The placing all-new fourth-generation Tucson is likely one of the new automobile revelations of 2021. Hyundai dares to be totally different and few SUVs can match the Tucson’s kerb enchantment.
That includes distinctive “hidden lights” and “jewel-like” operating lights, plus an athletic profile and pert rear, it’s equally spectacular inside.
Obtainable with a standard petrol engine, or as a self-charging hybrid, plug-in hybrid or delicate hybrid, the Tucson is priced from £28,100 to £41,975.
We examined the self-charging hybrid (listed because the Hyundai Tucson 1.6 T-GDi 230ps Hybrid) in prime spec Final trim. Priced at £37,135, it got here with a six-speed computerized gearbox and a Tech Pack, together with Digital Management Suspension, Round View Monitor, Blind Spot View Monitor and Distant Good Park Help.
The great thing about the hybrid energy unit is that it provides elevated efficiency and lowered emissions with out the necessity to plug in.
Combining the moment torque of a 44.2kW electrical motor with the output of a four-cylinder 1.6-litre turbo, the 1.49kWh lithium-ion polymer battery could be charged on the transfer by way of regenerative braking throughout downhill stretches of highway and braking.
Most impressively of all, the hybrid powertrain switches seamlessly between the petrol engine and electrical motor – typically utilising each on the identical time.
Take a look on the dashboard and the little ‘EV’ mild flashes up for vital quantities of time, particularly when cruising, which is especially satisfying.
Like all self-charging hybrids, the battery is sufficiently big for brief bursts of absolutely electrical driving in stop-start site visitors, together with silent parking manoeuvres.
You may also choose drive modes. The default Eco is okay for on a regular basis driving, whereas Sport provides an additional stage of response and management for tougher nation roads.
The entire petrol/electrical energy output of 227bhp, with 195lb ft of torque, is ample, leading to a 0-62mph time of 8.0 seconds and a prime velocity of 120mph.
CO2 emissions are as little as 131g/km, whereas gasoline economic system is formally as much as 49.6mpg. You may get near that determine when cruising, however 40-45mpg is a extra life like determine in on a regular basis driving.
The self-charging hybrid is front-wheel drive (you’ll should go for the plug-in hybrid if you need 4×4) and doesn’t really feel any the much less for it.
There’s a stunning quantity of grip up entrance, first rate traction and it feels agile when pushed, even when the engine is barely extra vocal. Add mild, correct steering and first rate physique management, and it’s an awesome all-rounder.
So, the Tucson is the enterprise on the highway, and the excellent news is that it’s no much less spectacular contained in the cabin.
Generously geared up, nearly all bodily knobs and buttons have been eradicated within the cool inside which is dominated by a ten.25-inch infotainment display within the glossy centre console and a driver’s digital instrument cluster the identical dimension.
There’s loads of area within the rear for tall adults to journey comfortably, whereas the boot capability is a wholesome 616 litres, increasing to 1,795 litres with the rear seats folded.
Construct high quality is great and goodies similar to electrically operated, heated and ventilated entrance seats, plus a KRELL premium audio give it an upmarket really feel.
The Tucson scored a most 5 stars in Euro NCAP testing and is filled with security equipment, together with a Blind Spot View Monitor. Merely activate the indicator and you’ll see a reside digital camera view of the left or right-hand aspect of the automobile on a display within the digital cluster.
There’s additionally Freeway Drive Help – a semi-autonomous system which mixes lane-keep help, adaptive cruise management, map knowledge and sensors to ship velocity and steering changes when driving on the motorway.
For novelty worth, go to Media on the infotainment display, activate the ‘Sounds of Nature’ and select a soothing ambient background soundtrack. Choices embody Calm Sea Waves, Full of life Forest, Heat Hearth, Wet Day and Open-Air Cafe.
Verdict: Hyundai is knocking on the door of some premium rivals with the dramatic all-new Tucson Hybrid. Secure, spacious, properly geared up, refined and fascinating to drive, it’s an outstanding SUV bundle and an actual step-up from its predecessor. Add Hyundai’s beneficiant five-year guarantee and it’s a tempting proposition.
Hyundai UK
