The Hyundai Tucson's name may conjure images of wide-open spaces, dangerous frontiers, and gunslingers from classic Western movies, and that's rather fitting for this family SUV. You see, the newest Tucson finds itself in the thick of a gunfight and needs to be darned quick on the draw to put all of its competitors in this fiercely competitive vehicle class.
Thinking of leasing a Hyundai Tucson?
Hyundai has helped the model out by giving it some brand-new eco-credentials to brag about. It is offered as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), a full hybrid, and mild hybrid versions of conventional petrol engines (there are no diesel engines in the range). A variety of trim levels are also available, including the opulent Premium and Ultimate models and the sportier-appearing N-Line versions.
Let's find out if the Hyundai Tucson is a good enough family SUV to ride out into the sunset.
Hyundai Tucson Drive
The 148 horsepower, 1.6 T-GDi 150 petrol engine is the base model Hyundai Tucson engine. It has a manual transmission and a 0-62 mph acceleration time of 10.3 seconds. The 48-volt mild-hybrid (MHEV) technology makes it somewhat faster if you upgrade to the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, however, the auto 'box takes some time to accelerate. A more potent MHEV is the 178bhp T-GDi 180, which features a four-wheel drive system and an automatic gearbox and is capable of reaching speeds of 0-62 mph in 9.0 seconds.
The 227bhp 1.6 T-GDi 230 Hybrid, a complete hybrid, is located farther up the lineup. For brief periods of electric driving in stop-and-go traffic, the battery capacity is sufficient. When the engine and motor are working together, there is plenty of power for passing; in our track tests, it beat the Kia Sportage and Ford Kuga with a 0-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds. But the six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is sluggish.
The 1.6 T-GDI Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), which has the greatest range with 261 horsepower and four-wheel drive, can travel up to 38 miles on electricity alone. Even if the Sportage can officially achieve more than 40 miles and the Kuga PHEV comes close, it is one of the better electric-only ranges you'll find in a PHEV family SUV. It's incredibly smooth to drive in EV mode and fast enough to feel enjoyable, but, once again, the six-speed automatic gearbox is a little reluctant.
Hyundai Tucson Interior
If you're looking for that lofty SUV driving posture, the Volvo XC40's driver's seat is higher than the one in the Hyundai Tucson, so keep that in mind. However, thanks to the standard-fit electrically adjustable lumbar support, it is supportive around turns and comfortable on lengthy trips. If you choose the top-of-the-line Ultimate trim, the driver's seat is completely motorised and has memory. Additionally, the armrests on the driver's door and the top of the centre console are both expertly positioned.
A 10.3in digital instrument cluster that is easy to read at a glimpse is standard. All of the controls on the dashboard are also close to you, albeit most are touch-sensitive rather than press-buttons, making it difficult to use them by feel. You may have to take your eyes off the road to find and utilise them. The button-operated gear selector, on the other hand, makes it easier to use than nudging a gear lever.
Hyundai Tucson Space
Tall passengers will be well accommodated by the Hyundai Tucson's wide proportions. There's plenty of legroom here, as well as at least as much headroom as any family SUV. It also feels wider and more spacious than several competitors, especially the Peugeot 3008. The front door bins are on the tiny side, but the spacious glovebox and various trays and cubbies spread throughout guarantee you won't have trouble concealing your belongings.
The back seats are ideal for taller people, so if you frequently transport both adults and children, this is one to consider. Even with the front seats pulled back, it can comfortably fit two six-footers. There's plenty of room for their feet under the front seats, and there's plenty of headroom. When a passenger is added to the tight middle seat, things get a little cramped, especially around the shoulders if all of the passengers are robust adults. The Ford Kuga has a bit more legroom on either side of a slight hump on the floor.
The Tucson's boot is among the largest in the family SUV class, with a capacity of up to 620 litres. However, it's worth mentioning that the hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants' batteries deplete some of that capacity (hybrid models have 577 litre boots while PHEVs have 558 litres).
Conclusion
If the interior room is important to you, you should absolutely choose the Tucson. The boot is large enough to accommodate four tall adults. Given the somewhat high asking price, the interior quality should be impressive. There are, however, more comfortable and better-handling SUVs available, whereas the Kia Sportage finds a better balance of doing everything well.
At MWVC, we provide a range of Hyundai Tucson car leasing deals to meet every driver's requirements for finding the ideal vehicle for themselves. Our knowledgeable sales team can assist you in finding the greatest price. Are you still unsure if an electric car lease is the best option for you? One of our representatives will be happy to assist you if you call 0116 259 9548.
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