The medium sized
SUV segment is hot property not just in
South Africa but on a global scale. Manufactures are constantly introducing new and updated models in order to remain relevant within the segment.
Hyundai entered the market with the
Tucson a few years ago and has over the years established itself as a popular option. The latest,
4th generation model was recently introduced into the market and we got behind the wheel to see what it is like.
Hyundai has been playing it safe with their designs in recent years. Trying to compete with the Germans has meant that a subtle design was key not to alarm customers. That said, a few of their new offerings seem to be a little more daring in their visual appeal. Models like the
Creta,
Santa Fe and
Palisade as well as the
i20 all feature eye-catching, angular and bold designs. The latest
Tucson is no different and clearly indicates a new, more unconventional design philosophy.
A key design element is undoubtedly the new cascading grille which has integrated
LEDs that really do make a statement. We also like the rest of the front view of the car with its sporty bumper. The side view is also interesting as it employs ‘Z’ shape character lines and the silver design element that runs across the top of the side windows into the rear is also a neat feature. The rear is equally as topical with unique taillights and the large
Hyundai bandage now integrated into the rear window.
This new
Tucson is also larger than the model it replaces because it is based on a shorter version of the
Santa Fe platform. This newcomer is 150mm longer and its wheelbase has increased by 85mm when compared to the previous model. The latest model also boasts an increased ground clearance of 9mm. The load-bay capacity has also been increased by an impressive 51 litres, now at 539 litres. Over and above offering additional luggage space, the new
Tucson also boasts better rear legroom, which makes it more practical in every measurable way than the model it replaces.
The interior fit and finish is also noteworthy with a clutter free design. A two-tier design adds a futuristic element to the interior which we really like. In terms of connectivity we were happy to find that a wireless charger fitted, along with an 8-inch infotainment system. Android Auto and Apple Carplay compatibility is also included on the standard features list, as are heated front seats and even cooled functionality on the
Elite version which I sampled. Two USB ports are available upfront, with charging ports provided for rear passengers.
Hyundai South Africa has decided to offer just two engine options at this stage. You will have a choice of either a
2.0-litre petrol and a
2.0-litre turbodiesel. The 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine develops 115kW and 192Nm of torque. I did not get the opportunity to sample this model at the launch, instead,
Hyundai made available the 2.0-litre turbo diesel and to be honest this is the one that you really want. It develops 137kW and 419Nm of torque. It also boasts an average fuel consumption figure of around 7.9l/100km which is realistically achievable and even improved. Further ease is provided by a smooth shifting
8-speed automatic gearbox.
Out on the road the
Tucson returned a comfortable driving experience, even on some rutted gravel roads. It’s a car that I could easily take on the long road. Additionally, stability control is now available across the range, while the top-spec
Elite version includes new features such as blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, main-beam assist and forward-collision avoidance assist.
While the segment might be overly cluttered, the
Tucson adds some clarity, it offers decent standard spec, it's vastly improved when compared to its predecessor and the diesel is a peach to drive. That said, the introduction of some impressive Chinese offerings is going to make things a bit difficult for
Hyundai and its competitors. For example, the new
Tucson is over R100 000 more than the recently introduced
Chery Tiggo8 Pro which offers two more seats. Nevertheless, the
Tucson should be on your list when shopping in this segment.
Credit: Justin Jacobs
