The Hyundai Tucson has become a staple in the Australian mid-size SUV market, lauded for its sleek design, practicality, and impressive suite of features. With its bold styling, advanced technology, and competitive pricing, it’s no surprise that the Tucson consistently ranks among the top-selling SUVs in Australia, rivaling the likes of the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Kia Sportage. However, even with its popularity, there are still some hidden gems within the Tucson’s feature set that many Australian drivers may not be fully aware of. These lesser-known features can significantly enhance the ownership experience, making the Tucson an even more compelling choice for families, commuters, and adventure-seekers alike.
In this article, we’ll uncover two hidden features of the Hyundai Tucson that often fly under the radar for Australian owners: the Express Window Control feature and the Remote Smart Parking Assist. We’ll explore how these features work, why they’re valuable, and how they can make your driving experience more convenient, comfortable, and safe. Whether you’re a current Tucson owner or considering one for your next vehicle, these hidden features might just surprise you with their practicality and innovation.
Hidden Feature 1: Express Window Control
One of the most convenient yet often overlooked features of the Hyundai Tucson is its Express Window Control function, which allows drivers to remotely open or close all the vehicle’s windows using the key fob. This feature is particularly useful in Australia’s diverse climate, where scorching summer days and sudden rain showers are common. Despite its utility, many owners are unaware of this function, as it’s not always prominently highlighted in the owner’s manual or during the dealership handover process.
How It Works
The Express Window Control feature enables you to lower or raise all the Tucson’s windows remotely by pressing and holding specific buttons on the key fob. To lower all the windows, press and hold the unlock button for a few seconds. This action triggers the windows to roll down simultaneously, allowing you to ventilate the cabin before entering the vehicle. Conversely, to close all the windows, press and hold the lock button for a few seconds, and the windows will roll up, securing the vehicle and protecting the interior from unexpected weather changes.
This feature is available on many Tucson models, particularly those from 2021 onwards, including the N Line and Premium trims. However, its availability may depend on the specific trim level and market configuration, so it’s worth checking with your Hyundai dealer or referring to the full owner’s manual on the MyHyundai website.
Why It’s a Game-Changer for Australians
Australia’s climate can be extreme, with summer temperatures often exceeding 35°C in many regions, from Sydney’s humid coastal heat to the dry, intense warmth of Perth or Adelaide. Stepping into a parked car that’s been baking in the sun can feel like entering an oven, with interior temperatures soaring well above the outside air. The Express Window Control feature allows you to cool down the cabin before you even open the door, letting hot air escape and improving comfort from the moment you step inside.
This feature is especially practical for families with young children or pets, as it helps create a safer and more comfortable environment before entering the vehicle. For example, on a hot day at the beach in Queensland or during a summer road trip through the Outback, you can lower the windows as you approach the car, allowing fresh air to circulate and reducing the reliance on air conditioning to cool the interior.
Additionally, the ability to close all windows remotely is a lifesaver during sudden rain showers, which are common in places like Melbourne or Tasmania. If you’ve left your windows down to ventilate the car and a storm rolls in, you can quickly close them with the key fob without needing to dash back to the vehicle. This feature adds a layer of convenience and peace of mind, ensuring your Tucson’s interior stays dry and protected.
How to Use It Effectively
To make the most of Express Window Control, keep these tips in mind:
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Check Compatibility: Confirm that your Tucson model supports this feature. It’s more common in higher trims like the Elite, N Line, and Premium, but some base models may include it as well.
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Practice the Timing: The feature requires holding the lock or unlock button for a few seconds (typically 2–3 seconds). Test it in a safe environment to get a feel for the timing.
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Combine with Other Features: Pair this feature with the Tucson’s remote start function (available on select models) to pre-cool the cabin with air conditioning while lowering the windows for maximum ventilation.
This hidden feature is a small but significant example of Hyundai’s attention to detail, making the Tucson a thoughtful companion for Australia’s varied weather conditions.
Hidden Feature 2: Remote Smart Parking Assist
The second hidden feature that many Australian Tucson owners may not know about is the Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA), a cutting-edge technology that allows the vehicle to park itself remotely while the driver stands outside. This feature is available on select high-end trims, such as the Tucson Premium and N Line variants, and is particularly useful in Australia’s urban environments, where tight parking spaces are a common challenge.
How It Works
Remote Smart Parking Assist enables the Tucson to maneuver itself into or out of a parking space using the key fob, without the driver needing to be inside the vehicle. To activate the feature, you first enable it through the vehicle’s center console infotainment system. Once activated, you can use the key fob to control the car’s movement:
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Forward Motion: Press and hold the button on the front section of the key fob (resembling the car’s hood) to move the vehicle forward into a parking space.
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Backward Motion: Press and hold the button on the back section of the fob to reverse the vehicle out of a space.
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Stopping: Release the button or press it again to stop the vehicle’s movement.
The system uses a combination of sensors and cameras to detect obstacles, ensuring the Tucson avoids collisions with other vehicles, walls, or pedestrians. If an obstacle is detected, the car will automatically stop, adding an extra layer of safety.
Why It’s a Game-Changer for Australians
Australia’s cities, from Sydney’s crowded CBD to Melbourne’s narrow laneways, often present challenging parking scenarios. Tight parallel parking spaces, cramped multi-storey car parks, and busy shopping centers like Westfield can test even the most confident driver’s skills. Remote Smart Parking Assist takes the stress out of these situations by allowing the Tucson to handle the parking process with precision.
For example, imagine trying to park in a tight spot at Bondi Beach or in a busy Melbourne car park during the holiday season. With RSPA, you can stand outside the vehicle and let it maneuver into the space, eliminating the need to squeeze in and out of the driver’s seat in a confined area. This is particularly beneficial for drivers with mobility issues or those transporting young children, as it reduces the physical effort required to navigate tight spaces.
The feature is also a boon for regional and rural drivers who may encounter narrow driveways or garages. In places like the Blue Mountains or coastal towns with limited parking, RSPA can make parking in confined spaces a breeze, saving time and reducing the risk of minor scrapes or bumps.
How to Use It Effectively
To get the most out of Remote Smart Parking Assist, consider the following:
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Enable the Feature: Ensure RSPA is activated via the infotainment system. Check your owner’s manual or consult your Hyundai dealer if you’re unsure whether your Tucson includes this feature.
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Practice in a Safe Space: Familiarize yourself with the system in an open area, such as an empty parking lot, to understand how the key fob controls work.
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Stay Attentive: While the system is designed to detect obstacles, always monitor the vehicle’s surroundings to ensure safety.
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Use in Appropriate Scenarios: RSPA is best suited for tight parallel or perpendicular parking spaces. It may not be necessary for wide-open spaces where manual parking is straightforward.
This feature showcases Hyundai’s commitment to integrating advanced technology into the Tucson, making it a standout choice for Australian drivers who value convenience and innovation.
Why These Features Matter
The Express Window Control and Remote Smart Parking Assist features highlight Hyundai’s focus on blending practicality with cutting-edge technology. These hidden gems enhance the Tucson’s appeal by addressing real-world challenges faced by Australian drivers, from managing extreme weather to navigating tight urban spaces. They also demonstrate how Hyundai goes beyond the basics to offer thoughtful solutions that improve comfort, safety, and convenience.
For Australian families, these features make the Tucson an even more versatile SUV. The Express Window Control ensures a comfortable cabin environment, whether you’re dealing with the heat of a Perth summer or a sudden downpour in Brisbane. Meanwhile, Remote Smart Parking Assist simplifies parking in busy cities or cramped regional driveways, making the Tucson a practical choice for a wide range of lifestyles.
How to Discover More Hidden Features
If you’re a Tucson owner or prospective buyer, there are several ways to uncover additional hidden features:
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Explore the MyHyundai Website: The full owner’s manual, available via the MyHyundai portal, contains detailed information about features that may not be covered in the abridged version provided with the vehicle.
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Watch YouTube Tutorials: Search for videos specific to your Tucson model year and trim to discover tips and tricks from other owners and automotive experts.
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Consult Your Dealer: Hyundai dealerships often offer classes or demonstrations on vehicle features, which can help you unlock the full potential of your Tucson.
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Join Online Forums: Communities like the Hyundai Tucson Forum are great places to share and learn about lesser-known features from other owners.
The Hyundai Tucson is already a favorite among Australian drivers for its stylish design, spacious interior, and robust feature set. However, the Express Window Control and Remote Smart Parking Assist features reveal that there’s even more to love about this mid-size SUV. These hidden gems offer practical solutions tailored to Australia’s unique driving conditions, from extreme weather to challenging parking scenarios. By taking the time to explore and master these features, Tucson owners can elevate their driving experience, making every journey more comfortable, convenient, and stress-free.
Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of Sydney, embarking on a family road trip along the Great Ocean Road, or simply running errands in your local suburb, the Tucson’s hidden features are designed to make your life easier. So, next time you pick up your key fob, give these features a try—you might be surprised at how much they enhance your ownership experience.