It comes with Hyundai's HTRAC on-demand, all-wheel-drive system. And it's a tried and true performer because, like the transmission, it has been plucked from the big brother Santa Fe. That makes sense; when something is very good ,why not indulge in a bit of cross-pollination?
Another point worth noting is the cabin ambience. Sure, that diesel may make a bit of noise outside but, inside, all is peace and calm.
Even at open-road speed, the Series 11 Tucson is quiet. But you can't help but come back to that turbo diesel. It is such an impressive performer.
Our drive was in the range-topping CRDi Limited and its $63,990 price tag puts plenty of kit on board, whether it's functions mounted on the steering wheel or accessed through the touch screen dominating the centre of the dashboard.
It also collects Hyundai's SmartSense safety technology, a new range of colours, along with a redesign that highlights a distinctive front end.
No surprise then that the Limited model enjoys the best of everything in the Series II. It picks up LED headlights, a surround-view camera, smart sat-nav with traffic congestion updates, wireless smartphone charger, premium Infinity sound system and the hands-free rear door opening function.
It also gets the lane keep assist system (preventing the Tucson from wandering outside the white lines), blind spot and forward collision alert, rear cross traffic alert, driver attention warning and adaptive cruise control to keep the Tucson a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
And comfort levels push the boundaries, too, with things like heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel and heating to the back seats. The tailgate is powered and comes with a hands-free function. Above it all sits the panoramic sunroof with its powered blind that stretches the length of the cabin.
We've mentioned this coming at a price, but you can hop into cheaper models, starting with the $39,990 two-wheel drive 2-litre petrol-engined model with its 6-step continuously variable transmission. Buyers are spoiled for choice with the Tucson, if you consider there are eight variants in the range.
But to get back to the beginning. The updating of the Tucson works a treat. It looks good, is certainly fit for purpose, and keeps it all in a neat and tidy package.
Is the CRDi Limited worth the premium price? We think so. It is very well appointed, and delivers a near faultless drive via that transmission. As far as mid-sized utility vehicles go, the spruced-up Tucson fits like a bespoke suit.
Techno stuff …
•Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi
•Price: $63,990
•Engine: 2-litre, 4-cylinder turbo diesel
•Power: 136kW at 4000rpm, 400Nm from 1750-2750rpm
•Transmission: 8-speed auto (manual over-ride)
•Brakes: Discs (front vented)
•Safety: ABS, EBD, BAS, VSM, ESC
•Size: 4480mm long, 1850mm wide, 1660mm tall, 2670mm wheelbase
•Wheels: 19-in alloys, 245/45 tyres
•Fuel: 62 litres diesel
She says …
The new Tucson is a muscular SUV that not only looks super sporty but is practical and solid.
The interior is impressive, with comfortable, with fully adjustable seats and plenty of space for storage. There are some nifty cupholders between the rear seats, too.
The large media screen sits on top of the dash which makes it easy to view.
On the road, the Tucson is responsive and handles well on all road surfaces you're going to meet. It comes with plenty of safety features including lane keep assist and blind spot monitor.
It's a great all-rounder.
-Nanette Maslin
