Hyundai Tucson Range : THE JUICE ON THE TUCSON...

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Hyundai expects great things from the compact Tucson. Andy Enright assesses its chances.

The compact 4x4 market has grown increasingly fashion-conscious of late but the Hyundai Tuscon has resisted that trend. It's definitely blander than the leading contenders in this sector but its practical interior and low pricing should still make an impact.

Car industry trend spotters have a lot to answer for. Right now, small 4x4s are a definite hot ticket and as such, there's no shortage of models looking to grab a slice of the action. Each must differentiate itself in one way or another if it's not to get trampled in this Darwinian melee. Hyundai muscled into this arena with the Tucson, a small 4x4 that offers high levels of equipment and a modern look and feel at decidedly affordable prices. Today's model is the beneficiary of a mild facelift and is also available in cost-effective two-wheel-drive guise. In order to win `conquest sales' from other manufacturers, the Tucson needs to offer something demonstrably different and this is where it could struggle. It rides on a modified Hyundai Elantra chassis and shares this with Kia's second generation Sportage, a car that has been pitched to undercut it significantly on price. If you're looking for a compact 4x4 where price is everything, the Tucson isn't it. What it does represent is a test of how far Hyundai's stronger brand image can be teased. Exactly how much more are British buyers prepared to pay for a Hyundai over sister company Kia? Hyundai have been feeling around for answers across their range. It's just that the Tucson campaigns in a savagely label-conscious sector. Two engines are now available in the UK after the 2.7-litre V6 was axed from the range at the time of the latest facelift. There's a 2.0-litre 140bhp petrol or a 110bhp 2.0-litre diesel that will doubtless be the best seller. Somewhat surprisingly, the diesel struggles to power the Tucson with any great conviction. There's not too much low down torque and refinement is not a strong point. You'll see 60mph tick by in 12.8 seconds in the 2WD model and top out at 104mph. The 4WD version is fractionally faster, thanks to its superior grip but thrashing this diesel is not a pleasant experience. The petrol model is quicker in 2WD form with a respectable 10.4s 0-60mph time. The 4WD model takes 11.3s to perform the sprint and feels more cumbersome generally on the road.

"The Tucson campaigns in a savagely label-conscious sectorâ€¦."

The ride on all models is surprisingly firm and on smooth roads the Tucson tackles corners with some relish. Throw a bumpy B-road at it and the Hyundai is far less polished, the suspension occasionally getting a little out of phase with what's going on at the wheels. The hardware looks enticing enough in a generic sort of way. The Tucson is neatly proportioned and the latest facelift has enlivened the styling, but only slightly. Basically, it amounts to a revised grille and some tweaks around the number plate surround at the rear - nothing to get too excited about. The lower specification models feature a lot of black plastic exterior cladding and the plusher models with body-coloured detailing look a good deal more upmarket. If you are going to buy a Tucson with black detailing, specify the car in a dark colour and its effect is minimised. Many will feel the Tucson's greatest asset is the sheer user friendliness of its cabin. Although the materials may not be top notch, the styling is neat with no nonsense ergonomics and a decent driving position. The latest models also feature a modified instrument cluster that looks reasonably sharp. 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 Equipment levels are strong across the range, as would be expected of a Hyundai. Even the entry-level Comfort versions get air conditioning, a CD stereo and a decent complement of safety gear. Trade up to a Style and climate control, a trip computer, cruise control, heated seats and reverse parking sensors are included. The range-topping model is the Premium and it's got full leather ESP stability control, traction control, automatic headlamps, electric mirrors and a sunroof. Not a bad quota all in all. The Tucson is up against some tough opposition in the shape of the Toyota RAV4, the Nissan X-TRAIL, the Honda CR-V, the Renault Koleos, the Ford Kuga, the entry-level Land Rover Freelander models and goodness knows how many other compact 4x4 models that will be available by the time it takes you to finish this sentence. Although prices are competitive, the Tucson needs to bring more than an attractive sticker price to the party. Some recompense for the modest performance of the 2.0-litre diesel Hyundai Tucson is gained with a combined fuel economy figure of 39.8mpg and the CO2 emissions of 187g/km coupled with the low upfront price may well turn a few heads. Choose the 2WD model and economy is improved to 40.4mpg. The 2.0-litre petrol engine is cheaper but less efficient with its 35mpg economy and 190g/km emissions. The Hyundai Tucson is wholly inoffensive, a little bland, but excellent value for money. If dynamic capabilities matter less to you than simple practicality, small monthly repayments and the peace of mind of an industry-leading warranty package, then the Tucson could well appeal. Our suspicion where the Tuscon is concerned is that while Hyundai has been working on the practicalities, compact 4x4 drivers have come to expect a little more flair. As ever, the acid test will be in the sales figures.

Facts At A Glance
CAR: Hyundai Tucson range
PRICES: £14,390-£18,310 - on the road
INSURANCE GROUP: 11
CO2 EMISSIONS: [2.0D 4WD] 187g/km
PERFORMANCE: [2.0D 4WD] 0-60mph 13.8s / Max Speed 104mph
FUEL CONSUMPTION: [2.0D 4WD] (Combined) 39.7mpg
STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front airbags, ABS
WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Heightmm 4325/1830/1730mm