Car News

Hyundai Tucson Borrows From Santa Fe Styling

Hyundai introduced a totally redesigned version of their Tucson compact crossover in New York, hoping to build sales success by infusing some of the Santa Fe's charm into their entry level car.

Styling of the new machine is built around the Hyundai corporate grille and LED lighting can be found fore and aft. The new Tucson is sharper looking overall, and also slightly lengthened, with a longer wheelbase.

Under the hood is a standard 2.0L four-cylinder making 164 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, but there's also a new 1.6L turbocharged engine with 175hp and 195lb/ft of torque. This last is fitted with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, which should provide improved driving engagement to go along with decent fuel economy.

On the inside, the Tucson looks very good, with comfortable seats and a huge array of available features. A backup camera and touchscreen display are standard, and options extend to a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, a proximity activated power liftgate, and an 8” touchscreen with satellite navigation.

Cargo space is very good, with a two-level cargo floor and a total of 531L behind the rear seats. Over all, the Tucson looks like an attractive crossover with all the niceties that make the Santa Fe so popular, just in a smaller, more accessible package.