Hyundai New Zealand’s top selling vehicle has just had its global reveal with the fourth-generation Tucson small SUV available in a number of variants.

The Tucson is also the top selling product globally for Hyundai with more than seven million sales since the originally launched in 2004.

The 2021/2022 model will come as a long-wheelbase and a short-wheelbase variants. Hyundai expects the new model to attract even more customers with its cutting-edge design, roominess, class-leading digital capabilities, dynamic ride and handling and excellent fuel efficiency.

“We are thrilled to introduce the all-new Tucson, the latest model in Hyundai’s SUV transformation,” said Thomas Schemera, Executive Vice President, Head of Product Division at Hyundai Motor Group.

“This exciting vehicle sets a new benchmark for innovation in its segment, delivering an impressive blend of design, technology, packaging and performance.”

The all-new Tucson goes on sale in Korea his month as a 2021 model. It will go on sale in New Zealand and other global markets from the first quarter of 2021.

Hyundai revealed the new Tucson online due to the pandemic, inviting everyone who is interested in finding out about Hyundai’s most progressive SUV ever. 

Tucson’s new exterior styling expresses Hyundai’s evolving Sensuous Sportiness design identity. The new SUV embodies what Hyundai designers call ‘parametric dynamics’ with kinetic jewel surface details that emphasises Tucson’s distinctly different identity in a crowded segment.

Tucson’s integration of technology and design is most evident in its innovative half-mirror type daytime running lamps (DRLs) that are assimilated seamlessly within the parametric grille, only revealed when illuminated.

The long hood and level roofline coupled with a long wheelbase and short overhangs reflect a ready-for-anything dynamic character. Crisp geometric angles and edges create a striking contrast between a sleek silhouette and masculine wedge lines. The chrome line beginning from the side mirrors follows the arc of the roofline with a gradual increase in thickness and visually represents speed as it reaches the C pillar.

Full-width tail-lamp incorporates half-hidden triangular shapes that are only visible when lit, echoing the DRL on the front. In order to achieve the purity of this design theme, the Hyundai logo moved up and is integrated into the glass while the wiper also moves up and hides under the rear spoiler.

Tucson’s interior has a broad ridge of the dashboard that blends with the doors, wrapping around the front passengers. The vertically oriented, fully integrated centre fascia descends to the console like a waterfall. Twin silver garnish lines streaming from the centre fascia to the rear doors harmonise neatly layered premium surface materials in complementary neutral tones.

The interior offers three new technologies, including a vertically stacked, dual 10.25-inch full-touch screen exempt of hard buttons, a multi-air ventilation system and an open, hoodless digital gauge cluster. These features create a high-tech, fresh and exciting ambience, with cushioned materials on high-touch areas, various material applications based on the frequency of interface and a premium presence. Tucson’s second-row seats will feature fold-and-dive functionality for optimised reconfiguration capability between passengers and cargo. Its cargo volume will provide an exceptional 1095 litres of usable space.

Tucson offers upgraded Smartstream™ petrol and diesel engines along with powerful 1.6-litre, turbo, direct-injected, hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains. 

The 1.6-litre hybrid powertrain produces an estimated 134kW, with a combined powertrain output of 171kW. It also produces 264Nm of torque from the petrol engine and 348Nm of torque from the combined hybrid powertrain. This new powertrain uses Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology that manages valve opening duration for optimal power, efficiency and emissions with minimised compromise.

Hyundai applied its first-in-class E-Handling technology for HEV and PHEV models to help improve steering response and directional stability when cornering or in adverse driving conditions.

Tucson drivers get further assistance from Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel-drive system that provides sure footing on various road surfaces and conditions. While HTRAC previously supported Eco / Comfort / Smart / Sport driving modes, the latest version adds Mud, Sand and Snow in some markets.

Tucson’s new Car-to-home feature allows customers to control smart home appliances from the car. They can turn on the air conditioner at home before their arrival on very hot, humid summer days. Furthermore, Tucson’s new Multi-Command function allows customers to “warm-up the car” - including heating system, heated steering wheel and seat warmers - with a single voice command.

For the all-new Tucson, Hyundai plans to offer N Line (performance model) globally with a launch date to be announced later. 

The Tucson N Line, HEV and PHEV engines under consideration for New Zealand but not confirmed with  line-up and pricing details closer to launch

“The all-new Tucson is an impressive SUV, and we’re excited about its arrival next year. Tucson is our most popular model here in New Zealand, of which including the locally badged ix35 we’ve sold over 23,000 units since we introduced it in 2004. We expect the new model to attract even more customers with its striking new design and safety, comfort and convenience technology,” says Andy Sinclair Hyundai New Zealand General Manager.