If you are interested in a Hyundai Tucson but live in a region that serves icy or slippery roads, you may want to know what drivetrain it is equipped with. For example, does the Hyundai Tucson offer four-wheel drive as an option? Let's take a look at the drivetrain capabilities below.
The Hyundai Tucson does not have four-wheel drive as a drivetrain option. However, consumers can get Hyundai's HTRAC all-wheel drive at any trim level and as a standard feature in the hybrid models. In addition, for dry regions, consumers can choose the front-wheel-drive for the gas models.
Having the right drivetrain for the region you live in will give you more confidence as road conditions change. In this article, we will take a closer look at what Hyundai Tucson has to offer for driving systems. In addition, we will answer other frequently asked questions about the Hyundai Tucson, so read on!
Does Hyundai Tucson Have 4 Wheel Drive?
All-wheel drive is a must for consumers who live in regions with a lot of snow or rain. All-wheel drive distributes power to tires that are slipping. This will improve traction and control under those problematic road conditions.
The main difference between all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive is that all-wheel drive is automatic. It will send power to the wheels that need it most. On the other hand, a four-wheel-drive requires the driver to manually switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive.
On the other hand, two-wheel-drive only distributes power to the front tires. So while consumers can make the most out of the two-wheel-drive by equipping their Tucson with snow tires or all-weather tires, it's not going to give you as much traction as an all-wheel-drive system will.
When deciding whether to go with a front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive Hyundai Tucson, you will need to ask yourself a few questions.
- Does your region get a lot of snowy weather?
- Is it necessary to you to control your car as the road conditions change?
- Do you live in an area where it snows at least once per year?
If any of these questions apply, an all-wheel-drive system will offer you the most benefits. Since the Hyundai Tucson does not provide four-wheel drive, an all-wheel-drive system will be your next best choice.
Another question you need to ask yourself is if you want to spend the extra $1500 for the HTRAC all-wheel drive on the gas models. If you live in an area that gets rain or snow, this purchase will be well worth it.
How does Tucson AWD work?
The Hyundai Tucson HTRAC AWD system has several features. First off, it is an "auto mode." The auto mode will work similarly to a front-wheel-drive vehicle until the system recognizes tire slippage.
When the system senses tire slippage, power will be distributed to all four tires. This system is beneficial because you will receive better gas mileage when you aren't in icy road conditions. It also gives the consumer the peace of mind that they continue driving without messing with the drivetrain.
In addition, the Hyundai Tucson has an "AWD Lock" feature. This feature is similar to 4wd low and should be used when going up or down steep inclines, deep snow or mud, or off-roading. The "AWD Lock" will be deactivated if the speed reaches over 19 mph.
It will default to the auto all-wheel-drive setting when the system turns off. Consumers can turn on the "AWD Lock" when driving or stopping.
Can Hyundai Tucson go off-road?
The Hyundai Tucson is designed to handle all types of road conditions to a point.
An important feature of Tucson is its lightweight, added structural support and engine mounts. Because of these features, you will be able to drive on moderately rugged terrain without any issues.
While Tucson can be driven off-road, it isn't a rock crawler like a Jeep Wrangler or Land Rover. However, if you want to plan a camping trip off the beaten path, then the Hyundai Tucson can handle back roads that are taken care of.
It is essential to know the quality of the off-road area you plan on visiting. If you plan on venturing into the wilderness, then having the "AWD Lock" engaged will give you extra traction in bad road conditions.
In addition, the Hyundai Tucson does offer sand, snow and, mud modes for specific road conditions.
Take advantage of these modes if you plan to take a trip off the main roads.
Are Hyundai Tucson good in the snow?
The Hyundai Tucson is a top performer when handling the snow with 6.4 inches of ground clearance.
Depending on your location and the type of snow, the "HTRAC Auto" mode will give you optimal traction and control when driving in slippery conditions.
If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, then taking advantage of the AWD Lock feature or equipping your Tucson with winter tires will give you even better control.
Hyundai offers optional all-season tires, so it is essential to check with your local Hyundai dealerships to see if they are available for your model year.
What is Hyundai snow mode?
The Hyundai snow mode is an additional feature to the HTRAC all-wheel-drive system. It will improve traction on slippery roads and in heavy snowfall when activated. You can turn on the snow mode while driving, and power will distribute to the rear tires.
What is Hyundai sand and mud mode?
The Hyundai sand and mud mode is another additional feature to the HTRAC all-wheel-drive system. When activated, it will improve traction in snow or mud. Like the snow mode, you can switch between the sand and mud mode on the fly.
Both of these modes will distribute power to individual wheels experiencing slippage.
Does the Hybrid Tucson have AWD?
If you want to be environmentally friendly while still having enough traction in changing road conditions, then the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is an option. The hybrid model comes standard with the HTRAC AWD.
In addition, consumers will receive better fuel mileage choosing the hybrid option. The all-wheel-drive gas option gets 22 mpg city and 28 highway. In comparison, the hybrids get 37 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
Do I need snow tires for a Hyundai Tuscon?
The Hyundai Tuscon does not require any special tires to be purchased with the vehicle. However, if you live in an area where heavy snowfall or your Tucson will be used for off-roading, buying winter tires is an option.
However, if you have an HTRAC AWD and you have good all-season tires on your Tucson, then you can make do without snow tires.
In addition, if you own a front-wheel-drive model and live in an area where there is heavy snowfall, then purchasing a set of snow tires can give you better traction.
Do I have to change all four tires if I get a flat tire?
When owning an all-wheel-drive Tucson, you may run into a situation where you have a flat tire. The severity of the tire damage will determine if you need to replace one or all four.
If the tire treads are below 2/32nd inch, you will have to change all four tires. When you don't, the tire's tread will be uneven, which could cause more issues in the long run.
For consumers who just purchased new tires or bought a new Hyundai Tucson, then you may have no problem only replacing the flat tire.
Typically if the tire is not severely damaged, it can be patched.
Is there a warranty on replacement tires?
Luckily, Hyundai has a limited warranty for 5 years/60,000 miles [whichever comes first]. Under this warranty, consumers will have protection for their tires, windshield wipers, and brake pads. In addition, consumers can rest assured that they have roadside assistance included in the warranty for 5 years and unlimited miles.
However, there is a catch: the consumer will only receive the warranty benefits if replacing the tires at an authorized Hyundai dealer. Nonetheless, consumers who take advantage of this warranty can save a lot of money in the long run.
Final Thoughts
For consumers who go with the Tucson equipped with the HTRAC all-wheel drive will have peace of mind in any setting. Whether you're stuck in the snow or need more grip on sand, mud, and gravel roadways, then the HTRAC system will be able to assist.
In addition, consumers who want a reliable Tucson with better fuel economy should consider purchasing the Hyundai Tuscon Hybrid as it comes standard with all-wheel-drive.
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