Hyundai Tucson Se vs. Sel 2023

1. Exterior Design

So the body shape of the 2023 year model vehicles is identical. Both SUVs feature a modern, updated style. From the front to the rear, both vehicles feature a slight slope on the roof, adding an element to the style of the vehicles. The wheelbase and length of the vehicles has not changed. Both the SE and SEL do measure at 176.4 inches long and a wheelbase of 105.6 inches. It has yet to be determined if the new Tucson is larger in terms of interior space than the previous third generation 2016-2021 Tucson model. The previous model measured with 102.2 cubic feet of interior space, with the new model likely to be similar. The ground clearance is measured at 8.2 inches for both vehicles. The backside of the vehicle features a rear spoiler equipped with a LED brake light for both the SE and SEL models. So in terms of body shape, the difference from the SE to SEL model is non-existent. Perhaps the most noticeable difference between the SE and SEL is the grill design. The SE model features a chrome front grille, while the SEL comes with a dark chrome front grille. This differentiation is clear; however neither grille is more stylish than the other in terms of personal preference. It is unclear if there is an actual functional difference between the two model grilles. It appears that the dark chrome grille is more aggressive and bold compared to the standard chrome grille, but no information is present to signify any differences other than cosmetic.

1.1. Body Shape

The body shape on the Tucson 2023 SE and higher SEL model is basically the same with the exception of overall length. The actual dimensions of the body panels are the same between both models. The main difference is the physical length of the vehicle and not the actual body panels. This allows for many of the parts to be exchangeable. An example of this is the front fenders, doors, and quarter panels on both vehicles are the same parts. This is good news for anybody looking into buying a 2023 Hyundai Tucson since many body components on the two vehicles are exchangeable, allowing a wider range of aftermarket and replacement parts. A good example of this is two vehicles going into a collision and the SE owner is searching for a new door panel. He can easily obtain one off of an SEL model that was not damaged in the collision. This is due to the fact that replacement parts to fix a vehicle are generally more expensive and harder to find if the body components it needs are different between two similar models.

1.2. Grille Design

With respect to the grille design, the latest 2023 Hyundai Tucson SE rests on 17-inch alloy wheels, has LED headlights, and looks a bit altered from the preceding 2022 model. The newest Hyundai Tucson is restyled in front with a wider and more aggressive grille, new LED headlamps, repositioned turn-signal lights, and a redesigned bumper. It gives this compact SUV a similar front fascia to the Hyundai's mid-sized SUV, the Hyundai Santa Fe. At the back, the tailgate and the taillights are the only things that appear similar to the prior model. The body is reshaped with a new window line, bolder wheel arches, and a restyled side character line. This uncommon character reminds of its biological father that has a character line in the exact same section. It stands out among other compact SUVs, especially the SEL version, because Hyundai wants to prove that the front-wheel-drive model is almost comparable to its AWD predecessor since this new plan is cheaper and has better fuel efficiency. Meanwhile, the SEL version of the 2023 Hyundai Tucson model appears that it hasn't changed at all from the earlier version. It's still keeping the traditional look of Hyundai's front fascia with a slim grille that contains small holes and a traditional headlamp with a separate turn-signal light. This model also remains traditional as it's a transition model from the 2022 to the 2023 version. However, the most significant change of the Hyundai Tucson model in this model year is in the front fascia only. At this point, it seems that it has more value to buy the 2022 model when it begins the sale of the 2023 model because they wouldn't notice the style shift for the 2-year timeline of this model. Therefore, the current model Hyundai Tucson SEL appears that it's still offering a transition style to potential customers who want to buy the latest version by offering it with discount sales. This model still keeps the modern look at the back with the bulb type and traditional look of a compact SUV that has a 21st-century European car look. (Ronspies et al.2021)

1.3. Headlight and Taillight Design

Projection headlights are able to produce a brighter, more powerful light than reflector-type headlights. Headlights that, together with two LED lights, are able to produce three types of lights, including low beam, high beam, and position. LED Daytime Running Light takes the 2nd generation of the Tucson and expresses it further with the goal of providing better visibility for other drivers on the road. LED DRL also provides extra stimulation for the 18-inch alloy wheels. The LED rear combination lights that come standard on the SEL model are modern and more efficient than typical taillights. This lens-type lighting scatters light and has dual action that provides positioning lighting for nighttime lighting activation and high-power brake lighting. This is due to the energetic control system where the level of depression on the pedal activates the brake light, with the SE model that does not have this feature.

The main focus of the 2023 Hyundai Tucson is to create a progressive design in the SUV world, and that theme follows into the headlight and taillight design. The 2023 Hyundai Tucson SE comes standard with LED low/high beam headlights that have manual levelers. Also standard are LED daytime running lights. The SEL model of the 2023 Hyundai Tucson has a few differences in the lighting department. The standard headlights are the same LED low/high beam automatic headlights, but drivers will have the option to upgrade to the available LED projector headlights that come with LED accents. Both the SE and SEL models have automatic on/off headlights. The only other difference between the SE and SEL models is LED rear taillights for the SE, and LED combination rear taillights for the SEL.

1.4. Wheel Options

In short, both models offer a valid point in what they provide, and it really depends on the person buying. The SE offers a very good value for a low price, equipped with the highest safety and reliability, but will skimp out on the technology and innovation features the SEL has to offer. If you do not typically use a vehicle for more than the basic needs, it is a very good investment. The SEL offers all the options of the SE but more and does not break away from the price range too far. This model is good if you want a basic vehicle with some luxury but do not want to spend for all the gadgets and features the Limited and Ultimate have to offer. Keep in mind the extra $1700-2000 is put into the SEL for all the extra features it provides the customer. Both models are very competitive in what they have to offer and rival with most other vehicles in the same categories.

The SE and the SEL also offer a difference when it comes to tires. The SE delivers 17-inch alloy wheels while the SEL provides a larger 18-inch alloy wheel to better maneuver and grip the road. As to what size is better usually depends on the driver and your local driving conditions. Typically, larger wheels are better for those living in urban areas, providing less road noise as you cruise through the city. They are also better for handling due to less tire flex, but the ride may be a bit harsher and you will feel more bumps in the road. Smaller wheels provide more cushion in the tire, giving a more forgiving ride on rough terrain, but they will typically be noisier and optionally slower due to greater tire flex. This decision ultimately comes down to what you need out of the vehicle and the type of driving you do most often.

2. Interior Features

Summarized from several Hyundai Tucson reviews, the SE and SEL interior has soft-touch materials, making it feel high quality for the price. Both trims integrate a rear 60/40 split and recline function, and the SEL adds a passenger-side armrest to make the experience a little bit more appealing when carpooling. Both rear seats and car seats will be more comfortable compared to the class-leading 2022 Kona. Optional for the SEL is the Leather Seat Package ($1,800), this is not to be confused with the Semaphore signal deal. This adds a storage compartment in the driver's seat, leather seat surface (heating only), and power passenger seating.

With only two trim levels to choose from, the Tucson's SE and SEL come equipped with fabric seats, inlays, and controls. The driver's chair is six-way manually adjustable, so it won't take very long to get comfy. Shifting up to the SEL gives you a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift button, as well as a power-adjustable driver's chair with an 8-way function. Amusingly, the SEL offers a "series-tied style" seating material with heating, plus an 8-way power-adjustable driver's chair to attract the famished masses of cold weather states. While it sounds a bit goofy, this means the SEL is offering more comfort for families on a tight budget.

Fortunately, this isn't anything to worry about when picking your trim level. The infotainment system in both the SE and SEL is dependent on Hyundai's acoustic group, which means you'll get yourself a 7-inch touchscreen that is situated extremely high on the dash, flanked by physical control buttons and knobs. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included as standard and are generally simpler to use in comparison to the Hyundai process. Also, regular is Bluetooth and SiriusXM satellite radio station. Upgrading to the 8-inch screen and premium speakers is available at the Worth trim level.

2.1. Infotainment System

Through sound enhancements, entertainment options, and the ability to customize settings, the Bose premium audio offered in the SEL (and later trims) is a significant improvement from the stock system in the SE. It boasts 8 speakers and a center channel, above what other trims have. Dynamic Speed Compensation will increase audio when the car is going faster and reduce it when the car is slowing down. It offers 4 profiles where music preference can be saved to cater preferences of different drivers. Music can also be enjoyed in quiet when needed with the option to have Front-Seat-Only sound. These music settings are very different from the stock system in the SE.

As technology becomes more and more important in the daily lives of people, Hyundai has continued to upgrade many of its features over recent years. The 2022 Tucson was the first version to offer a sizeable infotainment screen at 10.25". This year, the SE and the SEL still offer 8" and 10.25" screens respectively, but the advantages for the SEL are starting to add up. Both models feature an 8-speaker, 160-watt audio system. The SEL adds a complimentary 3-month trial of SiriusXM and HD Radio. Additionally, it has Hyundai Digital Key, which allows a cellphone to be used to remotely start the car and adjust settings on the car.

2.2. Seating Options

There are a few different Hyundai Tucson seating options. One of them available for 2022 and 2023 is the 8-way adjustable seats with leather seating surfaces (SEL w/SEL Convenience Package, SEL w/Premium Package, Night, Limited). This selection can be a great choice for a few reasons. The first reason is the leather seating surfaces. The softer feel of the leather seats provides a more comfortable experience as opposed to cloth seating. This can be a great feature for most people who may have a long day of work and desire to sit in a comfortable seat. Cloth seats can cause lower back discomfort due to the resistance created by the fabric. The resistance can create tension and over time can lead to issues if the owner sits for prolonged periods. This would not be an issue with the leather seats. Another reason why these seats can be favorable is if the vehicle owner has a long commute or children. The 8-way adjustable seats allow for choosing between optimal comfort and greater outward visibility on the road. This feature is a versatile comfort addition, allowing the driver (or passenger) to adjust the seat to different positions for a comfortable ride. The multiple positions are also ideal if more than one person drives the vehicle. Each person can adjust the seat to their preference, ensuring a comfortable ride and reducing unnecessary movements while operating the vehicle. This can be a great feature for longer commutes as it helps prevent back problems by avoiding the strain of sitting in the same position for too long.

2.3. Interior Materials

The Nappa leather seats, steering, and the soft-touch fabric are soothing. The contrast stitching of the dashboard is good. All the interior can be blissfully wiped out with just a damp cloth. The honey beige and the dark color interior that the buyer can get a choice in can maintain its sleek looks and design for years to come. The only big company that can give Hyundai a neck-to-neck rivalry on interior materials is Honda and Toyota, but surely the choice of material with an affordable price is well played for the buyers. Step in quality may not give a luxury brand car class but can give a decent compact SUV it deserves. You will be happy to brag in the long run.

In terms of ownership experience, none has high maintenance. The plastic and fabric upholstery can be cleaned up easily in a car wash but will not age well. The stains and marks can be easily seen over the black or gray color interior of the SE model. Although the fabric quality used has good wear and tear.

Interior materials used in the car talk a lot about its build quality and the kind of craftsmanship followed. The 2023 Hyundai Tucson SE has used hard plastic on the door panels and the dashboard, and the seat fabric is average. With an 8-way power adjustable driver seat and 2-way lumbar support, it is strictly built for someone who loves performance and a little bit of luxury. The interior materials of the SEL model have gone bonkers with the Nappa leather seats, which are heated and ventilated. A leather-wrapped steering wheel with imitation leather dashboard and door panels. Heads-up, Hyundai has also provided the panoramic sunroof for the SEL model. Though the looks of the soft-touch dashboard and door panels are soothing, it can be less grumbling if it does not sustain many years. All other features of both models are the same. But the difference in comfort and luxury is speaking. Different customers, different choices.

2.4. Cargo Space

When it comes to cargo space, the differences between the two models are marginal. Technically, they both offer the same amount of cargo space but with a slight variance between the two. The 2023 Hyundai Tucson SE offers 38.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 75.5 cubic feet with all seats folded down. Compare that to the 38.9 cubic feet with the second row up and 74.9 cubic feet behind the first row in the Tucson SEL. This is due to the rear seats in the SEL being able to slide forward and back, making it possible to make a little more space for bigger items. With that said, the maximum cargo space is the same between the two and can accommodate a commendable amount of hauling capabilities. Unfortunately, there are some who will not be satisfied with the amount of cargo space in either model and will choose to move to the Tucson hybrid. The minimal loss of cargo space in the hybrid could be outweighed by the increased fuel economy so customers purchasing a Tucson on these wants should consider the Tucson hybrid. Overall, purchasing a Tucson for its cargo space is a sound investment. With equal cargo capacities in both models, the decision would come down to whether the slight variance makes any difference in your specific situation. The dollar value between the two trims is another consideration, but one should account for their individual needs and wants. The ability to carry plenty of cargo is a need for some and those folks would be wise to aim for a Tucson over a competing sedan.

2.5. Driver Assistance Features

One of the preceding of Hyundai Tucson's major differences is the availability of the Highway Drive Assist. This new feature helps to keep the vehicle in the center of its lane and maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front of it to assist the driver with steering and acceleration functions on highways or on similar roads. This system uses a front view camera and radar sensors to detect the lane and vehicles on the road. If the road does not have clearly marked lanes, the system will definitely not work as it will not know to detect the lanes or vehicles. These situations will be automatically detected as the system won't be able to detect lane markings or lines, it will then automatically turn back again later on once the road type is supported by the system. This new improvement to Hyundai's Smart Cruise Control will be helpful to assist the driver not only for the acceleration but for the steering function as well. These features are available in all trim levels for both conventional and hybrid powertrains. Highway Drive Assist equipped in a conventional gasoline powertrain requires Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, on the other hand, the hybrid powertrain requires hybrid equipped Smart Cruise Control with Machine Learning. While other features in the package include: Low Beam Assist, which activates and deactivates the high beams when detecting a vehicle in front and its tail lights, then it will turn off automatically when oncoming vehicles are detected; and the second feature is the Driver Attention Warning, this feature gives an alert to the driver when a dangerous driving pattern is detected, it will also suggest needing a rest to the driver for better driver safety. (Aduama et al., 2023)

3. Performance and Efficiency

With this in mind, choosing the engine option, the comparison will continue focusing whether the extra cost of the SEL and advantages/disadvantages of it are worthwhile. This paragraph also brings attention to alternative competing vehicles with regards to the comparison of standard equipment, other vehicle pricing and brand differences which may affect the ultimate purchase of an SEL or SE. A starting example is the Ford Escape where the equivalent to Hyundai's 2.4-liter engine would be the optional 2.0-Liter EcoBoost Engine. However, the values expressed in this comparison will be derived from the official Ford's website to ensure accuracy.

Regarding the "engine options", content and further explanation of the basic differences between those models proposed in the main website will not be given. The comparison will only be focusing on the whether the power output and the other significant favorable option. The Base 2.0-liter GDI 4-cylinder engine in the Tucson is the standard engine for the SE and delivers 164 horsepower and 151 lb.-ft. of torque. Although the extra power output between the 2.4-liter is not very significant, the fuel economy and the towing capability offered by the 2.4-liter engine is certainly an attractive option. The 2.4-liter GDI 4-cylinder engine found in the SEL can be mated to front or all-wheel drive and delivers 182 horsepower and 177 lb.-ft. of torque. This more powerful engine also increases the towing capability with an available towing package up to 2,000 pounds. Keep in mind that no matter which engine is chosen, the Tucson comes standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual mode. However, some Tucson SE customers can compare the 2.4-liter engine option with the other significant features loss from the SE to the SEL and decide to stay with the SE.

3.1. Engine Options

In contrast, the SEL has a 2.4L inline 4-cylinder engine that generates 181 horsepower and 175 lbs of torque. The difference in power is only about 10%, so this suggests the Tucson is not intended for serious off-road driving or towing heavy loads. In terms of fuel economy, it is barely inferior to the SE with an estimated mileage of 22 mpg (city) and 28 mpg (highway). However, the key with the SEL is the exclusion of the AWD system. It is another separate possibility whether this has been done for marketing purposes and force people to buy the more expensive 4WD model or it is simply an oversight. For those that travel regularly on dirt roads, live in particularly wet areas, or even experience frequent snow, while the AWD option is still there via the 2.0L SE Tucson, it may be problematic to purchase a specific vehicle without that optional feature.

The type of driving experience you have is largely determined by the kind of engine that you buy. This will affect the car's performance and capabilities. The SE and SEL Tucsons have different engines from each other. The SE has a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder engine which generates 164 horsepower and 151 lbs of torque. It is a very standard engine size with sufficient power to drive throughout the city or on the highway. The fuel economy is fantastic with an estimated mileage of 23 mpg (city) and 31 mpg (highway). This is better than the average fuel efficiency of an average engine car in the USA by 8.4%. The other advantage of this engine is that it is the only one out of the two that has the option for Hyundai's All Wheel Drive System. However, AWD does add an extra $1,400 to the price which may influence a buyer's decision. The downside is that it is generally an unnecessary feature for people that spend the vast majority of time driving within urban areas.

(Section 3.1. Engine Options)

3.2. Transmission Options

The Hyundai Tucson SE FWD and AWD come with a 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC. This transmission provides a great balance for acceleration and fuel economy. It also offers smooth shifting for a very pleasant driving experience. One simple way to define the word SHIFTRONIC is the combining of automatic and manual shifting. When the driver is in drive mode, SHIFTRONIC can be used to actuate a manual shift mode. This is done by moving the gear selection into a separate slot (most often identified by the numbers 1-5 or the letter "M" as shown in image A). Once in this mode, moving the shift lever forward (+) upshifts to a higher gear and moving the shift lever backward (-) downshifts to a lower gear. This is a very useful feature when added control is desired, such as climbing hills, passing, towing, or when road conditions are constantly changing. The selected gear will be maintained as long as the engine does not redline. If the driver does not manually upshift or downshift, the transmission will still operate in the same manner as it would in drive mode. This transmission is fully automatic, no clutching or declutching is ever required. This will be the best choice for driving enthusiasts on a budget as the SE offers incredible value for the investment. Unfortunately, the SE only offers a single engine and drivetrain option, as well as the single transmission option. This engine is the 2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder with D-CVVT. D-CVVT stands for Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing. CVVT is what is commonly referred to as 'variable valve timing'. This system allows for the altering of valve timing in the engine, and thus changes engine performance and efficiency. The dual CVVT adds another level of control with variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. This expansive control results in an additional gain in engine performance and fuel economy. The SE can be purchased with either FWD or AWD. The AWD system is a full-time system which will result in a permanent 50/50 torque split between the front and rear wheels. AWD will also come with a driver-selectable lock mode, which will lock the AWD system into a 50/50 torque split for the most challenging of road conditions.

3.3. Fuel Efficiency

A combined fuel economy of 37 mpg for the hybrid models is great. The Toyota Rav4 hybrid model gets pretty much the same, at 40 city/35 highway/38 combined MPG. However, the Tucson has better handling and steering feel. This will be touched on more in section 3.4. The CR-V hybrid has not been named yet, aside from being called a "prototype", so no fuel economy is available, and while Nissan has said a Rogue hybrid model is coming, no other details have been provided.

The standard model fuel economy is just average for its class. It rivals the Honda CR-V (28 combined) and Rav4 (28 or 30 combined, both come with standard AWD) but falls short of the new Nissan Rogue (27 city/35 highway/30 combined). For the standard model, the best fuel economy is the Nissan, and Roge steers clear of hybrid technology.

The improvement the Tucson has made over the years in terms of its fuel economy is impressive. Beyond relying solely on internal-combustion engine models, it has two different hybrid options. The standard gas model has a rating of 24 mpg for city driving, 29 on the highway, and 26 combined. For an all-wheel-drive model, these numbers drop very slightly: 23/28/25. The hybrid is available in both FWD and AWD. This powertrain achieves 38 mpg (per gallon), 38 highway, and 38 combined with FWD. AWD hybrid Tucsons have a fuel economy of 36/37/36.

3.4. Handling and Suspension

Se and SEL trims of the 2023 Hyundai Tucson use different suspension designs, based on the difference in vehicle weight and all-wheel drive availability. The SE model employs a simpler, lighter, yet efficient torsion bar independent rear suspension design which contributes to better road holding on all-wheel drive models and uncanny body roll control, considering it uses a less sophisticated suspension design compared to the former models. Front-wheel drive SE models use a rear suspension setup that is quite common with non all-wheel drive crossovers. Independent torsion bar rear suspension allows the rear wheels to better maintain tire contact with the road surface, which enhances traction and braking capability. Torsion bar designs have an inherent ability for tuning suspension geometry for better rear tire alignment in corners, which is beneficial for all-wheel drive models of the SE to minimize oversteer and understeer while cornering. The SE's front suspension uses a less expensive yet proven to work MacPherson strut design. A distinguishing factor here is the sintered metal type front lower control arm bushings utilized with the MacPherson strut design, which is very good at isolating road noise and vibration at the steering wheel while maintaining controllability. Overall, this suspension setup for the SE model is a well-designed system that is simple, cost-effective, and does its job for keeping the vehicle well-controlled under various driving situations, though the late availability of all-wheel drive models is worth considering for those intending to do more spirited driving.

4. Safety and Technology

Among these features are a few others that will work to avoid collisions altogether. Forward Collision Avoidance Assist will sense a vehicle in front of the Hyundai, and if there is a risk of a collision, the brakes will be applied to avoid or mitigate the severe impact. The Junction Turning Accident Avoidance Assist is a feature that will detect if another vehicle is oncoming when the Tucson is turning left at an intersection. If that is the case, it will apply the brakes to stop the vehicle from turning, and the Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist works to prevent the Tucson from backing into another vehicle or pedestrian by using rear sensors.

The all-new 2023 Hyundai Tucson comes with some of the most premium safety features yet. They come with Highway Driving Assist, Lane Following Assist, and Remote Smart Parking Assist. These features set up the Tucson to essentially drive itself when the technology feels refined enough. The Highway Drive Assist works in correlation with the standard Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Start. This will control speed and distance, keeping the Tucson centered in its lane. If speed is reduced because of some reason, the LCS turn assistant will tell the driver it is slower than the flow of traffic and also recommend increasing speed on the pop-up display. The Lane Following Assist works to keep the Hyundai centered in its lane only on highways or in high traffic conditions, and if desired, the driver can keep this feature always on. It does this by controlling acceleration/deceleration and steering to maintain the vehicle centered in the lane. A camera detection feature will recognize if the Hyundai is about to leave its lane without signaling and provide corrective steering.

4.1. Advanced Safety Features

One of the biggest benefits to the SEL trim over the SE is the blind spot and rear cross traffic collision warning. This is a system that is not available on any SE models. The system is designed to inform the driver if another vehicle is in the blind spot. In which case it will give a visual alert on the mirror and an auditory alert if the indicator is on. The warning will also sound if an object is blocking the rear path of the vehicle while in reverse. This is an excellent system to avoid any minor accidents in parking lots and on the road. The system is also supposed to measure the speed of the vehicle in the detection zone and give a warning to the driver to avoid a collision. The system will apply braking to avoid the collision but like other Hyundai vehicles, it is assumed that it only provides a warning and does not take partial or full control of the vehicle. This would be a very beneficial system for consumers with young/teenage drivers.

The SE comes with features such as Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA). This system works by alerting the driver of a possible collision ahead. It also applies the brakes in certain circumstances to decrease the effects of the collision. It also has Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), it gives an alert if the vehicle is wandering from the lane but gives the driver the option to hold onto the steering wheel and essentially ignore the warning. If the driver takes no action it will intervene and apply corrective steering measures to stop the vehicle from leaving the lane. The SE also has High Beam Assist which automatically turns high beam on and off in response to oncoming traffic. This is a feature that is not available on the SEL for some reason.

Difference among the features of the SE and the SEL: Hyundai has a host of safety features that are standard across all the variants while some others are only available on the higher trims. The SE comes loaded with a lot of advanced safety features. The SEL adds a few more features.

4.2. Connectivity Options

The Remote Package: This includes the ability to Remote Start with Climate Control, Remote Door Lock / Unlock, Remote Find My Vehicle, and Stolen Vehicle Recovery. This feature set is the same in both SE and SEL models. The Connected Care Package: This includes all of the Blue Link alerts as well as Enhanced Roadside Assistance. Blue Link alerts includes Automatic Collision Notification, SOS Emergency Assistance, Maintenance Alerts, Monthly Vehicle Health Report, and the ability to add a secondary user to the system. This feature set is the same in both SE and SEL models.

Both models include: Complimentary 3-year trial of Hyundai Standard Connected Services Blue Link connected car system. Remote Start with Climate Control. In-Car Air Quality System. Climate Pre-set (Only available on Hybrid & PHEV). It should be noted that the complimentary 3-year trial of Hyundai Standard Connected Services is limited to 1 per vehicle and includes the following features:

4.3. Audio System

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson SE is the base model for the Hyundai Tucson lineup. Key features include front wheel drive, 187 horsepower, 2.5 L GDI 4-cylinder engine, 8-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC SSR, and several advanced driver-assistance systems and safety features. The 2023 Hyundai Tucson SEL further improves the experience by including a more upscale audio system. The above specifications pertain to the 2023 Hyundai Tucson SE. This compact SUV is available in four tiers, something you'll also want to keep in mind as you make your decision. If you are trying to decide between the SE and SEL trims, it's important to note that this audio upgrade is in the standard package for the SEL trim. This means you'll need to consider whether you'd prefer the audio upgrade (as well as the other SEL features) at an extra cost. At a sale price of $26,145, the SE trim may be the way to go if you are making a more conservative purchase. Once you reach the SEL trim package, the total cost will come out to $29,995 - a considerable jump in price.

4.4. Navigation System

Would the Se model still be worth it if you bought it and used the navigation system to navigate every destination you've wanted to go? From the features and longer subscription to the added features, the Sel model would be more worth it. Yet again, this 8-year trial comes with added features utilizing XM. These functions may not be as appealing as having great fuel mileage, but the base to adding this option with convenience and assistance is a much easier way to decide to buy a vehicle. This option would be more beneficial for someone on the go and a better option for a new driver to keep a safe driving habit.

Another factor to be considered is the navigation system that is available in both of these models. Both have an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system that will help guide you in getting to your destination. The Se model comes equipped with a standard navigation system that includes features such as 3D maps with traffic information, highway traffic flow, and free map updates. The Sel model also comes with a standard navigation system that includes all the features available on the Se model, in addition to features such as SiriusXM/HD radio traffic, and Travel Link. A difference between the two models would be the length of time in which your system will last. With the Se model you get a 90-day complimentary trial of the navigation system, and after that, you must renew and pay for a subscription to keep the system. On the other hand, the Sel model includes an 8-year trial subscription to these added features, and afterwards there is an option to renew.

References:

Ronspies, K., Stolle, C., Faller, R., & Bielenberg, R. (2021). Recommended test vehicle update for Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware. Transportation research record, 2675(3), 98-111. [HTML]

Aduama, P., Al-Sumaiti, A. S., & Al-Hosani, K. H. (2023). Electric vehicle charging infrastructure and energy resources: a review. Energies. mdpi.com