2016 Hyundai Tucson: Many subtle changes with a big impact

2016 Hyundai Tucson: Many subtle changes with a big impact
2016-Hyundai Tucson

For 2016, Hyundai has made some subtle, yet important, improvements to the Tucson. The Tucson’s features, as well as its ride, are more refined.

These changes, as well as its updated design, make the 2016 Tucson more elegant than its predecessors. Hyundai has made a great contender for the subcompact category.

The first change you’ll notice in the 2016 Tucson is the exterior and size. Its sculpted, muscular design and eye-catching rims make for a more upscale look than the previous 2015 model. This higher-end look is also apparent in its interior which is simplistic, but in being so, more elegant. More importantly, the controls are comfortably and sensibly arranged.

However, if hard plastic parts are a deal breaker for you, the base trim, SE, is not your best option. In the highest trim level, the Limited, there is much more soft-touch trim.

Inside, you’ll find Hyundai’s newest fiveinch touchscreen interface, stain-resistant cloth upholstery, full power accessories, a trip computer, and a height-adjustable driver’s seat.

It also is roomier than the outgoing model. Hyundai has added 3 inches to the Tucson’s length and 1.1 inches to its width, which makes seating for up to four adults quite comfortable and allows enhanced cargo capacity. Additionally, the backseat features a reclining option as well 60/40 folding.

Other standard features in the Tucson include Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, rearview camera, six-speaker sound system with a CD player, USB and auxiliary inputs, full-power accessories and privacy glass. The Limited adds LED headlights and taillights, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-inch touchscreen, a navigation system, Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics and a six-way passenger seat.

Hyundai has also made improvements to the Tucson’s build by making it with a stiffer structure and improved chassis which makes driving it feel much more engaging than the 2015 model.

Under the hood, Hyundai has placed a 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine, which has 164 horse power, and 151 pound-feet of torque on the SE trim level. If you decide to get the higher Eco, Sport or Limited trims, the engine is upgraded to a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, which puts out 175 hp and 195 pound-feet of torque. The base engine has a 23 city/31 highway mpg while the turbocharged engine has about 25 city/31 highway mpg, depending on the trim level.

Driving the Tucson is a very pleasant experience. The Tucson remains quiet even on the highway, its steering is predictable. The Tucson also is very safe, receiving top fivestar ratings on side and frontal impacts from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The 2016 Tucson has a few seemingly minor changes that make a major impact. Its new build, as well as interior features make for a much more upscale compact crossover SUV. From the way it handles, to its exterior appearance, the 2016 Tucson makes its 2015 predecessor look like a lower-class vehicle. If you want a good looking, safe compact crossover at a very attractive price, the 2016 Hyundai Tucson is a phenomenal option.

The MSRP for the 2016 Hyundai Tucson is $31,300.

Grant Miller is the publisher of Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277 or by addressing email to Grant@CommunityNewspapers.com.


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