Back in March 2018, the facelifted Hyundai Tucson was revealed at the New York International Auto Show. And now, ahead of the refreshed crossover’s launch in South Africa, we have come across local pricing for the rejigged range.
As before, there are seven derivatives in the local Tucson range, but the make-up of the renewed line-up has changed somewhat: the three powertrains in the updated range carry over unaltered (and one from the outgoing line-up is scrapped altogether), but there is no longer an all-wheel-drive variant. In addition, there is now just a single derivative with a manual gearbox (previously, there were three). Pricing now starts at R399 900 and runs through to R569 900.
While the 115 kW/196 N.m 2,0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine powered three variants in the outgoing range, it now accounts for four, across three trims levels: Premium, Executive and Elite. The 1,7-litre turbodiesel (85 kW/280 N.m) falls away completely, while the 131 kW/400 N.m 2,0-litre oil-burner now provides power to two derivatives, rather than the single one it did before.
The petrol-powered flagship again draws its urge from Hyundai’s turbocharged 1,6-litre engine (mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission), although it is now offered in front-wheel-drive guise only (and flagship Elite trim only; previously, it was available in Executive specification, too). From the looks of things, the “Sport” derivatives (which gained an aggressive styling package, quad-pipes and a power upgrade) have also fallen away, which means the range-topping petrol model makes 130 kW and 265 N.m.
The Tucson now features the latest interpretation of the Korean brand’s so-called “cascading grille”, along with a new lighting signature as well as a redesigned front bumper, skid plate and wheels. Round back, you’ll find revised tail-lamps, a redesigned rear bumper and new exhaust trim. In South Africa, seven colours (down from the 12 in the outgoing range) will be offered: Platinum Silver, Pure White, Phantom Black, Pepper Grey, Gem Stone Red, Aqua Blue (pictured above) and Dusk Blue.
It’s not yet clear what sort of changes have been made to the interior of SA-spec models, so we’ll have to wait for the official local launch for more details about the updated cabin…
Pricing:
Hyundai Tucson 2,0 Premium (manual): R399 900
Hyundai Tucson 2,0 Premium (auto): R419 900
Hyundai Tucson 2,0 Executive (auto): R459 900
Hyundai Tucson 2,0 Elite (auto): R499 900
Hyundai Tucson 2,0 CRDi Executive (auto): R529 900
Hyundai Tucson 1,6 TGDi Elite DCT: R559 900
Hyundai Tucson 2,0 CRDi Elite (auto): R569 900
