Volume 16 Issue 1 » 61
2019 Hyundai Tucson
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Hyundai announced the Tucson was to be given a facelift in 2019,
which debuted at last year’s New York International Auto Show. The
unveiling revealed that the changes were much more than skin deep
for the stylish compact crossover.
One of the most striking exterior changes is the updated signature
cascading grille. Now extending deeper down the front bumper it,
along with revised LED daytime running lights, aligns the vehicle
closer to the rest of the modern lineup. Around the other end, the
taillights are slightly smaller with softer edges lending an air of
sophistication to the rear fascia. A smart-looking shark-fin antenna
sits atop the roof.
Occupants sitting inside enjoy a large seven-inch Display Audio
infotainment screen (an eight-inch unit is also available) with
integrated Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone
connectivity. The monitor is mounted higher up in the redesigned
centre stack than before, and the central air vents have been moved
further down. Those sitting in the back can make use of an extra
USB outlet to charge mobile devices.
There is big news in the powertrain department. While the
lower-tier Essential and Preferred grades still make use of a
161-horsepower 2.0-litre four-cylinder, a beefier 2.4-litre naturally
aspirated 181-horsepower mill with 175 lb-ft of torque replaces the
outgoing 1.6-litre turbocharged motor in the upper trim levels. Both
are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The 2019 Tucson is safer as well. A new SmartSense driver
assistance package - a $400 option on the base model and standard
on all others - bundles automatic emergency braking, lane-keep
assist and a special Driver Attention Warning system. The latter
monitors inputs and will provide alerts if it detects driver fatigue or
inattention.
In addition, 2.4-litre variants receive five years of complimentary
Hyundai BlueLink connected car services. Via the proprietary
smartphone app users may access remote functions including
starting the car, locking and unlocking the doors, preconditioning
the climate control and locating where the vehicle was last parked.