Timeless thriller: Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi GLS

The Tucson was among the nameplates that Hyundai retained when the mother company decided to take over its distributorship in the Philippines. Such initiative is potent given that electrified mobility options are still very few at that time.

But given that the situation is now different wherein contenders in the compact sport utility vehicle are growing, can the Hyundai Tucson still be considered a potent offering in the local market?

Let’s check out the model’s CRDi GLS trim.

Dimension

The five-seater Hyundai Tucson CRDi GLS is 4,630 millimeters (mm) long; 1,865-mm wide; and 1,665-mm tall. It also has a wheelbase of 2,755 mm that passengers can comfortably occupy and a 181 mm ground clearance that gives a reasonable height above paved or unpaved terrains.

Such measurements would be ideal for small families of five or young professionals who go on frequent road trips outside the metro.

In addition, the wheelbase as well as the seating position give all occupants a comfortable space inside the vehicle.

Exterior

The Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi GLS is definitely a looker, thanks to its modern European design language. However, an update would be much appreciated since the model has been around for quite some time already.

At the vehicle’s front fascia are “parametric styled” grille in chrome with integrated daytime running lamps. The combination lamps (head and fog lamps) are housed in what seems like vents at the bumper portion.

Its side profile wears strong body lines at the sides which gives it a sophisticated diamond-cut appeal, with accents of piano black and chrome seen on the door panels as well as the B- and C pillars. Further, the 19-inch alloy wheels are attention-grabbing as well.

The sharp layout continues at the Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi GLS’ rear portion as seen in the connecting rear combination lamps as well as the jewel-like surfaces that makes the vehicle appealing to customers with a palette for futuristic motifs.

Giving the SUV a sporty appeal are the front and rear skid plates that are connected to the black claddings running on the sides, matching the angulated wheel arches.

Interior

While the outside is very expressive, the SUV's cabin exudes tranquility and calmness.

Occupants will be greeted avant-garde aesthetics made up of the light-colored portions such as the leather seats, center console, and door trimming, alongside the plastic dashboard panel, as well as the black details such as the multi-function steering wheels, piano black appointments at the infotainment housing and gear shift panel.

Breaking the monotony are the brushed aluminum servings found on the air-conditioning vents, as well portions of the steering wheel and the center console.

The dashboard also carries the 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster at the driver side and the eight-inch touchscreen audio system (Android Auto and Apple Carplay compatible) and is connected to a six-speaker set-up.  

Further, the driver seat gets power seats with lumbar support and the rear bench can be bent 60/40 with its remote folding mechanism.

Powertrain

As expected in a diesel engine, the Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi GLS can dish out powerful oomphs too.

Jumps during overtakes are sufficient, thanks to its Smartstream D2.0 powertrain matched to an eight-speed shift-by-wire automatic transmission with paddle shifters. This setup can let out as much as 183 horses and 416 Newton-meters of pulling power.

Additionally, the vehicle stops as much as it can gallop, thanks to its 16-inch disc brakes for all four wheels.

While it can be fast, the Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi GLS also sips less fuel when driven efficiently, thanks to the four drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, and Smart) outfitted in the Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi GLS.

After being driven for a total of 620 kilometers in a mix of city roads and long highway stretches, the vehicle recorded an 18.8 kilometers per liter (kpl) consumption. For comparison, the Honda CR-V RS e:HEV — a hybrid vehicle — did around 20 kpl after being driven relatively for the same distance.

Aside from its engine, fuel consumption figures may be attributed to the ideal gear ratio of the eight-speed slushbox. This also contributes to the reduced jerks when the vehicle needs to change gears — making it a very comfortable ride even in an urban setting.

Features

Hyundai is known for fitting a generous number of amenities inside the vehicle — Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi GLS included.

Effectively absorbing the bumps and ruts on the road are the McPherson Struts at the front and multi-link suspensions at the rear.

The SUV’s LED headlamps have a static bending feature and autolight control to make sure that the roads that one will drive on shall be well-lit.

Mobile devices will surely have ample juice as you step out of the vehicle as it has a pair of USB ports and wireless charging dock.

Safety and peace of mind is guaranteed by Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi GLS’ front, side, curtain, and front thorax airbags as well as its slew of advanced driver assistive features such as anti-lock braking system, with electronic brakeforce distribution, downhill brake control, hill start assist, trailer stability assist, parking distance warning, rear view monitor, manual speed limit among others.

Pros/Cons

Although its overall aesthetics serves as the main consideration why car buyers get the Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi GLS, some updates will surely be appreciated. After all, the currently-offered version has been around for some time already.

We loved that the interior was elegantly laid out. However, those who are eyeing to get this specific option that have little tykes or pets might have this in the backburner as the white interiors are prone to dirt.

Furthermore, we have nothing but praise for the vehicle’s powertrain arrangement as it can deliver fuel efficiency and power based on the driver’s preference.

Packaged with a five-year or 200,000-kilometer warranty, the Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi GLS’ price as of posting is at P1.84 million.

Photos from Ruben Manahan IV

Also read:

Spec-checking the stylish 2022 Hyundai Tucson