2019 Hyundai Tucson: 8 Things We Like

There’s no time to rest when you’re keeping pace with popular compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Toyota RAV4 and Volkswagen Tiguan. That’s why the 2019 Hyundai Tucson has received a mid-cycle update to keep it competitive in terms of comfort, safety, cargo space, technology and overall value — in other words, pretty much everything people are looking for and expect in an affordable and practical compact SUV.

As we’ve discovered in comparison tests and reviews, the 2019 Hyundai Tucson doesn’t stand out in any one key area. That doesn’t mean it gets lost in the crowd, however: We found the new Tucson to be competent on the road, and a great value when you start adding options. A new engine provides smoother driving behavior compared to the previous model, too. And even the Tucson’s smaller size can be an asset for anyone who prefers an SUV that’s easier to park.
A few things could use fixing, however. This includes the Tucson’s mediocre fuel economy, some chintzy cabin materials and the lack of some tech items found on rivals.
But for a quick rundown about the SUV’s highs and lows, just keep reading. Here are eight things we like, and four we don’t, about the 2019 Hyundai Tucson:

Things We Like

1. Smooth Powertrain

A previously optional turbocharged four-cylinder engine goes away and, in its place, Hyundai now offers a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinder. This engine produces a total of 181 horsepower and 175 pounds-feet of torque. The torque figure is less than what the outgoing turbo 1.6-liter engine provided, but during our time with the Tucson, we discovered the 2.4-liter and six-speed automatic are more refined and better-behaved in all driving situations. Granted, the turbo motor had more punch from a standstill. Yet the 2.4-liter four has plenty of power for routine driving, and gearshifts are smoother than before. For the 2019 model year, the Hyundai Tucson comes standard with a 161-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission, which carries over from 2018.

2. More Safety Features

The base version of the Hyundai Tucson is fitted with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist. Moving up one trim level nets you blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Other available safety items include automatic high beams, driver attention alert and adaptive cruise control. For 2019, the Tucson earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

3. Flexible Cargo Area

We’ll be the first to admit the Tucson doesn’t have the sheer cargo-toting capacity of some rivals. Both the Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue have about an 8-cubic-foot advantage over the 31 cubic feet of room the Hyundai provides behind its backseat. But this comparative shortfall doesn’t make the Tucson cramped or impractical; in fact, a two-tier cargo floor creates a handy flat surface when the rear seatbacks are folded down. You then have the option of storing items you want kept out of view beneath this stacked floor. A smart and convenient hands-free tailgate — which requires no button pushing or wagging feet under rear bumpers — is also optional.

4. Smaller and Easier to Maneuver

We’ve noted that the Tucson is smaller than competing compact SUVs, including the Rogue and CR-V. This could appeal to shoppers who don’t need all that acreage, particularly if parking is at a premium. Thanks to its slightly scaled-down proportions, the Tucson could be a better choice for city-dwelling SUV buyers.

5. Better Ride Quality Than Before

Ride quality in the 2019 Tucson takes a solid step in the right direction, particularly in higher trim levels. In our review, we credited this to Hyundai fitting upper trims with 18-inch wheels versus the 19-inch wheels used previously. Bigger wheels look cool, but they can make for a rougher and more jittery ride.

6. Great Warranty

Hyundai offers an excellent warranty and that alone could catapult this compact SUV to the top of many shopping lists. This includes five years/100,000 kilometers of vehicle coverage, along with 10 years/100,000 miles of powertrain coverage. A strong warranty can be a major selling point for anyone looking to purchase an SUV versus taking out a lease.

7. Value Leader, Especially in Top Trims

Ironically, the 2019 Hyundai Tucson becomes a better value the higher up you go in the trim levels. The base trim price (all prices include destination) is already very competitive. Step up to the Tucson Ultimate, which comes fitted with loads of comfort and safety touches, and you’ll see the price difference between the Hyundai and key rivals works even more to the Tucson’s advantage. A Tucson Ultimate with all-wheel drive costs much less than a similarly equipped Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.

8. Intuitive Infotainment System

The 7-inch touchscreen in the Tucson is simple to use, with clear controls and menus. Standard touches like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility are nice to have onboard, too. (A larger 8-inch screen is offered with the range-topping Ultimate trim.)




Article source: https://www.cars.com/articles/2019-hyundai-tucson-8-things-we-like-and-4-not-so-much-404460/