Name: Hyundai Tucson Review
Item: Hyundai Tucson
Author: Gumtree.com

Launched back in 2004, the Hyundai Tucson is a compact crossover SUV with a mid-range price point. It sits at the cheaper end of Hyundai’s line-up and is designed to compete with crossover family favourites like the Ford Kuga. All in all, it holds its own very well, offering a selection of relatively high-capacity engines in both petrol and diesel alternatives. It’s an effective all-rounder for the casual driver, and though you could find better value for money and fuel economy elsewhere, the generous Hyundai warranty package is extremely tough to beat.

Check out the Hyundai Tucson model page to learn more.

What we think about the Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson has a decent-sized engine under its bonnet, with an eye-catching look comprising strong external angles and a modern, minimal interior.

Pros

Relatively large engine capacity for an SUV

Well-balanced handling and suspension

Stand-out aesthetic

Cons

–

Average power and performance

–

Relatively expensive to insure

The entry-level petrol engine on the 2020 Hyundai Tucson has a two-litre capacity and delivers around 26 miles to the gallon. There’s also a larger 2.4-litre version of the engine, and diesel and hybrid variants the more recent models. With a good suite of features across the board, this SUV comes in five trims: S Connect, SE Nav, N Line, Premium and Premium SE.

Driving performance of the Hyundai Tucson

Our Driving Rating8 / 10

The handling of the Hyundai Tucson is well balanced between smooth comfort and sporty fun, which is ideal for taking around town or on the odd long excursion. Its suspension can handle most bumps easily, and it offers a refined driving experience, with sharp steering and good grip. The engine revs up relatively quietly, and it never feels particularly powerful, so the Tucson might be one to avoid if you’re really looking for some excitement in your drive.

Safety and reliability of the Hyundai Tucson

Our Safety Rating7 / 10

When the model was crash tested back in 2015, the Hyundai Tucson achieved the full five-star rating from Euro NCAP. Its score for both adult and younger passenger protection was 86%. A still-decent 71% was awarded for safety features, as these were mostly limited to emergency braking as standard on older models. If safety features are your main concern, you can add forward collision warning to avoid getting too close to other traffic, adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. Just bear in mind that these bump up the price.

Under the bonnet of the Hyundai Tucson

Our Engine Rating7 / 10

Though the Tucson boasts higher-capacity engines than most crossover SUVs, they don’t deliver particularly impressive power. Those looking for higher performance and a bit more muscle should start with the basic 2.0-litre petrol version, which has four cylinders and provides 164 bhp. It can do 0-60 mph in 9.4 seconds, which is slightly faster than average for its class, and it maxes out around 123 mph. A Tucson with a 2.4-litre petrol engine will go a step further with 181 bhp output. Both are paired with an 8-speed auto transmission, as is the turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel.

What you'll find in the Hyundai Tucson

Our Design Rating8 / 10

The Hyundai Tucson is a well-crafted design that stands out from competitors in a market that can be rather samey. Though about average length for its class, it’s a little shorter and narrower than its rivals, making it feel more boxy than sporty. The front end has a distinctively chiselled, angular aesthetic when compared to the curvier look of most crossover SUVs. On entry-level trims, the large front grille has a honeycomb design, while upgraded models have a barred effect that’s particularly sophisticated.

Comfort and interiors in the Hyundai Tucson

Our Comfort Rating8 / 10

Inside the Hyundai Tucson is a modern, sleek-looking cabin with a stylish dashboard layout, solid materials, and sculpted fittings that are proportioned and positioned well. At 488 litres here’s a hefty amount of boot space on offer, with as much as 1,478 litres when the rear seats are folded down – no need to travel light if you’ve got a Tucson! Leg and headroom are also plentiful, and all seats are highly adjustable. The back rows are much more comfortable and spacious than in many competing SUVs, even with the whole family on board.

What features you'll find in the Hyundai Tucson

Our Features Rating7 / 10

Technology-wise, the latest Tucson models are kitted out with relatively small 7.0-inch touchscreens for media control, which can be upgraded by another inch. These cover device integration for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay users. In terms of the design, the standard 17-inch wheels can be upgraded to 18-inch alloys, and there’s also the option to get chrome accents on the bodywork for a more executive look. If a touch of luxury is a must, you can also swap out the standard fabric for a full leather interior, including the seats, steering wheel and gearstick knob.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Hyundai Tucson

Our Fuel Consumption Rating7 / 10

The Tucson’s fuel economy is pretty mediocre for a crossover SUV – not terrible, but nothing for the eco-conscious to get excited about. The larger 2.4-litre petrol engine provides an average of 26 miles per gallon, which can be bumped up slightly if you’re mostly taking it for longer trips on motorways. The diesel variants can offer significant improvements over this fuel efficiency if you’re on the road a lot, while the large 62-litre fuel tank that comes as standard also makes it a great option for long-haul use.

Running costs of the Hyundai Tucson

Our Cost Rating9 / 10

Fuel economy on the Hyundai Tucson could be worse for a crossover SUV, but the larger engine sizes mean it will prove slightly more expensive to insure than many other vehicles in its price range and class. That said, Hyundai is known for offering one of the best support and maintenance packages for its customers. Tucson owners can get a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, as well as ten years of roadside assistance. Complimentary scheduled maintenance is also available, and you’ll probably need to take the car in for a service once every 12 months.

Our verdict of the Hyundai Tucson

4 / 5 Gumtree rating

If you want a family SUV that's well balanced and practical – and offers a hint of luxury in its design – the Hyundai Tucson is a solid choice.

Hyundai Tucson Review