Third time’s the charm

2016 Hyundai Tucson Eco

There are redesigns, then there are redesigns. The Across Generations tester for the week is a complete and utter overhaul and the end result is a not only a redesigned SUV, but practically an altogether new vehicle.

The 2016 Hyundai Tucson is now in its third generation. With totally new looks, the Tucson emerges looking modern and ready to be a player in a very competitive segment in the industry which includes powerhouses like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

The Tucson is shorter than those vehicles, but is bigger than the subcompact SUVs like the Mazda CX-3, Chevy Trax and Honda HR-V that are becoming increasingly popular. So, in a way, the Tucson is in a class all of its own, and that certainly can be said about some of its new features and looks.

FormerWheels editors Jimmy Dinsmore and Dave Mikesell did an up-close examination.

JIMMY: The Tucson is now 3 inches longer and 1.1 inches wider. This not only increases the cabin space (much needed) but it gives the Tucson a new look without affecting the maneuverability of the smallish SUV.

In addition to looking bigger, the Tucson has a bold, new exterior that is thoroughly modern with a starkly different look from last year’s version. The front end is where you can really see the increase in length with a redesigned grille and longer hood. Styling continues down the side, further giving an elongated look. The back end has additional modern. A rear spoiler is a great feature. The rear LED tail lights are distinctive, especially at night.

DAVE: While Jimmy is sold on the sizzle, I dive right into the steak – the Tucson's engine. We both eschewed the base 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that turns 164-horsepower and 151 lbs.-ft. of torque in favor of a new turbocharged powerplant. A 1.6-liter 4-cylinder, this engine provides a boost to 175 hp and 195 lbs.-ft. of torque. There is plenty of get-up-and-go with the seven-speed dual clutch transmission that acts as an automatic.

Our test vehicles came with all-wheel drive in lieu of the standard front-wheel drive. You may have noticed winter is coming so losing a few instances of pleasure for secure footing is worth a consideration.

JIMMY: Perhaps the most noticeable changes to the Tucson occur inside. The cabin is significantly improved for this model year. It's both bigger and has improved materials. While some harder plastic materials are still used, the organization of the dashboard, as well as some softer touch points, is markedly better than the previous generation.

Overall seats are comfortable for both front and rear passengers. With the increased length and width, that is most felt in the back seat where even taller adults will now feel comfortable. Headroom and legroom are improved all around within the cabin. Cargo space is also increased. With rear seats up, there is 31 cubic feet of space and with rear seats folded flat, the cargo area is 61.9 cubic feet. This puts the Tucson near the top of the segment, coming close to the cargo numbers for the top-selling CR-V.

A five-inch touchscreen system is middle of the road when it comes to technology. It’s an intuitive system but doesn’t have anything that is cutting edge or otherwise impressive in sound quality. It’s a simple but will be fine for daily commuting. There are USB connections, which I give Hyundai credit for (take note, other carmakers, we want USB ports!). Bluetooth is standard, and integration with smart phones is easy.

DAVE: Jimmy and I experienced half of the four-trim Tucson lineup, he in the Eco and me in the top-of-the-line Limited. The base SE starts at $22,700 for front-wheel drive and comes with the 2.0-liter engine. The Eco starts the run in the turbo-engine category and has a base price of $24,150. A Limited with all-wheel drive (an additional $1,400) starts at $31,300. The Eco with AWD has the benefit of better gas mileage - 25 mpg/city, 31 mpg/highway versus the Limited's 24 mpg and 28 mpg marks - and can provide softer road manners thanks to 17-inch wheels in place of 19-inchers. The Limited does bring more amenities like leather upholstery, a power liftgate, navigation system utilized within an 8-inch touchscreen, additional speakers, heated front seats and outside temperature display. Not that Jimmy felt shortchanged.

JIMMY: Regardless of the trim, the Tucson blends new styling, new engine technology to make for a wonderful daily driver with enough cargo and passenger room to function as top-notch family vehicle, too.

David Mikesell is a freelance automotive reviewer based in Indianapolis. Jimmy Dinsmore is a freelance automotive journalist.