Hyundai Tucson 2004 review

The name, however, I can live without, coming as it does from the same American design studio that brought us Tucson's big brother Santa Fe.

Both the Tucson and Santa Fe are what is known as "softroaders", compact 4WDs with some off road ability but no low range gearing – in this case designed, built and named primarily with the American market in mind.

Not the best recommendation, but do not be put off by the name or heritage because the five-seat Tucson is a very good vehicle – the most impressive offering to date from the Korean manufacturer.

We have never been a big fan of Santa Fe's round, bloated lines, but Tucson's finely chiselled features are more contemporary and appealing.

And, while the majority of contenders in the compact 4WD segment make do with a four cylinder engine, Tucson steps up to the crease with a full blown V6.

It is not a huge engine but the same small, impressive 2.7-litre power plant that has seen service in other applications, including the Tiburon sports car.

In fact, it appears to have been lifted over from the Tiburon complete with the twin exhaust system, judging by the two tailpipes protruding from the rear.

Three models are offered: the entry level Tucson V6 AWD priced from $29,990, Tucson Elite priced from $32,490 and Tucson Elite S priced from $33,200.

Our test car was the top of the line Elite S distinguished by its colour-coded body work.

With its chunky compact dimensions, short front and rear overhangs and bulging fender flares the car conveys a muscular athletic look.

The fit and finish of Hyundai's cars continues to improve with every model and the Tiburon is no exception, on par with anything from the Japanese.

Inside, the interior is spacious, light and airy, with good all round vision from a high driving position.

Interior noises levels are pleasingly low and there are lots of places to put things.

The rear tailgate glass opens separately for quick access.

The alloy 2.7-litre quad cam 24 valve V6 is good for 129kW of power at 6000rpm and 241Nm of torque from 4000rpm.

It is not a large engine but the size is a good compromise between power and economy and this is reflected in the vehicle's good fuel economy figures.

Transmission is a four-speed adaptive auto with sequential shift mode that means it can be operated like a manual.

It pairs well with the engine but hunts between gears at times.

Unlike the Santa Fe the Tucson has a part-time, all- wheel drive system that transfers drive to the rear wheels as required.

Most of the time it is front-wheel drive.

We gave the system a pretty good work out over some twisting roads and can report the car hangs on, although it will ultimately understeer if pushed to the limit.

There is a limited slip rear diff and the centre differential can be locked for off road driving which means drive is distributed equally between the front and rear wheels.

Traction control is also included but can be switched off if required.

The engine and manual change combination offer spirited performance with excellent ride and handling thanks to the European spec suspension.

There is a touch too much body roll during fast cornering – but hey it is a 4WD.

Unfortunately, we didn't get a chance to take Tucson off road but look forward to doing this in the near future.

However, with only 186mm of ground clearance there will not be too much rough stuff involved.

During testing we got about 500km from the 65-litre fuel tank or about 13.0L/100km – official figures put combined consumption at 11.0L/100km.

There is little missing from Tucson's equipment list.

Standard features include airconditioning, two airbags, power windows and mirrors, five three-point seatbelts, ABS with electronic brake force distribution, alloy wheels, cruise control, keyless entry, cargo area cover and elastic net, windscreen wiper de-icer, roof rails, fog lights and pollen filter.

Points of criticism include the seats that are somewhat shapeless and can be become uncomfortable on long journeys.

Reproduction from the six-speaker CD sound system, although it can play MP3s, is dull at low volumes.