Hyundai South Africa has fattened the Tucson range from five models to seven with the introduction of two new turbodiesel engines.
“The Tucson turbodiesels – launched at a very competitive price and with a comprehensive standard package – will certainly add a further boost to Hyundai Automotive South Africa’s sales and to its positive brand image. It is a welcome expansion of our range at a time when our automotive market it under pressure,” says sales and operations director of Hyundai Automotive South Africa, Stanley Anderson.
Hyundai offers the Tucson in two turbodiesel derivatives – the 1.7 Executive and the R2.0 Elite. The 1.7 turbodiesel comes in as the more affordable option of the two, with a six-speed manual transmission and slightly less power. The 2.0 Elite sees a higher power output of 131 kW and 400Nm sent to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.
With regards to performance – the 1.7 Executive receives a lighter cylinder block and increased fuel injection pressure system, making it an apt choice for fuel efficient driving with a combined cycle of just 6.8 litres per 100km, a maximum power output of 85 kW and maximum torque of 280 Nm.
In terms of exterior design, both derivatives maintain the sleek modern look with the infusion of obligatory SUV ride height and short overhangs. Upfront things are brightened with LED Daytime Running Lights and LED projection headlights.
At the back, both Tucson turbodiesels receive LED combination taillights, however the 2.0 derivative sports a rear skid plate and twin exhaust outlets. The 1.7 wears 17- inch alloys whilst the 2.0 comes equipped with a set of 18-inch alloys.
Central to the interior of both derivatives is a 3.8-inch display; pay an additional R15 000 and Hyundai will upscale things a bit and fit an 8-inch navigation and entertainment system. A worthwhile upgrade that has a big effect on all aspects of cabin appeal, although some Tucson’s rivals offer this sort of display as standard.
Already a Wesbank South African Car of the Year Finalist the choice of diesel in this segment is still considered vitally important and both these engines offer tangible advantages over the petrol counterparts to tighten its grip.
PRICES:
1.7 Executive – R439 900
R2.0 Elite – R519 900
