Hyundai Tucson goes diesel

1 August 2006

Hyundai Tucson goes diesel

One of the country’s most popular SUVs is about to become even more popular with the release of a diesel model.

The Hyundai Tucson has rocketed up the sales charts in recent years, setting a place in 2005 as the fifth most popular SUV in New Zealand, selling 773 units. That success is accelerating even further, with the Tucson setting third place year to date 2006 to June, selling 455 units.

The 1st of August sees the release for the first time of the Tucson in a two-wheel-drive diesel variant, with a recommended retail price of $38,990 (excluding on road costs). Safety features include dual front, dual side and dual (front to rear) roof curtain airbags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), as well as ABS braking with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BAS). The exterior profile shares the same characteristics as the current Tucson City 2WD, with the added style of dual exhaust pipes. Comfort and convenience is enhanced from the current two-litre Tucson petrol range with the addition of auto light control and an electric chromic rear-view mirror.

Powered by a two litre turbo-charged CRDi (Common Rail Direct Injection) diesel engine, the Tucson will develop 82.5 kW of power at 4,000 rpm, and deliver 245 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm, offering plenty of torque for both towing and general use as a recreational vehicle, said Hyundai New Zealand Managing Director, Philip Eustace.

The Tucson diesel features a four-speed automatic transmission with a sequential sports shift for those looking for “a hands on” driving experience. Other features include a five star NHTSA NCAP frontal and side impact safety rating and the unique Hyundai extended diesel servicing periods of 15,000 kms versus the old period of 7,500 kms.

With fuel prices constantly eating into motorists’ budgets, Managing Director of Hyundai New Zealand, Philip Eustace is confident the already popular Tucson will only become more so with the release of the new diesel model.

“The Tucson fits a good niche in the market for those wanting the visibility and comfort of an SUV, without the bulk and awkwardness that goes with driving larger SUVs around town.

We look forward to seeing even more New Zealanders enjoying the benefits our SUV range has to offer.”

ENDS

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