The 2014 Hyundai Tucson comes in three trims: the base-model GLS, the SE, and the Limited. The GLS is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder that delivers 164 horsepower and 151 ft-lb of torque. The Tucson SE and Limited, meanwhile, utilize a 2.4L 4-cylinder rated at 182 horsepower and 177 ft-lb of torque. Both engines have gasoline direct injection and continuously variable camshaft timing for responsiveness, without giving up efficiency. Hyundai has saved a lot of weight in the Tucson's body by using high-strength steel. Fuel economy ratings that were previously best-in-class are further improved thanks to the Active ECO System, which modifies engine and transmission controls to smooth throttle response. All Tucsons feature a 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual control, which has very smooth shifts while downshifting responsively.
Front-wheel drive is standard on the Tucson, though all-wheel drive is available on all models. The system sends power only to the front wheels in normal driving but sends more to the back as needed. It also has a 50/50 lock mode, which is ideal for slippery conditions such as snow or mud.
The Tucson has an absorbent ride and a quiet, refined interior feel, thanks to standard SACHS amplitude selective dampers and suspension arrangement that uses stabilizer bars front and back. Meanwhile, the electric power steering system varies its effort for various vehicle speeds and helps save fuel. The Tucson's turning circle of 34.7 feet is the best in its class, according to Hyundai.
Hyundai has, just as with its other vehicles, piled on the standard safety features. The list includes electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, Hillstart Assist Control and Downhill Brake Control for confidence on slippery slopes, front active head restraints, and a total of six airbags with both front side and full-length side-curtain airbags.
While the Tucson isn't much larger than other compact crossovers, its long wheelbase pays off with an especially roomy interior. The rear seat is quite spacious, with enough legroom for adults, and the front seats have additional seat track to accommodate tall drivers. Back seats are 60/40 split fold-down and include a two-stage reclining function. When folded forward, they lay flat for a large cargo area, and the Tucson has lots of smaller cubbies and compartments for everything from sunglasses to extra drinks.
The Tucson GLS starts at well under $22,000 and includes 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, tilt steering with steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, and a trip computer. The SE adds heated mirrors, automatic headlights, fog lights, 8-way power driver seat, leather trim, heated front seats, a 4.3-inch color touchscreen audio display, and a rearview camera. Finally, the Limited adds 18-inch alloys, chrome exterior accents, push-button start, dual automatic temperature control, leather seats, solar front glass, and a windshield wiper de-icer.
The Tucson Limited offers a Technology Package, which includes a navigation system with 7-inch touchscreen, 360-watt premium audio, LED taillights and a panoramic sunroof.
Class-leading Fuel Efficiency
Responsive Powertrains
Rear Passenger Space
Smooth Ride
Generous Standard Features
Safety Features
For 2014, the Hyundai Tucson receives two new engine options with gasoline direct injection. The 2.0L 4-cylinder produces 164 horsepower and 151 ft-lb of torque, while the 2.4L 4-cylinder makes 182 horsepower and 177 ft-lb of torque, up from last year's 176 horsepower. The implementation of direct injection provides a great balance between performance and fuel economy, with the 2.0 returning an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city, while the 2.4 returns 24 mpg combined. The bigger engine is also capable of towing up to 2,000 when properly equipped. The 5-speed manual transmission has been dropped, and all Tucson models now utilize a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual control.
Elsewhere, the Tucson gets new projector headlights with LED accents, plus LED taillights, standard amplitude selective dampers, new 17- and 18-inch alloy wheel designs, new interior colors, standard steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, two-stage reclining 60/40 split rear seats, standard Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, and more. Finally, the entry-level Tucson GLS offers all-wheel drive for the first time.
The Tucson has a lot going for it when matched up against the competition. With either available direct-injected engine, the Tucson has some of the highest combined and highway fuel economy ratings in its class. The Tucson has a longer wheelbase than its rivals yet has one of the shortest turning diameters, which keeps it settled and stable on the open road but also maneuverable in tight spaces. Hyundai also notes that there is more interior space than in some vehicles a class larger, while rear-seat legroom is class-leading.
