2016 Hyundai Tucson: A Game-Changer in the Compact SUV Segment

The compact crossover market continues its explosive growth, and Hyundai's 2016 Tucson makes a compelling case as one of the segment's top contenders. Unveiled at the 2015 New York International Auto Show, this redesigned model addresses previous shortcomings while introducing premium features that challenge class leaders like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5.

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Exterior Design: Bold Styling That Stands Out

Hyundai's Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language reaches new heights with the 2016 Tucson. The prominent hexagonal grille and available LED lighting create a distinctive face that's immediately recognizable as a Hyundai, while the rising beltline and tapered rear glass give it a dynamic, almost coupe-like profile.

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Design Highlights:

• Signature lighting: Optional LED headlights with unique L-shaped daytime running lights
• Aerodynamic profile: 0.33 drag coefficient for improved fuel efficiency
• Wheel options: 17- to 19-inch alloy wheels depending on trim
• Color palette: Nine exterior colors including vibrant options like Phoenix Orange

Compared to the conservative styling of the Honda CR-V or the angular Toyota RAV4, the Tucson offers a more emotional design that particularly appeals to younger buyers. Its athletic stance and premium details help it compete with style leaders like the Mazda CX-5 while maintaining Hyundai's value proposition.

Interior: Premium Space With Practical Touches

The 2016 Tucson's cabin represents a significant leap forward in quality and functionality. Hyundai listened to customer feedback and addressed previous complaints about interior materials and space utilization.

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Interior Upgrades:

• Enhanced materials: Soft-touch surfaces on 60% of contact points (up from 40% in previous model)
• Improved ergonomics: 1.2-inch lower center stack for better reachability
• Advanced displays: Available 8-inch touchscreen with improved resolution
• Thoughtful storage: 12 beverage holders and larger door pockets

Rear seat passengers benefit from 37.2 inches of legroom (comparable to the CR-V's 38.3 inches) and a clever stadium seating design that improves outward visibility. The available panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with light without significantly compromising headroom.

Practicality: Smart Packaging for Real-World Use

Hyundai's engineers focused on making the 2016 Tucson more versatile for active lifestyles. The cargo area now offers 31 cubic feet behind the rear seats (compared to 35.3 in the CR-V) and 61.9 cubic feet with seats folded.

The Tucson's wide door openings (3.1 inches wider than before) make child seat installation easier, while the flat-folding front passenger seat accommodates long items up to 8 feet long. These thoughtful touches demonstrate Hyundai's attention to real-world usability.

Performance & Efficiency: Two All-New Powertrains

The 2016 Tucson debuted with two engine options, both representing significant improvements over the previous generation:

While not class-leading in power (the CR-V's 2.4L makes 185 hp), the Tucson's available 1.6L turbo delivers strong mid-range torque that feels more responsive in daily driving. The new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (replacing the previous 6-speed automatic) provides quicker shifts and better efficiency.

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Hyundai's Drive Mode Select system allows drivers to choose between Normal, Eco, and Sport modes, adjusting throttle response, transmission mapping, and (in AWD models) torque distribution for different driving conditions.

Technology & Safety: Competitive Feature Set

The 2016 Tucson introduced several advanced features that were rare in the compact SUV segment at the time:

Technology Highlights:

• Bluelink Connected Car: Remote start, stolen vehicle recovery, and geo-fencing
• Android Auto/Apple CarPlay: Smartphone integration (late availability)
• Wireless charging: First in class for compatible devices
• Premium audio: Available 8-speaker Infinity system

Safety Innovations:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking: With pedestrian detection
• Lane Departure Warning: With Lane Keep Assist
• Blind Spot Detection: With Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains set following distance
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These features helped the Tucson earn a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS when equipped with optional safety equipment, putting it on par with the Subaru Forester for crash protection.

How It Compares to Key Rivals

The compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive. Here's how the 2016 Tucson stacks up against its main competitors:

vs Honda CR-V:

• Advantages: More stylish design, better warranty, available turbo engine
• Disadvantages: Less cargo space, slightly noisier cabin

vs Toyota RAV4:

• Advantages: More premium interior materials, better tech interface
• Disadvantages: Less proven reliability history, smaller dealer network

vs Mazda CX-5:

• Advantages: More rear seat room, better warranty coverage
• Disadvantages: Less engaging driving dynamics, heavier feel

The Tucson's strongest selling points remain its 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and typically stronger value equation compared to Japanese rivals when similarly equipped.

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Ownership Experience & Value Proposition

Hyundai packaged the 2016 Tucson in five well-equipped trim levels:

1. SE: Base model with 17" alloys, rearview camera, and Bluetooth
2. Sport: Adds roof rails, leatherette bolsters, and drive mode select
3. Eco: 1.6T engine with unique tuning for maximum efficiency
4. Limited: Leather seats, 8" touchscreen, and premium audio
5. Sport Turbo: Top trim with 19" wheels, LED lights, and panoramic roof

With pricing starting under $23,000 (about $2,000 less than a comparable CR-V), the Tucson offered compelling value. Even fully loaded models typically undercut similarly equipped competitors by $1,500-$3,000.

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Hyundai's Complimentary Maintenance program (3 years/36,000 miles) and 24/7 Roadside Assistance further enhanced the ownership experience, addressing common pain points for new car buyers.

Final Verdict: A Strong Contender With Broad Appeal

The 2016 Hyundai Tucson represented a significant step forward for the brand in the competitive compact SUV segment. While it didn't necessarily best its rivals in any single category, its balanced combination of style, space, features, and value made it one of the most compelling choices overall.

Seven years after its introduction, the 2016 Tucson remains a smart used SUV choice, particularly when found with lower mileage and complete service records. Its combination of reliability, features, and warranty coverage makes it stand out in the pre-owned market.

For shoppers considering the current Tucson lineup, this generation established the model as a true competitor to segment leaders - a position Hyundai has continued to build upon with each successive redesign.