2016 Hyundai Tucson: First Look
Despite their truck sales accounting for more than half of the company's total sales, Hyundai decided to revamp one of their more popular models: the Hyundai Tucson. The compact SUV failed to make the list of best-selling SUVs this year, and the company is hoping their changes will result in better sales.
Will it work? Only time will truly tell, but we've at least gotten a general idea that the vehicle will be successful based on the handful of reviews that have been released. Before you head out to your local NH Hyundai dealers take a look at our overview of the 2016 Tucson. It might convince you to hold out on your purchase and await the SUV's release in the third quarter of 2015…
As Miranda Lightstone of Auto123.com explains, Hyundai was eyeing one rival in particular as they were developing their newest SUV: the Volkswagen Tigger. As the writer describes, the company focused on certain characteristics to reach the standards of their competitor. The company wanted the Tucson to feel "more upscale" than the price would suggest, all while making a vehicle that could be considered "luxurious, smooth and quiet."
We're confident that the brand succeeded in all of their endeavors when it came to the 2016 model.
Among the major changes to the Hyundai Tucson was the inclusion of a new engine, a revamped exterior, and "updated driving dynamics," as Lightstone described. The 2.0-liter GDI DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder engine remains mostly the same, and there's still a six-speed automatic transmission (featuring SHIFTRONIC).
However, buyers can now opt for the alternative 1.6-liter engine, offering a seven-speed EcoShift Dual Clutch Transmission. This results in an increase in horsepower, from 164 (2015) to 175 (2016), and in torque, as Lightstone expects the number to jump at least 50 ft-lbs. A smaller engine may seem counterproductive, but Jon Linkov of ConsumerReports.com notes that the "gearbox feels like a conventional automatic," and the power and acceleration both seem to come naturally. Furthermore, the writer points out the responsive handling, commending the vehicle for not feeling "overly-stiff" despite riding on large wheels.
The exterior has seen some tweaks, and Christian Gulliksen of CSMonitor.com says the changes gives the SUV a more "premium look."
"Its familial hexagonal grille and geometric headlight assemblies sweep into a profile that creates a sporty sense," the writer described. "From the rear, strong horizontal lines accentuate a pleasingly wide stance."
The updated body isn't the only exterior change to the SUV, as the 2016 Hyundai Tucson will offer eight colors to choose from, including six new additions to the nameplate.
Other standard exterior features include 17-inch alloy wheels, projector headlights, and an integrated rear spoiler. Buyers can choose from a number of optional features, including the hands-free Smart Liftgate, roof rack side rails, and LED tail lights and Daytime Running Lights.
Of course, with all the focus on the exterior, we don't want you to think the interior has been neglected. There are a number of standard features that will carry over from the 2016 model's predecessors, including a rearview backup mirror, a five-inch color touchscreen audio system, a six-way adjustable driver's seat, and YES Essentials stain- and odor-resistant cloth.
Buyers could opt to upgrade that touchscreen to eight-inches, add a 40-watt premium audio system, or include a panoramic sunroof.
Previous Tucson models had received negative ratings for it's below-average cargo space and modest backseat. Luckily, the 2016 model will offer more cargo room than it's predecessors, as you can store up to 30.1 cubic feet of cargo, and that number increases to 61 cubic feet with the seats folded. Despite upgrading the overall size of the vehicle, the 2016 Tucson's cargo room still trails that of some of it's competitors.
Still, an improvement in space is much appreciated, and despite the cargo room trailing other sporty SUVS, the Tucson has still been commended for it's comfortable, roomy interior. As Linkov noted, the vehicle feels "settled," so it absorbs impact adequately.
As we mentioned earlier, the new SUV will also offer a variety of functions that will improve your driving experience. There's the popular Drive Select system, allowing for a driver to choose from three different modes (Sport/Eco/Normal) to cater to their driving conditions.
These functions also include Hyundai's long list of safety features, led by their Lane Departure Warning (helping the driver to "maintain vehicle control and lane positioning"). There's also the Automatic Emergency Braking system (which uses cameras and radar sensors to prevent an imminent collision), Rear Parking Sensors (which notifies the driver when the SUV gets too close to another car), and the Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (let's you know about a driver that may have sneaked into the lane beside you).
The standard base model price of $24,000 is very reasonable considering all the amenities included in the new SUV. If potential car buyers wanted to go full out, they could upgrade to the Tucson Ultimate, which comes in around $40,000. Regardless, you'll be able to make a small portion of your money back via the SUV's solid fuel efficiency. The Tucson will deliver 24 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway, impressive numbers for such a large vehicle.
Hyundai's third-generation Tucson isn't just an identical copy of the 2015 model. The company clearly wanted to improve specific parts of their vehicle, and the results seem to be promising. We'll eventually be able to measure the sales of the 2016 model to some of it's competitors, and this will give us a better idea of whether these modifications truly helped.
If you're currently in the market for a new compact SUV, you're in luck, as the 2016 Hyundai Tucson should be hitting car lots very soon. In the meantime, head on down to your local dealer, like Irwin Hyundai in Laconia, New Hampshire. Maybe another vehicle will catch your eye, and Irwin's helpful staff will ensure that you're driving out of the lot in your new SUV that day.