Hyundai Tucson (04-09) - Review

Review by David Ross on
The Tucson is a budget 4x4 that majors on value for money and generous equipment. That's not to say it isn't capable off road and the four-wheel drive versions can cope surprisingly well with tough terrain. But it's on the tarmac where the Hyundai is really designed to spend the majority of its time. Here it is comfortable enough and handles well in corners with good body control, although the suspension is firm which is noticeable in town and over rough roads. There's a good diesel engine available, which is just as well as the petrols are underpowered and thirsty. The model was slightly facelifted for 2009 while a two-wheel drive version was also introduced.
3 out of 5

Buying used

It isn't as common on the used market as the Toyota RAV4 or Suzuki Grand Vitara, but there are plenty of Tucsons around. The diesel is the better engine in the range, but if you only intend on covering few miles then the petrol makes more sense. It's not a car that's likely to have actually been off road, but it's still worth checking for any scrapes underneath.

See 121 used Hyundai Tucsons for sale, starting at £4,495

3 out of 5

Selling

The diesels will command more than the petrol versions and you could struggle to sell a V6 model. The Tucson badge isn't as well known as other compact offroaders, so emphasise the generous equipment levels and five-year warranty to create interest.