The Hyundai Tucson IV 2.5 Smartstream Automatic, produced from November 2020 to March 2024, represents a significant offering within the fourth generation (NX4) Tucson lineup. Positioned as a mainstream, volume-oriented trim, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with adequate performance for the North American market, where the Tucson competes strongly in the compact SUV segment. This variant utilized Hyundai’s Smartstream engine family, focusing on improved thermal efficiency and reduced emissions. It served as a step up from the base engine option, offering more power and refinement while remaining more accessible than the hybrid or plug-in hybrid models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Tucson |
| Generation | Tucson IV |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 Smartstream (187 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | November, 2020 |
| End of production | March, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 187 Hp @ 6100 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 241 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 177.75 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Smartstream / G4KN |
| Engine displacement | 2497 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 152.38 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 13:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 6.13 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 5.1 UK qt |
| Coolant | 8.58 l |
| Coolant (US qt) | 9.07 US qt |
| Coolant (UK qt) | 7.55 UK qt |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1096 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum (cu. ft.) | 38.7 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2090 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum (cu. ft.) | 73.81 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 14.27 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 11.88 UK gal |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg |
| Max. roof load (lbs.) | 220.46 lbs. |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 907 kg |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (lbs.) | 1999.59 lbs. |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 748 kg |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes (lbs.) | 1649.06 lbs. |
| Length | 4630 mm |
| Length (in.) | 182.28 in. |
| Width | 1864 mm |
| Width (in.) | 73.39 in. |
| Height | 1666 mm |
| Height (in.) | 65.59 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2756 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 108.5 in. |
| Front track | 1615-1621 mm |
| Front track (in.) | 63.58 – 63.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1623-1628 mm |
| Rear (Back) track (in.) | 63.9 – 64.09 in. |
| Front overhang | 894 mm |
| Front overhang (in.) | 35.2 in. |
| Rear overhang | 980 mm |
| Rear overhang (in.) | 38.58 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance) (in.) | 7.09 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 325 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 300 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Tucson variant is Hyundai’s 2.5-liter Smartstream inline-four cylinder engine, designated G4KN. This engine represents a departure from older Hyundai powertrains, incorporating both direct injection (DI) and multi-port fuel injection (MPI) technologies. The DI system provides precise fuel delivery for improved power and efficiency, while the MPI component assists during cold starts and low-load conditions, enhancing combustion stability. The engine utilizes a dual-scroll turbocharger, contributing to quicker response and reduced turbo lag. The engine features a DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on both intake and exhaust sides, optimizing engine breathing across the rev range. Paired with the engine is an 8-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth shifts and efficient operation. This transmission features a wide gear ratio spread, aiding both acceleration and highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 187 horsepower and 177.75 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 2.5L Smartstream engine and 8-speed automatic provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph typically falls in the 8.5-9.5 second range. The automatic transmission is tuned for comfort and fuel economy, with shifts generally smooth and unobtrusive. Compared to the base 2.0L engine, the 2.5L offers noticeably more power, particularly during highway merging and overtaking maneuvers. However, it doesn’t match the responsiveness of the available turbocharged engines. The 8-speed transmission’s gear ratios are well-chosen for everyday driving, providing sufficient torque in most situations. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to reasonable fuel economy, but limits traction in adverse weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5 Smartstream Automatic trim typically included a generous array of standard features. These commonly included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane keeping assist, forward collision avoidance assist, and adaptive cruise control, and cloth upholstery. Higher sub-trims within the 2.5L range often added features like leather seats, a larger touchscreen display, a panoramic sunroof, and premium audio systems. Optional extras could include all-wheel drive, heated and ventilated front seats, and a hands-free power liftgate.
Chassis & Braking
The Tucson IV utilizes a fully independent suspension system, featuring a McPherson strut setup at the front and a multi-link configuration at the rear. This suspension design provides a comfortable ride quality, effectively absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to minimize body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) enhances braking performance and stability, particularly on slippery surfaces. Steering is provided by an electric power steering system, offering light and precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Tucson IV 2.5 Smartstream Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and comprehensive suite of standard features. Fuel economy was considered competitive for its class, averaging around 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Compared to other trims in the Tucson lineup, the 2.5L offered a good balance of price and performance. The turbocharged models provided more spirited acceleration, while the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants offered superior fuel efficiency. However, the 2.5L represented a sweet spot for buyers prioritizing value and practicality.
Legacy
The 2.5L Smartstream engine and 8-speed automatic transmission have proven to be relatively reliable in the Tucson IV. While some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system, the powertrain itself has generally been trouble-free. On the used car market, these Tucson variants hold their value reasonably well, benefiting from Hyundai’s improving reputation for quality and reliability. The combination of a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and a well-equipped feature set makes the Tucson IV 2.5 Smartstream Automatic a popular choice among used car buyers seeking a practical and affordable compact SUV.
