Hyundai refines best-selling Tucson SUV with help from Continental

Hyundai’s facelifted Tucson brings a raft of refinements to an already winning recipe. Find out how standard-fit Continental rubber is helping to take these upgrades to the next level.

Just like Honda’s stalwart CRV, for over 20 years Hyundai’s Tucson has been a Tour-de-force in the mid-size SUV sector. Popular for its combination of fantastic practicality, versatility, and value, in 2023 alone the Tucson racked up an impressive 158,056 sales in Europe.  

But, with nearly ever marque now producing worthy SUV alternatives, Hyundai can’t afford to rest on its laurels. Luckily, it hasn’t. Here’s everything you need to know about the model’s latest facelift and, of course, how Continental’s original equipment range enhances these upgrades.

More efficient powertrains 

For the 2024 model year the Tucson comes with a powertrain to suit any buyers wants and needs. Now ranging from pure ICE all the way to plug-in hybrid (with various levels of electrification in-between), Hyundai has also added a two-wheel drive hybrid to the ranks. 

Designed to enhance efficiency, this new setup should work harmoniously with Continental’s EcoContact 6 — a tyre designed to reduced rolling resistance and increase electric range — for impressive fuel economy and emissions ratings.  

What’s more, “to promote more zero-tailpipe-emissions driving”, Hyundai has honed its Green Zone Driving Mode for a more seamless transition to pure-electric running when the Tucson detects a low-emissions zone. How clever.  

Cutting-edge tech 

Buyers no longer need to worry about their cars being left behind by the relentless march of technology; over-the-air updates ensure your Tucson always benefits from the latest software advancements.  

Then there’s the 12.3-inch curved dual screens with heads-up-display to minimise distractions and maximise your concentration on what matters most: the road.  

The headlights will also receive a welcome refresh courtesy of a new Intelligent Front-Lighting System (IFS). In essence, the Matrix beam LEDs instantaneously adapt their illumination and reduce glare for oncoming drivers — we all know how dangerous and dazzling some of the most powerful modern LED headlights can be.  

Further contributing to a more serene driving experience, Tucson’s fitted with Continental’s PremiumContact 6 will not only produce less tyre roar thanks to Continental’s ContiSilent™ inner tyre noise absorber, but also feel noticeably softer and more absorbent over the bumps. This two-fold benefit does not, however, come at the expense of reduced grip and traction. A special rubber compound and circumferential grooves, endow the mid-size SUV with greater steering precision and handling response on both wet and dry roads. 

Sharper styling  

The latest generation Tucson touted a revolutionary design when it debuted — which, like Marmite, divided opinions. But, fans of the unconventional looks are in luck, Hyundai’s kept the same alien lines and tweaked the Tucson’s most prominent features for a more modern feel.  

Most notably, this means redesigned front and rear bumpers, new side skirts, and a reimagined ‘angel wings’ design for the daytime running lights.  

We think the Tucson’s tweaks should stand it in good stead for another best-selling year, but which circa £30,000 SUV would you put on your drive? 

Hero image credit: Hyundai