Hyundai offers an entry-level Tucson SUV to complement its existing Terracan and Santa Fe models.

Hyundai offers an entry-level Tucson SUV to complement its existing Terracan and Santa Fe models.

Aimed at younger buyers, the Tucson arrives in three guises, all with a high level of specification and affordable pricing. Spearheaded by the entry-level 2,0-litre 4x2, this SUV is also likely to appeal to MPV buyers with its comparable overall size and plenty of cabin space.

A high level of standard features is common to all three models, with an electrically operated sunroof fitted to 4x4 models being the only difference. These include power-assisted steering, electric exterior mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, front foglamps, trip computer, and a compass bearing readout within the self-dimming interior rear-view mirror.

General comfort items feature leather upholstery, climate control, a radio/CD/MP3 player, and power windows all round. Roof rails are fitted, and the back window can be opened separately from the tailgate.

Safety and security items include a four-ring body structure, ABS all-disc brakes with EBD electronic brake-force distribution, dual front airbags, three-point harnesses for all five seats, and remote central locking.

The 4x2 is powered by a 2,0-litre twin-cam, 16-valve four-cylinder engine, which incorporates continuously variable valve timing, and develops peaks of 104 kW at 6 000 r/min and 184 N.m at 4 500. It is coupled to a five-speed manual transmission driving the front wheels.

Next up in the range is a 2,0 CRDi turbocharged and intercooled common-rail diesel, with an iron block and aluminium cylinder head. A single overhead cam unit with four valves per cylinder, it produces 83 kW at 4 000 r/min, and a healthy 245 N.m of torque between 1 800 and 2 500 r/min. It is mated to a Shiftronic four-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.

Topping the line-up is a 2,7-litre Delta V6 that features a variable length tuned intake system. The motor delivers 129 kW at 6 000 r/min, and 241 N.m of torque at 4 000. Shiftronic and four-wheel drive are standard.

Suspension is by MacPherson strut, and an L-shaped lower arm at the front and multi-link system with spring struts at the rear.

Each vehicle is sold with a 3 years/60 000 km warranty and full maintenance plan. The service interval for the 2,0-litre and V6 petrol models is 15 000 km. For the 2,0 CRDi, an oil change is required at every 10 000 km and service at 20 000 km.

Original article from Car