By Breda Corrigan
The all-new Hyundai Tucson is not simply an evolution of its predecessor, but a full-blown design revolution. Outside, its chiselled surfaces and dynamic lines embody a striking progressive design language, while it also offers state-of-the-art smart tech like best-in-class safety features, advanced driver assistance systems and the most electrified powertrain line-up in its segment. Inside the cabin of the new Tucson you will discover a level of roominess, comfort and versatility that exceeds all expectations.
Parametric Hidden Lights;
Dynamic geometric forms, sharp angles and the world’s-first Parametric Hidden Lights combine to make it a powerfully unique presence on the road. Thanks to state-of-the-art half-mirror lighting technology, the Parametric Hidden Lights are concealed when turned off, and when switched on the outer sections on the side of the grille transform into brilliant wing-like shapes, creating a unique high-tech lighting signature. When switched off, they blend in with the grille again. Truly ingenious in every respect.
Sensuous Sportiness Design;
Taking modern aesthetics to the next level, the all-new Tucson features a bigger and wider body than its predecessor, and it is the first Hyundai SUV to be developed according to Hyundai’s new Sensuous Sportiness design identity. Its muscular stance combines sharp angles and dynamic proportions with rich surfaces – creating a progressive look without compromising on the Tucson’s rugged SUV heritage. Tucson customers can personalize its look with a choice of 8 dynamic colours and the option of a two-tone roof in Phantom Black or Dark Knight.
Spacious Cabin & Boot;
Inside, you’ll discover a feeling of openness and comfort that exceeds all expectations. Here, space, technology and information intersect harmoniously, setting new standards in the segment with its impressive range of advanced smart tech. The open-style digital cluster is a major design innovation, enhancing the cockpit’s high-tech flair together with the new infotainment touchscreen, which flows seamlessly into the full touch console. The flowing lines of the dashboard blend flawlessly with the doors, wrapping around front occupants like a wide, open valley. All navigation, infotainment and air-conditioning controls are now touch-activated for a sleek, seamless look that emphasizes the stylish, open ambience of the interior. Cabin materials feel good to touch, and are soft and supple where it counts, while button controls come with a well-damped action. Additionally, a roomy glovebox and various trays and cubbies around the cabin mean that there is ample space for a variety of odds and ends. Whether it’s a solo adventure or a weekend get away with the family, the new Tucson provides exceptional versatility, with clever features like remote folding levers that let you fold the seats down from the boot for 1,799 litres of flat cargo space. For improved convenience and versatility, the rear seats can now be folded in a 40:20:40 ratio, which is great for hauling bulky objects or sports equipment. Boot capacity has been increased as well, offering up to 620 litres of space with the seats in their upright position.
Trim, Engine & Transmission;
Trim levels in the new Tucson consist of Comfort Plus, Executive and range-topping Executive Plus, while an extensive powertrain offering consists of petrol/electric self-charging Hybrid (HEV) with 230PS, Smartstream internal combustion petrol (T-GDi) and diesel (CRDi) engines with 150PS and 115Ps respectively, and 48V Mild Hybrid T-GDi (150PS or 180PS) or CRDi (136PS) engines – all of which are 1.6-litres in capacity. The Tucson Hybrid comes with a six-speed automatic transmission as standard, while six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmissions are available in 48V Mild Hybrid models, with internal combustion engines coming in six-speed manual guise only. Standard equipment across the entire Tucson range includes key features such as stylish alloy wheels, multi-function leather steering wheel, centre front armrest with integrated storage, heated front seats, ISOFIX on 2 outer rear seats, electrically operated and power folding mirrors, electric windows x 4, auto wipers, auto lights with high beam assist, TPMS, reverse camera with dynamic guidelines, electric parking brake, luggage net, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, Bluetooth™, touchscreen, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Forward Collision Avoidance, Downhill Brake Control, Hill Start Assist Control, cruise control and E-Call Emergency Assistance.
Test Car;
My test car was a Hyundai Tucson 1.6 T-GDi HEV (Hybrid) Executive Plus, which was finished in stylish Amazon Grey metallic paint. Key Executive Plus features include 19” alloy wheels, front & rear silver skid plates, chrome window surrounds, dark chrome-coated radiator grille, chrome bumper mouldings, rear privacy glass, electric lumbar support, full leather seating, LED lights front & rear, parking sensors front & rear, wireless phone charging and a 10.25” LCD touchscreen with satellite navigation. The Tucson HEV has two driving modes which are controlled by a small switch at the base of the centre console. The car defaults to Eco, which is the best mode for everyday driving, while moving into Sport mode increases the amount of assistance the electric motor can give to provide a sporty performance. Additonally, moving into Sport mode flashes red graphics onto the digital instrument panel for added visual appeal. The Tucson Hybrid’s total system power is 227bhp (230PS), with 264Nm of torque available from usefully low revs, leading to a 0-100km/h sprint time of just 8.0-seconds. A top speed of 193km/h is achieveable (where permitted), while official WLTP (real world driving) fuel consumption as low as 4.8l/100km on a combined driving cycle is impressive. The Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor in the Tucson Hybrid is connected to a Lithium-ion Polymer battery which is located under the rear seats. This motor proves itself to be a relaxing companion around town, while an ‘EV-only’ mode light in the instrument binnacle makes the driver aware that only battery power is being used – even at motorway speed during light throttle loads. The Tucson Hybrid’s steering is light but accurate, with an impressive suspension set-up proving more than capable of soaking up broken road surfaces with ease, while still maintaining control and stability through corners. The increasing influence of ex-BMW M-Division boss Albert Biermann over Hyundai’s chassis tuning is evident in the new Tucson, leading to excellent rolling refinement and terrific driving dynamics.
Verdict, Pricing & Warranty;
The all-new Hyundai Tucson really is a big step forward for the brand. Hyundai is aiming to be included on the shortlists of not only mainstream customers but also some premium buyers – quite a leap from the company’s budget image of old. Pricing for the all-new Tucson starts at just €32,895 for the CRDi in Comfort Plus specification, while the Tucson Hybrid is priced from just €36,345. All new Hyundai passenger cars come with a comprehensive 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, 5-year AA roadside assistance package and a 5-year free vehicle health check package for total peace of mind motoring.
