At the Los Angeles International Auto Show Hyundai has taken the wraps off its 2010 Tucson SUV for North America. The vehicle is also known as ix35 in Europe.
The 2010 model year Hyundai Tucson is 3.3 inches longer and one inch wider than its predecessor, thus the length of the vehicle is 71.7 inches and a height is 66.3 inches. According to the manufacturer the vehicle is 61 pounds lighter as well, which is due to the vehicle’s gas-sipping 2.4-liter Theta II four-cylinder engine, which replaces the current model’s 2.7-liter V6. The engine will be mated with a six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic transmission, when it arrives to the dealerships of the manufacturer.
The new engine produces 176 horsepower and 168 lb.-ft. of torque, which is more powerful but less torque than the current model’s 2.7-liter V6 that makes 173HP and 178 lb-ft. According to Hyundai the new Tucson is even more fuel-efficient than the four-cylinder versions of the Honda CRV, Nissan Rogue, Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape. The new four-cylinder unit with the six-speed automatic transmission and front wheel drive returns 23 mpg city / 31 mpg highway compared to the current Tucson FWD Auto’s 18mpg / 24mpg respectively. The All-Wheel Drive Tucson delivers an estimated 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway.
As it is known the Hyundai will introduce an even more fuel efficient Blue model in 2011, which will come with a Theta II 2.0-liter engine, with better power and fuel economy.
2010 Hyundai Tucson features a four-wheel coil springs, fade-resistant dampers, MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear suspension, as well as hill assist and Downhill Brake Control.
According to the information available the 2010 Tucson will arrive at the dealerships around the country before the end of December with pricing expected to start under $20,000.
