The 2016 Hyundai Tucson is revealed at the 2015 New York International Auto Show.
Vehicle
Replacing a model that dates back to 2009, the 2016 Tucson remains the smaller element in Hyundai's two-pronged approach to the compact CUV category. It is longer, wider and lower than its predecessor, while bearing an obvious family resemblance to its large-compact sibling, Santa Fe. It also incorporates the new hexagonal grille introduced on the Genesis and Sonata.
Signature feature
Hyundai claims the new Tucson will be among the segment leaders in terms of active driver-assist and safety technologies. Available features will include Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross-traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist. A rear-view camera will be standard.
What else is new?
The 2016 Tucson is built on an all-new architecture with a 30mm longer wheelbase than it previously had. This, Hyundai claims, gives it exceptional packaging efficiency, i.e. the ratio of interior space to exterior size. Dual drive modes – normal and sport – tailor the steering, throttle response and transmission shifting accordingly.
Under the hood
The base powertrain remains basically the same 164-hp, 2.0-litre four-cylinder paired with a six-speed automatic. For the uplevel choice, the previous 2.4-litre, 182-hp naturally-aspirated unit is replaced by a 1.6-litre turbo generating 175 hp and 195 lb.-ft. of torque – the latter an increase of 18. And the 1.6T is teamed with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
When can we buy it?
The Tucson is slated to go on sale this summer. Trim grades and MSRPs will be announced closer to the time, but pricing will benefit from the recent Canada-Korea free trade agreement that eliminates the 6.1-per cent import duty that previously applied to Korean-built vehicles.
Cool quotient
3.5 stars (out of 5)
Seriously, how cool can any mainstream compact CUV be? But the Tucson looks tough, with a good stance (19-inch wheels are available), and gearheads should savour the 1.6-turbo/7-speed-DCT powertrain option.
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