A good value in its class
I needed a car unexpectedly and in a hurry, so had little time to research. I searched online for "2018 small SUV best value safe" and the Hyundai Kona kept coming up as the top result in all of the reviews I read. The only problem was, there weren't any Konas available at the time I needed to buy a car, so I bought a Tucson, instead. The car has far more features in every category than I was expecting at this price point. The Tucson has a smooth ride, comfortably appointed and well-thought-out interior, and more technology than I will ever use. The included Hyundai Bluelink navigation is wonky and has sent me to the wrong destination more than once, so I don't really use it.
The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission took some getting used to, but overall, the car has proved to provide a significantly comfortable ride. I'm a person of short stature and I was pleased that the Tucson had enough seat adjustments that made it possible for me to be well-situated with great visibility behind the wheel. My passengers have told me that the rear seats sit quite low, so unless people sitting in back are tall, they might feel a little short and lacking in easy visibility back there.
The engine and transmission are responsive both in city driving and up to the highest points of Colorado's Rocky Mountains. The car has plenty of power as well as robust, nimble handling. I take it on faith that the car is in all-wheel drive when it needs to be. So far, I have driven my Tucson in all kinds of weather and the car has stayed steady and maintained sure-footed handling in bad driving conditions.
Even with the Limited trim level, the Tucson has more easily-scratched plastic than I would prefer inside the car, but I've learned to be careful when loading and unloading cargo. This car has exceptionally generous and versatile cargo space with a far greater interior capacity than it would appear from the exterior design. I haul a lot of stuff to outdoor events (including a 10x10 ft. canopy) and it all fits in the car with room to spare.
It is worth noting that I absolutely hate to drive, but all of the Tucson's built-in safety features and the excellent handling make me hate driving a little less.
Recommended
Verified Owner
