Hyundai Tucson 2.0D Executive AT

How close has the Tucson's recent round of updates brought it to besting the segment favourites?

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Price: R709 900 0-100 km/h: 8.06 seconds

Top speed: 201 km/h

Power: 137 kW

Torque: 416 N.m

CAR Fuel Index: 8.88 L/100 km

CO2: 169 g/km

Facelift has solidified the Tucson's current Top 12 positioning even further Marius Boonzaier

With its turbodiesel particularly frugal in FWD guise, the Executive is the Tucson to have Kyle Kock

Launched in April, the updated Hyundai Tucson just missed out on our 2025 Top 12 Best Buys awards judging. However, the pre-facelifted fourth generation, which was introduced to the South African market in 2022, remained a worthy competitor against its local midsize-SUV peers. Thanks to a broad lineup, keen pricing, generous aftersales cover and easy-to-drive characteristics, the Hyundai secured a podium finish in the Midsize SUV category. The Kia Sportage claimed second, while the Volkswagen Tiguan received the nod as 'best buy' in this increasingly competitive segment. However, the Tucson's third-place finish was nonetheless a solid one. But could it have scored higher if the refreshed fourth iteration arrived sooner?

The revised Tucson portfolio comprises three derivatives, available with the same engine options as the previously five-model range. This includes a 115 kW/192 N.m 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol and a 137 kW/416 N.m 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel, the latter available with the choice of front- or all-wheel drivetrains.