Hyundai has revealed the all-new Tucson SUV ahead of its worldwide public debut next month at the Geneva motor show.
Since the first Santa Fe went on sale in 2001, Hyundai claims to have delivered more than one million SUVs to European customers, with over 116,600 UK deliveries. The new Tucson will replace the ix35 and is expected to be of high importance to Hyundai’s business in the UK, as the mid-size SUV segment accounted for 20.5% of the company’s sales in 2014.
“Bold and athletic” is how current Hyundai design boss Peter Schreyer has described the car’s exterior styling. The front is dominated by the brand’s newest generation hexagonal grille.
The side view sees the A-pillar moved back from its conventional location to help deliver what the designers say is a “sleek and agile look”, while the ‘Z’ character-line above the rear wheel arches creates a sculptured profile. The rear features horizontal lines that are accentuated by slim tail lights.
On the inside, as well as introducing new soft-touch materials across cabin surfaces, Hyundai says the cabin has undergone “extensive ergonomic testing” in order to improve everyday usability.
Being built on a completely new platform, the Tucson also gets more interior space. Dimensionally, the vehicle is 65 mm longer and 30 mm wider than the outgoing ix35, with 30 mm having been added to the wheelbase. As a result, the SUV is claimed to deliver 513 litres of luggage capacity with all the seats up.
Practical features include a smart powered tailgate and a parking assist system with parallel and bay parking function. The new-generation navigation system is said to be more than three times faster than the previous version fitted in other Hyundai models.
The Tucson’s EU6-compliant engine range will include two petrol units: a 1.6-litre GDI with 133 bhp or a turbocharged version generating 173 bhp. The latter can be paired with either a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or a six-speed manual. Three diesel options will also be available: a 113 bhp 1.7-litre, or a 2.0-litre with either 133 bhp or 180 bhp.
Hyundai will manufacture 100% of Tucson models sold in European markets at its facility in the Czech Republic.
After making its official unveiling next month in Geneva, the car will go on sale in Europe during the second half of 2015.
Source: Hyundai
