Hyundai Tucson

The petrol heart of the Tucson is a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated unit, putting out 156 PS at 6,200 rpm and 192 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. It's paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. For mileage seekers and long-distance runners, a 416 Nm turbo diesel is also available. 

The focus here is on delivering a smooth and refined driving experience, suitable for everyday commutes and cruising around Gurugram's bustling streets. However, if you're looking for punchy acceleration to navigate those sudden gaps in traffic, you might find it lacking compared to turbocharged engine cars like the XUV 700. 

The automatic transmission is generally smooth, especially when cruising on the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway, but can feel a bit sluggish during quick overtakes when you need that extra burst of power. Compared to diesel options in rivals like the Fortuner, the Tucson petrol feels less effortless when it comes to outright power, particularly when climbing inclines around the outskirts of the city. 

The engine's linear power delivery is adequate for most situations but requires higher revs for spirited driving, becoming more vocal as you push it.

Ride and Handling:

The Tucson leans towards comfort when it comes to ride quality, doing a good job of absorbing bumps and undulations, which is a welcome trait on Gurugram's sometimes uneven roads. The suspension setup, with MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear, is tuned for passenger comfort, making it a pleasant cruiser on longer trips to nearby cities like Jaipur or Chandigarh. 

However, push it hard around corners on the winding roads outside the city, and you will notice some body roll. The steering is light and easy for city driving and parking in crowded areas but lacks feedback, which might disappoint those seeking a more engaging driving experience on weekend getaways. 

Compared to the Jeep Compass, which feels a bit more connected, the Tucson prioritizes a softer ride. The Fortuner has a more rugged feel, while the Kodiaq offers a more controlled experience. The focus on comfort makes it a good choice for navigating the varied road conditions in and around Gurugram, but those seeking a more dynamic driving experience might find it lacking.

Inside the Tucson, the cabin feels spacious and well-appointed, with genuine leather seat upholstery adding a touch of luxury. The dashboard layout is clean and modern, dominated by the large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is easy to use while navigating the city.

 Features like multi-zone auto AC, a panoramic sunroof that lets in plenty of light during those sunny Haryana days, ventilated front seats for battling the summer heat, and a Bose premium sound system enhance comfort and convenience. The digital instrument cluster adds a touch of sophistication, and the LED mood lighting allows for customization of the cabin ambiance during night drives. 

Practical features include a powered tailgate, which is handy when you're loaded with shopping, and a wireless phone charger to keep your devices powered up on the go. The cabin prioritizes comfort and convenience, with ample space for passengers and luggage, making it well-suited for family trips. Highlights include adjustable thigh support and well-appointed but a bit tight last row seats.

The latest-generation Tucson has a bold and distinctive exterior design that certainly turns heads. The standout feature is the Parametric Jewel grille, which seamlessly integrates the LED Daytime Running Lights, giving it a futuristic and eye-catching front. The main LED headlamps are positioned lower down on the bumper, further emphasizing its unique face. 

The side profile features sharp lines and a sloping roofline towards the rear, giving it a modern and almost coupe-like SUV silhouette, which is a departure from more traditional designs seen on our roads. The rear is equally striking, with its connected LED tail lamps that create a distinctive light signature. 

The overall look is modern and futuristic, helping the Tucson stand out against rivals like the more traditional Fortuner, the classic Compass, and the understated Kodiaq. Features like alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, body-colored ORVMs and door handles, and roof rails enhance its aesthetic appeal. The skid plates at the front and rear add a touch of SUV ruggedness without making it look overtly off-road focused, fitting well with its urban and highway driving intentions around town.

Hyundai has equipped the Tucson with a good suite of safety features, which is reassuring when navigating the often chaotic traffic. Standard equipment includes 6 airbags, ABS, EBD, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Higher trims add features like a 360-degree camera, making parking in tight spots easier, and a Blind View Monitor, which is helpful when changing lanes on busy highways. 

The inclusion of Hyundai SmartSense ADAS, featuring Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Smart Cruise Control, significantly enhances its safety credentials, providing an extra layer of protection on both city streets and highways. Rear disc brakes and TPMS are also included. 

The Tucson’s comprehensive safety package makes it a competitive offering in its segment, providing peace of mind for families in Gurugram and beyond.

The Tucson is a very well-rounded SUV and does everything well in every department, but so does the Tiguan and the best-seller Fortuner. But what sets it apart from those is its very rich feature set and head-turning style, matching the Hyundai overseas offerings.