Hyundai Tucson Platinum Diesel AT

About Hyundai Tucson Platinum Diesel AT

Buying a new car is a big decision, right? You think about so many things: how much it will cost, is it safe for my family, will it burn a hole in my pocket with monthly maintenance, does it have all the cool new features, and what about after-sales company service? These are all super important questions. And when you are looking for a premium SUV that ticks all these boxes, one name often comes up: the Hyundai Tucson. Specifically, today we are going to deep dive into the new Hyundai Tucson Platinum Diesel AT. Is this the perfect premium SUV for you and your family in India? Let us find out!

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: 2.0 L CRDi Diesel engine
• Maximum Power: 186 PS (137 kW) at 4000 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 416 Nm at 2000-2750 rpm
• Transmission: 8-speed Automatic Transmission
• Fuel Efficiency (ARAI): Approximately 18 km/l (as per ARAI, actual mileage may vary based on driving conditions)

Design Overview

The Hyundai Tucson truly stands out with its unique design philosophy, which Hyundai calls Parametric Dynamics. It is designed to be bold, modern, and turn heads wherever it goes.

Exterior

• The front grille is a showstopper, featuring integrated DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) that blend seamlessly into the grille when turned off. It is a bold, futuristic look that gives the Tucson a distinct identity.
• Sharp, angular lines and creases across the body give it a very dynamic and aggressive stance.
• Stylish 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels enhance its premium appeal and fill the wheel arches well.
• The rear boasts striking LED tail lamps connected by a full-width light bar, making it instantly recognisable, even from a distance.

Interior

• Step inside, and you are greeted by a modern, upscale cabin. The design is clean, minimalist, and very driver-focused, giving a feeling of spaciousness.
• High-quality materials are used throughout, giving a premium and luxurious feel.
• The dashboard features a seamless, horizontal layout with twin 10.25-inch screens for infotainment and the digital instrument cluster, creating a high-tech ambiance.
• Ample space for five passengers, with comfortable seating and good legroom, especially for rear passengers, making long journeys relaxing.

Key Features

The Tucson Platinum Diesel AT is loaded with tech and comfort features designed to enhance your driving and passenger experience:

• Infotainment System: A large 10.25-inch HD touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
• Connectivity: Hyundai Bluelink connected car technology with over 60 smart features, including remote control and safety alerts.
• Sunroof: A large panoramic sunroof that lets in a lot of light and air, making the cabin feel even more open.
• Parking & Safety: 360-degree camera for easy parking and enhanced awareness in tight spots.
• Convenience: Wireless phone charging for hassle-free device charging, and dual-zone automatic climate control for individual temperature settings.
• Comfort: Ventilated and heated front seats for year-round comfort, and an 8-way power adjustable driver seat for finding the perfect driving position.
• Audio: A premium Bose sound system (available in some variants) for an immersive audio experience.
• Smart Power Tailgate: Opens automatically when you stand near it with the key, making loading and unloading easy.

What is the Ground Clearance of Hyundai Tucson?

The Hyundai Tucson offers a respectable 192 mm of ground clearance. This is quite good for tackling diverse Indian road conditions, including speed breakers and moderate potholes, with ease and confidence.

What is the Boot Space of Hyundai Tucson?

The Tucson comes with a generous boot space of 540 litres. This is ample room for your weekend luggage, multiple large suitcases for longer trips, or even significant grocery hauls, making it very practical for families and travel enthusiasts.

What are the Dimensions of Hyundai Tucson?

• Length: 4630 mm
• Width: 1865 mm
• Height: 1665 mm
• Wheelbase: 2755 mm

Powertrain Options

While our focus today is on the powerful diesel variant, it is good to know that the Hyundai Tucson also offers a petrol engine option in India, providing choices for different preferences:

• 2.0 L Petrol Engine: Produces 156 PS and 192 Nm torque, paired with a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission.
• 2.0 L Diesel Engine: (As detailed above) Produces 186 PS and 416 Nm torque, paired with a highly efficient 8-speed automatic transmission.

Safety Features

Hyundai has packed the Tucson with advanced safety features to ensure peace of mind for all occupants, making it a very secure choice:

• Airbags: 6 airbags (front, side, curtain) as standard, offering comprehensive protection.
• Braking & Stability: ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC) for enhanced control in various driving situations.
• Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) - Hyundai SmartSense (Level 2 ADAS): This is a standout feature providing active safety. It includes:
  • Forward Collision Warning and Avoidance Assist (for cars, pedestrians, cyclists, and junction turning)
  • Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Avoidance Assist
  • Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist
  • Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
  • High Beam Assist
  • Driver Attention Warning
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
  • Safe Exit Warning
• Other Safety: Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to alert you about tire pressure issues, and ISOFIX child seat mounts for secure child seat installation.

NCAP Rating Table

As of now, the current generation (fourth generation) Hyundai Tucson sold in India has not been officially crash-tested by Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP. Therefore, a specific rating for the India-spec model is not available in these independent tests.

However, it is important to note that Hyundai vehicles generally score well in various safety assessments globally. The Tucson comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features, including Level 2 ADAS, which significantly enhances occupant protection and accident prevention.

Rivals of Hyundai Tucson Platinum Diesel AT

The Hyundai Tucson competes in a tough and competitive premium SUV segment in India. Its main rivals, offering similar features and positioning, include:

• Jeep Compass
• Citroen C5 Aircross
• Volkswagen Tiguan
• Tata Harrier / Safari (some higher variants)

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let us weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the Hyundai Tucson Platinum Diesel AT:

Advantages (Pros)

• Stunning Design: The Parametric Dynamics design is fresh, unique, and truly turns heads, making it stand out from the crowd.
• Feature-Rich Cabin: Loaded with premium comfort and convenience features like a panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS, ventilated and heated seats, and dual 10.25-inch screens.
• Refined Diesel Engine: The 2.0 L diesel engine is powerful, incredibly refined, and offers excellent torque for effortless city and highway driving.
• Comfortable Ride Quality: The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps well, providing a plush and comfortable ride, especially on longer journeys and varied road surfaces.
• Spacious Interior: Ample room for five passengers and a large 540-litre boot makes it a very practical and family-friendly SUV.
• Hyundai Service Network: Hyundai boasts an extensive and reliable service network across India, providing peace of mind for maintenance and repairs.

Disadvantages (Cons)

• Premium Pricing: Positioned at the higher end of its segment, which might make it a significant investment for some prospective buyers.
• No AWD/4x4 Option: Unlike some rivals, the Tucson in India does not offer an All-Wheel Drive or 4x4 option, limiting its capabilities for serious off-roading.
• No Manual Transmission: Only automatic transmission options are available, which might not suit those who prefer the engagement and control of a manual gearbox.
• No Official NCAP Rating: The absence of an official crash test rating for the India-spec model from Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP might be a concern for some safety-conscious buyers.
• Fuel Efficiency (City): While highway mileage is good, city driving might see a dip in fuel economy, which is typical for a powerful diesel SUV of this size.

Conclusion

The new Hyundai Tucson Platinum Diesel AT is undeniably a strong contender in the premium SUV segment in India. It offers a unique and bold design, a feature-packed and comfortable cabin, a powerful and refined diesel engine, and a host of advanced safety technologies, including Level 2 ADAS. While its premium pricing and the lack of an official NCAP rating for the India-spec model might be points to consider, its overall package of style, substance, and Hyundai's reliable service network makes it a very appealing choice.

If you are looking for a sophisticated, comfortable, and technologically advanced SUV for your family, and are willing to invest in a premium driving experience, the Hyundai Tucson Platinum Diesel AT definitely deserves a spot on your test drive list. It is a fantastic option for those who want a blend of luxury, performance, and cutting-edge features in their next vehicle, offering a truly premium ownership experience in the Indian market.