Cheeky bold looks, aggressive tail pipes, ample power and torque with a deep throaty voice leaves little doubt that the Tucson Sport is quite different from the rest of the Tucson range.
by RUBIN VAN NIEKERK
*Prices accurate at time of publishing – Gay Pages Summer 2019 Edition 94
It takes a while to get used to so much power that wheelspin is a given whenever you do not feather the beast. Looks wise, the Sport is a stud for sure with a radical departure from, its gentle well-mannered siblings. This is no mom’s taxi. Unless the transvestite mom doubles up as a dominatrix with a whip, platforms and fishnet stockings.
A Tucson midlife upgrade in 2018 meant the time was ripe to create another Sport derivative, with bespoke black rims and a body kit that gives it a very sporty look.
Both derivatives produce 150kW and our test unit had a 1,6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with maximum torque of 300Nm. Power to the front wheels through an automatic 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission feels too much initially, but you learn to manage the wheelspin.
A dashboard with a floating 7-inch screen for its infotainment system offers features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard, luxurious specification levels include offerings such as electric front seat adjustment, dual climate control, rear air vents, rear parking assist cameras, a panoramic sunroof and high-quality soft-touch material. A centrally positioned floating audio system screen, helps drivers to stay focused on the road ahead.
There are 9 derivatives in the Tucson range with vastly different spec levels. The Elite range is essentially the same as the Elite Sport, except that the Sport has black rims, side skirts, front and rear spoilers and dual exhausts. Useful standard items include keyless entry and Blind Spot Detection with Cross Traffic Alert.
