How the 2026 Hyundai Tucson’s Towing Upgrade Empowers Weekend Plans in Newton, KS

Oct 7, 2025

Hatchett Hyundai East – How the 2026 Hyundai Tucson’s Towing Upgrade Empowers Weekend Plans in Newton, KS

For many compact SUV shoppers, capability is the make-or-break factor. That’s why the 2026 Hyundai Tucson’s notable towing improvement for gas models—now up to 2,750 pounds with trailer brakes—matters so much for drivers who split time between weekday commutes and weekend recreation. In practical terms, this opens the door to more possibilities: a small camper, a pair of dirt bikes, or a medium fishing boat are now realistic companions for your next trip from Newton, KS to your favorite lake or trailhead. And it’s not just raw numbers. The Tucson’s calm road manners, generous cabin space, and easy-to-use tech stack make it an ideal all-arounder, whether you’re traveling with kids, gear, or both.

Hyundai also tuned the lineup with smarter packaging for 2026. The gas model’s upgrade is complemented by clear trim naming, while the Tucson XRT adds Terrain Mode with Mud, Snow, and Sand settings. That means the on-road poise you expect from a refined compact crossover now has tools to handle trailheads, unpaved access roads, and shoulder-season weather with more confidence. If you prefer electrified options, Tucson Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models remain available—great news for shoppers who want responsive low-end torque and serene cruising. The Plug-in Hybrid gets a thoughtful convenience bump, too, with an included Level 1/Level 2 combo charging cable for easier at-home charging from day one.

To help you narrow your search, here are practical, weekend-focused highlights that make the Tucson a standout:

Towing headroom: Gas models now tow up to 2,750 pounds with trailer brakes, broadening what you can bring.
Terrain Mode on XRT: Mud, Snow, and Sand settings optimize traction and throttle for mixed surfaces.
Composed chassis: A quiet ride and confident handling reduce fatigue on long drives to the campsite.
Flexible cargo space: A wide rear opening and flat-folding seats simplify loading coolers, tents, and tools.
Intuitive tech: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, available navigation, and optional Bose audio.
Smart access: Hyundai Digital Key lets a trusted friend or partner take the car to load up before departure.

Safety remains central. The Tucson brings widely standard driver assists, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection and Lane Keeping Assist, while available Adaptive Cruise Control with lane-centering support smooths out long interstate stretches. Add Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and an available Surround View Monitor, and navigating tight trailhead parking or reversing with a small trailer becomes less stressful. These features complement the Tucson’s strong passive safety structure and ample airbag coverage, reinforcing confidence on every trip.

We also field a lot of towing-related questions from shoppers weighing the gas model against the Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid. Below, we’ve gathered answers to the most common ones so you can match the right Tucson to your weekend plans.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can the Tucson Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid tow my small camper?

Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models are rated up to 2,000 pounds with trailer brakes. If your camper is under that threshold, you’re set; if not, consider the gas model’s 2,750-pound rating.

What trims are best if I plan to tow frequently?

Start with a gas model and add the factory trailer hitch for the full rating. If you like mild off-pavement routes to trailheads, the XRT’s Terrain Mode with Mud, Snow, and Sand adds useful traction profiles.

Does the Tucson offer tools to make hitching and reversing easier?

Available Surround View Monitor provides helpful camera angles in tight quarters. Pair it with the vehicle’s steady low-speed control and you’ll feel more confident lining up a trailer.

I want electrification but also need charging convenience. What changed for 2026?

The Plug-in Hybrid now includes a Level 1/Level 2 combo charging cable, making it easy to plug into a standard outlet or a 240V charging source at home or work.

Ultimately, what stands out is how well the Tucson aligns capability with everyday comfort. You get a quiet, tidy-driving SUV that’s easy to park around town and equally prepared to pull a small trailer west for an overnight under the stars. That dual personality is exactly what many shoppers want—less compromise, more confidence. Visit Hatchett Hyundai East to compare trims side by side, feel the difference on a test drive, and map your ideal setup for tow rating, traction features, and cabin tech. Our team is proudly serving Winfield, Newton, and Salina with expert guidance tailored to how you live, drive, and explore.