2016 Hyundai Tucson First Impressions Review: Most Improved Crossover of the Year [video]

One of the best selling crossover from South Korea, the 2016 Hyundai Tucson is all-new as it starts its third generation. Borrowing a styling cue from its big brother, the Santa Fe, the compact crossover’s new premium look takes on a youthful vitality. What you don’t see is the re-engineered suspension that has been tuned for more precise handling without sacrificing ride comfort, along with a better steering feel.

The base Tucson SE trim will come with a 2.0-liter direct injection engine, good for 164 horsepower, and a six-speed automatic transmission. Much more interesting for the Eco, Sport and Limited trims is the 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. That engine comes with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, which uses two computer-controlled clutches to enact shifts. This type of transmission offers the convenience of an automatic and the efficiency of a manual.

All-wheel-drive will be an option on the Tucson, using a system that dynamically shifts torque between the front and rear axles. A button on the center console electronically locks the system’s center differential, ensuring torque gets out to all four wheels when driving in snow or mud.

The five-passenger crossover segment is a crowded one, as these vehicles offer a lot of convenience to families and can be affordable. the 2016 Hyundai Tucson offers a number of compelling features and large list of advanced safety features to help it stand out. Look for the collision prevention system that automatically brakes when it detects objects or pedestrians in the crossover’s path. Blind spot detection, lane change assist, and rear cross traffic alert round out the Tucson’s active safety features that will help prevent accidents.

Inside, the Tucson gets a makeover, with available leather and touch point upgrades to premium soft-touch materials. The Tucson’s cabin electronics incorporate Hyundai’s BlueLink telematics system, offering services such as roadside assistance, collision detection with emergency assistance and stolen vehicle recovery. Owners can also use a smartphone or smartwatch app to remotely connect with their cars. The navigation system integrates the Yelp app and Google local search, making for convenient online destination look-ups.

Hyundai’s redesigned 2016 Tucson compact crossover got just about everything you expect in a premium SUV, without the expensive price tag. Meet the completely new 2016 Hyundai Tucson as Roman takes it for a test ride.

2016 Hyundai Tucson Specs:

• Base Engine: 2.0L direct injection 4-cylinder
• Power: 164 hp @ 6,200 rpm
• Torque: 151 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic
• EPA estimated fuel economy (mpg): 23 city/31 hwy/26 combined
• Optional Engine: 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder
• Power: 175 hp 5,500 rpm
• Torque: 195 lb-ft @ 1,500 -4,500 rpm
• Transmission: 7-speed EcoShift Dual Clutch
• EPA estimated fuel economy (mpg): 25 city/30 hwy/27 combined
• Dimensions (length x width x height): 176.2 x 72.8 x 65.0 in.
• Wheelbase: 105.1 in.
• Ground Clearance: 6.4 in.

The 2016 Tucson is available in four distinct trim levels, offering a Tucson for different buyer preferences. Those include:

• SE: Well-equipped, price-leading model including popular options
• Eco: Affordable turbo model that delivers more power and improved fuel economy

• Sport: Features sporty cues and driving dynamics

• Limited: Luxury model with leather, advanced technology and other premium features

2016 HYUNDAI TUCSON PRICING BREAKDOWN

 
** Freight charges for the 2016 Tucson are $895 and not included in the prices above.