STRENGTHS:
Very affordable pricing; excellent safety ratings; extensive warranty; car-like ride in an SUV
VALUE:
Hyundai has one of the best basic warranties available (five years or 60,000 miles) and a great powertrain warranty (10 years/100,000 miles). The newest Tucson is better than ever, and carries not only a lengthy list of standard safety equipment but also an iPod-compatible stereo. An advanced all-wheel drive system is available. EPA estimates for the Tucson are 31 mpg highway / 23 mpg city. Base prices start at $18,995.
WHAT'S NEW:
The Hyundai Tucson has been redesigned for 2010. It gets all new sheet metal that features a smoother shape, a lower profile, and a more car-like styling than last year. A new 2.4L engine is standard for 2010 and it is available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.