Overview

The Tucson is a budget 4x4 that majors on value for money and generous equipment. That’s not to say it isn’t capable off road and the four-wheel drive versions can cope surprisingly well with tough terrain. But it’s on the tarmac where the Hyundai is really designed to spend the majority of its time. Here it is comfortable enough and handles well in corners with good body control, although the suspension is firm which is noticeable in town and over rough roads.

There’s a good diesel engine available, which is just as well as the petrols are underpowered and thirsty. The model was slightly facelifted for 2009 while a two-wheel drive version was also introduced.