New for 2016
The Tucson is completely redesigned for 2016.
New and Improved
The 2016 Hyundai Tucson is completely redesigned for the new model year, making it more competitive than ever in the compact-crossover segment. The Tucson is restyled inside and out, but the changes are more than just skin deep. The new platform is more refined than ever, new powertrain options increase efficiency, and practicality remains suitably high for a utility vehicle. Add in Hyundai’s reputation for value, and the Tucson remains a compelling choice.
Powertrains and Performance
As part of its complete redesign for 2016, the Tucson gets new powertrain options that help boost efficiency, without leaving the driver wanting for more power.
Base models come with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 164 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Buyers can also choose a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, with 175 hp and 195 lb-ft. The naturally-aspirated engine is paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission, while the turbo engine gets a seven-speed dual-clutch unit. Both powertrains are offered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
With the 2.0-liter engine and front-wheel drive, the Tucson gets an EPA-rated 26 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 31 mpg highway),* while all-wheel drive versions get 23 mpg combined (21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway).* Front-wheel drive models equipped with the 1.6-liter engine get 27 mpg combined (25 mpg city, 30 mpg highway),* while all-wheel drive models get 26 mpg combined (24 mpg city, 28 mpg highway).*
In addition, Hyundai offers an efficiency-focused Tucson Eco with the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Various tweaks bump EPA-rated fuel economy to 29 mpg combined (26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway)* with front-wheel drive, and 27 mpg combined (25 mpg city, 31 mpg highway).*
The updated Tucson chassis also benefits from a 1.2-inch wheelbase stretch, which helps improve ride quality and linear stability. Other refinements include a 20-percent reduction in friction in the steering system, and larger engine mounts and redesigned suspension mounting points meant to reduce vibration. There’s also a Drive Mode Select feature that allows drivers to adjust different vehicle parameters, including steering feel, transmission shifting, and overall powertrain responsiveness.
Features and Trims
The 2016 Hyundai Tucson is a five-door, five-seat compact crossover. It’s offered in four trim levels, with prices starting at $22,700.**
The base Tucson model is the SE, which continues Hyundai’s tradition of offering a lot of standard equipment for a low price. It comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, projector headlights with LED accents, power-folding heated exterior mirrors, stain-resistant YES Essentials cloth seating surfaces, six-way power driver’s seat, a 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat, steering-wheel mounted audio, cruise, and Bluetooth® controls, and other features.
The Tucson Eco includes all of the applicable standard equipment from the SE, and adds the 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, LED daytime running lights, fog lights, outside mirrors with turn-signal indicators, roof rails, power lumbar support for the driver’s seat, and an illuminated glovebox.
The penultimate Tucson model is the Sport, which adds features like 19-inch alloy wheels, a power tailgate, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and proximity key entry. Finally, the Tucson Limited adds LED headlights (HID headlights are optional), LED taillights, extra chrome exterior trim, leather seats, a power passenger’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, Hyundai’s BlueLink 2.0 telematics system, and an 8.0-inch central touchscreen display with integrated navigation. Ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and heated rear seats are also optional on the Limited.
Design
The 2016 Hyundai Tucson gets a completely new look as part of its redesign. The exterior features the latest version of Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” design language, adapting the handsome look of the larger Santa Fe crossover and the Sonata sedan. The body grille and wheel-arch flares give the Tucson some SUV toughness, but the overall appearance is still very sleek and car like.
On the inside, the Tucson sports a comparably sophisticated design, with a contoured instrument panel meant to create a greater sense of space, a feeling backed up by an EPA-rated 102.2 cubic feet of passenger volume. Increased use of premium materials for a higher-quality feel, and an available infotainment system with 8.0-inch touchscreen satisfies the modern appetite for tech. There’s also a usable 31.0 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, and 61.9 cubic feet of space with the seats folded.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2016 Hyundai Tucson includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and six standard airbags. Optional features include blind-spot monitoring, lane change assist, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and backup warning sensors.
Bottom Line
The 2016 Hyundai Tucson maintains Hyundai’s reputation for good value, but adds an extra dose of style.
Be sure to contact us online or visit us at our dealership to schedule a test drive.
*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other dealer charges.
Image: Hyundai
