The Tucson name is returning, and with a sub-Santa Fe positioning, it appears to be pretty interesting, too. Hyundai India has released a teaser image for the SUV, which will debut (in India) at the 2016 Auto Expo.
In terms of design it appears to be more like the Santa Fe and less like the smaller Creta. Unveiled in 2015, the Tucson replaces the ix35. In the UK, the vehicle is offered in four engine options: a 1.6 petrol, a 1.7 diesel, and a 2-liter diesel in two states of tune. The most powerful version makes 400 Nm of torque, while gearbox choices include both manual and automatic units for the 2-liter diesel. Expect the said engine to make it to the Indian line-up as well. And while it won’t be a hardcore off-roader per se, the Tucson gets a 4×4 system (only on the 2-liter diesel engine) which sends up to 50 per cent to the rear wheels in case it senses slippage in the front runners.
Hyundai isn’t known to skimp on features, and the Tucson is likely to maintain the reputation. Six airbags are standard in the UK, while driver aids like Vehicle Stability Management, Hill Start Assist, and ABS are available across the range. The top version also gets autonomous braking system.
It remains to be seen what Hyundai finalises for India, but on paper, the Tucson looks very impressive indeed. What remains to be seen is whether the Tucson manages to take on rivals which offer two extra seats and a more rugged styling.