The Hyundai Tucson III (facelift, introduced in 2018) 1.6 CRDi 136 horsepower (Hp) Mild Hybrid All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) model represents a significant offering within the Tucson range. Production of this specific variant ran from April 2019 to December 2020. Positioned as a mid-range option, it blended fuel efficiency with all-weather capability, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and reasonably equipped compact SUV. This version falls within the third generation of the Tucson (TL), specifically the updated model following the 2018 facelift, which brought styling revisions and updated technology. It utilizes Hyundai’s ‘Smartstream’ engine family and incorporates a 48V mild-hybrid system to enhance fuel economy and reduce emissions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Tucson |
| Generation | Tucson III (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (136 Hp) Mild Hybrid AWD DCT |
| Start of production | April, 2019 |
| End of production | December, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 162 g/km |
| Fuel consumption – urban (NEDC/WLTP) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption – extra urban (NEDC/WLTP) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption – combined (NEDC/WLTP) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC/WLTP) | 130 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp, 83.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 196.9 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 0.44 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-polymer (LiPo) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| Recuperation output | 12 kW |
| Electric motor power | 16 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 55 Nm (40.57 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front, Transverse |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000-2250 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Smartstream / D4FE |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1625-1752 kg (3582.51 – 3862.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2210 kg (4872.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 458-585 kg (1009.72 – 1289.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 459 l (16.21 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1449 l (51.17 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank capacity | 14 l (3.7 US gal | 3.08 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4480 mm (176.38 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2065 mm (81.3 in.) |
| Height | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1604-1608 mm (63.15 – 63.31 in.) |
| Rear track | 1615-1620 mm (63.58 – 63.78 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 172 mm (6.77 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive front wheels, with on-demand AWD |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 225/60 R17; 225/55 R18; 245/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 7J x 18; 7.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Hyundai Tucson III facelift, launched in 2018, represented a significant refresh of the popular compact SUV. The 1.6 CRDi 136 Hp Mild Hybrid AWD DCT variant, introduced in 2019, aimed to provide a balance of efficiency, performance, and all-weather capability. This model was a key part of Hyundai’s strategy to offer a wider range of powertrain options, including electrified solutions, to meet increasingly stringent emissions regulations and consumer demand. The Tucson III, built on the 1HX0/A3 platform, competed directly with vehicles like the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and Volkswagen Tiguan in the European market, and offered a compelling alternative in other regions as well.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Tucson variant lies Hyundai’s ‘Smartstream’ 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, designated the D4FE. This engine produces 136 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 2,000 and 2,250 rpm. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, direct fuel injection utilizing a common rail system, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 15.9:1 compression ratio is typical for modern diesel engines, contributing to efficiency. The ‘Mild Hybrid’ aspect comes from a 48V lithium-ion battery and a 16 Hp electric motor integrated into the powertrain. This system allows for regenerative braking, capturing energy during deceleration to recharge the battery, and provides a small power boost during acceleration. The engine is paired with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), offering quick and smooth gear changes. The DCT contributes to improved fuel economy compared to a traditional automatic transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi 136 Hp AWD DCT Tucson delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.4 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 12 seconds. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides sufficient torque for comfortable highway cruising and overtaking. The DCT transmission is responsive, and the all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions. Compared to the higher-output 185 Hp version of the 1.6 CRDi, this variant feels noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded. The manual transmission versions of the 1.6 CRDi offer a more engaging driving experience, but the DCT provides greater convenience, particularly in urban environments. The mild-hybrid system is largely transparent to the driver, providing a subtle boost during acceleration and contributing to improved fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi 136 Hp Mild Hybrid AWD DCT Tucson typically came equipped with a good level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking sensors, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on lower trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. Dashboard configuration was consistent across the range, with a focus on user-friendliness and practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Tucson III utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The all-wheel-drive system is an on-demand system, automatically engaging the rear wheels when traction is lost. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and other electronic safety aids. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than outright sportiness, making it well-suited for long journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 CRDi 136 Hp Mild Hybrid AWD DCT Tucson was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, especially when carrying a full load or tackling steep hills. Compared to the more powerful 185 Hp version, this variant offered a lower price point and slightly better fuel economy. The 1.9 TDI versions (where available) offered more torque but were often more expensive and potentially less refined. The mild-hybrid system was seen as a positive step towards reducing emissions, but its impact on overall fuel economy was relatively modest.
Legacy
The Hyundai Tucson III 1.6 CRDi 136 Hp Mild Hybrid AWD DCT has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The ‘Smartstream’ engine is generally considered durable, and the DCT transmission, while requiring occasional maintenance, has proven to be reasonably robust. The mild-hybrid system has not been associated with any major reliability issues. However, as with any diesel vehicle, it’s important to ensure that the diesel particulate filter (DPF) has been properly maintained. Today, these Tucsons represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped compact SUV with all-wheel drive.
