The 166hp 2.0L responded quite nicely with tolerable engine noise intrusion into the cabin when accelerating. The six-speed tiptronic was very responsive too. The road noise levels were very low in the cabin.
I hate to be the one to say it, but to get 166hp, I'd have to pay $315 for the 2.4L SGV. The 166hp Tuscon is only $216.
The 2G Tucson is a totally new Tucson. Seeing that we can't get away from the 'H' badge, I wish they would've used the iX35 badge instead of 'Tucson'.
The interior's roomy enough for the average six footer. The dash gauge cluster and central controls are nicely appointed with everything within reach. They finally added the audio control to the steering wheel (safety first). (The dashboard, central controls and deck remind me of the RAV4). It sits 5 quite comfortably.
The front grille, bumper and light assembly kinda ugly, but I guess it will grow on me eventually
It has that kinda Mazda 3 smiley face thing. The ugliness isn't as apparent on the (Phantom) Black units.
Overall, I was quite impressed with the 2G Tucson. Good performance, good introductory price. Still can't be beat for price/feature set.
As I approach 3 years on the first SGV, would I want to cross over to the dark-side from the Japanese 'S' to the Korean 'H'?? After today's experience, maybe. I guess we'll see, ent?!
