Hyundai's new Tucson looks ready Tu chew the competition.

What is it?
Hyundai's third generation of the mid-size SUV brings a new look, updated technology and less weight.

Oh great, another good looking car...
Well... indeed. But the new euro-styling, combined with neat lines, distinctive grille and a more aggressive face, it's a SUV that looks like it's seriously ready to rock, unlike the slightly cute-ish face of the outgoing predecessor.

Ok, it looks good then, what about the inside?
An updated cabin design brings new material choices and feels good to the touch. Sure, there are a few quibbles, such as the cheap looking front seat back net pockets, but overall, its one big step forward for the Koreans.

The interior design may look dated when compared to modern Japanese rivals but most importantly, it don't look or feel cheap and most of the switchgear operated with a quality tactile feel.

Built on a new platform that allows for more space for everyone, the interior now feels much more airy. The second seat row can fold flat with one tug, plus they can recline if you stow the cargo cover. Crucial for those long distance marathon drives that most of these SUVs will see in their life.

Equipment list?
Where do we begin? It has LED headlights, a beeeeg sunroof, cruise control, keyless entry, powered tailgate, a rear view camera (with the display cleverly hidden in the rear view mirror), blind spot indicator, ventilated front seats, two-zone climate control, downhill brake control and brake auto hold for those slopey situations.

It would be nice if it had an entertainment system to match all these goodies. It's a 'basic' unit that features bluetooth connectivity AUX and a USB port' basic you say?

So far so good. Is the drive just as good?
It's surprisingly willing to chew the road with good acceleration and quite agile handling for a SUV, however, the light and vague steering is an enthusiasm damper when the going gets fast.

Keep it civil and the Tucson begins to shine with refinement, with very little external noise infiltrating the cabin, even the blower for the front seats is much more audible than road noise if you set them at maximum. At idle to medium loads, it is hard to hear if the engine is even working. Excellent.

The Tucson shares the same 2.0 litre 'Nu' engine in the Sonata, mated to the same smooth-shifting six-speed automatic gearbox, with manual override. And like the Sonata, selectable drive modes include Eco, Normal and Sport.

Should I get one?
It's just a shame that Singapore won't get the more frugal 1.6-litre turbo Tucson with 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, but frugal-minded can have a look at the 2.0-litre turbo diesel which is on demo.

For a way to haul the family around, the Tucson is a serious contender to face-off with the Japanese mainstays. It's well-priced, well-equipped and most importantly, looks the part as well. Want to get up close? Visit Hyundai Singapore!

Need to know
Hyundai Tucson
Engine: 1,999cc inline 4
Power/rpm: 155 hp/6200 rpm
Torque/rpm: 191 Nm/4700 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed Automatic
0-100km/h: 11.1 secs
Top speed: 200 km/h
Fuel consumption: 7.8 l/100 km
CO2: 184 g/km
Kerbweight: 1,425 kg
Price: from S$139,999 w/COE
Availability: Now