Stand out in the crowd
You know it is a good sign when a vehicle catches your eye and you find yourself saying "What is that?". After spending 2 months settling into the idea of purchasing a CR-V, this Hyundai hit me by surprise. I had run the gauntlet of small SUVs (Mazda, Toyota, Nissan, etc.) and the Honda was in the lead. That was until I did a double take on the Tucson.
I knew Hyundai had come a ways in their designs, but I never really took them seriously. After stopping in the dealership to test drive a Tucson for an evening, I was sold. The CR-V couldn't do that for me and I guess it was the fact I saw more than one at every stop light. While I realize there is a reason for so many of the other H* brand compact SUVs on the road, I could not bring myself to have another vanilla vehicle (I already have an Odyssey, Camry and F150). The CVT transmission on the CR-V also had me worried and I really didn't like the vibration in the vehicle when it was stopped at a light.
After 1500 miles I am still in love with the vehicle. It is very quite and comfortable and I love finding reasons to take my new car out. I do believe that the ride would be improved without the 19in wheels (and low side wall), but it does improve the stance of the vehicle.
I also believe the fuel economy is depressed from the stated numbers. I am sure part of that is I love hitting that turbo in Sport mode every now and then. I just don't see why a 1.6L turbo has to get less gas mileage than my 270HP V6 Camry. Guess it might have something to do with a slightly heavier vehicle and AWD.
One other negative point is the rear seat and windows. While my kids do love the panoramic sun roof, the low profile side windows and the back seat entry/exit leave a little to be desired. Visibility all the way through the back is somewhat limited anyway but a lot of that is based on the styling.
Most of my cons are really just nit picks but I have never second guessed my decision in driving the Tucson off the lot.
Recommended
Verified Owner
