Next-Generation Hyundai Tucson Spotted Testing With Heavy Camouflage on Public Roads

The next-generation Hyundai Tucson continues testing on public roads as development of the popular compact crossover moves closer to production.

Fresh spy shots captured recently by Korean automotive photographers show heavily camouflaged prototypes once again, reinforcing rumors that Hyundai is preparing a dramatic styling shift for the upcoming fifth-generation Tucson, internally known as NX5.

The current Tucson has been one of the most important vehicles in Hyundai Motor Company’s global lineup since arriving in 2020. While the crossover received a refresh near the end of 2023, the update was relatively modest and left most of the exterior unchanged.

That apparently won’t be the case next time around.

Early signs suggest the redesigned Tucson will adopt a much boxier and more angular appearance inspired by Hyundai’s new “Art of Steel” design philosophy. Even through the thick black camouflage, sharper body lines and more geometric lighting elements are already becoming visible.

The updated crossover could also grow slightly in overall size, potentially giving rear passengers additional legroom while increasing cargo capacity.

Inside, the changes are expected to be even more significant.

The new Tucson will likely debut Hyundai’s recently developed Pleos Connect infotainment system, which is reportedly based on Android architecture. Korean media also expects the SUV to feature Hyundai’s upcoming AI-powered Gleo voice assistant.

Details about the powertrain lineup remain tightly under wraps, but reports from South Korea suggest the new Tucson may receive Hyundai’s latest TMED-II hybrid system.

That setup is rumored to combine a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing around 275 horsepower with an upgraded electric motor system.

A plug-in hybrid version could be especially impressive. According to early reports, the PHEV model may deliver up to 62 miles of all-electric driving range on a full charge — a major improvement over many current compact crossover hybrids.

Industry insiders believe Hyundai could officially reveal the new Tucson before the end of this year, though dealership arrivals likely won’t happen until 2027.

Once it lands, the redesigned Tucson will continue battling some of the biggest names in the segment, including the Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage, and Honda CR-V.

And judging by what’s already visible beneath the camouflage, Hyundai is planning much more than just another mid-cycle refresh this time around.