Introduction
If you’ve been anywhere near a car park in Ireland or the UK over the last decade and them some, chances are you’ve spotted a Hyundai Tucson. It’s everywhere – and for good reason. The midsize SUV has been topping the sales charts in Ireland for years, and it’s making waves in the UK too. But what makes it such a popular choice? Let’s break it down, looking at its strengths, weaknesses, and why so many people are getting behind the wheel of a Tucson.
What’s Driving the Tuscon Uprising?
First off, the Tucson ticks a lot of boxes for drivers. It’s spacious, practical, packed with tech, and doesn’t break the bank compared to some rival competitors.
Best-Selling Status: The Tucson was Ireland’s best-selling car in 2024, marking its fourth year at the top (BestSellingCarsBlog). Clearly, drivers love what it offers.
Value for Money: Hyundai has positioned the Tucson as a feature-rich, affordable alternative to premium SUVs like the Audi Q5 or BMW X3. You get a lot of car for your cash.
Hybrid & Plug-in Hybrid Options: With the shift towards electrification, the Tucson offers mild-hybrid, full-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options, catering to eco-conscious drivers (WesternPeople.ie).
Strong Looks: The latest Tucson sports a bold, futuristic design with sharp lines, a massive grille, and unique LED lighting. It’s a head-turner compared to more conservative rivals like the Nissan Qashqai or Volkswagen Tiguan
Advantages of the Tucson
Let’s get into it:
Comfort & Space – Whether you’re commuting, taking the family on a road trip, or just running errands, the Tucson provides a comfortable ride with plenty of space. The boot is generous too, making it great for families.
Technology & Safety – It comes loaded with tech, including a digital driver display, a large infotainment screen, and Hyundai’s SmartSense safety features. Lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking come as standard.
Efficiency – The hybrid models offer good fuel economy, making them a smart choice for those looking to save on running costs.
Warranty – Hyundai’s five-year unlimited mileage warranty is one of the best in the business, giving peace of mind to buyers.
The Downsides
As we all know, no car is perfect, and the Tucson does have some drawbacks, these are the main critiques we’ve picked out:
Not The Most Thrilling: If you’re looking for a sporty drive, the Tucson won’t exactly set your pulse racing. The hybrid models are efficient but not particularly quick.
Touchscreen Overload: Hyundai has gone all-in on touch controls, meaning physical buttons are scarce. Some drivers find this frustrating, as simple tasks like adjusting the climate control require navigating menus, keep those hands clean!
Price Creep: While the Tucson still offers good value, the higher-end models (especially the PHEV) are creeping into premium SUV price territory, such is the price for increased demand.
Boot Space in PHEV Models: The plug-in hybrid version sacrifices some boot space due to the battery placement, which might be a dealbreaker for those needing maximum cargo room.
Whose It For?
If you’re in the market for a reliable, tech-filled, family-friendly SUV, the Hyundai Tucson is hard to beat. It offers a plethora of style, comfort, and efficiency, which is why it continues to dominate in Ireland and gain ground in the UK. OK, it’s not the most exhilarating car to drive, however, its practicality and features make up for it. Plus, a new Hyundai’s strong warranty and reputation for reliability, you’re getting a solid investment.
For those looking for a bit more “umph” or behind the wheel, perhaps a sportier alternative SUV like the Ford Kuga or even the Toyota RAV4 might be worth considering. But if you want a well-rounded SUV that’s stylish, spacious, practical and well-equipped, the Tucson remains a top contender.
Concluding Thoughts
The Tucson’s success in Ireland and the UK isn’t a fluke – it’s the result of a well-designed, well-priced package that meets today’s needs for the average driver. With strong sales continuing into 2025 and most likely beyond, it’s safe to say the Tucson isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.