The handsome Hyundai

BIGGER, better, bolder. It may sound like an advertising tagline but it happens to be perfectly accurate when describing the new Hyundai Tucson. The Korean carmaker's third-generation compact crossover really has a bigger body with bolder styling. And it is a better drive.

Projecting the latest evolution of Hyundai's Fluidic Sculpture design, the new Tucson has the requisite flowing surfaces as well as the latest version of the signature hexagonal grille. But even more striking are the details, such as the sculpted headlamps with their side light "eyebrows" which flow into the grille above a wing-shaped front bumper incorporating LED daytime running lights.

They widen the Tucson's front end, making it look lower and more planted. It is the same with the rear, which now looks extremely European.

This handsome Hyundai with a totally new platform has grown in every direction. At 4,475 mm in length, it is 65 mm longer, and 1,850 mm wide (+30mm) with a 2,670 mm wheelbase (+30mm).

Rear legroom has obviously improved but what is more interesting is that the seats are more supportive with softer leather, with the front pair ventilated. The rear air vents are new too.

With a completely new dashboard design, the cabin is also classier. The centre console now has a horizontal orientation instead of the previous vertical Transformers-like fascia. It is also less plasticky, with soft-touch sections around the instrument binnacle.

Also revamped is the lower centre console, which loses the parking brake lever for an electric alternative with auto hold function.

The multi-function steering wheel also gets more buttons, to operate more functions than just audio and Bluetooth telephony, such as a digital speedometer and various vehicle settings.

A Drive Mode button behind the gear lever now offers three driver settings - Eco, Normal and Sport. Sport extends the gearshift points but does not vary steering feedback.

Under the long bonnet is a new two-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine. This is the same Nu MPI unit found in the latest Sonata and it drives the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. With 155 hp and 192 Nm, it powers the roughly 1,500 kg Tucson well. What is more impressive, though, is that it does so with more refinement.

Engine noise is muted and even under hard acceleration, there is no uncomfortable engine roar.

The insulation in the Tucson is also better, resulting in a quieter cabin. Rolling on 18-inch wheels, the level of noise, vibration and harshness has noticeably improved.

The equipment level is higher too, with Blind Spot Detection and Lane Keeping Assist System, which uses radar to scan a 180-degree area behind the vehicle to alert the driver to approaching cross-traffic.

With nicer styling, space and equipment, it's easy to see why the new Tucson is clearly bigger, better and bolder.

SPECS

Hyundai Tucson

Engine: 1,999cc inline-4

Gearbox: 6-speed automatic transmission

Max power: 155 hp @ 6,200 rpm

Max torque: 192 Nm @ 4,000 rpm

0-100 kmh: 11.1 secs

Top speed: 181 kmh

CO2 emissions: 184 g/km

Average OMV: S$21,000

Price: S$142,999 (with COE)

Distributor: Komoco Motors

Tel:6475 8888