Tue | Nov 26, 2024

Driving the 2023 Hyundai Tucson Diesel: A mixture of efficiency and style

Published:Sunday | October 15, 2023 | 12:05 AMKareem LaTouche - Automotives Coordinator
The 2023 Hyundai Tucson blends style and functionality seamlessly, making a statement on and off the road.
The 2023 Hyundai Tucson blends style and functionality seamlessly, making a statement on and off the road.
Advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring ensure peace of mind on every drive.
Advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring ensure peace of mind on every drive.
With fold-down rear seats and ample cargo space, the Tucson is ready for all your adventures, big or small.
With fold-down rear seats and ample cargo space, the Tucson is ready for all your adventures, big or small.
The 2-litre diesel engine in the Tucson offers a powerful performance while keeping fuel consumption in check.
The 2-litre diesel engine in the Tucson offers a powerful performance while keeping fuel consumption in check.
Step inside the Tucson and experience a world of connectivity and comfort with its cutting-edge infotainment system.
Step inside the Tucson and experience a world of connectivity and comfort with its cutting-edge infotainment system.
Experience the joy of driving with the Tucson’s well-tuned suspension and responsive handling, turning every trip into an adventure.
Experience the joy of driving with the Tucson’s well-tuned suspension and responsive handling, turning every trip into an adventure.
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The 2023 Hyundai Tucson Diesel is a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to innovation, design, and performance. With a powerful 2-litre diesel engine, this SUV redefines the driving experience, offering a nice blend of efficiency, style, and cutting-edge technology.

Design: A Bold Evolution

The 2023 Tucson Diesel boasts a striking and bold exterior design that makes a lasting impression on the road. Its redesigned front grille, featuring Hyundai’s signature cascading pattern, sets the tone for a dynamic presence. Sleek LED headlights seamlessly integrate with the grille, creating a futuristic and elegant look.

From the side, the Tucson Diesel showcases its aerodynamic profile with sculpted lines and a gently sloping roofline. The 18-inch alloy wheels not only enhance its aesthetic appeal, but also improve overall stability and handling.

Interior Elegance

Moving inside, the Tucson Diesel offers a refined and spacious cabin that reflects Hyundai’s commitment to comfort and functionality. The use of nice materials and attention to detail are evident throughout the interior. There is also a wireless charging station at the base of the centre console and multiple storage bins for drinking bottles and small items like purses and cellphones.

The seats are well-padded and provide excellent support, ensuring a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. Available options include leather upholstery and power-adjustable seats for added luxury. The version I tested had perforated leather with thigh adjustment.

The infotainment system features a large 10.25-inch touchscreen display with crisp graphics. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making connectivity a breeze. The digital instrument cluster provides essential driving information in a clear and intuitive manner. The traditional canopy that covers this cluster is noticeably absent, however, the brightness of the screen still makes it visible in the day.

The Tucson Diesel offers ample cargo space, making it practical for daily commutes and family trips. With the rear seats up, the Tucson Diesel typically offers around 38.7 cubic feet (approximately 1,097 litres) of cargo space. The rear seats can be easily folded to accommodate larger items, and the cargo capacity expands significantly. You can expect approximately 74.8 cubic feet (about 2,118 litres) of space.

2-Litre Diesel Engine

The heart of the 2023 Tucson Diesel is its 2-litre diesel engine, engineered for both power and efficiency. I have always loved the diesel engine used by Kia and Hyundai, as it is one of the most impressive ones out there. Producing a commendable 186 horsepower and a substantial 400 Nm of torque, this engine delivers robust performance whether you are navigating city streets or tackling off-road adventures.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the standout features of the Tucson Diesel is its impressive fuel efficiency, I was able to get 12.2 L/100 km in heavy Kingston traffic and half that for out of town. With advancements in diesel technology, Hyundai has managed to strike an ideal balance between power and economy.

Driving Dynamics

The Tucson Turbo Diesel offers a smooth and composed ride, with a suspension system that tips towards the firm side, or it could be that the tires had too much air in them. It handles corners with confidence and provides a comfortable experience even on rough terrain. The all-wheel-drive system ensures stability in various driving conditions, making it a versatile choice for drivers.

The Tucson Diesel with its 2-litre engine is a remarkable SUV that combines stunning design, a luxurious interior, and a rewarding driving experience. It is a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to providing consumers with a vehicle that excels in both style and substance. Whether you are seeking fuel efficiency for your daily commute or adventure-ready capabilities, the Tucson Diesel delivers on all fronts, making it a top contender in the competitive SUV market.

Price of tested model: $7.5m

Engine: 2-litre turbo Diesel

Torque: 6 Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission: FWD or AWD:

Fuel tank: 55 litres

Gas consumption: 12.2 L/ 100 km (city), 6.6 L/ 100 km (highway)

Body Type: Compact SUV

Competition: Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester, Kia Sportage, Volkswagen Tiguan

Vehicle was provided courtesy of Magna Motors Dealership LTD, 630-1511 / 577-3607 www.hyundaijamaica.com