2009 Hyundai Tucson Range
1 Aug, 2008
32 Comments 
Hyundai has released full details of its new 2009 Tucson range which now offers a host of details improvements and enhanced value across the range.
ESP stability program, traction control and an integrated Bluetooth audio system now feature as standard throughout the Tucson range.
The new model is distinguished by its revised front grille, front indicator lens colour change, redesigned rear tailgate garnish, all-new alloy wheel designs and a charcoal black interior.
The new Bluetooth integration allows wireless music streaming directly from a Bluetooth compatible mobile phone or portable audio device as well as storing up to 78 numbers and names in its phone book.
The audio unit also includes integrated USB and Aux sockets allowing users to connect and play music from their iPod, MP3 player or USB stick.
The 2009 Tucson City SX model gains new five-spoke 16″ alloy wheels including a full size spare, ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, dual front airbags, 4 speakers, front fog lamps, keyless remote entry, alarm, power windows and roof bars.
The Elite trim adds a full leather interior, the aforementioned Bluetooth audio system with 6 speakers including tweeters, an electric glass sunroof and curtain and thorax airbags.
Finally, the SX model can also be upgraded with a 2.7 V6 petrol engine and AWD, featuring body colour protective cladding on the lower part of the doors and wheel arches and twin chrome exhaust outlets.
A ‘Protectz’ pack option also upgrades the safety of the SX and SX V6 models to the same specifications as the Elite.
Four new exterior colours are available for the enhanced Tucson range – Sleek Silver, Iron Blue, Silver Grey and Dark Bronze (all metallic), whilst the interior colour theme across the range is now a ‘Charcoal Black’ finish.
2009 Tucson – model range:
2.0 petrol 2WD powertrain (available in Tucson City ‘SX’ and ‘Elite’ trims):
- 104 kW of peak power @ 6,000 rpm
- 184 Nm peak torque @ 4,500 rpm
- 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic with Selectronic manual shift
- Fuel consumption 8.0 litres / 100 km (man), 9.2 litres / 100 km (auto)
2.7 V6 AWD powertrain (available in Tucson ‘SX V6’ trim):
- 129 kW of peak power @ 6,000 rpm
- 241 Nm peak torque @ 4,000 rpm
- 4 speed automatic with Selectronic manual shift
- Fuel consumption 10.9 litres / 100 km (auto)
2009 Tucson range – retail prices:
- Tucson City SX 2.0 petrol 2WD 5 speed manual $25,490 RRP
- Tucson City SX 2.0 petrol 2WD 4 speed auto $27,490 RRP
- Tucson City Elite 2.0 petrol 2WD 4 speed auto $30,490 RRP
- Tucson SX V6 2.7 petrol AWD 4 speed auto $31,490 RRP
- Optional Protectz pack (SX and SX V6 variants) $700 RRP
- Optional metallic paint $320 RRP
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August 1st, 2008 at 5:57 pm
Good on hyundai for making ESP available std in nearly every car.
Still not sure why there is a large difference btw manual and auto – Hyundai should do something about it~!
Vote:August 1st, 2008 at 6:05 pm
Where’s the Diesel, you can get it in Europe and in the Kia Sportivo?
Vote:August 1st, 2008 at 6:38 pm
Good ob Hyundai for including more for less.
I really hope they topple the likes of Toyota in the years to come as they have been ripping the consumer off for long enough.
Vote:August 1st, 2008 at 7:17 pm
Surely the 2wd versions of this car rank as some of the most pointless cars on the market. All the handling of a SUV with none of the benefits of an AWD system. Even the CRV with its very ordinary on demand AWD is atleast capable of tackling a little bit of sand, snow or mud. And unlike a Territory or Kluger these can’t even pass for a people mover or tow vehicle. Why bother?
Vote:August 1st, 2008 at 7:26 pm
Kluger tow vehicle.LOL.
Just ask all the Geros out there that bought these for the trip around Australia and found that the tow ball weight is pathetic.
Likely to see some used examples with dimpled rear quarter panels in the future.LOL.
Vote:August 1st, 2008 at 7:32 pm
yawn
Vote:August 1st, 2008 at 7:46 pm
^Agree! Still looks the same on the outside though!
Vote:August 1st, 2008 at 9:52 pm
Realcars, don’t take everything so literally.
Vote:August 2nd, 2008 at 12:59 pm
The Tucson V6 used to be available for $29,990 as an automatic. A 2.0L engine in a 1500kg-something SUV is WAY too underpowered. I can’t believe people are actually buying that variant. The V6 is the only way to go.
Vote:August 2nd, 2008 at 6:59 pm
I have only one complaint about my V6 Tucson it is in desperate need of a 5 speed auto.The 4 speed is just not good enough.I dont care what other car makers use but Hyundai you need to start putting a 5/6 speed auto in some of your cars (from the i30 up).ESP standard across the Tucson range and full leather on the elite model is fantastic,but a face lift would have been good the same design that came here in 04.
Vote:August 3rd, 2008 at 9:59 pm
this is a city car….more for Mom and Pop. if you want a 4X4 get a Prado or pathfinder or discovery 3 series….
i checked out the boot space, not very big but the seats space and the ride height was fine….
Vote:August 6th, 2008 at 6:48 pm
What are Hyundai doing still making that pissy little 2.7L V6? V6 engines that small were common 20 years ago. The base model really needs a 2.3 or 2.4 litre four, and the V6 should be enlarged to 3.0 litres. Actually, the V6 variant is probably not even necessary, as people who want a V6 are going to go for the Santa Fe instead. Just have one 2.4L model just like every other small 4WD – SIMPLE.
Vote:August 22nd, 2008 at 4:50 pm
Dlr1… Let me guess ‘DEALER # 1′ perhaps??? And from your two posts, I’d even make the OBVIOUS observation that your a ‘TOYOTA DEALER’??? I don’t own a Hyundai, or a Toyota, but due to business travel I’ve car hired both the Hyundai Tucson and the Toyota RAV4, and I can more than comfortably say the Hyundai value for money blew your Toyota out of the water! So much that in recent business trips, I specifically looked for the Hyundai or X-trail over the RAV4. Let’s face it, these ‘SUV’ vehicles arent intended for offroad use, and they dont claim them to be, they are simply a city variant to have the ride height, interior room and comfort over the small squashy entry level smallcar’s that are on the market. And a hell of a lot cheaper to run than my Holden VE SSV! I can tell you that much! Luckily its my company car as I’d never waste money running such an expensive fuel guzzler if it was my $$$. Well done Hyundai!
Vote:August 22nd, 2008 at 5:39 pm
Sorry Reality, but you are wrong I am definately not a Toyota Dealer or any other brand’s dealer for that matter. I am just making the point that why have a Front Wheel Drive only version or a small SUV. If it had fulltime or on demand AWD i could see a point to it, but only the V6 model has this attribute. Every other SUV on the market, be it from Nissan, Suzuki, Toyota, Honda, Subaru even VW have AWD either permanent or on demand. And if you care to have noticed a Tuscon isn’t even in the same size as an Xtrail, CRV or RAV so your value for money argument is baseless. Compare them with a Santa Fe if you will but a Tuscon?
Vote:September 10th, 2008 at 12:51 am
SIR AND OTHERS
Vote:HAVE OWNED TUCSON CITY FOR 3 YEARS AND ARE VERY HAPPY WITH DESIGN AND QUALITY.
NOT A HIGH SPEED CAR BUT DOES EVERY THING BANG ON. VERY GOOD FOR AVERAGE NEEDS. GOOD VALUE.
September 12th, 2008 at 10:54 am
i think hyundai has done a pretty good job designing this tucson for those buyers with limited budget but wanting to have an SUV for multi-purpose reasons.. its not that hip and nice in terms of design.. performance wise – its not that bad also.. its a value-for-money SUV.. I own a 2007 toyota land cruiser 5.7L V8 and a 2000 range rover.. Im really into performance SUVs but out of curiosity, i bought a tucson and i liked it.. Its not too expensive to maintain.
Vote:September 21st, 2008 at 5:03 pm
I chose the tucson over the toyota cos it drives so much better, the steering doesnt twitch with the slightest movement and the interior is set out better.
Vote:The hyundai was much better value, and I look at it as a station wagon with big wheels. There arenot alot of small station wagons for under 30,000 and what is out there is crap.
My only issue so far is the fuel economy cockamimi. It is more around 11ltrs per 100 in the 4 auto not the claimed 9.2.
But in saying that the 2 rav 4’s i tested werent that good either.
September 24th, 2008 at 6:34 am
Hi all.
I have a 2007 2.0 CRDI 16V Limited here in the UK. Great car and virtually the same spec as the 2009 Premium except the ESP, electric folding mirrors and bluetooth stereo (I added the Ipod VDO adaptor for £35 and this is controlled by the existing head unit).
I think it may be case of ‘if it aint broke dont try to fix it’ by Hyundai
Also the diesel gives 40mpg
Vote:October 15th, 2008 at 11:22 pm
‘I chose the tucson over the toyota cos it drives so much better’
Vote:I chose a tucson over a Rav 4 because i couldn’t fit in the toyota, it also drives much better than an x trail and as i don’t need 4wd mine is a 2litre 2wd. It’s now 15 mths old with 16K on it and been a fantastic little car both around town and on the highway for my family of two big adults and a tall 10yo. I would certainly buy another one, but when the real upgraded model comes out…oh and all for $26000 drive away with auto. Beat that!
October 25th, 2008 at 5:59 pm
@ DLR1: I kind of understand what you said earlier, but tell me – what else compares to the Tucson on the market IF I don’t want an AWD (cost more to buy and more to run) but my wife won’t drive a wagon because as a 5ft person she doesn’t want the hassle of something with a long wheel base. We were so ecstatic to discover the Tucson as it offered the combination of high-ride height, short wheel base with a small engine and front wheel drive only.
It may not be the most zippy thing on the road but if it wasn’t on the market, we’d be sad sad pandas…
Vote:October 25th, 2008 at 6:00 pm
PS Sorry to be ‘Johnny come lately’…
Vote:November 20th, 2008 at 11:22 am
A few months on and it is averaging about 12.7-13.6 ltrs per 100ks fuel usage. It managed to get even worse.
Vote:Some question as to why the trans changes are at such high rpm, and why it is only a 4 speed auto. I think a 5 speed with a re working of the ratios would improve economy and power transfer cos it does make the engine work harder.
Otherwise all else…. happier than a pig in mud. Found a great use for the sunglass holder, my mobile phone when hooked to bluetooth fits in there, it is safe, and out of the way. Really happy with the audio and mine is the poverty pack. Would love to hear the 6 speaker version.
March 8th, 2009 at 4:23 am
I took delivery yesterday of a brand new 2L manual 2009 model and couldn’t be happier. After listening to the opinions of people who have actually owned and driven this car I decided it was incredible value for money at $22990 OTR. I hear the comments about engine size and 2WD but I would never consider going off road in this, if you are going to do that you need to be spending 2-3 times as much to get a proper 4×4. RAV4’s etc aren’t up to the job so why pay $8k extra for AWD? On the odd occasion I go on off road trips I will just hire a 4×4, it will work out far cheaper in the long run. For me the Tucson ticked all the boxes; small enough for the wife to drive, big enough for me to drive, decent economy, full of standard features, bluetooth phone and MP3 compatibility, excellent warranty, cheap servicing and insurance….
Before criticising Hyundai, people should have a think about what this car is designed to do and who it is aimed at…it is not a 4×4, it is a medium sized car with extra ride height. You pays your money and takes your choice.
Vote:March 8th, 2009 at 7:12 am
Hi Acem8:
I couldn’t agree more with your views as Hyundai’s reputation for building very reliable cars continues to grow. Congratulations on your new Tucson & you will have many pleasurable years of driving ahead of you.
Cheers !
Vote:March 20th, 2009 at 1:27 pm
I had a Tucson 4X4 2L bought brand new in 2005. It was a great car. I took it on the beach, up sand dunes and in the mud and despite the crappy road tyres, the car did pretty well. The only thing was the engine was way too small for the size and weight of the car. I traded it in in August 08 for a Santa Fe V6. I love it. Despite being a much larger vehicle the difference in engine size is noticeable and very enjoyable. I still think the Santa Fe could do with a bit more “oumf” but it’s a great car. The Tucson is due for a facelift and that’s the only reason I didn’t go back to it. I didn’t want to spend $40,000 (New Zealand dollars for the Elite 4WD) for a car that was going to be dated quickly. So I spent a bit more and got the Santa Fe. I’d still keep an eye out for the revamped Tucson when it comes out and look forward to seeing what Hyundai is cooking with that one.
Vote:March 20th, 2009 at 1:29 pm
Oh yeah… And I do find the Tucson City 2WD a complete waste of time. I reckon it’s for posers more than anything. All the disadvantages of a 4X4 without the benefits. It’s heavy, slow and you can’t even have fun in the mud. Around here, it’s a car for old people who want to feel safe. I reckon Hyundai should take it off its catalogue.
Vote:May 12th, 2009 at 9:58 pm
Rick – I think you’re barking at the wrong side of the tree.. You talk like an ignorant fool not knowing the purpose and the target customers of this brand/model.. I own a 2007 toyota land cruiser 5.7L V8 and a 2000 range rover but i also have a tucson.. U know why i have one?? Because its targeted and used for a different purpose and market.. Dont talk trash.. Maybe you’re one of the “old people who wants to feel safe”.. Cheers! Dont be hating..
Vote:May 14th, 2009 at 5:18 pm
I’ve had a Tucson City manual for 18 months and for my purposes, I have been very happy with it. I am however confused about the towing capacity. The Hyundai site states : [500Kg unbraked / 500 Kg Braked]. But RedBook states [600Kg unbraked / 1200 Kg Braked] which is the same as the Kia Sportage 2L, 2WD, which is basically the same car. Can anybody shed any light on this anomaly?? Thanks in anticipation.
Vote:May 18th, 2009 at 5:34 pm
I want to purchase a new car and am now very confused by the comments ?I have read. The car certainly appears excellent value for money. Toyota” seemed to be overpriced.
Vote:June 19th, 2009 at 6:43 am
I used Toyota for more than two decades. Now I need to buy new compact SUV for my dogs. So I decided to hire a car every one weekend RAV4, X-trail and Tucson. According my old experience only test drive with dealer is not good enough to spend more than $20k from my pocket. They all are very good SUV but Tucson is very most comfortable for long drive. Good maneuver and Euro NCAP 4stars. I can save my money minimum $10k compare with same facilities with other brand (except AWD function). This is really depending on what & where to use. For me I do not have planned to go off-road or tour. I have two large dogs going around NSW. I decided to go with Tucson. I pay only $23990 brand new City SX semi-auto drive away with reverse parking sensor, fabric and vinyl protection (because of my doggies), ABS, ESP, traction control, dual front air bags, MP3 player with Blue tooth, audio and USB I/P, key less entry, auto head light on/off, speed adjustable wiper, roof rack and alloy wheels with full size spare alloy wheel and 5 years unlimited kilo meter factory warranty. Fuel consumption is less than 11liters/100kms for city with air-con. Some people said engine is not big enough and respond. I always use 98%ULP for my new Tucson. I never have problems even with Air-con with up hills. My conclusion is I am conservative Toyota person. Now I totally admit Tucson is very good practical SUV for on-road (not off-road). (P.S – I am not a sales man.)
Vote:June 19th, 2009 at 7:04 am
P.S – Typing error. (For me I do not have planned to go off-road or tow).
Check the price with (http://www.discountnewcars.com.au). You can negotiate one or two $k cheaper than showed on web site at the moment.
Vote:June 21st, 2009 at 9:05 pm
I am an old person that the Tucson is aimed at. I am on a pension so ecomomy is most important. 11L/100 is not good enough. Ride hight like a SUV very good for me, (crook back). Power and speed I dont need, so 2L motor is OK. Price, a bit high so I’ll keep looking. Current vehicle Renault Kangoo, very good but needs back seat. Service for Renault very expensive, no help from dealer to get a manual or book. Its gotto go.
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