2008 Hyundai Tucson

NEW FOR 2008:

- Auxiliary audio input jack and engine immobilizer on all models

- Trim line changes: GL renamed L; GL with Air renamed GL; new four-cylinder GLS trim line; GLS V6 renamed Limited

- Heated front seats added to GL and higher models

- Tweeters deleted from GL

- Cruise control added to GL with Air and Automatic package

- Trip computer added to Limited

- Windshield sunshade band deleted

- Two-position armrest changed to one position

- Cruise control added to all automatic transmission-equipped models

- Rear cargo mat deleted

For 2008, the Hyundai Tucson, receives changes to its trim lines, with new names and more content.

The Tucson is available with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, mated to a five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic; and a 2.7-litre V6, strictly with the four-speed. The four-cylinder models are front-wheel drive, while V6 models can be optioned with an all-wheel system. Trim lines on the four-cylinder are the L, GL and GLS; V6 lines are the GL and Limited.

Features on the L, which comes only with the five-speed manual, include 16-inch alloy wheels, CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary jack, power windows, power locks, floor mats, 60/40 split folding rear seat, heated mirrors, roof rack side rails, variable intermittent wipers, rear washer/wiper and front wiper de-icer.

The GL comes with the five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic, and adds air conditioning, privacy glass, heated seats, cruise control (with automatic transmission only), keyless entry, and alarm system.

The GLS uses only the four-speed automatic, and adds power sunroof, leather seats, leather-wrapped wheel, trip computer and cruise control.

The GL V6 builds on the four-cylinder GL, and adds cruise control; AWD models also add fog lamps.

The Limited adds side and curtain airbags, power sunroof, leather seats, trip computer and leather-wrapped wheel; AWD models also add fog lamps.

The Tucson is based on a platform also used by the Kia Sportage, but they have different styling and are built in separate factories. Nimble and fun to drive, the Tucson benefits from the V6, as the four-cylinder can be anemic, especially when mated to the automatic, and the five-speed shifter is rubbery. Interior space is good, and the folding seats drop at the pull of a handle to form a flat floor, without flipping seat cushions or removing head-restraints. A well-done little SUV, the Tucson is further sweetened by its long warranty.