Regular readers of my blog will know that we are on the hunt for the perfect family car and we are both loving SUV’s.
The initials SUV stand for sport utility vehicle, although they appear to be aimed more at the family car market these days.
We were invited to try the Hyundai Tucson Premium SE 1.6L T-GDI last weekend and it is fair to say this SUV has leapt to the top of Hubby’s wishlist after taking it to Bristol to pick Kian up from university – possibly because it was in his beloved Chelsea blue.
First of all, it is a lovely looking car both inside and out and and the doors give a lovely reassuringly solid thump as they close.
Inside feels really spacious and luxurious and the 8″ touchscreen centrepiece stands proud on a plinth, making it easier to see if you are using the satnav, rear parking camera or changing radio stations.
The infotainment system comes with Bluetooth, a USB socket and a DAB radio, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring and the car has wheel-mounted audio and phone controls for ease of use whilst driving.
Like most modern cars these days, there are large cupholders to hold your drinks on the go, or a couple of smartphones and clever wireless charging pads next to the USB socket which comes as standard on Premium and Premium SE models.
Our one disappointment with the Tucson is that it does not pass the three carseat challenge, however, you can just about fit a booster seat in the middle seat, but it is a tight squeeze. It has more than enough boot space for a buggy, shopping or suitcases (and Kian’s washing bag) with 513 litres to play with.
The rear seats can be folded flat or in a 60/40 split, which then increases the boot space to 1,053 litres.
What is the Tucson like to drive?
It is a very comfortable drive and I love that you are seated high over the road for some great views ahead of you.
It performed equally well on the winding Dorset roads as it did on the motorway and handled corners comfortably, even during a torrential downpour.
The Tucson is also equipped with Hyundai SmartSense driver assistance system which senses the road ahead with radar and a camera. The (AEB) system automatically brakes when it detects sudden braking by the car or a pedestrian ahead, initially warning the driver visually and acoustically, then it controls the brake according to the collision danger stage and applies maximum braking force to avoid a collision. The system is activated when a vehicle or a pedestrian is sensed in front of the car, operating at speeds of 7 mph or above and thankfully we didn’t have to test it.
The car also comes with automatic lights, which came on when we hit a storm, plus it has high-beam assist which detects oncoming vehicles and vehicles in the same lane ahead and switches to low-beam as appropriate.
All in all, we both loved the Hyundai Tucson and it is a very reasonably priced SUV from £20,891, although I have seen offers locally for up to £5,000 off a ’68 plate. I think, however, due to the car seat issue, we may have to look at the Santa Fe, which is their seven seat option.
Disclaimer: We were given a Hyundai Tucson Premium SE 1.6L T-GDI to use for a weekend for the purpose of a review. All thoughts and opinions are our own
I used to work for Hyundai and have driven them for years now, currently on my second i800 and absolutely love them. They are a really great quality car and extremely good for the price too.
Aren’t cars clever these days, I love the sound of the SmartSense driver assistance system, I bet that is reassuring to have? The touchscreen looks a great feature too. It really looks smart inside and out too
I love how big the car boot space is and am currently looking to upgrade my smaller WV car to this, the SmartSense Driver Assistance sounds really useful as well.
Now that is a good looking car, I have to admit I’ve started to think over winter how good automatic lights would be, I see so many people without them on, it can be a bit scary when a car suddenly looms at you without them on. Love the colour of the SUV too!
SUVs are not the most good looking cars but they are very practical family cars. Hyundai tuscon is gorgeous though and spacious too.
It sounds like a really great car, and it sure is beautiful to look at! I can’t believe all the gadgets and technology is newer cars nowadays, it’s crazy! Although it does sound like a fantastic car, the 3 car seat issue would be a problem for me too x
That’s such a nice looking car and the little things like wireless phone chargers make such a difference x
It’s a shame that it doesn’t pass the three car seat challenge but I love the features with the USB port, and automatic light options. Hopefully the 7 seater option might be better for you.
This looks like the perfect car for a family! I especially love that it’s Hyundai, those cars last for years.
Xoxo – Elizabeth
http://www.akeenesenseofstyle.com
This car looks like it has many great features! I am not looking for a new car at the moment, but would keep this in mind for the future.
My parents have a Hyundai and couldn’t be happier! They are great cars and definitely good for families on a budget.
I like how it has got absolutely everything covered in the Infotainment section especially for Apple and Android, that is very clever x
I love the color! It sounds like a great car! Hatchbacks are great for traveling.
This looks like such a great vehicle! I always hear great things about hyundai. Good quality for a great price!
Great overview. I had never considered a Hundai – but you make it sounds and look super.
Good to know! I have not shopped for a Hyundai, but now I might have to check it out.
I love the look of this car, and it sounds like it would be perfect for some of my long journeys!
This car looks good! I think it’s interesting how SUVs have changed to the perfect family car.
Such a shame about the car seat issue as it otherwise sounds like a fab family car!
This looks like a great car. I really like the colour.
Oh wow this looks like a great SUV and perfect for a busy family who like to explore!! Would love a car like this
Laura x