More than 7 500 third-generation Hyundai Tucsons were sold here in 13 months since its South African launch last year – claiming a 16,5% share in its segment. The South Korean manufacturer now wants to continue that momentum by offering the bold and beautiful new Tucson Sport.
Officially, on the specification sheet, this seventh derivative of Hyundai’s popular SUV model is known as the Hyundai Tucson 1.6 TGDI Executive Sport, which means it is powered by a turbocharged 1,6-litre petrol engine that delivers 150 kW peak power and 295 Nm torque, and that it boasts the comprehensive Executive level of features found in other derivatives in the range. The 1,6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine is linked to a 6-speed manual gearbox with well-spaced ratios to get the power and torque to the road effectively through the front-wheel drive system.
One of the most eye-catching design features of the Tucson Sport are its 19″ black alloy wheels with its low-profile tyres, which also takes the SUV’s handling dynamics to an even higher level. These wheels are also exclusive to the Tucson Sport – nobody can buy them off the shelf to fit to their own car.
Standard features of the Tucson Sport include an 8″ screen infotainment system with satellite navigation, Bluetooth telephone linking and music streaming, as well as a CD player, USB and AUX music input and a several settings for FM and AM radio reception. It also displays a rear view from the park assist camera when reversing the vehicle.
Additional convenience features include cruise control, rain sensors for the automatic windscreen wipers, an automatic air-conditioning system, electrically adjusted leather seats and multifunction controls on the steering wheel.
Among the list of safety features in the Tucson Sport are Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Advanced Brake System (ABS) to prevent the brakes from locking up in an emergency stop, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and a full set of driver, front passenger, side and curtain airbags. The Tucson was awarded a full 5-star safety rating in the European New Car Assessment Programme (EuroNCAP).
The Tucson Sport’s recommended retail price of R499 900 includes Hyundai’s industry-leading seven year or 200 000 km warranty, roadside assistance for five years or 150 000 km, and a five year or 90 000 km service plan. Its service interval is 15 000 km.
In other motoring related news, Hyundai’s all-new Elantra recently arrived in South Africa.
