2005 Hyundai Tucson GL 2.0 2WD / GLS 2.7 4WD Road Test

Style, Spunk and a Little Sass

As part of Hyundai's new 24/7 program, which consists of seven new vehicles in 24 months, the all-new Tucson is just one model

The all-new 2005 Tucson has now joined Hyundai's award-winning lineup. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, American Auto Press)

among several that are bringing the two-year plan to fruition. Also included on the list are the just-released 2005 Sonata and the upcoming, redesigned 2006 Accent. But why tamper with an already strong product line? To make it even stronger than it already is.

The all-new 2005 Tucson has already made waves, having topped the 2005 Strategic Vision Total Quality Study's small SUV segment, a study that evaluated the responses of over 40,000 new-vehicle owners who purchased their new 2005 vehicles during the October-November 2004 time period. According to the survey, "buyers were asked an extensive array of questions about their complete ownership experience including buying,

From its eccentric exterior to its impressive interior, the Tucson has has what it takes to make waves in its category. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, American Auto Press)

owning and driving their new vehicles." That's not too shabby.

This small SUV in itself isn't too shabby, either. From its eccentric exterior to its impressive interior, the Tucson has what it takes to compete in its category. It also has a choice of two trim levels, the GL 2.0 2WD and the GLS 2.7 4WD, with two different engines. My first test Tucson, the GL 2.0 2WD, came with the 2.0L, I4, CVVT DOHC engine and standard five-speed manual transmission, which produced 140 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 136 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm.

My other test Tucson, the GLS, came with the 2.7L, DOHC V6 engine and four-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic, which produced 173 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 178 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Having been impressed with both engines, it's a toss-up which one I'd choose.