The Hyundai Tucson SEL and SEL Convenience are two popular trim levels of the compact SUV that offer different features and amenities. While both trims share some similarities, the SEL Convenience package adds several upgrades that enhance comfort, technology, and overall driving experience. Understanding the differences between these two trims can help potential buyers make an informed decision when choosing their ideal Tucson model.
The Hyundai Tucson SEL serves as the mid-level trim, building upon the base SE model with additional features. The SEL Convenience, on the other hand, takes it a step further by incorporating a range of premium amenities and advanced technologies. Both trims come with the same powertrain options, including a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Let’s take a closer look at the key differences between the Hyundai Tucson SEL and SEL Convenience trims:
| Feature | SEL | SEL Convenience |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $31,965 | $34,415 |
| Infotainment Display | 8-inch touchscreen | 12.3-inch touchscreen |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Not available | 12.3-inch digital cluster |
| Navigation System | Not available | Built-in navigation |
| Sunroof | Not available | Panoramic sunroof |
Exterior Features and Design
The exterior of the Hyundai Tucson SEL and SEL Convenience trims share many similarities, but there are some notable differences that set them apart. Both trims feature a modern and stylish design, but the SEL Convenience adds some premium touches that enhance its overall appearance.
Starting with the SEL trim, you’ll find 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, giving the vehicle a sporty and refined look. The SEL also comes equipped with LED headlights and daytime running lights, providing excellent visibility and a sleek appearance. Roof rails are included on the SEL trim, adding functionality for those who need to transport extra cargo.
Moving up to the SEL Convenience trim, you’ll notice some upgrades in the exterior features. One of the most significant additions is the panoramic sunroof, which not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also allows for more natural light and fresh air inside the cabin. The SEL Convenience also features LED taillights, giving the rear of the vehicle a more premium look compared to the standard taillights on the SEL trim.
Another notable difference is the inclusion of side mirrors with LED turn-signal indicators on the SEL Convenience trim. This feature not only adds a touch of sophistication but also improves visibility for other drivers on the road. The SEL Convenience also comes with a hands-free smart liftgate, which allows for easy access to the cargo area when your hands are full.
Both trims offer heated side mirrors, which is a convenient feature for colder climates. However, the SEL Convenience takes it a step further by adding power-folding functionality to the side mirrors, making it easier to navigate tight parking spaces or protect the mirrors when parked in crowded areas.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The interior is where the differences between the Hyundai Tucson SEL and SEL Convenience become more pronounced. Both trims offer a comfortable and well-designed cabin, but the SEL Convenience adds several premium features that elevate the overall driving experience.
Starting with seating, both trims come with cloth upholstery as standard. However, the SEL Convenience upgrades to H-Tex leatherette-trimmed seats, which provide a more luxurious look and feel. The SEL trim includes an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, while the front passenger seat is manually adjustable. The SEL Convenience maintains these seating configurations but adds heated front seats for added comfort during colder months.
One of the most significant differences in the interior is the infotainment system. The SEL trim features an 8-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. In contrast, the SEL Convenience boasts a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen display with built-in navigation, providing a more immersive and user-friendly interface. Additionally, the SEL Convenience includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, replacing the traditional analog gauges found in the SEL trim.
Both trims come equipped with dual-zone automatic climate control, allowing the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperatures independently. However, the SEL Convenience adds rear air vents, ensuring better climate control for rear passengers.
The SEL Convenience also includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, adding a touch of refinement to the interior. Another premium feature exclusive to the SEL Convenience is the 64-color ambient interior lighting, which allows drivers to customize the cabin’s atmosphere to their liking.
Safety Features and Driver Assistance
When it comes to safety, both the Hyundai Tucson SEL and SEL Convenience trims are well-equipped with advanced features. However, the SEL Convenience does offer some additional driver assistance technologies that enhance overall safety and convenience.
Both trims come standard with Hyundai’s SmartSense suite of safety features, which includes:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- High Beam Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert
The SEL trim also includes Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, which are valuable features for everyday driving situations. Additionally, both trims feature a rearview camera with dynamic parking guidelines.
The SEL Convenience trim builds upon these safety features by adding Highway Driving Assist (HDA), which combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering to provide semi-autonomous driving capabilities on highways. This feature can significantly reduce driver fatigue during long trips.
Another notable addition to the SEL Convenience is the Surround View Monitor, which provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making parking and low-speed maneuvering much easier. The SEL Convenience also includes an Advanced Rear Occupant Alert system, which uses ultrasonic sensors to detect movement in the rear seats and can alert the driver if a child or pet is left behind.
Performance and Efficiency
In terms of performance and efficiency, the Hyundai Tucson SEL and SEL Convenience trims are largely similar, as they share the same powertrain options. Both trims come standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive gear changes.
Both trims are available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), allowing buyers to choose based on their driving needs and preferences. The AWD system provides better traction and stability in various weather conditions and terrains.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the FWD models of both trims achieve an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The AWD models see a slight decrease in efficiency, with ratings of 24 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.
One notable difference is that the SEL Convenience trim comes with Drive Mode Select, which allows drivers to choose between different driving modes (Normal, Sport, and Smart) to optimize performance and efficiency based on their preferences and road conditions.
Both trims have a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds when properly equipped, making them capable of handling light towing tasks such as small trailers or recreational equipment.
FAQs About What Is The Difference Between Hyundai Tucson Sel And Sel Convenience?
- What are the main differences in technology between the SEL and SEL Convenience trims?
The SEL Convenience offers a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and built-in navigation, while the SEL has an 8-inch touchscreen. - Does the SEL Convenience trim have any exclusive safety features?
Yes, it includes Highway Driving Assist, Surround View Monitor, and Advanced Rear Occupant Alert, which are not available on the SEL trim. - Are there any differences in the seating materials between the two trims?
The SEL has cloth upholstery, while the SEL Convenience features H-Tex leatherette-trimmed seats and heated front seats. - Do both trims have the same engine and transmission options?
Yes, both trims come with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. - Is there a significant price difference between the SEL and SEL Convenience trims?
Yes, the SEL Convenience typically costs about $2,450 more than the SEL trim, reflecting its additional features and upgrades.