"At This Rate, It Rivals the Santa Fe"... New Tucson Grows Bigger and Adds an 8-Speed Transmission [Test Drive]

Significantly Longer Wheelbase and More Second-Row Space
Impressive Quietness and Ride Comfort
Price Will Be Key to Its Success

The Tucson, one of Korea's leading sport utility vehicles (SUVs), has sold more than 10 million units worldwide and is back as the fifth-generation, fully redesigned All-New Tucson. Its exterior, based on Hyundai Motor Company's design language "Art of Steel," which boldly conveys the tension of sharply defined metal, has drawn strong interest both in Korea and overseas since it was unveiled. On October 7, I drove the new Tucson for about 100 kilometers between Ilsan and Gimpo.

Hyundai Motor Company emphasizes that this Tucson is truly a "family SUV." It has grown in size, with more interior space, making it roomy enough for the whole family. After driving it myself, I found it feels no less spacious than a midsize SUV.

'The All-New Tucson.' Hyundai.

'The All-New Tucson'. Hyundai Motor

Compared with the previous model, its overall length has increased by 60 mm, width by 40 mm, height by 20 mm, and wheelbase by 30 mm. The second-row area, where family members often sit, has grown. Legroom has increased by 13 mm and headroom by 29 mm. Shoulder room, the space between the occupants' shoulders and the body of the vehicle, has increased by 6 mm in both the first and second rows. As a result, no seat felt cramped or confined.

Opening the door and sitting in the driver's seat, I was struck by the well-organized interior. The surfaces within reach are all rounded, creating a feel entirely different from the cold, steel-like exterior. Features such as dual wireless charging, a hidden center tray, and second-row door cup holders appear designed to make the most of the cabin space.

I drove the 1.6-liter turbo gasoline model that day. When I started the engine, its sound seemed to come from far away. Hyundai appears to have put considerable effort into soundproofing the engine compartment and cabin. The company says it improved the engine and transmission mounts to reduce vibrations and noise while driving. However, the engine noise may be noticeable to drivers accustomed to electric vehicles, making me curious about how the hybrid model will fare.

External noise has also been significantly reduced. Acoustic laminated glass is used in every seat, and the front windows are 5 mm thick, 1 mm thicker than before. This helps reduce outside noise and wind noise, making it easier to talk with passengers or focus on music.

Despite its larger size, the Tucson delivered strong acceleration on the road. With a maximum output of 193 horsepower (245 horsepower in the hybrid model) and an eight-speed automatic transmission replacing the previous seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, it accelerates smoothly without lurching during gear changes.

'The All-New Tucson.' Hyundai Motor

'The All-New Tucson.' Hyundai Motor

The new suspension valves also help reduce impacts from the road. When going over speed bumps, the body felt well controlled, with little movement.

Following the "The New Grandeur" and "The All-New Avante," the Tucson is equipped with Hyundai's next-generation infotainment system, "Pleos Connect," and its next-generation generative AI agent, "Gleo AI." A wide range of vehicle information can be easily accessed through the main display, and drivers can also give voice commands conversationally. The physical buttons for climate control and audio functions, however, stand out.

Other features are aimed at families. Wide-opening hinges on the second-row doors increase their opening angle from 73 degrees to 83 degrees, making it easier to get in and out. The second row offers ample knee room, and the reclining range is wider than expected, making the seats seem comfortable enough for passengers to rest in.

Several features have also been added to make the vehicle safer for families. The power supply is redundant so the doors can still be opened if a collision cuts off the main power supply. Other signs of the focus on safety include nine airbags, among the most in its class; a safety assist system for pedal misoperation; and an emergency braking function when the electronic transmission is in Park.

"The All-New Tucson." Hyundai Motor.

'The All-New Tucson.' Hyundai Motor Company

The Tucson aims to reach beyond the compact SUV segment and compete in the midsize market. It offered ample space and safety for carrying a family. As my test drive came to an end, one thought came to mind: "As expected, price will be key."

The Tucson's official price has not yet been announced. With prices rising for new vehicles recently launched by Hyundai Motor Company, there is considerable interest in how much the Tucson will cost. It remains to be seen whether Hyundai Motor Company's strategy of moving upmarket and enhancing product quality, after establishing itself in global markets over decades with value for money, will succeed with the Tucson.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.