– By Henry Bailey –
When I picked up the Hyundai Tucson base model with the 2.0 litre petrol engine, I was disappointed at first to find a flip key that had to be inserted into the key barrel. After driving so many cars with buttons that open doors, started the engine and selected the gears, I had forgotten the original purpose of a car key.
After reminding myself that this model would be popular with fleet buyers, I changed gears using the traditional T-bar auto shifter, and started ticking off the list of features that are packed ointo this fantastic new mid-size SUV from Hyundai.
The Tucson comes in three specification levels:
- Tucson (A great fleet vehicle)
- Elite (Novated lease option for the family)
- Highlander (Novated lease option without compromise)
As an entry level, the Tucson model is very well equiped and would be perfect for someone to use during the week for work; and then practical for a family. The Elite and Highlander models come with the option of a diesel engine with AWD and more luxurious finishes. The most striking option is the N Line Pack which dramatically improves the look of all models for a modest price premium.
On the inside, the first thing I notice is the location of the volume dial; it’s on the passenger side. Why? Because the driver has controls on the steering wheel so the passenger should get easy access to the music. Not something you would consider when shopping for a new car but this little detail signals the effort that the designers put into the ergonomics of this car.
The next thing I notice is the fold in mirrors which are one of the Top 5 things to have in a fleet vehicle. If you’re getting in and out of the car multiple times a day for work, it’s easy to get distracted and wonder if you locked the car. A quick glance at the mirrors confirms it.
Wireless CarPlay is now the best feature in a new fleet car or novated lease. The new Tucson base model combines it with wireless charging to eliminate the cords and clutter which provides an unexpected sense of freedom. And the Hyundai designers have included perfectly sized spot in the console of the Tucson model for fleet drivers to put their phone while charging. But it’s only in the base model. The Elite and Highlander still need a cable.
Safety technology is now high on the Fleet Managers shopping list and every Tucson model includes Hyundai SmartSense which includes:
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCA)
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA – car/pedestrian/cyclist)
- with Junction Turning function (FCA-JX)
- Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA)
- Rear Parking Distance Warning (PDW)
- Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA)
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
- Rear Occupant Alert (ROA)
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Rear View Monitor (RVM)
When we review cars at FAN we use like a fleet driver would. Multiple appointments across the metro area with plenty of parking practice and lots of driving during peak hour. Then we consider how well the car transforms into a family taxi on the weekend. In every situation the Tucson performed brilliantly.
We also got to take the diesel AWD Tucson Highlander model for a spin so look out for our review on this one.
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