Riebeek-Kasteel, Western Cape – If the original Getz hatchback can be credited with elevating Hyundai’s local reputation for dependability among a youthful and fun-loving, yet value conscious South African motoring audience it was surely the arrival of the first-generation Tuscon in 2005 that cemented this Korean manufacturer’s position among the most popular brands within the hard-fought SA market. Well-proportioned, characterful, and, importantly, loaded with standard specification the original Tuscon quickly established itself as one of the top-selling models in the then burgeoning small SUV segment.
Given this success, and the corresponding positive reputation the Tuscon name had garnished, it was perhaps a pity Hyundai South Africa elected to join other markets in adopting the new i-generation naming convention and rename the second-generation model, iX35.
While this name change ultimately had little negative effect on sales (selling 33 692 units over six years) I, for one, was glad Hyundai Korea decreed a global return to the familiar Tuscon name for the new third-generation model.
Given how fiercely competitive the compact SUV segment has become since the arrival of the first Tuscon eleven years ago, it’s refreshing to see that, while looking a tad generic from certain angles (where have we seen those taillamps before?), the new Tuscon appears both fresh and well-proportioned. A selection of 17-, 18-, or 19-inch alloy wheels complement a range comprising five derivatives and a choice of two petrol engine options. Diesel options are currently being considered, with a view to a July 2016 introduction.
Carried over from the outgoing iX35 range is a naturally-aspirated 2,0-litre engine delivering 115 kW and 196 N.m of torque. Mated with a 6-speed manual gearbox (a 6-speed automatic transmission is available in both Premium and range-topping Elite spec) this model represents the entry-point into the new Tuscon range.
New to the family is Hyundai’s impressive turbocharged 1,6-litre TGDi powerplant. Mated with a 6-speed manual transmission in Executive specification or a seven-speed dual-clutch box in top-of-the-range Elite spec, it’s this 130 kW/265 N.m engine that is tasked with leading the new Tuscon’s charge back towards the top of the sales charts.
From the comfort of a well-crafted and nicely insulated new cabin there’s a welcome air of refinement to the interior package. Broken record time, but the sooner both Hyundai and Kia can secure the instalation of the group’s latest, disintinctly larger and more user-friendly, touchscreen infotainment systems within their South Africa-bound products the better. As it stands, only Elite model customers (or those willing to spend R15 000 on a unit upgrade) are afforded access to an otherwise neat and relatively large touchscreen display with sat-nav functionality; the standard unit being small and fiddly by modern standards.
Riding on a revised suspension package (and 18-inch wheels on the 1,6 TGDi Executive model) the new Tuscon immediately impresses both with its well-cushioned ride and class-leading NVH levels. While the TGDi Elite option is the only model to offer part-time all-wheel-drive, the front-wheel driven Executive version nevertheless also took to the gravel section of our test route with sure-footed confidence.
Making the most of its larger new dimensions compared with the outgoing iX35 the new Tuscon offers all occupants, front and rear, impressive levels of both head- and legroom, while still affording young families a respectable among of luggage room.
While ever-wavering exchange rates may deny the third-generation Tuscon the same level of pricing competitiveness compared with its segment rivals as the original model enjoyed, Hyundai South Africa has nevertheless continued its trend towards offering as much standard specification and value as possible. Added to this is the peace of mind associated with a 5-year/150 000 km manufacturer’s warranty, supplemented by a new 7-year/200 000 km drivetrain warranty.
Based on first impressions, the new Hyundai Tuscon certainly has what it takes to re-affirm its position towards the summit of the small SUV segment. What remains to be seen is whether the standard 19-inch wheels on the Elite model, while adding a sporty look to the package, harm an otherwise comfortable and refined package.
Look out for a full road test of the new Hyundai Tucson in the May issue of CAR.
