Introduction

The smaller of Hyundai’s two SUVs, called the Tucson. It comes with a variety of diesel and petrol engines, the choice of two- or four-wheel drive, and there are three transmissions too. Specifications range from Tucsons fitted with basic, but essential kit, up to fully loaded versions with all the mod cons, and what the Hyundai offers in this class are good looks, lots of interior space and cultured manners, all for a reasonable price and backed up by one of the automotive industry’s best manufacturer warranties.

Did you know? Tucson is not an entirely new nameplate – while the immediate predecessor was the ix35, Hyundai sold a Tucson SUV from 2004-2009.

Verdict | Design | Interior | Technology | Performance | Safety | Specs | Running Costs | Pricing

Verdict: ★★★★★★★★☆☆ (7.9/10)

The Hyundai Tucson is the embodiment of how far the brand has come in a short space of time. It wasn’t so long ago that the only reason you’d recommend a Hyundai was because it was significantly cheaper than its competitors and it had a spacious interior – but there were significant quality compromises as a result.

Not any more. The Tucson is a genuinely excellent car, polished to a high standard in all departments. In the compact SUV market, it’s one of the most attractive going and the quality of the interior is up there with the sector’s best. With good driving manners, manageable running costs, and a wealth of toys on e...