All new for 2016, the Hyundai Tucson SE has larger backseats and greater cargo space due to the added length and width. I took my test model on a road trip to Carmel and I can tell you that it has a comfortable ride and is pretty fuel-efficient.
The 2016 Hyundai Tucson is a five-passenger compact crossover SUV offered in four trim levels: SE, Eco, Sport and Limited. This review will focus on the SE trim.
The base SE comes standard with the 2.0-liter engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, LED headlight accents, heated mirrors, privacy glass, a rear spoiler, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, a trip computer, stain-resistant cloth upholstery, a height-adjustable driver seat, 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks with recline, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a 5-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, a USB port, an auxiliary input jack and satellite radio.
My model also came equipped with the optional Preferred Package adding, LED daytime running lights, foglights, roof side rails, drivers auto down/up window, illuminated vanity mirrors, and glove compartment light.
A 2.0-liter four-banger propels the car with 164 horses and 151 pound-feet of torque. It comes in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (my model was FWD). A six-speed trany makes it all go. Mileage estimates are good with 23/city, 31/highway and 26/combined.
Standard safety items on the 2016 Hyundai Tucson include antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, active front head restraints, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, hill-hold assist and hill descent control.
Adult styling is the norm in the interior with a 5-inch touchscreen that’s easy to use with sharp virtual buttons and intuitive operation. Materials in the cab are a bit on the hard plastic side, but the seats are comfy even on a long trip. Back seat passengers won’t feel cheated as they have plenty of legroom.
The Tucson has a great capacity to carry stuff with 31 cubic feet with the back seats up and 61.9 cubic feet with them down.
The 2.0-liter engine in the Tscson SE won’t break any speed records but it will get you to where you want to go with minimal whining. Cornering is true and the ride is gentle.
When looking for a compact crossover with a little more style, give the 2016 Hyundai Tucson SE a test drive.
