HYUNDAI Motor Company has announced that its all-new Tucson will be launched in Africa and the Middle East from August, introducing a bold and athletic design, new technology and class-leading driving performance to the region's compact SUV marketplace. Now in its third generation, the all-new Tucson will be of high importance to Hyundai's Africa and Middle East business, having proven extremely popular with the region's customers in its previous incarnations. In 2014, the Korean brand's compact SUV Tucson was its third biggest-selling model in the Middle East with total sales of some 60,000 units. Adopting Hyundai's acclaimed Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design approach, the all-new Tucson combines the strong proportions and profile of a SUV with a sense of sleekness and agility. The front is dominated by the Hyundai signature hexagonal front grille, sleek headlamps and uniquely sculpted bumper. The expressive ‘Z' character-line above the rear wheel arches gives the sculptural side profile a powerful stance, while the rear has a clean design with horizontal lines that flow from the rear wheel arches, accented by slim tail lights. The equally stylish and refined interior combines sophistication with functionality, with careful attention paid to the ergonomics and use of premium materials. Built on a completely new platform, the All-New Tucson offers generous interior dimensions, optimizing the space that is provided for passengers and luggage. The all-new Tucson offers the latest in technological convenience including a smart powered tailgate that opens at the approach of the key-holder, keyless-entry and engine start, an electric parking brake and automatic cruise control. In terms of safety kit, the model will be one of the most comprehensively equipped vehicles in its segment, offering features such as Blind Spot Detection, Front and Rear parking assist system and Smart Tailgate. When developing the all-new Tucson, Hyundai focused on delivering ride comfort without compromising driving dynamics, and so every element of the chassis has been developed to ensure enhanced high-speed and cornering stability. Best-in-class aerodynamics and structural rigidity are combined with a greatly improved front and rear suspension and the integration of enhanced noise reduction techniques. Contributing to the high quality driving experience will be a range of advanced engines. Depending on market, the all-new Tucson will be available with a choice of new 1.6 T-GDi, 2.4 GDi and 2.0 MPI petrol engines, and 2.0 VGT diesel engine. All units are mated to 6-speed gearboxes, with a 7-speed DCT transmission also available for the 1.6 T-GDi. Jin (James) Kim, Vice-President and Head of Hyundai Africa and Middle East, said: “The all-new Tucson is an extremely important car for Hyundai in the Africa and Middle East region and we are confident that this new model will build on the huge success of its predecessor when it hits the showrooms in the second half of this year. It is a bold new car that brings to life our claim ‘New Thinking, New Possibilities' and will continue to help change perceptions of the brand.” — SG
