2017 Hyundai Tucson long term review, fifth report

Smart looks, spacious interiors, punchy engine and frugal nature – these have always been the Tucson’s strengths. They are also the reasons that have made me hold on to this particular long-termer for a while now. Since it joined our fleet in February last year, the Tucson has undertaken plenty of long-distance drives and has even been driven across the border to Nepal! It has definitely earned a reputation for being a great highway cruiser and tops my list in our long-term fleet for whenever I plan a drive out of town. It’s travelled frequently to Nashik, Mahabaleshwar and Goa, and apart from these long drives, I also clock about 60-odd kilometres on my daily commute.

CRYSTAL CLEAR: Reverse-camera resolution is very clear, even in low light.

Our Tucson is a top-of-the-line GLS variant loaded with features that have really spoilt me. The keyless entry-and-go, for example, is very useful to get into the Tucson and drive off without having to pull out the key from the pocket. What I really find very convenient, though, is that the tailgate opens automatically when it senses the key in close proximity to the boot – quite useful for when my hands are full of bags. I also like the dual-zone climate control which lets me select different temperatures for the driver’s and the passenger’s side. Another feature I have really become used to is Apple CarPlay; it mirrors some of my phone’s applications onto the Tucson’s infotainment screen, from where I can use them without having to fiddle with the phone. The infotainment system has also been integrated with the Amazon Music app, allowing me to use it directly.

BIG BOOT: Rear seats fold flat, making extra room for a lot of luggage.

The Tucson’s headlamps light up  automatically while I drive out of my building’s dark basement parking and the automatic wipers take care of the water leaking from the roof of the tunnel that I pass through on my way to office. A small, but very useful feature of the Tucson are its puddle lamps that light-up as I approach to unlock the Tucson. The door handles too have lights that highlight them, making it easy to place them in the dark.

SHORT TRAVEL: Suspension bottoms-out easily over some sharp bumps.

I like the large front seats – they are wide and well-shaped – but the cushioning is on the firm side. There is also a grouse that is common amongst the people riding shotgun – the seat height is positioned too low. Unlike the driver’s seat, it cannot be adjusted and almost feels a floor lower. But these are the faults I see only if I need to point at some. On the whole, the Tucson has always managed to keep long drives comfortable and hassle-free.  It did have its share of small niggles here and there; but to be fair, our Tucson has done some serious long-distance travelling, causing premature wear and tear. It is now nearing the 30,000km-mark and will soon need a routine service. The good thing is that the service will be covered under Hyundai’s 3-years/30,000km free maintenance program. Another long drive needs to be planned soon after it comes back from service. Any suggestions?

LOUD BEEPER: Lock-unlock sound is too loud and cannot be turned off.