Hyundai continues its hard earned reputation of offering sheer driving pleasure for competitive prices through the reintroduction of the Tucson SUV in the South African market.
The Tucson had a four-year spell in SA, selling close to 23000 units between 2005 and 2009 when it was replaced by the ix35. Seventeen years on the ix35 has reverted to the original Tucson, but with much more to offer in terms of comfort and safety features.
So far only two petrol engines are offered, one of them turbocharged. The 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine (130kW/265Nm) is introduced for the first time for the SA market, pleasant news for drivers seeking a speedy SUV. It comes with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. A six-speed manual standard is also available.
The other engine option is a 2.0-litre, aspirated with 115kW/196Nm. It is only offered in “Premium” spec. This derivative comes in six-speed manual form or a six-speed automatic.
Top of the range Tucson 1.6 TGDi Elite is built with a four-wheel drive system, useful for untarred roads. During normal driving, TDGI’s front wheels receive 100% of torque with up to 50% sent to the rear wheels automatically, depending on conditions.
However the driver can select a “Lock Mode” splits torque of 50/50 for improved stability at speeds up to 40km/h.
The other 1.6-litre engine, the Executive model, has front-wheel drive configuration option, while the 2.0-litre Premium derivatives are available with front-wheel drive only.
Features
Tucson features in all models are mostly modern and aimed at offering pleasure with each drive no matter the distance or conditions. Such include LED daytime running lights and high-performance headlamps, Bluetooth, USB, AUX and iPod connectivity, and six air bags .
However, there are special additions to the Elite models, such as a panoramic sunroof, opening 30% wider than before.
The Elite models can also be fitted with a larger display screen for optional additional payment of R15 000.
Pricing
Hyundai Tucson 2.0 Nu Premium (manual) R359 900
Hyundai Tucson 2.0 Nu Premium (automatic) R379 900
Hyundai Tucson 2.0 Nu Elite (automatic) R439 900
Hyundai Tucson 1.6 TGDi Executive (manual) R419 900
Hyundai Tucson 1.6 TGDi Elite DCT AWD R499 900
Hyundai has upped their five-year or 150 000km manufacturer’s warranty, to now offer a 7-year or 200 000km drivetrain warrant is standard on the Tucson.
All derivatives come with a five-year or 90 000km service plan.
Tucson returns smarter and smoother
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