The upcoming Hyundai Tucson, set to compete with models like the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4, has been photographed during testing in Europe. This comes ahead of its expected reveal later this year and arrival in Australia by 2027.

Caught in the Austrian Alps, the spy photos indicate the new Tucson will move away from the current curved lines and soft shapes toward more angular bodywork and a squared-off front.

Under the wraps, the front seems to include stacked LED headlights with lower fog lamps, and possibly a full-width LED bar across the front. A clamshell-style hood is also suggested by the disguise.

Although the latest shots provide better views of the shape and front, the heavily camouflaged rear hints at notable updates, including new vertical LED taillights positioned at the sides.

An exhaust pipe is visible, pointing to a petrol or hybrid test vehicle. Reports suggest range-extender options may be considered for the final model.

It remains to be seen whether the Tucson will adopt an entirely new platform or build on the current one.

The interior shows Hyundai's updated three-spoke steering wheel with a square center featuring Morse code dots for the 'H' logo, plus standard stalks for indicators and wipers.

The wheel includes buttons for driver aids and infotainment, along with paddle shifters. A covered central screen is present, but a digital cluster displays speed and limits, appearing similar to units in the latest i30 Sedan and Ioniq 3.

The current Tucson was also in the test group with smaller wheels, joined by a Volkswagen T-Roc and the new Toyota RAV4.

Hyundai Australia has not shared local plans yet, but a global debut is set for later this year after the new i30 Sedan launch.

The Tucson ranks as Hyundai Australia's second-most popular model after the Kona.

It will face updated rivals including the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, and Jaecoo J7.

Current pricing begins at $40,100 before on-roads for the base petrol, with the hybrid from $42,850 and top hybrid at $59,850. This positions it below the RAV4 hybrid starting at $45,990.