Hyundai Tucson Review, Specs & Performance

Economy and Driving Prowess: A Blend of Efficiency and Elegance

With its unique design, the Hyundai Tucson offers an exhilarating driving experience that harmoniously combines economy and power. Its interior has been designed to stand out with it's functionality and style against a growing number of family SUV competition.

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Overview of the Hyundai Tucson

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson emerges as a beacon of innovation and design in the increasingly crowded mid-sized SUV segment. This award winning family SUV belnds technology with dynamic performance, upholding the brand's reputation for reliability while marking out Hyundai's statement on futuristic design and sustainability.

Hyundai Tucson in a nutshell

In a marketplace where SUVs have become the vehicle of choice for families and professionals alike, the Tucson differentiates itself by offering a perfect balance between luxury, efficiency, and affordability. Competing head-to-head with stalwarts in its category, it's evident that Hyundai aims to capture a significant share of the market with this avant-garde creation. Those stalwarts include Skoda Kodiaq, N issan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, Volkswagen Tiguan and Peugeot 3008. So, has Hyundai done enough, we think it has, read on to learn more.

Hyundai Tucson - Engines, Performance & Economy

Engines

Hyundai has ensured a versatile engine lineup for the Tucson, catering to a range of driver preferences:

Petrol: The primary petrol engine is the four-cylinder 1.6-litre unit with 150ps. We think this will be the most popular engine choice. It's able to offer up to 42.2mpg on the combined cycle.

Hybrid: Hyundai striving for efficiency, has worked hard on its hybrid SUV choices. They incorporate a 59 bhp electric motor and a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine, producing 227 bhp.
It offers an impressive 48.9mpg on the combind WLTP cycle and a top speed of 120 mph. The hybrid Tucson stands out for its blend of power and efficiency. This would be our choice in the line-up.

Plug-in Hybrid: The plug-in hybrid version promises an all-electric range of 31 miles and an appreciable fuel economy hovering around 50 mpg (201mpg's quoted, but we don't think this is real world).
With emissions marked at 131g/km, it makes a compelling case for eco-conscious drivers. It also packs 265ps and will see off sixty mph in only 8.6 seconds, it's a geat choice for those with a shorter commute.

Economy

Prioritizing fuel efficiency, the hybrid Tucson records combined economy figures between 42 and almost 50 mpg. For a car this big and practical it really gives potential buyers something to think about. Hyundai has introduced two driving modes, 'Sport' and 'Eco', to cater to enthusiastic and eco-conscious driving. While the 'Sport' mode heightens throttle responses, the 'Eco' mode aims to elongate the battery's range, allowing for more sustainable drives.

Driving

Driving the Tucson is a testament to Hyundai's commitment to refining the driving experience. The SUV's six-speed auto box ensures a smooth ride, and the raised rise height gives a nice view of the road ahead.

The transition between its electric and petrol power feels seamless, with the hybrid system smoothly toggling based on the driving conditions. Moreover, its precise steering ensures that the Tucson is equally good at navigating bustling city streets as it is cruising up the M6.

Hyundai Tucson - Equipment & Space

Equipment

The Tucson doesn't merely shine in terms of performance; its interior is a testament to Hyundai's attention to detail.

Trim Levels: With four distinct trims on offer, Tucson caters to a spectrum of preferences:

SE Connect: The entry level offers essential features like dual-zone climate control, android auto and apple carplay, alloy wheels, privacy glass, a rear-view camera, and rear parking sensors.

Premium: Boasts upgrades like larger alloy wheels, an enhanced Krell sound system, and a heated steering wheel.

N Line: A sportier choice, it includes exterior design tweaks, keyless entry, wireless smartphone charging, front and rear parking sensors, 19" alloy wheel upgrade and plush leather seats.

Ultimate: Offering the highest level of luxury. It includes three-zone air conditioning, roof rails, a panoramic sunroof, heated rear seats, and ventilated front seats.

Tech and Functionality: The cabin is designed for the future. Gone is excessive plastic, replaced by a crisp digital instrument display and a responsive touchscreen. Alongside smartphone integration and a top-tier sound system, Tucson modernizes with touch-sensitive illuminated buttons.

Space

The Hyundai Tucson retains its renowned roominess, even with its new framework. With a boot that generously offers up to 620 litres, dropping to 558 litres for the plug-in hybrid model. Both will still take sizable items. In fact, the standard petrol boot is one of the best in class.

Summary

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson emerges as a trailblazer in the mid-sized SUV category. With an emphasis on performance, spaciousness, and futuristic equipment, it promises to be a trendsetter in its class.

Pros:

Comprehensive engine range catering to diverse preferences.
Forward-looking cabin design with top-notch tech.
A slew of safety features with a five-star Euro NCAP rating.
Abundant boot space of 620 litres in the petrol model.

Cons:

Limited all-electric range in hybrid models.
Acclimating to touch-sensitive controls might take a while.
N Line design might not resonate with all.
'Eco' mode might be too conservative for power enthusiasts.