The Hyundai Tucson IV 1.6 T-GDI (150 hp) Mild Hybrid represents a significant offering in the compact SUV segment, launched in December 2020 and continuing through the 2024 model year. Positioned as a mid-range option within the fourth-generation Tucson (NX4) lineup, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance, leveraging a 48-volt mild hybrid system to enhance the gasoline engine. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other global markets where fuel economy and emissions regulations are stringent. This model is built on the N3 platform, shared with the Kia Sportage and other Hyundai-Kia vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Tucson |
| Generation | Tucson IV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 T-GDI (150 Hp) Mild Hybrid |
| Start of production | December, 2020 |
| End of production | May, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 6.4-6.5 l/100 km (36.8 – 36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 5.6-5.7 l/100 km (42 – 41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.9-7 l/100 km (34.1 – 33.6 US mpg) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.5-6.7 l/100 km (36.2 – 35.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 148-152 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 136 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 189 km/h (117.44 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm |
| Gross battery capacity | 0.44 kWh |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4FU |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1463-1588 kg (3225.36 – 3500.94 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2065 kg (4552.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 477-602 kg (1051.6 – 1327.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 577 l (20.38 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1756 l (62.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4500 mm (177.17 in.) |
| Width | 1865 mm (73.43 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2130 mm (83.86 in.) |
| Height | 1651 mm (65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2680 mm (105.51 in.) |
| Front track | 1615-1630 mm (63.58 – 64.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1622-1637 mm (63.86 – 64.45 in.) |
| Front overhang | 895 mm (35.24 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 925 mm (36.42 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm (6.69 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.315 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.92 m (35.83 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 291 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 302 mm |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Tires size | 215/65 R17; 235/55 R18; 235/50 R19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Tucson IV 1.6 T-GDI Mild Hybrid lies the G4FU engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. The engine produces 150 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4000 rpm. The mild hybrid system consists of a 48-volt battery and a belt-driven starter generator (BSG). The BSG allows for features like extended start-stop functionality, regenerative braking (recapturing energy during deceleration), and a slight power boost during acceleration. The engine’s compression ratio is 10.5:1. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard on this variant, offering a relatively direct driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 T-GDI with the manual transmission provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.8 seconds, and the top speed is 117.44 mph. While not a particularly sporty setup, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power when needed, making overtaking maneuvers manageable. The mild hybrid system contributes to smoother start-stop transitions and a slight improvement in fuel economy. The manual gearbox offers a more engaging driving experience compared to the optional automatic, allowing for greater control over the engine’s powerband. However, the engine can feel strained when pushed hard, and the overall driving experience is more focused on efficiency than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 T-GDI Mild Hybrid typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as lane keeping assist, forward collision avoidance assist, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium sound system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on base models, with leather options available on higher trims. Dashboard configuration was modern and driver-focused, with a digital instrument cluster available on select models.
Chassis & Braking
The Tucson IV utilizes an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Tucson IV 1.6 T-GDI Mild Hybrid was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient SUV. It offered a compelling alternative to rivals like the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and Volkswagen Tiguan. Compared to the higher-powered 1.6 T-GDI variants, this model prioritized fuel economy over outright performance. The mild hybrid system helped to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious buyers. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or driving uphill. The manual transmission was praised for its engaging feel, but some buyers preferred the convenience of an automatic gearbox.
Legacy
The G4FU engine, in its various iterations, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While some early models experienced minor issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors, these were generally addressed through software updates and warranty repairs. The mild hybrid system has also proven to be durable, with few reported issues. On the used car market, the Tucson IV 1.6 T-GDI Mild Hybrid represents a good value proposition, offering a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and modern features. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements, is crucial to ensure the long-term reliability of this powertrain.
