The Hyundai TUCSON 2.0D Executive has claimed top honours in CAR Magazine’s 2026 SUV Shootout, emerging as the overall winner after outperforming a field of 13 of South Africa’s most popular midsize SUVs in one of the country’s most respected independent comparative tests.
Conducted annually by the CAR Magazine team, the SUV Shootout evaluates contenders in the environments that matter most to South African motorists. From long-distance highway driving and gravel-road capability to family practicality, safety, comfort, technology, fuel efficiency and overall value for money, each vehicle is assessed using identical real-world criteria.
The Hyundai TUCSON emerged victorious against a highly competitive field that included the Toyota RAV4, Volkswagen Tiguan, Mitsubishi Outlander, Subaru Forester, Geely EX5, Chery Tiggo 7, Haval H6, Jaecoo J7, Omoda C7, BYD Sealion 6 Premium, MG HS, Opel Grandland and Ford Territory. It stood out for its exceptional blend of refinement, engaging driving dynamics, everyday practicality, premium features, outstanding comfort and compelling overall value, earning top honours in one of the market’s most fiercely contested segments.
Ian McLaren, Editor of CAR Magazine said the emergence of the Hyundai TUCSON 2.0D Executive as the winner of this year’s SUV Shootout is well deserved. “This fourth generation of Hyundai’s bestselling global product ticks several significant boxes in the South African midsize-SUV market.”
“With the impressively well-specced Executive priced well below our R800,000 threshold, the TUCSON offers a spacious interior that manages to find a compelling balance between rear seat comfort and packing space. With a seven-year/200 000 km warranty, this adds peace of mind to the owner,” added McLaren.
Stanley Anderson, CEO of Hyundai Automotive South Africa welcomed the recognition. “To receive this accolade from CAR Magazine is a tremendous achievement for the Hyundai brand.”
“This vehicle was developed to offer South African customers a premium SUV experience without compromise. This independent recognition confirms that it delivers where it matters most, which is, on the road and in everyday ownership,” stated Anderson.
The latest accolade adds to the Hyundai TUCSON’s growing reputation as one of South Africa’s leading midsize SUVs, offering buyers a compelling combination of design, safety, technology, comfort and value.
