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• New Tucson for Geneva auto show
• Redesigned exterior, interior
• New materials, improved safety
• Ix35 reverting to Tucson for SA
LONDON, England – Hyundai will debut the third-generation of its popular compact SUV at the 2015 Geneva auto show – the new Tucson.
The new SUV will make its South African debut at the 2015 Johannesburg International Motor Show in October. SA could however see the return of the Tucson badge as Hyundai states “there’s a strong possibility we’ll replace the ix35” nomenclature in 2015.
Hyundai renamed its Tucson the ix35 locally in 2010.
It measures 4.4m long (65mm longer), 1.8m wide (+30mm), 1.6 tall with a wheelbase of 2.6m (an increase of 30mm). The new model is built on a new platform and offers 513 litres luggage capacity with the seats up.
PETROL, DIESEL OPTIONS
The ix35 is available in Europe with two 1.6-litre petrol engines (100kW GDI or 130kW T-GDI) and three diesel options; 85kW 1.7-litre and two 2.0-litre units tuned to 100kW and 135kW respectively. Engines can be mated to either a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT) or a six-speed manual.
IMAGE GALLERY: 2015 Hyundai Tucson
Designer Peter Schreyer said: “Design expresses our progressive spirit and passion, and it is transforming our brand. The All-New Tucson has a bold and athletic presence achieved through refined, flowing surfaces, bold proportions, sharp lines and most importantly, our newest generation hexagonal grille – our brand signature. The front of the Tucson is dominated by Hyundai’s signature hexagonal grille and new LEDs.
"Overall the design is sportier than the outgoing model with assertive flanks, redesigned rear bumper and slim rear LEDs.
IMPROVED INTERIOR
The interior has been redesigned with soft-touch leathers, new materials, new centre console and optional red leather trim.It’s equipped with heatable and ventilated front seats, a powered tailgate and auto park assist.
According to Hyundai: “The new-generation satnav is more than three times faster than the previous version fitted in other Hyundai models and comes with a seven-year free subscription to TomTom LIVE services (subject to market specification).”
ACTIVE BONNET SYSTEM
In terms of safety, it’s equipped with an autonomous emergency braking system - automatic braking whenever it detects an unsafe closing speed with a person or vehicle ahead. Its active bonnet system raises the vehicle’s bonnet to cushion the impact shock in any frontal collision with a pedestrian or cyclist.
It also boast lane-keeping assist (corrects steering to avoid unintended lane departure), rear traffic cross alert, blind spot detection, speed limit reminder.
After making its public World Premiere at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, the All-New Tucson will go on sale in Europe during the second half of 2015.
