Hyundai Tucson (2004 - 2009) 2.0 CRDi Premium 5d (2009/09) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I feel free. The Coupe I used to own looked beautiful but was a pain. I'd had it lowered which made it awkward with speed bumps and made some roads/lanes inaccessible because of it. The Tucson has allowed me to relax more I think and hopefully when people see me they see a happy relaxed driver!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

My Dad (a Range Rover driver) loves it. Reminds him of the Gen1 Range Rover he used to own because its basic and does what it does exceptionally well. My wife like it too - when we were picking a 4x4 many had bulky steering columns which made it difficult to reach the pedals. The Tucson doesn't seem to affect her in the same way.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I wouldn't but only because I'd get something bigger and with a bit more oomph. But given the choice between this and an XTrail - I'd take the Tucson.

What are you likely to buy next?

Land Rover Freelander 2, Land Rover Defender - need to convince the wife!, Mitsubishi Shogun...

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£13,500

When did you buy the car?

October 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

The salesman remembered me from 3 years ago when I got my V6 Hyundai Coupe. Offered £500 more than the another garage and threw in lots of freebies including a free 20k service.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I had the prospect of 2 dogs on the way and with an expanding range of camping equipment I needed a bit more room. I'd decided on a 4x4 as I'd been brought up on them as a kid. Tried several ones including Jeep Patriot, Nissan X Trail, Jeep Grand Cherokee etc. Tucson fitted the bill perfectly.

What was the dealer like?

Very friendly and I will return to them first before going elsewhere.

What's it like to drive?

Why is it that people compare 4x4s to normal cars. They aren't saloons or sports cars - they are big and wallow. The Tucson is no different but it does have nice road manners. I keep it to 70 mph and its very comfortable.

What's it like to park?

Very easy for a biggish car. The parking sensors work well and the mirrors provide ample image.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing. Although it does continue the heritage of rubbish Hyundai stereos. I've replaced it with an Alpine one.

What's most practical about your car?

It's got masses of space. The 4x4 is such a benefit. A couple of weeks after owning it I had to go and collect my new dog from 20 miles away. This was the day of all the snow in 2010. I set out early through a deserted Surrey and it didn't falter once in deep snow. The way home was far trickier as the snow had stopped so every idiot in 2WD was trying to get somewhere and blocked the roads!

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Tempted to say 4x4 but frankly its the tarp I rolled up and attached to the back of the rear seats using a couple of carabiners. Essential for when taking muddy stuff from the allotment! And then it rolls up neatly again.