Hyundai Tucson   Women's view

June Neary Goes For A Spin In Hyundais Compact Tucson 4x4

Although there is a social stigma attached to many 4x4s, the Hyundai Tucson is so small and inoffensive to the eye its virtually impossible to cop an attitude to it. The styling is very neatly resolved but it doesnt imbue it with a whole lot of personality. The same goes for the cabin where everything is tidy and sensibly done but with little to stimulate the senses. Small 4x4s arent all about off road utility.

Instead they focus on suburban cachet and the Tucson doesnt fare too well in this regard. Still, if you can look past the badge, youll land yourself a vehicle thats good value but unexceptional in virtually every regard. After a brief nose around the Tucson, I have to admit I thought Hyundai could have done a little more to make it seem more special.

Many will feel the Tucsons greatest asset is the sheer user friendliness of its cabin. Although the materials may not be top notch, the styling is unfussy with no nonsense ergonomics and a decent driving position. Switching the Hyundai from a school run special to a load carrier is simplicity itself, the rear seats folding virtually flat to the floor, the seat back and bases pivoting into place. The front seats can also be folded back to flat, providing an impromptu bed.

As with most 4x4s, there are numerous luggage nets, concealed cubbies, takeaway hooks and auxiliary power outlets. The rear glass also opens independently of the tailgate.

No fewer than three engines are offered, starting with a 2.0-litre 140bhp petrol and topping out with a 2.7-litre 173bhp unit. Sandwiched between these two powerplants is a 110bhp 2.

0-litre diesel that will doubtless be the best seller. All three engines are fully Euro IV compliant and the diesel features common rail injection. Somewhat surprisingly, the diesel struggles to power the Tucson with any great conviction. Theres not too much low down torque and refinement is not a strong point.

Youll see 60mph tick by in 13.8 seconds and top out at 104mph but thrashing this diesel is not a pleasant experience. Some recompense is gained with a combined fuel economy figure of 39.7mpg and the CO2 emissions of 187g/km coupled with the low upfront price may well turn a few corporate heads.

The pick of the engines is without doubt the 2.7-litre V6 petrol, possessed as it is of a magnificent metallic yowl when its wound up. Unfortunately youll need to do this fairly often to make respectable progress with the consequent effect on fuel consumption.

The Tucson is up against some tough opposition in the shape of the Toyota RAV4, the Nissan X-Trail, the Honda CR-V and the entry-level Land Rover Freelander models and although prices, which range from around £16,000 or £15,000 for the 2WD model up to around £20,000, look competitive, the Tucson needs to bring more than an attractive sticker price to the party. Equipment levels are strong across the range, as would be expected of a Hyundai. Even the entry-level GSi versions get air conditioning, a CD stereo and a decent complement of safety gear. Trade up to a CDX and climate control and an electric sunroof are included.

Space is rarely at a premium in the cabin, the back seats easily capable of accommodating three six-footers with ease. This is due to the fact that the Tucson is the same height as the Santa Fe and a few millimetres wider.

Personally, I think Id keep on saving and spring for a Santa Fe, but if you are in this sector of the market and are looking for a small 4x4 that offers no nonsense plug and play capabilities, the Tucson fits the bill.