SINGAPORE – Having tested the facelifted Kia Sportage last month (CarBuyer 218), we now try out its cousin, the Hyundai Tucson, which has now undergone a slight nip and tuck as well. Like its Kia sibling, the updated Tucson features mostly minor cosmetic changes, a slightly refreshed interior, and a new engine under the bonnet. In fact, the two cars are almost virtually identical in specifications that one could almost copy and paste the Kia’s article last month here, and just replace ‘Sportage’ with ‘Tucson’.

But we won’t do that of course, because while the Sportage and Tucson are pretty much mechanically similar, they are still different models after all. Obviously, the styling is different, with the Sportage cutting a model of handsome conservativeness, while the Tucson comes across as a bit more sporty and dynamic-looking, with its bold corporate grille (slightly redesigned with less chrome for the facelift), and sharp, trapezoidal headlamps (which now incorporates LED daytime running lights). At the back, the taillamps have also been reworked, and now integrates LEDs and rear fog lamps.

Step inside the Tucson, and again, you’ll find things rather familiar, with just a few changes to note. The one that stands out is the 4.2-inch colour screen within the instrument panel, which we’ve seen in recent Hyundai models like the Veloster and i30, and displays driver trip information and the likes. It certainly looks more upmarket than the previous blue-themed display, and gives the car a bit of a premium feel.

Hyundai has also taken the opportunity to up the ante though, by equipping the updated Tucson with more features. Aside from the aforementioned LED headlamps, you also get a new sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, steering that adjusts for reach and tilt, keyless entry with engine push start button, and heated seats for the front AND rear passengers. The latter function appears to be a segment first, and is rarely seen even in more expensive cars, although its relevance in Singapore is quite questionable.

The biggest change to the updated Tucson is its new engine, a ‘Nu’ 2.0-litre MPI unit which produces 151bhp and 191Nm of torque, and replaces the previous version’s Theta II engine. The new powerplant is more efficient than before, and is slightly better on fuel, sipping 8.4 litres of petrol per 100km as opposed to 8.7 litres with the old engine. On the road it proves rather adequate for daily driving, and is remarkably smooth and refined while cruising, perhaps helped along by the equally-smooth six-speed automatic transmission.

Like pretty much most other mid-sized crossover SUVs out there, the Tucson offers a pretty agreeable driving experience, with decent and competent handling that’s really nothing to shout about. It’s interesting to note though that the Hyundai lacks the Flex Steer variable steering system that’s found on the Kia equivalent, which means you don’t get a choice to lighten the steering for tight city manoeuvres. Still, the Tucson’s steering proves light enough to be able to take on most situations without fuss.

To be fair, most vehicles in this segment are now broadly similar, in terms of their capabilities and functionality, so choosing one is pretty much merely a matter of preference. The Hyundai Tucson and its Kia Sportage cousin sit very close to each other in that respect, and thus it only boils down to which looks better to you, and which badge you want to be seen in. Either way, you won’t really go far wrong.

NEED TO KNOW
Engine 1,999cc, 16V, in-line 4
Power 151bhp at 6200rpm
Torque 191Nm at 4700rpm
Gearbox 6-speed automatic
Top Speed 175km/h
0-100kmh 11.5 seconds
Fuel efficiency 8.4L/100km
CO2 200g/km
Price $164,888 with COE
Availability Now

Also Consider: Kia Sportage, Volkswagen Tiguan

Photos by Shahrul Azmi