Hyundai Tucson 2.0 ix35 2WD Review: Another western

What we like:

Stylish wind swept design.

What we dislike:

The price.

Most of Hyundai’s efforts in this facelift are concentrated under the hood where the Tucson receives a new powerplant. While the new 2.0-litre four cylinder inline is less powerful than the one it replaces, Hyundai claims it is much more efficient. With figures of 12km/L promised.

At 151bhp with 191Nm of torque, the Tucson isn’t going to be winning any races at the lights. And it does the century sprint at a leisurely 11.5 seconds. That being said, the engine does produce a decent amount of torque and is quite tractable even when hauling heavy loads in the boot.

With the suspension tuned for heavier loads, when driving alone, the ride tends to err on the stiffer side. Road imperfections become profoundly perceptible through the cabin. However, the ride is significantly improved when driving with a full load of passengers.

While the Tucson has come a long way since its predecessor, it is however growing up in a massively difficult market with Volkswagen offering the Tiguan 1.4 at a similar price range.

Even though it’s a decent SUV, consumers won’t be able to ignore the marginal price premium for the German option. Hyundai will have to get creative in making the Tucson a more attractive choice.

Credits: Story and Photos by Benjamin G. Kline