Hyundai Tucson: SUV Tyre Sizes & What We Recommend

The Hyundai Tucson is a compact SUV that boasts a spacious interior and comfortable driving experience across different terrains and climates. As part of its SUV design, the vehicle is versatile and can handle different demands yet always offers fuel efficiency and a smooth driving experience; absorbing lumps and bumps in the road and embracing countless technological features.

The Hyundai Tucson was first launched in 2004 and has since undergone several iterations and upgrades through four separate generations of Tucson car. It remains a competitive vehicle on the market, Hyundai’s most sought-after model, and boasts hybrid and all-electric versions as well as its classic petrol car for maximum diversity.

As a crossover SUV, albeit a compact one, the Hyundai Tucson requires tyres that are built around its interchangeable environment as well as its heavier vehicle weight. SUVs are weightier than standard cars and can carry more in the way of passenger weight, while the versatile on- and off-road functionality means that tyres need to be strong and with sufficient grip to handle different terrains.

What all of this means is that tyre selection is crucial when it comes to maximising all the different features of a Hyundai Tucson. So, where should drivers start with their search for the best tyres?

Ideal Tyre Size for the Hyundai Tucson

The right tyre size for your Hyundai Tucson will depend on the vehicle model and its age, as well as the trim and rim diameter measurement.

The most common sizes are 235/65 R17, 245/60 R18, and 235/55 R19 – all of which boast a wide tyre base and relatively high sidewall profile aspect ratio. Not only do these tyre sizes support comfort and handling precision on smooth roads and more adventurous trails and tracks, but they are safe and built to last.

You can find the exact recommended size for your Tucson on the existing / original tyre sidewall or printed in the vehicle handbook.

Choosing the Best Tyre Type for an SUV

Once you’ve identified the right tyre size for your vehicle, it’s time to look at tyre type. But before we dive into the specific models recommended for the Hyundai Tucson, let’s first look at SUVs and the kind of tyres that maximise their design features and benefits.

An SUV is a Sports Utility Vehicle, built with all the comfort features of a passenger car but with the added functionality of an off-road vehicle. These vehicles are typically taller in stature and are broader in design to handle the challenges of different terrains, with compact SUVs known for balancing all of this with agile precision and steering.

So, what does that mean for an SUV’s tyres?

In short, tyres need to be robust and need to be able to withstand the demands of both smooth roads and highway driving, and potential off-road adventuring. Because, as mentioned earlier in this blog, SUVs are heavier vehicles, both the tyre sidewalls and its tread pattern need to be strong and durable enough to withstand this extra weight, with our recommendation being to look at all-terrain tyres for everyday travel and mud terrain tyres for more variable and unpredictable conditions.

Beyond this, the other choices with regards to tyre type include run-flat tyres with their reinforced sidewalls (a good option if your vehicle has an integrated TPMS), extra load tyres for particularly heavy passenger loads, and of course the all-season and seasonal tyre designs.

UK drivers tend to be drawn to the convenience of all-season tyres, owing to our relatively temperate climate and the ease of a tyre which can navigate wet roads, dry summers, and light snow or ice in winter. Summer and winter tyres, on the other hand, come into their own in specific conditions – managing the wet and dry needs of summer driving, and the challenging traction of winter roads.

With all that in mind then, what are the best tyres for a Hyundai Tucson?

Top Tyre Models for the Hyundai Tucson

As a compact SUV, the Hyundai Tucson requires tyres that can handle variable and changing terrains and driving habits – from long highway journeys to short commutes, everyday travel and off-road driving.

For those seeking the convenience of an all-season tyre solution, popular models include the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady tyres, and the Michelin CrossClimate range of tyres – both of which balance wet and dry grip with winter traction and premium durability.

For summer driving, tyres like the Kumho Solus TA11 offer a long lifespan and superior comfort, while the Continental TrueContact Touring tyre supports a comfortable and quiet ride.

For winter driving and handling the most challenging of terrains and surfaces, top models include the NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3, Michelin X-Ice Xi3 tyres, and the Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 tyres.

All of these options sit towards the top end of the market as premium brand models, though drivers can also browse mid-range and budget friendly options that offer a high level of reliability, safety and endurance.

For more advice on selecting the best tyres, head to our Knowledge Hub – or you can browse and compare different tyre brands yourself using our individual brand and product pages.