Bought largely for flexibility, value and sensibility, the last-generation Hyundai Tucson was available to Canadian shoppers from 2005 to 2009 before its most recent update for the 2010 model year. Competing with the likes of the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape, Tucson was available with numerous drivetrain configurations, a competitive warranty and, perhaps most importantly, very attractive pricing.
Shoppers in the used market can check out Tucson with front or four-wheel drive, four or six-cylinder power and a manual or automatic transmission. Standard was a two-litre, 140-horsepower four-cylinder mill that drove the front wheels via a five-speed stick. A four-speed automatic was available, as was automatic All Wheel Drive (AWD).
The AWD system featured a locking mode for low-traction situations, and it was available almost exclusively with the V6 engine-- namely a 2.7 litre unit with 173 horsepower. Note that some rare models came in a four-cylinder, AWD, five-speed combination that was only produced for the 2006 model year.
Tucson’s automatic transmission was standard with the V6, which became less competitive as the model aged, since numerous competitors offered similar output figures from their four-cylinder engines.
Depending on the model selected, options included leather seating, alloy wheels, tinted glass, a sunroof, stability control, remote entry and air conditioning. Split-folding rear seats added flexibility for cargo-hauling jobs, and a special anniversary edition was available in front-drive trim towards the end of Tucson’s life, offering upgraded equipment including an in-dash navigation system and premium audio. Look for winter-busting heated wipers and mirrors, too.
Owners typically report the first-generation Tucson to be decent on fuel, relatively comfortable, flexible and well equipped relative to the price paid. Other plusses include a quiet ride, easy entry and exit, plenty of at-hand storage, good visibility and a commanding forward view. AWD-equipped models are said to be confident performers in the snow, too.
Complaints largely deal with a plain, underwhelming and cheaply-trimmed interior, old-school controls, and a lack of interior colour and flare. Some owners wish for more rear seat space, and others say the Tucson could use a bit more power-- especially referring to the four-cylinder models.
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| 2005 Hyundai Tucson (Photo: Hyundai) |
Shoppers in the used market can check out Tucson with front or four-wheel drive, four or six-cylinder power and a manual or automatic transmission. Standard was a two-litre, 140-horsepower four-cylinder mill that drove the front wheels via a five-speed stick. A four-speed automatic was available, as was automatic All Wheel Drive (AWD).
The AWD system featured a locking mode for low-traction situations, and it was available almost exclusively with the V6 engine-- namely a 2.7 litre unit with 173 horsepower. Note that some rare models came in a four-cylinder, AWD, five-speed combination that was only produced for the 2006 model year.
Tucson’s automatic transmission was standard with the V6, which became less competitive as the model aged, since numerous competitors offered similar output figures from their four-cylinder engines.
Depending on the model selected, options included leather seating, alloy wheels, tinted glass, a sunroof, stability control, remote entry and air conditioning. Split-folding rear seats added flexibility for cargo-hauling jobs, and a special anniversary edition was available in front-drive trim towards the end of Tucson’s life, offering upgraded equipment including an in-dash navigation system and premium audio. Look for winter-busting heated wipers and mirrors, too.
Owners typically report the first-generation Tucson to be decent on fuel, relatively comfortable, flexible and well equipped relative to the price paid. Other plusses include a quiet ride, easy entry and exit, plenty of at-hand storage, good visibility and a commanding forward view. AWD-equipped models are said to be confident performers in the snow, too.
Complaints largely deal with a plain, underwhelming and cheaply-trimmed interior, old-school controls, and a lack of interior colour and flare. Some owners wish for more rear seat space, and others say the Tucson could use a bit more power-- especially referring to the four-cylinder models.
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| 2005 Hyundai Tucson (Photo: Hyundai) |