facelift)

🎯 Verdict

The Hyundai Tucson IV (NX4) is a highly accomplished compact SUV that successfully pushes the brand upmarket. Its bold design is backed by genuine substance, particularly in its electrified powertrains. The 1.6 T-GDI HEV (Hybrid) is the absolute sweet spot of the range, offering the best blend of performance, fuel economy, and reliability, largely thanks to its smooth 6-speed automatic transmission which avoids the low-speed quirks of the 7DCT found in standard petrol models. The North American 2.5L engine is adequate but unrefined compared to the hybrid. While early models had minor software and trim issues, the mechanical foundations are solid. If buying used, prioritize a model with a documented service history, ensure all software updates are applied, and lean heavily towards the Hybrid (HEV) or Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) variants.