The 2016 Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD compact crossover has been revamped and revitalized.
The sports utility now boasts increased efficiency, a segment-first, dual-clutch transmission and cutting-edge safety features.
It doesn’t have the caché of Honda’s CR-V, or Toyota’s RAV4, or Subaru’s Forester – but it should. This year’s model also features an edgy exterior design and stylish interior that is roomier than its predecessor.
Tucson transports five adults, with a cargo area large and wide enough to accommodate full-size golf bags. Of course, the split/fold second seat can be folded forward to add more storage space if required – at the sacrifice of three passengers.
My tester came with a glossy “Caribbean Blue” coat of paint that – despite the cold, wet, gloomy winter days – still managed to lift my spirit. The exterior cuts a sculpted, athletic swath, with a hexagonal-shaped grille, 19-inch alloy wheels and LED twin-projector headlights as the highlights.
Eco, Sport and Limited models offer the new Gamma engine family, 1.6-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder with 175 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. Peak torque delivery starts at only 1,500 rpm and holds through 4,500 rpm, for low-rpm responsiveness and performance in everyday driving conditions.
The engine is paired with a seven-speed Eco-shift dual-clutch transmission with Shiftrronic manual shifting mode. It also includes an overdrive lock-up torque converter for higher fuel economy at highway speeds. The combination produces an EPA-rated 26 miles per gallon fuel efficiency combining city/highway driving.
If you’re looking for more oomph, there are 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter options available, which will allow you to tow a toy – as long as it’s not too big.
Tucson’s all-wheel-drive system includes a driver-selectable AWD lock that allows a differentiated torque split between front and rear wheels, for off-road and extremely slippery road conditions. The system also includes Active Cornering Control, which automatically transfers torque to the wheels with the most traction.
I experienced virtual hydroplane conditions while traveling down I-5, and the Tucson never lost touch with the road. In fact, it instilled confidence, not doubt.
Creature comforts are not lacking. In fact, my cup runneth over. Tucson features heated – and ventilated front seats, which I discovered by mistake when on a cool morning I pushed the wrong button. My behind discovered the shocking difference in seconds.
Highlights include a navigation system with eight-inch screen and rearview camera, leather seats, power sunroof, power lift-gate, cruise control, premium audio system with iPod USB and auxiliary jacks, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and proximity key with push-button start.
The 2016 Tucson is expected to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety when equipped with automatic emergency braking. New safety technologies such as AEB with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning system, blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-change assist, and backup warning sensors are offered. In addition, advanced high-strength steel represents over 50 percent of the new Tucson’s structure, for enhanced crash safety.
Step out of the box and test drive the Hyundai Tucson. It will make your ultimate buying decision that much harder. And that’s a good thing.
2016 HYUNDAI TUCSON LIMITED AWD
BASE PRICE: $31,300
AS TESTED: $35,070
Base price includes destination charge. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. Prices may vary at local dealerships.
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