The Hyundai Tucson replaces the ix35, taking its name from the original proposal that marked Hyundai's entry into the compact SUV segment in 2004.
The compact SUV segment is buzzing. In Europe, countering the significant drop in sales that began with the crisis in 2008, resulting in less than four million units sold per year in 2013, compact SUVs doubled the number of sales. From half a million units exceeded in 2007 to 1 million in 2014. And in 2015 the pace does not seem to slow down.
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The importance of this segment is vital for Hyundai, with the ix35 representing more than 20% of the brand's total sales in Europe. In 2014, the ix35 had its best year ever, surpassing 90,000 units sold. It was the fourth best-selling model in the segment, with an unattainable Nissan Qashqai topping it, followed by the Volkswagen Tiguan and Kia Sportage, with which the ix35 shares its platform and mechanics. With new and potentially disruptive competitors coming to market like the Renault Kadjar, the successor to the ix35 is of critical importance.
The first novelty goes through the name. Hyundai recovers the Tucson name in Europe, aligning its name with the other markets where the model is sold.
Based on a new platform, which will be shared with the successor of the Kia Sportage, the new Hyundai Tucson grows slightly in all directions, except in height. The length is 4.47m, the width 1.85m, and the height decreases by 2cm, reaching 1.64m. The wheelbase extends by 3cm up to 2.67m. The increase in dimensions and more efficient packaging allow for more space for the occupants. The only data available so far is the luggage capacity – 513 liters – which makes it one of the largest in the segment.
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