The 2016 Tucson provides a new powertrain with improved efficiency. The base model offers a new 2.0 L direct injection 4-cylinder Nu engine that delivers 164 hp and 131 lb-ft of torque, complete with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 6-speed offers Shiftronic manual shift mode and includes an overdrive lockup converter for better fuel economy at highway speeds.
EPA fuel economy for the 2.0 L FWD model is rated at 23/31/26 mpg city/hwy/combined.
The powertrain noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) has been reduced through hydraulic transmission mounting and re-calibrated engine mounts.
The Eco, Sport, and Limited models offer the new 1.6 L turbo-4 Gamma engine that delivers 175 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. Peak torque delivery starts at only 1,500 rpm and holds through 4,500 rpm.
The turbocharger features “low-inertia turbo spooling response characteristics and electronic wastegate control for more precise control of manifold pressure.”
EPA rates the powertrain on Eco FWD model at 26/33/29 city/hwy/combined, while Sport and Limited FWD turbo engine models are rated at 25/30/29.
The 2016 Tucson has a larger interior with more premium materials than previous models. Inside, Tucson offers a premium wrapped instrument panel with extra wide instrument panel contours to enhance the occupants’ overall sense of roominess. The stitched, soft touch pad is located near the driver’s right knee. This really provided me some super comfort during long drives or while sitting in backup traffic. The sunroof that allows for both front and rear passenger day or night view was not standard on my drive vehicle, but a part of a package that adds an additional $1200.
The new Tucson is 3-inch longer and over 1-inch wider with a 1.2-inch increase in wheel size than previous models. Cargo room with seats up is now 31.0 cu ft. Dual level rear cargo floor adds even more storage space.
The rear liftgate opening has been enlarged in every dimension for greater cargo flexibility. The 60/40 split rear seatbacks have a greater maximum recline of 37-degrees over the previous 28-degrees.
The new Tucson offers a standard 5-inch color LCD display with rearview camera and touch screen functions. Apple Siri “Eyes Free” integration is also available on the navigation side; popular apps such as Pandora Internet radio and Yelp are already integrated with the multimedia system.
My favorite feature was the advanced AWD system jointly developed with Magna Powertrain. The system has a driver-selectable AWD lock that allows a differential torque split between front and rear wheel for off road, extremely bad conditions. The system also includes Active Cornering Control, which automatically transfers torque to the wheels with the most traction. The system reduces understeering and enhances cornering performance by braking the inside rear wheel and delivering more torque to the outside rear wheel, providing a “torque vectoring effect.”
Outside, Tucson has LED taillights which serve as a premium design element and enhances visibility from the rear.
The Z-shaped character line above the rear wheel accentuates a sporty, aggressive profile. Roof rails are sleek and low profile for a clean, yet practical, appearance.
The 19-inch alloy wheels are offered with a dynamic spoke design, housed in forward-raking wheel arches. The front is dominated by hexagonal-shaped grilles that enhance highly available efficiency.
LED twin projector headlights accents and integrated LED running lights add to the ensemble. Even LED door handles are available.
The 2016 Tucson offers several compact SUV segment firsts, including ventilated front seats, HID headlights with dynamic bending light that turn-in with the direction of the steering wheel, LED map lights, colored LCD cluster, individual tire monitoring, and power passenger and heated rear seats.
The 2016 Tucson is expected to receive a Top Safety Rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety when equipped with advanced safety technology such as Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection. Other items like Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist, Back up Warning Sensors and standard rearview camera are also components of the available safety technology.
Advanced high-strength steel represents over 50 percent of the new Tucson structure for enhanced strength.
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected]
Prices
2.0L FWD $22,700.
2.0L AWD $24,100.
1.6T FWD $25,500-$29,900.
1.6T AWD $25,500-$31,300.
