2009 Hyundai Tucson: Road Test
2009 Hyundai Tucson ▼
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- MSRP: $18,070 - $25,620
- Invoice: $17,507 - $24,205
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Our road test for the 2009 Hyundai Tucson includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Hyundai Tucson from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Hyundai Tucson, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Hyundai Tucson help you decide if a 2009 Hyundai Tucson is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD SE | AWD SE w/sunroof | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.7 |
The 4-cylinder engine is fine for commuting, but it lacks the power to give Tucson and Sportage confident highway merging and passing ability. The V6 is stronger, but it is still weaker than some rivals' 4-cylinder engines, with little power reserve for passing. No manual-transmission versions have been made available for testing.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD SE | AWD SE w/sunroof | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, AWD V6 Tucson and Sportage models averaged 20.8 mpg. Note: V6 models have a 17.2-gallon fuel tank and 4-cylinder versions have a 15.3-gallon tank. Both engines use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD SE | AWD SE w/sunroof | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
Ride quality is a Tucson and Sportage asset. They're composed and comfortable around town and absorbent over all but sharp bumps at highway speeds. Sportage's suspension feels slightly stiffer than Tucson's and can jolt over sharp ridges, but it is not unpleasant overall.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD SE | AWD SE w/sunroof | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.8 |
Reasonably agile for small SUVs, Sportage has a sportier feel and less body lean than the Tucson, but both are pleasant to drive. Steering is a bit over-assisted in Tucson, but is firmer in Sportage. Both are responsive. The brakes are capable, but pedal feel is a bit spongy.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD SE | AWD SE w/sunroof | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.5 |
Tucson has moderate tire roar on all but ultra-smooth surfaces. Sportage suffers from more tire roar and body drumming. Wind rush is well-checked in both. The 4-cylinder engine is coarse and buzzy. The V6 is quiet at cruise but strains loudly at full throttle.
CONTROLS
| 2WD SE | AWD SE w/sunroof | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
The gauges are unobstructed and clearly marked. All controls are grouped conveniently in the easy-to-reach center dashboard stack, though the low-mounted climate control panel can divert the driver's eyes from the road.
DETAILS
| 2WD SE | AWD SE w/sunroof | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
Most controls don't operate with smooth precision, and the cabin is decked out in bland, hard plastic trim. It stops just short of looking cheap, but overall, Tucson and Sportage trail top competitors in this class.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD SE | AWD SE w/sunroof | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Legroom is adequate, but headroom is generous. The seats are comfortable and have good side-bolster support. The thick rear roof pillars impede over-the-shoulder visibility. Entry and exit are easy.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD SE | AWD SE w/sunroof | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
The sunroof housing cuts into headroom for taller riders. The seatback is a little too firm for our testers. Legroom is good and becomes tight only for taller passengers with the front seats far back. Some testers complained of tight foot space. Slim door bottoms mildly impede entry and exit.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD SE | AWD SE w/sunroof | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8.1 |
The seatbacks fold without removing the headrests to create a flat load floor. Tucson's cargo area has a handy removable and washable mat. A cleverly segmented tray fits into the spare-tire compartment. Tucson and Sportage also have a convenient separate-opening liftgate window, but the gate itself doesn't rise high enough to clear a six-footer's head. In-cabin storage space is limited to door pockets, the center console, and glovebox--all of which are on the small side.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD SE | AWD SE w/sunroof | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.8 |
Tucson and its design cousin, the Kia Sportage, are pleasant light-duty people-movers with modest off-road capabilities. We prefer versions with the V6 engine since it provides class-competitive power and is smoother than rivals' fours, if hardly more potent. Lots of standard equipment, decent road manners, impressive cargo versatility, and generous warranties qualify Tucson and Sportage as solid, if a bit dated, choices in this class.
Total Score
| 2WD SE | AWD SE w/sunroof | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 61 | 61 | 61.1 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Compact Sport-utility Vehicles
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