Hyundai has revealed its new Tucson at a South Korean media event. Design-wise, the 5th generation of the popular mid-size SUV takes a completely different direction from the current model, launched in 2020.
Hyundai is planning a major global product offensive over the coming years, including more than 40 new models in Europe alone. They will not only include electric cars and vans, but also models with internal combustion engines, like the Tucson.
In South Korea, the brand has revealed the new generation of its midsize SUV, which will go on sale there from October. For the local market, it will offer a 193 hp 1.6 turbo with an 8-speed gearbox and a 245 hp hybrid version of the same engine.
Edgy design
There is no doubt the 5th generation Tucson will be part of the launch lineup for the European market, although specifications for our continent might differ. As with the current generation, a plug-in hybrid is to be expected.
Whether or not a diesel model will still be offered is uncertain. The current generation features a 1.6 diesel, but the newer, bigger Santa Fe model scrapped the diesel version.
The South Korean and European versions will likely share the same design. And that is completely different from the current generation. Just like the Santa Fe, the Tucson gets a more linear design with sharp edges and creases. Compared to its bigger brother, the design is much less ‘flat’. It features accentuated three-dimensional wheel arches that may remind you of models designed by KGM, another South Korean brand.
For those wanting an even more expressive design, Hyundai has developed an XRT version. This rugged-looking trim, with a special grille and protective coverings, has to appeal to customers who want an ‘off-road’ look.
The interior looks more welcoming than rugged, with plenty of practical storage and a modern look. The layered dashboard is dominated by the central infotainment screen. In Korea, the Tucson will be available with a 12.9-inch screen with a 16:9 aspect ratio, or even a 17-inch screen! In comparison, the instrument cluster is tiny, with only essential information.
Bigger but more aerodynamic
The new Tucson grows in all directions: 60 mm in length (4.7 m) and 4 cm in width (1.91m), on a 30 mm longer wheelbase. This should make the Tucson one of the roomiest models in its class, according to Hyundai.
This also applies to passengers. Rear headroom has increased to 1.031 mm (+29 mm). Whether this will also be the case for the Tucson model coming to the European market is uncertain, since the Korean version is likely a long-wheelbase model.
The Tucson might get bigger and look more massive, but Hyundai has made it more aerodynamic. The drag coefficient (Cd) drops to 0.30, down from 0.33 on the current model, thanks to optimized spoilers, bumpers, wheels, and active air vents.
The European premiere of the new Hyundai Tucson is expected at the Paris Motor Show, which opens with a press day on October 12th.
