What's all this about?
Remember we told you recently that Hyundai was reviving the Tucson nameplate for its C-segment SUV, phasing out the ix35 badge? Well, here it is - the all-new Tucson for 2015 and beyond.
It's a nice-looking thing, isn't it?
Yes, we think so. The Hyundai trademark hexagonal grille is in place, with LEDs for both the headlights and the daytime running lamps. Various neat design touches - like the 'disconnected' A-pillar, directional wheel arches and rear end dominated by horizontal lines - make this look like a quality item from the outside.
Does the interior let it down?
It's been a long time since you could criticise a Hyundai cabin. The Tucson looks like it will uphold that standard, given it will use a lot of soft-touch, high-quality materials. It features a big touchscreen-equipped centre console, while plenty of upmarket equipment (heated and ventilated seats, revised satnav and a powered tailgate, amongst others) is on offer. The Tucson also has a 513-litre boot, which indicates it should be nice and spacious within.
What about motive power?
Two petrol engines and three diesels are offered. The petrol range uses a 1.6-litre GDI unit, in either normally aspirated, 135hp guise or 176hp T-GDI turbocharged format. This latter trim can be equipped with the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which is new for Hyundai, or a six-speed manual gearbox. On the diesel front, there's a 1.7-litre 115hp motor and two versions of a 2.0-litre lump - one with 136hp and the other with 184hp. All engines meet EU6 regulations.
Will it be packed with safety equipment?
Indeed it will; the Tucson will feature such items as emergency automatic braking, lane-keeping assist, blind spot detection, speed limit information, rear traffic cross alert and an Active Bonnet System to raise the bonnet in the event of a frontal collision with a pedestrian or cyclist.
And when can we see it on the roads?
It'll be showcased at the Geneva Motor Show in March ahead of European market sales beginning the second half of this year.
Matt Robinson - 17 Feb 2015