2014 Hyundai Tucson adds new GDI engines for more power, fuel economy

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he 2014 Hyundai Tucson is a compact crossover that is just great for those who need the extra room, but don’t want the look of a minivan.

The Tucson design has been refreshed for 2014 with the addition of new projector headlights with LED accents and available wraparound LED taillights. Tucson’s muscular presence with flowing lines and full surfaces remains, along with the Hyundai family hexagonal front grille, aggressive lower air intake, sculptured hood creases and sleek greenhouse. Chrome grille accents and door handles add sophistication to the top-of-the-line Limited. From the side, Tucson has a sports car theme with a double-zigzag treatment for the wheel arches that wrap around the standard 17-inch alloy wheels or the new 18-inch alloy wheels. Roof rack rails are now available with an optional panoramic sunroof and standard shark-fin antenna on the Limited.

The Tucson is popular because of its combination of style and function. For 2014 the advanced 2.0-liter Nu and 2.4-liter Theta II Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines have been added as power options. Both deliver enhanced torque and responsiveness, complemented by the all-new standard SACHS Amplitude Selective Damping (ASD) for optimum ride, handling and driving comfort.

The new 2.0-liter Nu GDI engine produces 164 hp at 6,200 rpm and 151 pound feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. With the GDI fuel delivery system, the engine delivers higher peak torque at lower rpm for better everyday driving dynamics and a good balance between performance and fuel economy, (23/29 mpg). The entry-level GLS model with the 2.0-liter Nu engine is available for the first time with AWD.

Drivers wanting more horsepower and torque have the option of the 2.4-liter Theta II GDI engine, which has been well tested in both the Sonata sedan and Santa Fe Sport SUV. With this engine under the hood,, the Tucson can tow up to 2,000 pounds. With 182 hp and 177 pound-feet of torque, Tucson SE and Limited models deliver fuel solid performance and fuel economy of 24 mpg combined.

All Tucson models have a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC. The gated gear shifter has been upgraded to a straight-type with a boot for easier use. Tucson models feature Hyundai’s Active ECO System that modifies engine and transmission control to smooth out throttle response. By turning on Active ECO, drivers can realize as much as a seven percent increase in fuel economy.

Also for 2014, Tucson has added a host of available new equipment, including Hyundai’s Blue Link safety, service and infotainment telematics system, two-stage reclining rear seats and third-generation navigation with a larger seven-inch touchscreen display and HD Radio technology. Other new standard items include a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, floor console mounted rear vents, steering-wheel mounted audio and cruise controls, cupholder illumination.

The MSRP on the 2014 Hyundai Tucson starts at $21,450.

[author image=”http://www.communitynewspapers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Grant-Miller-4-C.jpg” ]Grant Miller is the publisher of Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277 or by addressing email to Grant@CommunityNewspapers.com.[/author]

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