Hyundai's new strategy: quality and value

Korean carmaker Hyundai says its new four-wheel-drive Terracan reflects the company's determination to move from a price-driven strategy to one of quality and value.

"Terracan is a fully fledged off-roader," said Hyundai New Zealand general manager Philip Eustace.

"Its seating for seven, cargo room, torquey V6 drivetrain and supple suspension all add up to genuine ability off the beaten track.

"However, the on-road ride comfort, refinement and ease of driving have also been honed as major Terracan strengths."

The vehicle uses a shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system, with drive under normal conditions going to the rear wheels until all four are engaged in high or low ratio.

Its 24-valve, quad-cam 3.5-litre V6 engine develops 147kW at 5500rpm and 302Nm of torque at 3000rpm and is mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.

The Terracam rides on a double wishbone suspension set-up in the front with a five-link rear assembly. Stabiliser bars are used front and rear.

Cost of the Terracan is $48,990.