Hyundai Tucson: reinvented, inside and out
New crossover o ers space, tech and design treats galore. But how does it drive?
In CAR’s October 2004 issue, there’s a shot of me heaving the bland Mk1 Hyundai Tucson through a corner with about 20˚ of lean, in a review that signs off: ‘If you’re looking for a smidgen of innovation or desirability, look elsewhere.’
Seven million sales later, the Tucson has come a very long way indeed. This Mk4 overwhelms you with technology, clothed in a design to make your optic nerve twitch. The way the grille morphs into daytime running lights on start-up looks sensational, but the sides are madness.
We’re driving the flagship hybrid, which sandwiches an electric motor between the turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine and the sixspeed automatic gearbox. Total system power is 227bhp, with 195lb ft of torque. Most Tucsons will have front-wheel drive, with plenty of grip: this on-demand four-wheel drive only makes sense for the snow-bound or the outward bound. The Tucson is a mellow companion around town, where the orchestration of electric drive and petrol combustion is harmonious and fluid.
Steering is light but accurate, the rolling refinement good on 19-inch wheels beneath a body that bobs and rolls to keep occupants comfy. Default Eco mode includes a cease-and-desist order against heavy throttle: cross the line and you’ll get a howl of revs for minimal return.
On twistier roads, select Sport mode for more linear, effusive power delivery, and some Mega Mass in the rack. You can flay the hybrid from dormant to 62mph in 8.0sec. This Euro-spec car has ECS active suspension, but the adaptive dampers don’t seem to have any feel apart from uncompromising. Take it easy and the Tucson hybrid is more enjoyable – and you’ll get the chance to take in all that tech. Driving forwards or backwards, braking, the view down the side, the front and back seats: everything is monitored, and automated where possible.
One of many novelties is a central airbag to prevent driver and passenger knocking heads. And an alarm that sounds if you’ve left the kids in the back seats, preposterously. What next, a text to social services?
The new Tucson is not a technological titan because of my words 16 years ago. Nonetheless, be careful what you wish for.