Hyundai Tucson 1.7CRDi Executive Diesel

Since the launch of the new model earlier this year, the Hyundai Tucson has gone on to become a top-seller, competing with the best in this market segment, and selling an average of 600 units a month.

On the back of these successes, Hyundai has just launched two new diesel derivatives into their line-up, and we were on hand to sample the 1.7-litre manual in the rough and tumble surrounds of the beautiful Magaliesberg.

We were only able to put the the 1.7CRDi Executive to the test, as the 2.0-litre models had not yet arrived. We were assured that these models would be available in showrooms by month’s end.

Styling

On the surface, the diesels look exactly the same as the petrol models with little to no change in the styling department. This is a good thing, as we have mentioned before the Tucson is a good-looking vehicle with excellent proportions and styling cues.

The exterior retains the now familiar Tucson lines, and sees the addition of a twin exit exhaust on the 2.0-litre-model. The 1.7-litre model will roll on 17-inch alloy wheels, while the 2.0-litre model gets a set of 18-inch wheels that enhance the vehicle’s already wide track.

Interior

As Hyundai has done in the past, there are very few options for the models on offer, illustrating how much value the Koreans have added into the standard package. The specifications on the 1.7 and 2.0 are set, and the only option available is the R 15 000 infotainment and navigation system, featuring an HDMi input, and a touch screen that allows for phone mirroring.

The interior is well laid out with good quality switchgear and soft leather-like surfaces under hand. It is interesting to note that the 1.7-litre models are assembled in Czechoslovakia, while the 2.0-litre models are assembled in Korea. However, it does not really matter as the fit-and-finish is top notch.

The diesel Tucsons come equipped with all the safety equipment that ensured it a 5-star Euro NCAP-rating, with features such as blind spot detection (BSD) and rear-cross traffic alert (RCTA) and the usual host of safety features such as six airbags and ISOFIX-fittings.

Engine and Transmission

The new Euro6-compliant diesel engines are packed with upgraded technology that aid in lower emission figures and higher performance, while still returning excellent fuel economy and a smooth drive.

Making use of a lighter engine block, a high pressure diesel injection system, new LNT catalytic converter and a new Exhaust Gas Recirculation system, the 1.7-litre Executive is able to deliver 85kW and 280Nm, while still returning (according to Hyundai), 6.8 litres per 100 km.

Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six- speed manual gearbox, and on the 2.0-model via a six-speed automatic, employing a torque converter.

The Drive

The launch route proved to be the ideal testing ground for the vehicles as we traversed 40km of tar roads and close to 80km on gravel and dirt. I am glad to report that the Tucson never skipped a beat even on precarious rocky sections that had the traction control light blinking like a Vegas neon sign.

The air filtration system in the Tucson was also working overtime, as not a speck of dust made its way into the cabin. Another interesting thing to note is once we pulled off the dirt section and hit the tar, the air travelling over the vehicle cleared a large portion of the dust and sand on the windows and the back end of the car, and no actual washing was required to clear the glass.
 
After 120km, I did a spot check on the consumption figures and was quite surprised to find that despite our constant throttle input, we had still managed 6.4 l/100km, whis is well below the manufacturer claims.

Verdict

Although the 1.7CRDi Executive is good, I believe that spending a few extra rand and getting the 2.0 is going to be best.

When you’re up on the Reef you are going to be glad that you have the 131kW and 400Nm that comes from the turbocharged motor, and you will be even happier with the automatic transmission and styling trim.

Models and Pricing

Tucson 1.7CRDi Executive Diesel (manual)	R439 900
Tucson R2.0 Elite (automatic)	R519 900

5-year / 150 000km Warranty & 7-year / 200 000 km drivetrain warranty