I’ve got a bit of a problem. After the Hyundai Staria, Staria MultiCab, Kia Sportage, Carnival and Mercedes GLB, this Hyundai Tucson just hopped onto my crowded list of best cars for 2022.
You should know: The Korean twins Hyundai and Kia are on a roll, as is evident from my little list, so it’s only natural that they would put their backs into the refreshing and redesign of their best-selling Tucson. If you needed a gentle reminder, the success story went Tucson, then ix35, and then Tucson again.
More info: After elevating their gadgets, looks and prices to the levels of its established rivals, Hyundai pulled out the fourth and final ace by getting most engines into modern spec territory. This 2.0D Elite is no exception, for it is powered by a punchy 137kW turbo-diesel that’s got eight gears to play with.
What else? Performance is ok-ish with a claimed 0-100km/h time of 9.2 seconds and a top whack just north of 200km/h. Fuel consumption is also good for this segment at around 9L/100km from the 54L tank. Other crucial dimensions include 540 to 1860L of luggage space, an 11.8m turning radius and 181mm of ground clearance.
Why you shouldn’t: The price of a new one, maybe? To be fair, there aren’t many affordable cars on our market today, and most certainly not affordable cars with this excellent package of power, efficiency and toys. Conservative buyers may shy away from the bold design but I really approve of it; especially those rear lights!
Why you should: Because you get auto-this and keyless-that, full Bluetooth climate thingy, plenty of airbags and USB ports, adaptive cruise and hill assist, a glass ceiling, lane and tyre pressure nannies, decent visibility and a good ride (thanks to 55-profile tyres), plus that 7-year/200k warranty with a 6-year/90,000km service plan.
Right. That’s good looks, excellent specs and a great drive train. See what I mean about another Car of the Year contender?
FULL SPEC LIST
| Engine: | 1998cc i-4 turbo-diesel |
| Transmission: | 8-speed Automatic, FWD |
| Max. Power: | 137kW |
| Max. Torque: | 416Nm |
| Avg. cons.: | (claimed 8.9L/100km) |
| 0-100km/h: | seconds (claimed 9.2) |
| Top Speed: | Claimed 201km/h |
| List Price: | R720,000 |
