Hyundai refines sport ute Tucson for 2016

Continuing Hyundai's Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design theme that debuted on the 2015 Genesis, 2016 Tucson employs refined aesthetics with sculpted body forms and sporty contours for an athletic, bold and striking appearance.

The front is dominated by a hexagonal-shaped grille - a key element of Hyundai's design signature, enhanced by available high-efficiency LED twin-projector headlights, LED headlight accents and integrated LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs).

Tucson's wheelbase increases by more than an inch, for enhanced design proportions, interior flexibility and a smoother ride.

The Tucson offers a host of advanced safety features including a Lane Departure Warning system, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross-traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist, Backup Warning Sensors and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB).

From the rear, a Z-shaped character line above the rear wheel accentuates an aggressive, sporty side profile. The taillights also apply LED technology, twin, bevel-cut chrome exhaust tips and a standard rear spoiler add even more sporty cues.

The new Tucson offers a Smart Power Liftgate with auto-open that enables the owner to open the rear liftgate, hands-free, by simply standing within a few feet of the liftgate for a few seconds with the key fob in a pocket or purse. The rear liftgate opening has been enlarged in every dimension, for greater cargo flexibility.

Base models offer the Nu engine family, 2.0-liter, direct-injected four-cylinder with 164 horsepower and 151 lb.-ft. of torque, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission.

EPA fuel economy for the 2.0L FWD model is rated at 23 (city), 31 (highway), 26 (combined).

Eco, Sport and Limited models offer the new Gamma engine family, 1.6-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder with 175 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. Peak torque delivery starts at only 1,500 rpm and holds through 4,500 rpm, for low-RPM responsiveness and performance in everyday driving conditions.

The turbo engine is coupled to a new, seven-speed EcoShift dual-clutch transmission. This offers outstanding efficiency with quick, seamless shifting and brisk acceleration. When compared with continuously-variable transmissions, this DCT is able to handle more torque with minimal power interruption throughout the powertrain operating range.

EPA fuel economy for the turbocharged powertrain on Eco FWD models is 26 (city), 33 (highway), 29 (combined). Sport and Limited FWD turbo engine models are rated at 25 (city), 30 (highway), 27 (combined).

2016 Tucson will offer an advanced AWD system that includes a driver-selectable AWD lock that allows a torque split between front and rear wheels. It also includes Active Cornering Control and both Hillstart Assist and Downhill Brake Control.

The Tucson features the world's first shock-absorber mounting structure. This employs a dual-reinforcing panel rear wheelhouse design, which optimizes panels that are prone to vibration, resulting in a 109 percent increase in rigidity, reduced road noise levels and ride and handling improvements.

On the inside, a premium, wrapped instrument panel will be offered, with extra-wide instrument panel contours to enhance occupants' overall sense of interior roominess.

The new Tucson will offer a standard five-inch color LCD display with rearview camera and touchscreen function for intuitive operation. Apple Siri "Eyes Free" integration also is now available.

Interior touch points have been upgraded with premium, soft-touch materials. A stitched, soft-touch pad is located near the driver's right knee, for better comfort during long commutes or spirited cornering.

The 2016 Tucson offers several compact CUV segment firsts, including ventilated front seats and YES Essentials stain-resistant seats.

The 2nd row legroom has been increased from the previous model. The 60/40 rear seatbacks have a greater range of adjustable recline for varying combinations of passengers and cargo.

The 2016 Tucson is longer, wider and has a longer wheelbase than the previous model for greater interior volume and versatility. Overall, cargo room has been increased to 31.0 cubic feet (from 25.7), up more than five cubic feet over the previous model, with a dual-level rear cargo floor.