Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson Expert Verdict

Hyundai Tucson Detailed Review

• Tucson Interior

  Like the exteriors, the cabin design is also all new and does not share any resemblance with the previous 3rd gen model. Step inside you are instantly feel the airiness and this is largely due to the glass area as well as low placement of the infotainment screen and speedometer console. Hyundai has adopted the dual colour theme here with the upper part being dark and lower light. There is no doubt that the cabin screams quality and Hyundai has loaded up the Tucson with features. Both the front seats are powered and have ventilation function for cooling and heating. The ‘hidden’ air vents (between the left A/C vent and central display) helps diffuse cool air evenly. The panoramic sunroof aids to the airiness, there are no touch buttons on the central console and the seats provide good comfort.

  Talking of back, the seats are excellent and even for tall passengers, the legroom and knee room are brilliant. This without compromising on the boot space which can swallow in 3-4 large suitcases easily. The boot door is also powered but does not offer hands free access like cheaper models like the MG Hector Plus. 

  Summary

  Spacious and well laid out with impressive list of features.

• Tucson Design

  This is the fourth generation of the Tucson premium SUV. It carries forward an all-new design language which makes it the most striking-looking vehicle in the category. The new model has larger dimensions than the outgoing version that was taken off the market sometime back. Up front, the huge grille takes center stage and though looks rather LOUD at first, does make you look at the Tucson multiple times. Hyundai designers have cleverly integrated the DRLs (daytime running lights) into the side of the grille. With the car switched off, you cannot make out their presence but start the ignition, and the multiple DRLs look bling. The main LED headlights are positioned in the lower part. The 'Sensuous Sportiness' design language of Hyundai makes the Tucson look butch and attractive. 

  The side profile of the Tucson showcases its increased length. The car comes with 18-inch alloy wheels and the shoulder line is well defined. The rear quarter glass panel is designed in a rather sporty manner. The rear of the Tucson is equally impressive and the highlight here is the LED design for the tail lights. Look closely and you notice the ‘fin’ pattern as well. And then there is the connected horizontal light bar that runs across the width of the vehicle. The new Hyundai Tucson will be sold in five monotones and 2 dual-tone colour options. Overall, the design of the new Tucson is jazzier and offers better elements than before that keeps the design engaging. 

  Summary

  4th gen model looks striking and scores top marks in design language.

• Tucson Engine

  As expected, the new Tucson comes with two engine options. The first is the 1999cc naturally aspirated (non turbo) petrol that we also see on the Alcazar. This unit makes 156 PS of power along with 192 Nm of torque and a 6-speed automatic is standard. The petrol unit scores high marks in terms of low NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) level while providing ample performance even with a full load. The other option is a 1997cc turbocharged diesel engine that offers segment best performance thanks to 186 PS of power and a healthy dose of torque - 416 Nm. There is no manual gearbox option here as well and Hyundai has gone for a modern day 8-speed AT here. 

  The diesel is further offered with optional AWD (all-wheel drive) wherein the power can be transferred to all four wheels as well. 

  There are four drive modes too and these can be selected via the button located behind the gear lever. The diesel engine, like all other Hyundai models, is pretty smooth and has a hint of turbo lag before all that power comes in. Pedal to metal, it is fast and yet the 8-speed gearbox ensures great fuel economy figures on open roads. While there are no paddle shifters in here, you can take manual charge by flicking the gear lever to the right side. Overall, the Tucson feels great to drive and also offers a good mileage (for the diesel motor)

  Summary

  Great engine options with the diesel offering segment leading performance and optional AWD system.

• Tucson Ride And Handling

  The new Hyundai Tucson looks better and has sportier engines. And ride? That has improved as well. We drove the SUV across variety of terrains including a smooth highway run (Bangalore - Hyundai), countryside smaller roads and even took the 2WD version off the road for a quick trail attack. Happy to report that the SUV offers high levels of comfort and this is true even when dropping two wheels off the road while overtaking slower moving traffic on narrow roads. The large 18 inch wheels do help in this manner. Out on open roads, the Tucson offers high levels of straight line stability. That said, around a set of bends or twisties, body roll is evident. Don’t get us wrong, it does not make you feel nervous but if you want Dynamics, you may want to look at the Jeep Meridian. 

  The steering is light enough for urban runs and weighs up nicely as your speeds rise. This is important to infuse confidence. In terms of hardware, the new 2022 Tucson makes use of McPherson struts at the front and multi-link with coil springs at the back. Overall, the new Tucson takes on the bad roads easily and gives the driver the confidence when behind the wheel. 

  Summary

  New Tucson improves on ride comfort. Great high speed manners as well.