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2016 Hyundai Tucson Review

 

Good points

  • Very refined, with a sweet turbo engine
  • Best ride quality in its class
  • Great looks with the right proportions

Needs work

  • Base 2.0L engines a bit breathless
  • No CarPlay on the top models
  • Turbo’s pricey six month servicing
2016 Hyundai Tucson Review - Chasing Cars

Tuned extensively here in Australia, the Hyundai Tucson is the Korean brand’s best-ever car.

Hyundai’s significant investment in engineering – poaching talent from well-regarded brands, and generously funding research and development – is paying dividends.

The Tucson name has returned and this new model slots into the chaotic medium SUV field, taking the place of its predecessor – the ix35.

The new model looks good, drives well and is still decent value to buy – three factors which have already put it in third place among this field of 14 competitors.

Only the sportier Mazda CX-5 and stalwart Toyota RAV4 stand in the Tucson’s way – and the Hyundai is, in every way, a better buy than the Toyota.

The question is really ‘should I buy a Hyundai Tucson or a Mazda CX-5?’ Well, depending on how much you’ve got to spend, the answer may well be in the Hyundai’s favour.

While it’s not a particularly sharp handler, the Hyundai has the upper hand under the bonnet. With a superb turbocharged petrol and a refined diesel available, the Tucson drives like an expensive European.

It also looks right. The Tucson is a handsome and well-proportioned little truck, particularly in the trademark blue metallic or in the deep brown option. It isn’t fussy or overdone. It feels up-to-date against the Mazda, whose design is starting to age.

Pair these virtues to a solid, comfortable interior and the Tucson starts to look like a pretty smart option for smaller families.

2016 Hyundai Tucson Review - Chasing Cars

Budget Direct
Comprehensive cover
/ year
(indicative only)
Budget Direct
Comprehensive cover
/ year
(indicative only)

Key specs (as tested)

Engine
Capacity
1.6
Cylinders
4
Induction
Single turbocharger
Power
130kW at 5,500rpm
Torque
265Nm between 1,500-4,500rpm
Configuration
Double clutch
Power to weight ratio
79kW / tonne
Fuel
Fuel type
Petrol
Fuel capacity
62 litres
Consumption
7.7L/100km
Average Range
805 kilometres
Drivetrain
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
All wheel drive
Engine configuration
In-line
Gears
7
Dimensions
Length
4.48 metres
Width
1.85 metres
Height
1.66 metres
Unoccupied weight
1651 kilograms
Cargo space seats up
488 litres
Cargo seats down
1478 litres

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The estimate provided does not take into account your personal circumstances but is intended to give a general indication of the cost of insurance, in order to obtain a complete quote, please visit www.budgetdirect.com.au. Estimate includes 15%^ online discount.
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Budget Direct Insurance arranged by Auto & General Services Pty Ltd ACN 003 617 909(AGS) AFSL 241 411, for and on behalf of the insurer, Auto & General Insurance Company Limited(ABN 42 111 586 353, AFSL 285 571).Because we don’t know your financial needs, we can’t advise you if this insurance will suit you. You should consider your needs and the Product Disclosure Statement before making a decision to buy insurance. Terms and conditions apply.

Indicative quote based on assumptions including postcode , 40 year old male with no offences, licence suspensions or claims in the last 5 years, a NCD Rating 1 and no younger drivers listed. White car, driven up to 10,000kms a year, unfinanced, with no modifications, factory options and/or non-standard accessories, private use only and garaged at night.

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