New 2015 Hyundai Tucson - prices, specs and release date

Hyundai has revealed its all-new Hyundai Tucson mid-size SUV, reviving a model name that hasn’t been used in the UK since 2009. It’ll replace the ix35 SUV, which has been a relatively strong seller for the Korean brand.

Tony Whitehorn, the president and CEO of Hyundai Motor UK, said: “The outgoing model, ix35, is our second-best seller in the UK this year, which just proves how critical this sector is for our brand. Tucson will look to develop this success, thanks to its striking design and the enhanced level of technology and equipment it offers our customers.”

The Tucson is Hyundai’s latest attempt to rival the popular Nissan Qashqai, along with other crossover SUVs like the Kia Sportage and Ford Kuga. It’s also all-new underneath – the Tucson isn’t just a refreshed version of its predecessor.

New 2015 Hyundai Tucson design

It’s fair to say that the new Hyundai Tucson is a sharper, more athletic-looking crossover compared to the outgoing ix35. When the SUV was revealed at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, it was clear that Hyundai’s design team had worked hard to make the Tucson less chubby than its predecessor.

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Hyundai’s new grille shape has already been seen on a lot of its models, namely the i30 hatchback and i40 saloon. It features large chunks of chrome and thick horizontal vents. Straight-edged headlights complete the look and daylight-running LEDs are found on a lower crease on the front bumper.

There’s black plastic cladding on the lower edges of the bumpers and side skirts, which gives the Tucson some rugged appeal, while attractive turbine-like alloy wheels can also be specified.

Interior and specifications

The interior has stepped up in terms of overall fit and finish, as softer plastics and more robust materials litter the dashboard. The button layout has also been redesigned to make it tidier and more logical.

All trim levels have DAB digital radio, Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB and MP3 player ports, alloy wheels, automatic headlights and air conditioning.

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If you choose the SE model, larger alloy wheels, heated front seats, climate control, rear parking sensors and lane-keeping assistance are thrown in. SE Nav adds an eight-inch touchscreen satellite navigation system and road-sign recognition.

Premium offers a selection of bonus safety kit like autonomous emergency braking and blind spot detection along with luxuries such as leather seats, all-round parking sensors and heated rear seats. Premium SE throws in keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof and a ‘smart’ electric tailgate. Automatic versions also have a parking assistance system.

Engines

From launch, there’ll be two petrol and three diesel engines available for the new Hyundai Tucson. The petrol choices are a 130bhp 1.6-litre and a 175bhp turbocharged version. Emissions ratings for the petrol models mean annual tax bills of £145 and £225 respectively.

As for the diesels, the most economical is the 115bhp 1.7-litre, as it emits just 119 grams per kilometre of CO2; road tax will be just £30. There are also 135 and 183bhp 2.0-litre diesels, which can be equipped with four-wheel-drive.

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You have the choice of either a six-speed manual, a regular automatic or a dual-clutch automatic with shift paddles on the steering wheel.

In terms of running costs, fuel economy figures aren't class leading. However, you can achieve up to 61.9mpg in the Tucson's most efficient form, and Hyundai are claiming that the Tucson will keep a hold of more of its value after three years than the Hyundai ix35 that it replaces. Hyundai also claims that the new Tucson will hold 2% more of its value than "the closest competitor".

Price and release date

The all-new Hyundai Tucson will be priced from £18,695 and will go on sale in September.

Check out our full review of the new Tucson SUV here.

For more Hyundai reviews, including the outgoing ix35, visit Carbuyer’s review page.

Full price list:

GDi models are equipped with petrol engines, while the CRDi versions have diesels.