Upgrade to SE and the Tucson gains 17in alloys, cruise control, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, parking sensors, roof rails and a full sized spare wheel, while the opting for SE Nav adds an 8.0in touchscreen infotainment system complete with sat nav, speed limit notification and a reversing camera. For those after a sportier version of the SUV, there is the Sport Edition, which equips the Hyundai with 19in alloys, electrically adjustable front seats, heated rear seats, front parking sensors and tinted rear windows.
Topping the range is the Premium and Premium SE models. The former gets numerous safety systems - including autonomous emergency braking, blind spot detection and rear cross traffic alert, while the latter indulges itself with LED headlights, keyless entry, electric tailgate, heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats and numerous chrome details.
Hit the road and this theme continues. Urban and country roads are tackled with ease, rarely troubling the driver and passengers. The 2.0-litre diesel engine doesn’t feel particularly muscular, despite producing 275lb ft, but it rarely frustrates, isn’t overly intrusive and grants adequate acceleration. For those seeking a bit more power there is an uprated version of the engine producing 181bhp and comes only with all four wheels driven.
There are three other engines to choose from all which drive the front wheels - a 130bhp 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol and two variants of Hyundai's efficient 1.7-litre diesel - a 114bhp and 139bhp respectively for those who are interested.
Does the Hyundai Tucson deliver on the road
Carrying speed through corners proves no major issue because the Tucson has a keen front end and impressive body control. It rides in a fine, well-damped fashion, but this version was a little harsh over broken roads with its 19in wheels.
There’s little in the way of feedback through the steering, though, and the woollen feel around the dead-ahead is a further negative, but it’s otherwise precise and well-weighted. Braking power is decent and easily modulated with a satisfyingly snatch-free response at lower speeds.
Some may find this Hyundai’s lack of engine and steering verve disappointing but, given the Tucson’s intended market, it’s not a huge strike against it. That said, although there’s not much here for the keener driver as you would find in a Seat Ateca, but there is pleasure to be found in the way the Tucson smoothly, competently and comfortably gets down the road.
