While the Chinese invasion of our markets are still ongoing, you would have thought the Korean's would have surrendered to their fellow continental counterparts in battle but it doesn't seem like the case. Hyundai have long been firm favourites from the Korean's and their range has grown significantly over the years offering mainly SUV's but in almost every segment. Having tested the new SanteFe earlier this year, it was refreshing to see what Hyundai have planned for their new vehicles and they are firmly ready to take on the Chinese with some of their advancements in technology and power plants in their cars. Only recently have we started to get some diesel offerings from the likes of Haval but Hyundai have had this covered for a while now, I got to spend some time in the new Hyundai Tucson 2.0 Diesel, having test driven the exact same model in 2022, I was keen to see what has changed, here are my thoughts on the car.
DESIGN
While the overall design of the Tucson remains largely the same from 2022, there has been some cosmetic tweaks to give it more character. There's more bulk and sharper edges to the new Tucson and it has a modern, slightly angular refresh with sharper grille details, revised bumpers and updated daytime running lights. The result is a confident compact-SUV look that reads more premium than its price suggests especially in higher trims where larger alloys and sportier exterior cues lift the visual appeal. The design balances on-trend styling with practical details, the large profile tyres with the alloy wheels give it a sporty stance but knowing it can perform well on gravel as well. I love the mix of materials and colours on the exterior, it gives off premium vibes but with minimal pricing.
PERFORMANCE
The engine remains the same as previous with some tweaks but the 2.0 CRDi still produces 137kW and 416 Nm of torque low in the rev range delivers easy, relaxed overtaking and solid in-gear flexibility ideal for highway cruising and towing/light loads. The 8-speed automatic keeps the engine in its usable band and contributes to composed, non-fussy progress. Hyundai claim real-world economy combined figure of 7.4 L/100 km which is more than easily achievable, but the thing with this car is the torque, it just fly's off the start and it becomes addictive so I found myself driving in economy mode most of the time as some Golf drivers thought I was racing them off the line! The torque isn't just for racing cars off the line but makes city traffic and hills effortless, while the gearbox is tuned for smoothness not rapid shifts. If you value brisk performance (0–100 km/h in the low-to-mid 9s is quoted for diesel exec), this is acceptable but not sports-car quick.
COMFORT
Hyundai’s updated Tucson interior is one of its stronger points: a panoramic, curved display (12.3-inch infotainment + digital instrument cluster on upgraded trims), cleaner centre console with conventional knobs, and improved fit-and-finish versus earlier generations. Leather upholstery, heated seats and better acoustic insulation are available on Executive/N Line grades, making longer highway stints more relaxing. Practical touches (USB-C ports, decent rear legroom, 60/40 split seats) mean day-to-day family use is comfortable and sensible. South African reality check: Road noise and suspension harshness are mitigated in higher trims thanks to improved insulation, but lower spec cars may still transmit coarse surfaces; for frequent long trips choose Executive/N Line or fit higher-quality tyres. The refreshed Tucson packs modern safety aids on upgraded trims: blind-spot detection, rear occupant alert, improved driver-assistance packages and a larger infotainment cluster with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on some levels. These upgrades bring the Tucson in line with segment expectations and improve both day-to-day usability and occupant safety. Good usable rear seat space for two adults; boot space is competitive for the class (fold-flat rear seats expand cargo versatility).
VERDICT
The Hyundai Tucson 2.0 diesel is a very sensible, well-rounded compact SUV for South African conditions especially if you do regular highway miles, tow occasionally, or want strong in-gear performance. The diesel engine’s torque, combined with an 8-speed auto and the availability of AWD in the N Line, makes it practical and composed in real-world use. The interior refresh and upgraded tech raise its perceived value and comfort to near premium level, which is important in this class. If your usage is mostly long-distance commuting, weekend trips or you value low-rpm torque for hills and towing, the 2.0D Executive is likely the best value pick; pick the N Line AWD if you want top trim kit, a sportier look and extra traction. The most surprising thing about this new model is that since 2023, the price has only gone up R4,000! With all these extra tech that is damn impressive pricing strategy by Hyundai.
SPECIFICATIONS
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