2009 Hyundai Tucson
- 2008 Hyundai Tucson
- Used Hyundai Tucson
Based on analysis of 50 Tucson reviews and test drives.
Hyundai Tucson - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 Hyundai Tucson ranks 15 out of 23 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 50 published reviews and test drives of the Hyundai Tucson, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Tucson remains a good value, but still lags behind competitors in overall driving performance and refinement.
The 2009 Tucson has changed little since its 2005 debut. For this year, it gets a recalibrated transmission that leads to better fuel economy -- which will undoubtedly increase the compact SUV's appeal. "The Tucson follows the standard Hyundai model of offering a lot of stuff for not a lot money," says Car and Driver. "Despite an eighth-place finish in a recent comparison due to a sluggish V-6 and lots of wind noise, the Tucson's large, versatile interior and an excellent warranty make it worth a serious look." Also on the the plus side, Hyundai's five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty far surpasses those available from the CR-V or RAV4.
The Tucson comes in three trims -- GLS, SE and Limited -- in either front- or four-wheel drive.
- "Though it resides in the compact SUV market, the Tucson actually boasts a larger interior volume than the Ford Escape or Nissan Rogue, and this, along with a smooth ride, terrific fuel economy, and easy maneuverability, make it a solid choice for families and city commuters on a budget." -- Car Gurus
- "Tucson and its design cousin, the Kia Sportage, are pleasant light-duty people-movers with modest off-road capabilities. ... Lots of standard equipment, decent road manners, laudable cargo versatility, and generous warranties qualify Tucson and Sportage as solid 2008 Recommended choices in this class." -- Consumer Guide
- "The Hyundai Tucson is a budget friendly way for small families to get it all - or close to it." -- Mother Proof
Tucson Performance - 6.7 (Mediocre)
The 2009 Hyundai Tucson's performance divides reviewers. While it's suitable for around-town driving, it doesn't offer the power or handling of competitors. "A nice balance between handling that stimulates and a ride that coddles, but the steering feels numb," says Car and Driver. On the plus side, the Tucson's fuel economy has improved thanks to a recalibrated manual transmission. continue
Tucson Exterior - 7.3 (Good)
The 2009 Tucson's exterior is considered sporty but bland, although a new grille for this year may improve opinions. "Sporting a new, bolder chrome front grille, the 2009 Hyundai Tucson resembles even more the larger Santa Fe," says Car Gurus. continue
Tucson Interior - 7.1 (Good)
Despite some cheap-looking materials, the Hyundai Tucson's roomy interior pleases reviewers. "Cabin materials are attractive and well-assembled, with Sportage being slightly upscale of Tucson," says Consumer Guide. Another big plus is that the Tucson is loaded with standard features that are quite good for its affordable price. continue
Tucson Safety - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2009 Hyundai Tucson does extremely well in federal government crash tests. It also comes equipped with plenty of safety equipment, including an impressive number of air bags and accident avoidance systems. continue
Tucson Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2009 Hyundai Tucson reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Tucson's basic warranty lasts for five years or 60,000 miles -- significantly longer than competitors. continue
