Skip advert
Advertisement

Hyundai Tucson (2004-2008) review

Hyundai's second 4x4 seems almost unnecessary. It's not much smaller than the popular Santa Fe, and prices aren't significantly cheaper either.

Hyundai Tucson
Overall Auto Express rating

1.0

How we review cars
RRP
£32,400 £41,390
Avg. savings
£5,115 off RRP*
Find your Hyundai Tucson
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

Hyundai's second 4x4 seems almost unnecessary. It's not much smaller than the popular Santa Fe, and prices aren't significantly cheaper either. But crucially, it's the better car. It certainly looks more attractive. Gone are the chubby lines of the Santa Fe, and in comes a sleeker profile that's much more modern. The interior is more stylish too, and trim quality is measurably better if still not up to Toyota RAV4 standards. Generally, it feels more 'European', and needless to say, there's a stack of standard equipment.

It's a better drive too. The sharper chassis is less wallowy and stodgy, proving better-balanced through corners, though this does mean the ride is restless at times. Refinement is good and it's a positive car to drive at speed. Engines are familiar but the best seller, the 2.0-litre diesel, seems more refined in this application than in other Hyundais, if still underpowered. The 2.0-litre petrol is too slow and the 2.7-litre V6 disguises its power very well - blame the poor standard auto, that also hammers fuel economy. But overall it's a decent effort at the right price, with plenty of space inside for five and a big boot (with split tailgate). The Santa Fe's moving upmarket in response, with prices to match, so it seems if you want a budget 4x4 that's useful off-road as well as on, this is a good place to start. Although Kia's Sportage, the same car underneath, may also tempt.

Engines, performance and drive

MPG, CO2 and Running Costs

Interior, design and technology

Practicality, comfort and boot space

Reliability and Safety

Skip advert
Advertisement

Which Is Best

Cheapest

  • Name
    1.6T Advance 5dr
  • Gearbox type
    Manual
  • RRP
    £32,400
Select car

Most Economical

  • Name
    1.6T 48V MHD Advance 5dr DCT
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • RRP
    £33,980
Select car

Fastest

  • Name
    1.6T 48V MHD Advance 5dr DCT
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • RRP
    £33,980
Select car

New & used car deals

Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,115 off RRP*Used from £13,328
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,773 off RRP*Used from £11,995
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £2,499 off RRP*Used from £10,695
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,625Avg. savings £2,271 off RRP*Used from £11,595
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught
Skoda Epiq vRS exclusive image

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught

Every future Skoda will get the go-faster treatment, with the brand also working on making cars sharper and more engaging
News
27 Jun 2025
Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy
Marcos, interior

Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy

Development is already underway on the first all-new Marcos cars in roughly 20 years
News
27 Jun 2025
Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal
BMW M5 Touring - front action

Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal

The BMW M5 Touring is M car royalty, with a thoroughly impressive PHEV powertrain. It’s our Deal of the Day for 29 June
News
29 Jun 2025