2021 Hyundai Tucson Review

If you're considering purchasing a Hyundai Tucson, 2021 could be a good year to do it. Hyundai has made some positive changes to the Tucson for its 2021 incarnation. 

Also, the manufacturer is due to launch an N-line package later this year. N-line features can transform the Tucson's looks and driving appeal. It consists of a tempting package of add-ons that can be incorporated in any of the variants in the range,

Over the past few years, Hyundai has positioned itself as a creator of powerful, high-performance vehicles with a touch of luxury. The N-line exemplifies these aims. 

The N-line package combines stunning good looks with better performance, technical sophistication and an excellent array of comfort and safety features. When it comes to the Tucson, the addition of the N-line features is likely to produce an irresistible driving experience.

Here we review the current version of the Tucson. We consider the factors that are most important to drivers considering buying one. From fuel consumption through to space, tech and more, read on to discover the lowdown on what makes the Tucson such a great purchase.

Features

 Hyundai has gone to town on the exterior of the Tucson. This results in a vehicle that's sharp, sporty and eye-catching. If you want to get noticed, the Tucson is going to do the job.

A revamped interior provides a modern, attractive driving environment that's brimming with sophisticated tech. This has made a significant difference to the Tucson's appeal, silencing critics who were quick to brand the cabin "dated" or "cheap".

Buyers may choose from one of three engines, including petrol and diesel variants. Although a hybrid (and plug-in hybrid) is available internationally, Hyundai has decided not to market them here. Possible reasons for this are our relaxed emissions laws, which remove much of the imperative to purchase an electric variant.

Sophisticated tech, space, and little extras such as a panoramic sunroof (available on higher-spec models), results in a vehicle that's a good choice for both drivers and passengers.

This is a model that's more powerful, larger, safer and better-equipped than ever before. If you're looking for a mid-size SUV that's economical enough for the city, yet has enough off-road presence to cope with rural driving, it's time to take a look at what the Forester has to offer.

The suspension is tuned for Australian roads. The Tucson also contains Smart Sense. This is a comprehensive, hi-tech selection of premium autonomous safety features that is a hallmark of the Hyundai brand.

See Our 2022 Hyundai Tucson Review

Exterior and Interior Design

The Tucson's exterior has been the subject of a radical overhaul, and it shows! The bodywork is all about angular lines fused with generous curves and more than a hint of mystique. 

The tinted rear windows for passenger privacy, for example, add an enticing touch of intrigue. Hyundai’s 2021 version also benefits from fresh headlights (which are light-sensitive) and revisited front-end styling.

If you opt for the N-line upgrade, you'll also end up with a black grille, an enhanced body kit, 19" alloys, badges, silver skid plates and more.

The interior is everything you would expect from a manufacturer that's committed to hi-tech styling and a contemporary vibe. 

The cabin is well laid out, with heated seats that can be electronically adjusted. Many of the traditional switches that dominate controls have been replaced with touch-sensitive controls. Rather than a conventional gear set-up, the gearing is achieved through a shift-by-wire feature.

There are two digital screens in the vehicle. In front of the driver is the digital dash, featuring the tachometer, rev counter and speedometer. It also contains engine status information

There is also a 10.25" infotainment system, which is touchscreen operated. Some drivers find the new look controls easy and intuitive to operate. Traditionalists may prefer a more conventional approach.

In terms of materials, higher-spec models come with the option for leather seats, providing an added touch of opulence if required. The rest of the interior is smartly turned out and definitely appealing. Watch out for the large swathes of glossy black plastic, as these can be a nightmare to keep free of dust and smears.

Engine

In Australia, there are four models in the range. These are the Active X; Active; Highlander; and Elite. Owners can also choose from three different engines. 

At the entry-level, the turbo-charged 1.6 TGDi provides 265Nm of torque. Next up is the 2.0 GDi 2wd that features a two-step variable induction system and can deliver 205Nm of torque. Finally, there is the 2,0 CRDi AWD. This option incorporates the Electronic Control Variable Geometry Turbocharger (E-VGT). The E-VGT is a device that significantly enhances the power of the engine, boosting it to a very tasty 400Nm of torque.

Fuel consumption is an important statistic when deciding on a mid-size SUV that's going to work for you. 

With many Australian families driving tens of thousands of kilometres regularly, gas guzzlers are a definite no. Luckily, fuel economy is something that Tucson does well. 

Hyundai states consumption for the 1.6 T-GDi AWS (DCT) is around 7.7l/100km. For the 2,0 GDi 2WD ), consumption is around 7.8l/100km for the manual version and 7.91km/100km for the auto version. Finally, the diesel version, the 2.0 CRDi AWD auto uses about 6.31l/100km.

Reviewers who have driven the Tucson generally comment positively on the experience. The ability to change driving modes depending on the terrain (mud, snow or sand), is welcome, albeit of limited use unless you are an all-weather driver. Drivers can also opt for eco, sport or normal mode.

Tech

Generally, Tucson's tech is better-than-average, with features that rival some of the leaders in class, such as the CR-V.

The infotainment screen is compatible with Android Auto and Apple Carplay. Drivers say that it's responsive and with some excellent graphics. 

It also includes some attractive add-ons, such as the option to use the "Sounds of Nature" option. This enables drivers to enjoy the soothing sounds of the outdoors, creating the perfect environment for a relaxing drive. 

Adjustable ambient interior lighting provides a further opportunity to customise the interior.

Other features include a 360-degree camera, parking sensors, a blind spot detector and parking assist. There is also a powered tailgate.

Generally, the tech found in the Tucson matches that available in comparator models but doesn't really lead the field.

See How The Tucson Compares To The Hyundai Santa Fe

Safety

Hyundai's Smartsense technology creates a suite of autonomous safety features in the Tucson. These complement the mechanical safety features that are provided.

Like most other SUVs, the Tucson benefits from plenty of airbags. There is one in the centre, between the driver and passenger seats, to prevent a collision between the two occupants in the event of a crash.

The autonomous safety suite provides a wealth of features, each of which adds an extra layer of safety. Features include an emergency stop signal (ESS), a camera, a rear park assist system, lane keep assist, blind-spot collision avoidance assists, forward collision avoidance system and rear occupant alert.

Whilst these are all great options to have available, it's worth noting that most of the time, you won't be aware of them. Unless you are in a hazardous situation, you probably won't know they're there. As many of the smart sense features are only available at a premium, it's worth considering whether you will use them.

As you would expect, the Tucson has a 5-star ANCAP rating - the highest available.

Pricing

The basic spec Tucsons start at $30,990. A top-of-the-range, high-spec option will cost up to $54,341

Advantages and Disadvantages

Pros

The Tucson has many strong points, some of which include:

• A stunning exterior that has plenty of sporty appeal. Particularly if owners opt for N-line styling, it's possible to end up with a vehicle that has a powerful visual presence.
• An updated interior with the option of using premium materials, such as leather.
• Attractive digital screens that use touchscreen technology and have a range of customisation options.
• Electrically heated seats, climate control and plenty of space provide a comfortable user experience.
• Positive reviews of driving performance and excellent fuel economy. In particular, noise was minimal, even at higher speeds or when the diesel version was driven.
• Generously sized boot.
• Numerous surveys indicate that Hyundai is an extremely reliable brand. It usually sits in the top ten of reliable manufacturers. A recent survey put the Hyundai first for reliability in its class! It's had no major problems over the years and continues to offer excellent value.
• Hyundai offers a generous five-year unlimited warranty and a lifetime service plan. 

Cons

• The exterior may not be to everyone's taste.
• There is a large amount of black plastic in the interior. Whilst this is easy to wipe down, it does need frequent cleaning to keep it looking immaculate. This can be a little bothersome if the Tucson is to be your everyday family car.
• The rear doors don't open quite as wide as on other models, which can make it difficult to manoeuvre car seats.
• Although three people could sit in the back, there's only sufficient room to comfortably seat two.
• The Tucson's resale value isn't the best, so it's best bought to be a keeper.

Learn More About The Hyundai Tucson

The Tucson is a dependable workhorse that can be relied upon to take you and the family wherever you need to go, safely and comfortably. 

For 2021, the improved interior ensures that both drivers and passengers can embark on longer journeys confident of a comfortable ride. Ample boot space makes camping trips or similar an easy option.

The generous suite of safety features is reassuring for owners intending this to be a family vehicle.

For drivers, the enhanced digital screens, range of modes and focus on the touchscreen or minimalistic controls provide a contemporary driving experience. Whether this appeals more than an old-school setup is largely a matter of personal taste. The sporty exterior is also a nice plus for a driver who wants a little more cachet.

The Tucson is designed for drivers who like their tech and a variety of driving experiences. The vehicle is ideal for owners with older children or teens (who can enjoy the comfort in the back without the need for car seats). It's also a great buy for couples, particularly those who regularly carry passengers and/or larger amounts of luggage.

Find a Hyundai Tucson on OnlyCars.com.au or get a finance quote through Credit One.

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