OpenRoad Driver Volume 16 Issue 1 | Page 61

Volume 16 Issue 1 » 61 2019 Hyundai Tucson » 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.