What Is It?
The 2016 Hyundai Tucson is about to take Hyundai's compact-crossover game to a whole new level. Mind you, we're not saying the outgoing Tucson is chopped liver, but we wouldn't call it a segment leader, either. It's been a good, solid vehicle for Hyundai -- let's put it that way. But a single glance tells you that the redesigned 2016 Tucson is a genuinely desirable ride, from its proud, BMW-X5-like headlights (with available adaptive bi-xenon technology) to its optional 19-inch wheels and sleek LED taillights.
Hyundai has been crushing it lately with excellent new products such as the Genesis and Sonata sedans, so it's not surprising that the 2016 Tucson has a lot more going for it than just style. Hyundai claims significant fuel economy gains over the current model, for example, reporting that the newly offered 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine has achieved up to 26 miles per gallon in the city and 33 mpg on the highway in internal testing, a whopping 5 mpg hwy ahead of the 2.4-liter inline-4 that it replaces. The little turbo also pumps out 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, so it definitely has enough pep. The standard engine continues to be a 2.0-liter inline-4 that comes with a carry-over 6-speed automatic transmission, which is a bit of a letdown given that the 1.6T employs an advanced twin-clutch automated manual.
Another point of emphasis for the 2016 Tucson is safety. A slew of fresh technologies are on the menu, including a blind spot monitoring system, lane-departure warning and rear cross-traffic alert. The Tucson will also come equipped with a standard rearview camera in all trims, and there's even an optional forward-collision mitigation system that includes automatic emergency braking.
Inside, owners of previous Tucsons will immediately notice the 2016 Tucson's enlarged dimensions. With a longer wheelbase (by 1.2 inches) and a wider frame (by 1.0 inch), this Hyundai feels roomier than ever, and its generous 31.0-cu-ft. cargo area behind the rear seats is a healthy five cubes clear of the 2015 model. A dual-level cargo floor adds still more versatility, and if you spring for the available keyless trunk access, the lift gate will open automatically when you stand near it for a couple seconds with the key fob in your pocket.
From the driver's seat, the new kneepad that cushions the driver's inside knee is a welcome touch, as are upgraded trim panels with more soft-touch surfaces. Other appealing features, depending on trim level, include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats and stain-resistant fabric upholstery. A 5-in color touchscreen comes standard on more affordable Tucsons, while the optional navigation system brings an 8-in screen with split-screen capability and Pandora and Yelp integration. Finally, every 2016 Hyundai Tucson is equipped with Drive Mode Select, which lets drivers tailor steering feel, transmission and throttle settings to their individual preferences.
How Much?
TBA
When Can You Get It?
July 2015
Add It to Your Shopping List Because...
You've been waiting for the Tucson to become a true top-tier crossover, and you can see that its time has come. For many shoppers, the Tucson's compact dimensions will seem just right, and now the rest of the vehicle is equally compelling.
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