2010 Hyundai Tucson Review – The Tucson 2010 is another large jump forward for Hyundai. This represents a major reworking of Hyundai’s well-known compact crossover car, which debuted as a 2005 model and has left substantially unmolested after that. Every part of Tucson continues to be redesigned, from interior to exterior, from chassis to powertrain.
The all new Tucson is very handsome, and although the rear is definitely a bit similar with the BMW X5 and renewed Subaru Tribeca, it’s an overall unique look amongst compact crossovers. Let me say, however, that the GLS trim level pictured at the top does not look quite as nice as the Limited model pictured at right, with its tastefully applied chrome trim around the grille.
If you like the look of the new Tucson on the outside, the interior is even better. Hyundai is becoming the one to take on interior quality at this price level. The 2010 Tucson ups the jewelry content with silver accents on the steering wheel and center console, plus expensive-feeling buttons on the nice dash. The interior panel fits are good, and the twin gauge tubes are sporty-looking and functional.
The Tucson 2010 gets only one engine option for 2010, a new 2.4 liter inline 4-cylinder with Continuously Variable Valve Timing, tuned to create 176 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque. GLS models can be purchased with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic; Limited models get the automatic only. Both trim levels can come with front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. Gas mileage is not really too shabby either, with estimated economy coming in at 23/31 MPG city/highway. Optional can be a new all-wheel-drive system which includes Hill Decent Control and Hill Start Control for any trips down scary dirt roads just outside of town.
Observe the auto reviewers mentioned regarding the Hyundai Tucson 2010
- About.com — Hyundai has definitely heard the marketplace, and has experienced the way to move forward. Now I’m impressed, and I like the 2010 Hyundai Tucson a lot more than I expected to as a result. It’s worth driving if you are looking for a compact crossover vehicle.
- Car and Driver — The Tucson can make strides in some areas and must have slight fixes in others to be a truly stand-out product inside of a hotly contested class.
- Autoblog — Although it is not our first choice in performance machines, the 2010 Hyundai Tucson might actually be our first choice if we needed a small crossover.
- Edmunds — For those who don’t quite need the maximum space of a RAV4 or CR-V (it’s about 15 cubes smaller in max cargo space), the Tucson can be a must drive if you are in the market.
- Jalopnik — So for buyers, the bottom line is the market just got more crowded with another worthy rival added to the field, but for Hyundai, it is going to be described as a dog fight.
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The pros and cons of the 2010 Hyundai Tucson
- + Gas mileage is superior to most gas-only SUVs
- + Spacious for 4 passengers
- + Competitive price and warranty
- + Smooth highway ride and powerful base engine
- - Road noise may disturb passengers
- - Some sub-par interior materials
- - A lesser amount of cargo space than other compact SUVs
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If you are considering a Tucson, you owe it to yourself to drive the competition. The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are the leaders. Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, Ford Escape, Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain and Mazda CX-7 each represent an alternative way to cut the cake. Your taste may vary. Please give your comment about this Hyundai Tucson review.
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