Could 2025 Hyundai Tucson PHEV, XRT models work in PH?

Despite its age, the fourth-generation Hyundai Tucson is perhaps one of the best-looking compact crossovers to come out from the Korean automaker. With its rakish profile, unmistakable front fascia, and sleek muscular lines, the Tucson is a looker in every direction, both inside & out.

Since the current crossover has already added some years to its age, Hyundai has decided to give it a minor refresh. Heck, we already saw it last year when the automaker revealed the first images and details of the updated Tucson just before the holidays. Recently, however, the refreshed Tucson officially made its way to the US market and we noticed two distinct variants that immediately caught our attention.

First up is the 2025 Tucson PHEV which gets a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is assisted by a more powerful electric motor and 13.8 kWh battery pack. Instead of making 91 PS, the electric motor now puts out 98 PS – resulting in a total system output of 271 PS (+6 PS) and 350 Nm of torque. Power is then sent to a 6-speed automatic transmission while 0 – 100 km/h is achieved in 8.6 seconds.

For extra peace of mind when hitting the trails, the PHEV comes with the brand's H-TRAC AWD system which comes with several drive modes. These include; Normal, Sport, Snow, and My Drive. When it comes to recharging the battery, Hyundai says it can be fully recharged in less than two hours with the Level 2 AC onboard charger that's rated at 7.2 kW.

Moving to the 2025 Tucson XRT, the crossover trades some of its sleek looks for a more rugged appearance. Making generous use of black body cladding throughout the exterior, the stylish crossover looks like it's ready to hit any type of terrain. Combined with the taller roof rails, this particular Tucson is raring to hit the great outdoors.

Besides having a more rugged exterior, Hyundai also gave the XRT variant of the Tucson new alloy wheels with a beadlock-like appearance along with Kumho Crugen HP71 all-season tires that measure 235/60/R18. As for engine choices, the Tucson XRT is available with a 2.5-liter Smartstream naturally-aspirated four-cylinder that makes 190 PS with 241 Nm of torque and is coupled to an 8-speed automatic.

With the PHEV and XRT versions of the 2025 Hyundai Tucson now available in the US, we're curious if these particular models would make sense in the Philippines. After all, electrification is on the rise in the country and more people are looking at vehicles that can hit light trails without using major modifications.