2016 Hyundai Tucson India review, test drive

What is it? 

The SUV craze in India is showing no signs of cooling off with more and more of the segment vehicles entering our roads. Not long ago, you could only order an SUV in size XL. Today they come in all shapes and sizes, from full-size seven-seaters to sporty crossovers, sub-4 metre compacts, and even in hatchback sizes. Manufacturers are launching SUVs as fast as they can and all of them are finding some level of success. Hyundai too, is riding the wave with its hugely popular Creta which has put the company firmly into the SUV bandwagon. 

The all-new Tucson slots into the gap between the Creta and the Santa Fe to complete Hyundai’s SUV range and marks a return to India. The first-generation Tucson made its India debut in 2005, but failed to find success. Hyundai did not bother with the second generation. Now with the third generation Tucson coming to a market that is devouring SUVs, coupled with Hyundai’s growing brand appeal, the Korean company is confident of success. 

What is it like? 

The new Tucson wears the company’s Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design and carries the family look of its stable mates. However, it’s more Santa Fe than Creta. What gives it away are the very detailed headlights which are dual-barrel LED units. This is no big butch SUV, and it doesn't try to be one. It's an urban soft-roader that's stylish and dynamic. The front is dominated by the signature hexagonal grille flanked by the swept-back headlights. A horizontal line divides the lower half of the bumper and splits the fog lamps and daylight running lights. A sharply rising window line at the rear is prominent on the side profile. The Tucson sits on 18" 225/55 tyres and is 172 mm off the ground. The rear is clean and simple, with the tailgate flanked by slim LED lights. Overall, the styling will definitely be a plus for those who want an urban SUV.