At the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year, Hyundai introduced its latest version of the ix35 crossover SUV, which is being sold in the US under the label 2014 Hyundai Tucson, and officially launched it in the first week of October. Some of the major changes made to this model include: installation of a new direct-injection, modifications to the ix35, 2.0-liter 4-cyllinder engine, which is a lot more powerful and offers better fuel efficiency in comparison to the previous engine.

Price & Models

The prices and the launched models are:

1. 2014 Hyundai Tucson GLS: $22,305
2. 2014 Hyundai Tucson SE: $24,355
3. 2014 Hyundai Tucson Top Limited Trim: $28,555

There has been an increase of almost $2,000 for all the three models.

Driving Impression

Hyundai’s latest model offers a nice and smooth drive to users. It is already being considered as a fine family car and is equally efficient on highway as well as in city. All four corners are controlled by Hyundai’s Sachs Amplitude Selective Damping system, which enhances the road-surface contact and overall handling without sacrificing on the comfort level.

Engine Enhancements & Fuel Efficiency

According to customers feedback so far, there has been an evident improvement in the performance of this model, thanks to the four-banger which manages 151 LB-FT of torque at 4,000 RPM and 164 HP at 6,200 RPM. Direct injection is the evident reason behind economy gains and outstanding performance. While driving in the city, the 2014 Hyundai Tucson is rated at 23 MPG, whereas it manages 29 MPG on the highway, offering 25 MPG as average. All models possess a six-speed automatic engine with manual control.

Exterior

The new front look of 2014 Hyundai Tucson was on the card as the company hinted it last year. Some major changes in the exterior are: a new set of headlamps with LED daytime running lights, a newly designed front-bumper which also possesses fog lights, beautifully crafted LED tail lamps and a new alloy wheel design. All in all, the exterior looks quite elegant, modern and classy.

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Interior

The interior has also been nicely modified with Hyundai’s adjustable-assist Flex Steer system and a latest 4.2 TFT display in the instrument cluster. Some other updates in the interior are: chrome-ringed climate control system vents, heated steering wheel, front parking sensors and a nice seven-inch touchscreen navigation and audio system.

Other Features

The 2014 Hyundai Tucson comes with a sunroof. On top of that, there is a dual-zone climate control including an ionizer to get rid of the germs while the heater or air conditioner is operational. Some other features are:

• Leather heated seats
• Automatic headlights
• Front wiper to remove snow
• Company’s Blue Link safety system
• 19 different storage places and multiple drink holders

Pros

This model possesses a much better engine as compared to the previous generations of Hyundai Tucson.

Cons

Taking into account the smaller engine, the 25MPG is still not great. Other than that, the Hyundai customers are not too happy with the $2,000 increase in the price as it does not match the quality of updated equipment.

Competitors

Some of its competitors in the crossover range are: Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4; however, the 2014 Mazda CX-5 is likely to pose a great threat for the 2014 Hyundai Tucson as it is the only other crossover in this price range that covers direct-injection technology. It will be a lot clearer in the coming months if 2014 Hyundai Tucson is able to make a strong impression in the US market or not.

Verdict

Overall, it is a well-manufactured car and can be an ideal vehicle for a medium-sized family.