I had a longish test drive of the Tucson with my family y'day. Initially, I did not consider the Tucson as it was above my budget of 20lakhs. But, with my options becoming more limited and hearing of huge discounts, I thought of giving this a try.
Here are my impressions -
Exteriors - The car looks stunning, period. It may be shaped more like a crossover than a butch SUV but the proportions are perfect giving it presence, sophistication and a planted stance. The dual barrel headlights, the 18" wheels make it looks imposing and sophisticated. My family instantly liked it
Interiors - The car is very spacious and the panoramic sunroof makes it feel even more spacious. But the overall design and materials don't make it feel luxurious or premium. I did not feel a huge step us from the Creta considering the price which was disappointing. The interiors are mostly beige. I would have liked a little more use of black or darker colors. As per the brochure, everything is leather but the leather quality seemed suspect at places like the armrest.
Driving position - WIth all sorts of electric seat adjustments, the driving position is very nice. Also, you sit higher that gives you a commanding view of the road. Overall, everything feels ergonomic and easy to reach. I was able to get comfortable behind the wheels in no time. There are no memory seats available tough.
Rear seat - As mentioned, there is loads of space in the rear. Also, the rear seat can be inclined and the range for the incline is really impressive. So,someone can recline it all the way back and take a nice nap. But, the seat base is set low and the windows are high. So, the rear passengers will not get a good view of the road from the front or side. The thigh support is also not great. There are rear AC vents but no 12V socket or USB ports for the rear passengers (cars from 2-3 segments lower are having these features nowadays). Overall, mixed feelings about this
Performance - I have less experience with automatics. However, this car is no doubt very powerful and the gearbox is pretty responsive. I needed a slightly heavier push on the pedal to wakeup the gear box but post that, it really moves fast. The refinement is also very good and you hear the engine noise only when pushed hard but that too is not an issue. When compared to the Compass, the engine refinement is clearly a level or two better and it felt faster as well.
Ride quality - This was the worst part of the test drive experience and turned out to be the deal-breaker. I think this is due to the large 18 inch wheels and lower profile tyres. Even over moderate bumpers, the ride is extremely harsh. So, you need to really slow down else your back is really going to suffer. Over bigger bumps and potholes, you will feel every undulation and jerks. On the same road, the Compass and Octavia just flided over. Even my kid and wife complained of the ride quality. There is no way I could have spend >25 lakhs on a car when everyone is complaining about the ride quality. And coming from a Jazz which does not have great ride quality, this is probably my topmost requirement.
Handling - I think it handles well for a SUV. The steering is light but not like the scary lifeless vague Hyundai steering of yester-years. I felt confident driving the car, changing lanes and taking turns. However, being a SUV/crossover with a high center of gravity, it does have its limitations. I took a turn at a higher speed (just like you do in a hatchback and sedan) and though the car stayed stable, the rear passengers started complaining
Nothing against the car, just the law of physics I guess. The Compass is a better handler I feel, but marginally. Nobody should really complaint about the handling of the Tucson, when considering a SUV of this segment.
NVH - I feel this is a very important factor when buying a car of this segment, as it adds to the luxury/premium feel. I think the NVH is excellent - hardly any noise from road, wind or engine. This is clearly a USP of the car and again, a league above the Compass.
Features - I think this is a hit and miss. There are some really nice features like - panoramic sunroof, hands-free tailgate (really nice), electric parking brake. At the same time, there are some basic features missing like rear USB ports or a 12V socket
. Also, no TPMS, no ventilated seats, no heat insulating glass, no rear sunshade etc. Also, the LEd headlights are reserved only for the top variant (not available in 2WD for diesel) which pushes the cost up further. Other variants get halogen projectors, which is disappointing at this price.
ICE - The ICE comes with all basic features along with Android Auto/carplay. However, the unit looks outdated with poor resolution and colors, clearly looks a generation older. Also, the way it is integrated with the dashboard feels mundane and outdated and somewhat out of place in a car of this segment. The sound quality is okay - it goes pretty loud and didn't break at louder volumes but bass is clearly lacking
Safety - nothing to complain about. It comes with all necessary safety features and feels solidly built.
Value for money - I think it is overpriced. But, there are huge discounts on offer. I was offered 2.5 lakhs discount without negotiations and I am sure you can get more (3-4 lakhs possible). WIth such discounts, it makes the car decent value for money.
I have decided to opt out though the car clearly has its strengths. The harsh ride quality and somewhat outdated interiors were deal breakers for me. I would have compromised on the interiors but the ride quality can't be compromised. I can't imagine what the ride quality would be with even lower profile tyres as some BHPians are going for.
I think the Tucson needs higher profile tyres with 17" wheels and a slightly softer suspension to sort out the ride quality issues. Also, the interior dashboard and ICE needs some refresh to make it an almost perfect SUV/crossover in the D-segment