2026 Tucson XRT

Styling first, hardware second

It's worth being straight about what the XRT is and isn't. It isn't a lifted, off-road-focused Tucson — there's no increase in ground clearance, no beefier suspension, no skid plates. What it is: the SEL's comfort and safety package wrapped in the boldest cosmetic package Hyundai offers on this model, plus one piece of genuinely useful hardware most buyers overlook until they need it — a factory tow hitch. Nothing else in the Tucson lineup includes one standard; everywhere else it's a dealer- or aftermarket-installed accessory.

Terrain Mode, available on AWD XRTs, adjusts throttle response and traction control for mud, sand, or snow. In Polk County that mostly translates to confidence on a wet grass parking field at a festival or a soft boat-ramp shoulder rather than genuine trail use — useful, honestly framed.

Who actually buys the tow hitch

Small boat owners heading to one of Polk County's many lakes, camper and utility-trailer haulers, and anyone who's tired of aftermarket hitch installs adding a line item to the purchase. The gas Tucson's 2,750-pound towing rating (with trailer brakes) covers a jon boat, a small camper, or a loaded utility trailer comfortably — check the specific trailer's tongue weight and your local equipment before assuming max capacity.

Real reviews, real trim match

Tina Kyrk's review lines up almost exactly with what this trim is for: "Absolutely thrilled with my new 2025 Hyundai Tucson XRT! I had such an amazing experience at Hyundai Lakeland, thanks to Shaun. From start to finish, he was friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about finding the perfect car for me." Shaun Dotting is a Hyundai sales consultant on the dealership's published staff roster, and his name shows up across multiple Tucson reviews at this store, including repeat customer Mark Hardy's sixth purchase.

Frequently asked questions

Is the XRT an off-road trim?

No — it's a styling package built on the SEL's mechanical foundation, with no added ground clearance. AWD versions get a Terrain Mode traction setting, but there's no suspension lift or skid plating.

Does the XRT come with a tow hitch?

Yes, standard — the only Tucson trim where that's true. Gas Tucsons are rated to tow 2,750 pounds with trailer brakes.

Is the XRT available as a hybrid?

No — the XRT is a gas-only trim in the 2026 lineup, built on the 187-hp 2.5-liter engine.

How does the XRT's price compare to the SEL Premium?

The XRT starts at $33,475, slightly under the SEL Premium's $33,800. The SEL Premium trades the XRT's styling and tow hitch for a bigger tech package — navigation, digital cluster, sunroof, and the advanced driver-assist stack. Which one wins depends on whether you'd rather have the hitch or the tech.

What wheels come on the XRT?

18-inch alloys unique to this trim, styled differently from the SEL's standard 18s to match the blackout theme.

The bottom line

The XRT is for buyers who want the Tucson to look tougher than it drives and who'll actually use the standard tow hitch. Everyone else gets the same equipment for less on a standard SEL. Check XRT inventory at Lakeland Hyundai.