The 2025 Hyundai Tucson XRT adds extra spice you need to try (2025)

I’ve been lucky enough to drive a few different Hyundai Tucson models. However, I didn’t get to take a spin in the 2025 Hyundai Tucson XRT until recently! I will admit that the XRT has been worth the wait. Itstands out asa rugged option for drivers who regularly enter the woods.

Is upgrading to the 2025 Hyundai Tucson XRT worth the extra cash?

Yes, upgrading to the 2025 Hyundai Tucson XRT is worth the cost if you love escaping the city life to enjoy the wilderness. It’s a well-rounded, comfortable off-roading option with plenty of space and modern tech.I recently acknowledged the Tucson Hybrid for being best-in-class.

However, before I dive into the specifics, there are a few potential drawbacksto consider.

• The Tucson XRT I drove didn’t have the fuel-saving hybrid engine.
• A few items are missing for true off-roading confidence, such as tow hooks, a full-size spare tire, a lifted suspension, and protective skid plates.
• The Tuscon XRT feels a little expensivewitha $34,165 MSRP.
• My model had carpeted floor mats instead of rubberized all-weather mats to fight mud.

Opting for the 2025 Hyundai Tucson XRT adds 18-inch XRT-exclusive wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, roof rails, unique bumpers, black exterior accents, and a tow hitch. Plus, the standard HTRAC AWD system acts as the cherry on top.

Butthe regular models with AWD already have plenty of off-roading features such as a locking differential, downhill descent control, and a 360-degree camera view.

On the pavement, upgrading to the XRT didn;tmake a lot of sense unless you enjoyit’sexclusive styling. But the beefier tires didn’ttake awayfrom the smooth ride or impact the quiet interior.

In other off-roading trims, the extra features and larger tires cantake away fromcomfort on the road.It’s nice that the XRT doesn’t have those drawbacks.

Also, its performance in the mud did make a difference. The off-roading tires offer more control and a superior grip on slippery inclines.Plus,the protective side cladding promotes more confidence while traversing on narrow, wooded trails.

The XRT has a ground clearance of 8.3 inches, which is a nice start. The standard Subaru Crosstrek has an 8.7-inch ground clearance, so it’s not too far behind.

What I really enjoyed was how it felt like the perfect SUV for rallies. I was able to control this XRT model at faster speeds on dirt roads without slipping or sliding. It was a bast around tight bends and handled impacts extremely well.

I wasn’t bouncing or rattling all over the place and may have gone airborne once or twice. The suspension is extremely forgiving as it’s able to adjust to quickly changing terrain. I had to go a bit slower in the Subaru Corsstrek Wilderness and Nissan Frontier Rock Creek Edition.

The roof railsprovide campers with the abilityto carry extra gear, and the tow hitch is a convenient perk.The 2025 Hyundai XRT can tow up to 3,500 lbs, while other models in the lineup max out at 2,000 lbs.

My tester model hadthe2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. I didn’t put the Tuscon XRT in any situations that would require more torque. Ithad plenty of power for light climbs.

The gas engine gets anEPA-estimated24 mpg in the city and up to 30 mpg on the highway. With the hybrid engine, I got about 38 mpg combined. So, youhave to consider ifthe off-roading perks are worth giving up hybrid power and efficiency.

With the gas-powered engine, the Tucson accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.8 seconds. The hybrid engine helps the Tucsonget to60 mph in about 7.1 seconds.

So, while the 2025 Hyundai Tucson XRT provides a bit more control while off-roading, a unique style, and more towing power, it comes at the price of a more athletic performance on the pavement and better fuel economy.