Driving modes explained (Fleet News)
We were initially confused by the three driving modes on offer. Electric is obviously self-explanatory, but what about Hybrid and Automatic – what’s the difference?
Hyundai describes Hybrid as the electric motor working in tandem with the 1.6-litre petrol engine to deliver improved fuel economy and lower emissions. However, when we use it, the 13.8kWh battery never seems to be employed; we’ve actually seen it gain charge during long journeys.
We’d suggest this mode is essentially petrol-only, with electric used for the first few metres of driving from standstill (i.e. like a traditional hybrid). It conserves the electric range for a time when it may be needed more, such as when entering a city centre.
Automatic, therefore, offers the efficient combination of electric and petrol.
We tested this theory on a drive to Leeds. Hybrid mode on the way up returned 39mpg; Automatic on the way home boosted efficiency to 46mpg. It’s worth noting that the battery depletes to just under quarter – the car retains a residual charge for starting and low speed reversing.
The long-term average fuel efficiency on the Tucson since we took delivery has now edged north of the 50mpg mark and 35 miles in all electric mode.