Zippy and Green: The Revamped Hyundai Tucson
Redesigned Hyundai Tucson Offers Mid-Size SUV Segment a Hybrid Option
By Patrick Broich, Kronberg im Taunus
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Hyundai's stylish lineup is jaw-dropping, but the unsung hero taking the streets by storm isn't the electric Ioniq, the i20, or even the snazzy Kona. Nope, it's the Tucson, a mid-size SUV that's been quietly winning hearts and minds. In this article, ntv.de gets in the driver's seat to investigate this pillar of Hyundai's success—the revamped plug-in hybrid Tucson with front-wheel drive.
Room to Spare, Priced Right
So, what's the secret sauce behind the Tucson's win? Perhaps it's the perfect balance of comfort, space, and affordability. Boasting a length of 4.52 meters, this all-rounder sits comfortably in the upper echelons of compact and mid-size categories, with prices starting at an accessible 35,740 euros. Even the base model comes equipped with a bevy of display screens, LED headlights, onboard navigation, parking sensors, and a rearview camera—not too shabby for an entry-level vehicle! A European-inspired design helps round out this sleek package.
ntv.de wasn't fortunate enough to test the base variant; instead, Hyundai has some exciting news to share: the top-of-the-line plug-in hybrid can now be purchased with front-wheel drive. This shift shaves a hefty sum off the entry price, with the front-wheel-drive model starting at 44,690 euros, a considerable reduction from the 49,800 euros required for the all-wheel-drive equivalent.
Handling with Finesse (Mostly)
But is the front-wheel-drive model a sensible choice, given its impressive power output of 252 horsepower? The answer depends on how sensitive the driver's foot is. With 367 Newton-meters of torque at their disposal, the front tires have their work cut out for them. Interestingly, the new front-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid reportedly accelerates to highway speed 0.2 seconds faster than its all-wheel-drive counterpart, according to the manufacturer—a difference attributed to the lighter weight of the former.
When both engines are working at full steam, traction can become scarce, and aggressive acceleration is required at green lights. However, in everyday driving, the shifting is smooth, and there's no noticeable power interruptions unless pushed to the limit.
Power and Efficiency in Harmony
The six-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth shifts, though it's not the dual-clutch system that creates a slightly softer transition in certain situations. For those who manage to drive the plug-in hybrid, it's advisable to do so in electric mode, if possible. Hyundai claims that the electric range is sufficient for 70 kilometers, and the battery can be fully charged in under two hours with a 7.2 kW charger. Although battery capacity is limited to 13.8 kWh, the electric motor's 98 horsepower and 304 Newton-meters of torque deliver a brisk driving experience. The gasoline engine kicks in when maximum speed of 186 km/h is needed.
The Tucson's Crowning Glory: Comfort and Practicality
The Tucson excels in comfort and functionality. Plush seating options and an optional adaptive suspension with first-rate damping qualities make the Tucson a reliable long-distance companion. The interior boasts modern tech amenities, and storage capabilities are impressive. Folding down the rear seats expands cargo volume to an impressive 1,721 liters, with around 600 liters still on offer with the seatback upright. Regrettably, diesel engines still lead the way in towing capacity, with the gasoline versions capable of hauling 1.2 tons—not enough for hefty horse trailers.
The Tucson's popularity could also stem from its lavishly appointed powertrain options. Hyundai offers a diverse selection of hybrid gasoline engines, as well as diesel engines for those who still prefer them. The plug-in hybrid, in particular, caters to fleet drivers with its lower tax burden, thanks to the 0.5% rule.
Source: ntv.de
Hyundai Models | SUVs | Hybrid Cars
[The Tucson has a multitude of admirers, thanks to its versatile nature and practicality. It stands out as Hyundai's top-selling model due to several factors:
- Versatility: The Tucson's blend of modern technology, bold styling, and practicality makes it a go-to choice for various driving needs.
- Hybrid Option: The hybrid Tucson has garnered recognition, having won the Best Hybrid SUV award. This model offers impressive fuel efficiency alongside a user-friendly design, appealing to eco-conscious buyers.
- Sales Performance: Recent Tucson models have achieved noteworthy sales milestones, cementing the Tucson's status as a popular choice.
- Market Appeal: Hyundai's dedication to innovation and eco-friendly technologies, demonstrated by the successful IONIQ models, contributes to the brand's overall appeal. The Tucson benefits from this positive brand image and the growing interest in hybrid vehicles.]
- The Hyundai Tucson, a mid-size SUV, stands out as the unsung hero of Hyundai's lineup, offering a blend of modern technology, bold styling, and practicality that appeals to various driving needs, making it a go-to choice for many.
- The hybrid Tucson has earned recognition, winning the Best Hybrid SUV award, by offering impressive fuel efficiency alongside a user-friendly design, appealing to eco-conscious buyers who are increasingly interested in environmentally friendly vehicles.
- Recent Tucson models have achieved noteworthy sales milestones, further cementing the Tucson's status as a popular choice among consumers looking for a reliable and versatile vehicle.
- Hyundai's dedication to innovation and eco-friendly technologies, evident in the successful IONIQ models, contributes to the brand's overall appeal and helps position the Tucson as an attractive option in the automotive industry, particularly in the growing electric and hybrid-vehicle sectors.
