THERE are more SUVs on the roads than even cyclists these days, but few catch the eye like the latest Hyundai Tucson.
Pronounce it however you like (there is really only one way) but it’s striking sculpted looks and bold signature grille make appreciation something of a Marmite moment. Judging by sales, it’s certainly not putting people off.
You pay your money and you take your choice, and it obviously appeals to many as it’s currently Europe’s best selling compact SUV, though you could argue there’s not a lot compact about it.
It majors on day-to-day user friendliness and a decent load space, coupled with a well fitted classy interior that helps make it an enjoyable car to drive.
The fourth generation model under scrutiny here has had a facelift with exterior and interior tickles, plus extra safety features and a touch more technology.
Now there are more electrified variants, reflecting Hyundai’s commitment to the eco friendly route, but also offering options for those who still want to hold on to petrol power for the immediate future.
The updated exterior design features redesigned bumpers, larger daytime running lights, revamped alloy wheels, and a few new colour options.
The completely redesigned interior includes updates to the dashboard, steering wheel, seats, and infotainment system, featuring a new panoramic curved display with a 12.3 inch digital instrument cluster 12.3 inch infotainment touchscreen in one seamless unit. It features over-the-air updates in what they call the Connected Car Navigation Cockpit, or ccNC if you like.
Other features for the comfort those aboard include including three-zone climate control, front and rear heated seats, and ventilated front seats. It also comes with an enhanced seven-airbag system, which features a centre-side airbag to prevent front passengers from colliding with one another.
This latest version is also more spacious than ever before with a boot capacity of up to 620 litres – the ‘raison d’etre’ of any self respecting SUV.
Manufacturers seem hell bent these days on turning us into a nation of budding racing drivers when you take in the number of buttons on your average steering wheel. Hyundai are no different, and while there aren’t
As many as Max and Lando have to deal with, there’a a continuing trend to put as much control as possible at your fingertips.
All good for the safety of you and me, as we no longer have to fumble our way round the dash to alter any particular setting.
And focussing to one of the onboard safety features, Crosswind Stability Control, works against strong winds when you’re nipping along at a decent lick by applying partial braking and steering torque control to improve driving stability.
Tucson doesn’t seem to be unduly upset by the varying road surfaces you encounter in a trip around the UK. In fact it handles commendably well for a car of this size. There’s a firmish edge to the ride quality but it’s not enough to make it uncomfortable.
And the 1.6 Iitre turbocharged unit under the bonnet is a responsive piece of equipment , powering the Tucson forward with ease and a lack of fuss.
To my mind, one to seriously consider.
Hyundai Tucson Ultimate
Price: £39,600
Engine: 1.6 litre, four cylinder, petrol, turbocharged, hybrid
Power: 212bhp
Torque: 270lb/ft
Transmission: six speed automatic
Top speed: 116mph
0-62mph: 8.2 seconds
Economy: 47.9mpg
CO2 emissions: 134g/km
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