The 2024 Hyundai Tucson SEL is a popular compact SUV that offers a blend of style, technology, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for families and commuters alike. With its spacious interior, user-friendly tech, and smooth ride, the Tucson SEL stands out in a competitive segment. This guide covers its key features, performance specs, pricing details, and helpful tips for buying a 2024 Hyundai Tucson SEL.
Overview of the 2024 Hyundai Tucson SEL
The Hyundai Tucson has been a strong contender in the compact SUV market for years, and the 2024 SEL trim builds on that reputation by offering a well-rounded package that balances luxury and practicality. Positioned above the base SE trim, the SEL adds more comfort and technology without breaking the bank. Buyers looking for a stylish SUV with advanced safety features and modern conveniences will find the Tucson SEL a compelling option.
Key Features
Interior Comfort and Design
The 2024 Tucson SEL seats five passengers comfortably with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear occupants. It boasts quality materials throughout the cabin, including soft-touch surfaces and available leatherette upholstery.
The SEL trim adds heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control, enhancing comfort during daily drives.
Technology and Connectivity
Standard technology in the Tucson SEL includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and multiple USB ports. The system is intuitive, offering easy access to navigation, music, and smartphone apps.
For added convenience, the Tucson SEL features a proximity key with push-button start, allowing quick entry and engine start without removing your keys from your pocket.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The Tucson SEL comes equipped with Hyundai SmartSense safety features, including forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, blind-spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and driver attention warning. These technologies help enhance driver confidence and provide peace of mind on the road.
Performance and Engine Options
Under the hood, the 2024 Tucson SEL is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine producing 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission designed for smooth shifts and responsive acceleration.
Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available for better traction and handling in adverse weather or light off-road conditions.
Fuel economy is competitive for the class, with EPA ratings around 26 MPG city and 33 MPG highway for the front-wheel-drive model, making it economical for everyday use.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Tucson SEL offers a composed and comfortable ride, with suspension tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections effectively. Steering is responsive without being overly heavy, making it easy to maneuver in tight city streets and parking situations.
Its handling balance makes it suitable for a variety of driving scenarios, from urban commuting to longer highway journeys.
Interior and Comfort
Seating and Space
The SEL trim’s heated cloth or available leatherette seats provide a pleasant balance of comfort and support. The rear seats fold flat in a 60/40 split to increase cargo space, which totals about 38.7 cubic feet behind the second row and expands to 74.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Storage and Convenience
Additional interior storage spaces include a sizable center console, door pockets, and cup holders for all passengers. The Tucson SEL also offers a hands-free smart liftgate, making it easy to load groceries and gear without needing to use your hands.
Safety Features
The 2024 Tucson SEL’s safety features include:
- Multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags
- Hyundai SmartSense suite, with forward collision warning and mitigation
- Lane keeping assist and lane following assist
- Blind-spot collision warning with rear cross-traffic alert
- Driver attention warning system
These advanced systems contribute to high safety ratings and help prevent accidents.
Pricing and Availability
The 2024 Hyundai Tucson SEL has a starting MSRP of approximately $29,000, placing it in the mid-range of the Tucson lineup. Pricing may increase with added options or all-wheel-drive configurations.
The Tucson SEL is widely available at Hyundai dealerships nationwide and often benefits from manufacturer incentives and financing deals, especially during promotional sales events.
Tips for Buying a 2024 Hyundai Tucson SEL
- Test Drive: Evaluate ride comfort, acceleration, and the responsiveness of safety and tech features during your test drive.
- Check AWD Option: If you live in areas with frequent bad weather or want extra traction, consider the all-wheel-drive version.
- Inspect Technology: Make sure the infotainment system, wireless connectivity, and safety tech function properly.
- Compare Trims: Review differences between the SEL and other trims like the SE or Limited to find the best fit for your budget and needs.
- Look for Incentives: Check Hyundai’s official website or dealership promotions for current discounts or financing deals.
Maintenance and Ownership Tips
- Follow Hyundai’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections.
- Regularly inspect tires and brakes, especially if using AWD models on rough or slippery terrain.
- Use genuine Hyundai parts and fluids to maintain warranty coverage and vehicle longevity.
- Keep software and infotainment updates current for the best performance and security.
The 2024 Hyundai Tucson SEL offers a well-balanced package of style, comfort, and technology in the competitive compact SUV segment. Its spacious interior, user-friendly tech, and advanced safety features make it an ideal choice for families and individuals alike. With a reasonable starting price and available AWD, the Tucson SEL stands out as a practical and enjoyable SUV for everyday driving and weekend adventures. With careful consideration and proper maintenance, buyers can enjoy years of reliable service from this versatile vehicle.