Hyundai Tucson is an appealing family SUV

A facelift of the current version aims to further enhance the appeal of this family SUV thanks to an updated exterior, all-new interior, fresh tech and extra safety features.

Redesigned bumpers, larger daytime running lights, revamped alloys, and new colour options form part of the exterior changes.

Meanwhile, the cabin has benefited from updates to the dashboard, steering wheel, seats, and infotainment system.

The Tucson has been improved by a facelift A wide range of engines are available, with my test car coming in full hybrid guise – with a 212bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine combining with a battery that’s big enough for brief stints of electric driving in stop-start traffic. The electric power of the hybrid variant has been increased from 44.2 kW to 47.7 kW, while the plug-in hybrid goes up from 66.9 kW to 72 kW.

The four-cylinder turbocharged engine and the electric motor work well in tandem to provide sprightly performance, with the sprint to 60mph taking about eight seconds. There’s also plenty of torque, with an official figure of 367Nm when the revs are between 1000 and 3600rpm.

The handling feels trustworthy, with precise steering and relatively little body lean in tighter corners.

The Tucson’s ride is softer than some rivals in the class, but adjustments to the suspension offer greater control than before when passing over bumps and potholes.

The interior is a pleasant place to be When it comes to looks, Hyundai’s designers have departed from traditional drawing techniques for the Tucson’s redesign.

Instead, they have used digital technology and geometric algorithms – a method known as ‘parametric dynamics’ – using digital data to generate lines, angles, and shapes, resulting in bold design aesthetics.

It’s resulted in some dynamic-looking creases and lines throughout the SUV’s exterior, along with some striking geometric patterns described by Hyundai as ‘parametric jewels’, notably in the Tucson’s redesigned front grille.

Additionally, a new front bumper design has been introduced, offering glossy black mouldings as an option and a new skid plate for added protection.

Once you step inside, the cockpit feels slick and well-crafted, with a new curved display combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen in one seamless unit.

The distinctive front end of the vehicle The system, part of Hyundai’s latest-generation Connected Car Navigation Cockpit, offers crisp graphics and is intuitive to use, while over-the-air updates ensure seamless access to the latest software and infotainment capabilities.

In terms of practicality, it’s an easy vehicle to live with, thanks to its spacious, user-friendly interior and cavernous boot with a capacity of up to 620 litres.

The rear seats can be folded in a 4:2:4 ratio at the press of a button or remotely for added convenience.

There are also plenty of creature comforts, including three-zone climate control, front and rear heated seats, and ventilated front seats.

All-in-all, the facelift has made the Tucson into an even more desirable family SUV.

Tucson N Line S

ENGINE: 1.6-litre petrol turbo hybrid
TRANSMISSION6 speed automatic 
POWER: 215PS @ 5500rpm
TORQUE: 367Nm @ 1000 – 3600rpm
COMBINED MPG: 47.9
0-60MPH: 8.2 seconds
PRICE: £41 320