What Changed on the 2026 Hyundai Tucson in Corona, CA?

CardinaleWay Hyundai – What Changed on the 2026 Hyundai Tucson in Corona, CA?

The 2026 Hyundai Tucson returns as a carry-over model, but in-market shoppers in Corona, CA, will appreciate several smart updates that make daily driving and weekend getaways easier. At CardinaleWay Hyundai, our team fields one recurring question about this model year: what’s actually different for 2026? Below is a clear, local-focused breakdown so shoppers can quickly understand the trim changes, towing enhancements, and feature updates that matter most for life along the 91 and 15.

For 2026, the Tucson lineup continues to offer ICE, Hybrid (HEV), and Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) choices, now with a more streamlined set of trims and a practical bump in capability for ICE models. The highlight for many Corona drivers is the increased towing capacity on gasoline models, which expands what you can bring to Prado Regional Park or out to the desert. The Tucson’s thoughtful updates align with what our customers ask for most: confidence-inspiring capability, intuitive tech, and options that suit varied SoCal commutes.

At-a-glance 2026 Tucson updates

• Towing capacity (ICE): Now up to 2,750 lbs. with trailer brakes — HEV/PHEV remains at 2,000 lbs.
• XRT Terrain Mode: New Mud, Snow, and Sand settings added for increased confidence off the beaten path.
• Trim changes (ICE): SEL Convenience is now named SEL Premium.
• Trim changes (HEV): Blue is now named SEL; a new Blue SE joins the lineup beneath it; prior N Line (HEV) is no longer offered.
• Charging cable (included): Level 1 upgraded to a Level 1 / Level 2 combo for electrified models.
• Color update (HEV/PHEV): Ecotronic Gray added; Titanium Gray Matte discontinued.

What do these changes mean for shoppers in Corona? Start with towing. If weekend plans involve a pair of personal watercraft, a compact utility trailer, or camping gear, the 2026 Tucson ICE’s available 2,750-pound rating with trailer brakes offers added flexibility. Our team can walk you through proper equipment and setup so you tow with confidence. For drivers leaning toward electrified options, the HEV and PHEV continue with a 2,000-pound rating — a great fit for lighter utility needs while maximizing efficiency.

Drivers eyeing outdoor routes to the Santa Ana Mountains will appreciate the XRT trim’s newly added Terrain Mode with Mud, Snow, and Sand. It works seamlessly with available HTRAC® All-Wheel Drive to help optimize traction across varying surfaces. If your daily routine includes the commuter crawl through Riverside to Orange County, standard driver-assist technologies within Hyundai SmartSense® and available features like Lane Following Assist and Smart Cruise Control can help take the edge off long stretches of highway.

Trim structure is cleaner and easier to shop. The SEL Convenience becomes SEL Premium, reflecting an equipment set that hits a sweet spot for comfort, tech, and appearance upgrades. In the HEV lineup, the new Blue SE gives efficiency-minded shoppers an approachable entry point, while the renamed SEL replaces the previous Blue. If you were considering a previous N Line HEV, our product specialists can show similarly sporty content in other trims and appearance packages.

Shoppers considering an electrified Tucson will notice the included Level 1 / Level 2 combo charging cable — a practical update that makes home charging more convenient if you have access to a 240V outlet. For those who care about design details, Ecotronic Gray joins the HEV/PHEV palette, while Titanium Gray Matte bows out, helping the lineup feel fresh without changing Tucson’s signature style.

To help you decide which Tucson fits best, our team at CardinaleWay Hyundai in Corona can compare ICE, HEV, and PHEV side by side, discuss HTRAC® All-Wheel Drive availability, and explain how Tucson’s tech — including available navigation, Digital Key features, and wireless smartphone integration — supports everyday convenience. Test drives from our Wardlow Road location make it easy to evaluate real-world comfort and visibility on familiar routes.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is the 2026 Hyundai Tucson a carry-over, and what’s new?

Yes. The 2026 Tucson is a carry-over model with meaningful updates: higher towing capacity on ICE models, a new Terrain Mode on XRT, simplified trims, an included Level 1 / Level 2 combo charging cable for electrified models, and a color update for HEV/PHEV.

What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Tucson?

ICE models are rated up to 2,750 lbs. with trailer brakes, while HEV and PHEV models remain at 2,000 lbs. Proper equipment and setup are required. Our service team can help you prepare your Tucson for towing.

Is HTRAC® All-Wheel Drive available?

Yes. HTRAC® All-Wheel Drive is available on multiple trims. It enhances traction in varied conditions and pairs especially well with the XRT’s new Terrain Mode for Mud, Snow, and Sand.

Which trims changed names for 2026?

For ICE, SEL Convenience is now SEL Premium. In the HEV lineup, Blue is now SEL, a new Blue SE joins beneath it, and the prior N Line (HEV) is no longer offered.

What’s the new color for electrified models?

Ecotronic Gray is new for HEV/PHEV, while Titanium Gray Matte has been discontinued.

Did charging convenience improve for the Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid?

Yes. Electrified models include a Level 1 / Level 2 combo charging cable, making it easier to plug in at home with a 120V or 240V outlet.

How does the 2026 Tucson fit Corona, CA driving?

From the 91 commute to weekend trips toward Lake Perris or the San Bernardino National Forest, the Tucson blends comfort, available HTRAC® capability, and practical towing updates to handle local routines and adventures.

CardinaleWay Hyundai, serving Riverside, Chino, and Ontario, is ready to help you explore the 2026 Hyundai Tucson in person. Visit us at 2525 Wardlow Road, Corona, CA 92882, or call Sales at 951-916-9211 to schedule a test drive. Our product specialists will guide you through trims, HTRAC® options, and equipment that best support your lifestyle — and our service team stands ready to help you set up your Tucson for towing or road trips across Southern California.

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