Hyundai Tucson review

Value for money and big warranties have been a mainstay of the sensible Hyundai; the latter remains a five-year, unlimited-mileage affair, but the former? Prices start at £29,140 for the bog standard 148bhp 1.6 petrol version, with the mild hybrid tech (fancy stop-start and an auto gearbox) adding around £1,800. 

The entry-level hybrid model costs £33,370, and the cheapest plug-in hybrid is only available in the second trim up the ladder and will set you back £39,680. Do the sums, though – if you can make use of the PHEV you’ll gain in cheaper fuel costs and lower tax rates. Low CO2 emissions are likewise prized when it comes to company car charges. 

It’s a bit pricey, isn’t it?

Not as cheap as Hyundais used to be - and a bit of a jump on the outgoing Tucson - but this is a tangibly more premium product, so it lines up a lot more neatly with an equivalent Volkswagen than before. But it does so while being just as well made and a lot more interesting. So long as you’re onboard with the looks. And the fact you probably won't be changing headlamp bulbs at home…

What specs are on offer?

There are five trims available when it comes to the Tucson: SE Connect, Premium, N Line, N Line S and Ultimate. The SE Connect opens proceedings with remote central locking, cruise control, rear parking sensors, auto headlights and wipers, plus dual zone climate control. Just a heads up, the entry car doesn’t have anti-trap on the rear electric windows if your kids have a propensity to stick their faces in the way of the closing glass. 

The Premium car adds wireless phone charging, keyless entry, front parking sensors, heated steering wheel and front seats, adaptive cruise control and LED headlights. N Line S gets you a fancier Krell sound system and electric tailgate opening where you wave your foot around until it decides to open, rear window blinds, panoramic sunroof and it adds an extra zone to the climate control too. 

You might be wondering why you’d even bother with an Ultimate-spec car, but it does get heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats, which is nice. It’s also the only model to offer electrically adjustable front seats. Not too bad when you consider it’s only really a £600 or so uplift over the N Line S car. 

The one good thing with opting for a lesser spec is that you aren’t forced to slum it with a tiny screen in the middle of the car that screams to the world what a skinflint you are. All models get the 10.25in screen with navigation and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, as well as the 10.25in digital instrumental panel.

The Premium trim is pretty punchy for a second rung, though, we think that’s probably the sweet spot in the range unless you really want to go for some of the fancier toys.