That 2005 Tucson was available with a 2.0-liter in-line four-cylinder engine rated at 140 horsepower, or a 173-hp 2.7-liter V-6, and a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, the Tucson's three trim levels--GL, GLS, and Limited--divided the powertrains up as fit the model. The GL was available only with the four-cylinder engine, and a choice of the manual or automatic transmission. The GLS and Limited, on the other hand, were available with only the V-6 and only the automatic transmission. This new model debuted at the 2013 Geneva Show as the new European ix35, packing new features and more refined styling. Once the new 2014 model arrives in North America its expected to come with Hyundai’s FLEX STEER system, which allows drivers to choose from Normal, Comfor and Sport steering modes.In the United States, the Tucson's current 2.0-liter generates 165 horsepower and 146 lb.-ft. of torque. Buyers can upgrade to a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder delivering 176 horsepower and 168 lb.-ft. of torque. If the U.S.-specification 2014 Tucson is equipped with the new direct-injection engine debuting in Geneva.
Whereas the European ix35 features the same grille (re-trimmed) as the pre-facelift model, and which is similar to the one used on the current North American Tucson, the South Korean model gains a flashier nosepiece with chromed slats inspired by the new Santa Fe series. he new front look doesn’t come as a surprise as Hyundai had previewed it on the ix35 Fuel Cell production car back in September of 2012. Other than that, the cosmetic updates between the European and Korean market models are the same and include a new set of headlamps with LED daytime running lights, redesigned front bumper featuring re-shaped fog lights, new alloy wheel designs and revised LED-equipped tail lamps.
The changes on the Euro-spec ix35 are not radical at first glance. LED lighting is added in the form of front driving lights and rear taillights, and the ix35 gets a more fuel-efficient gasoline direct-injected 2.0-liter engine, and for the first time, the diesel model (which almost certainly is NOT coming to the U.S.) gets an optional six-speed automatic.
The current Tucson has changed relatively little since its 2010 launch. For 2013, all versions come with standard air conditioning; power windows, locks, and mirrors; remote keyless entry; cloth seats; and an AM/FM/XM/CD player with a USB port. The NHTSA now rates it at four stars overall for crash protection; the IIHS has given it a Top Safety Pick for 2013 as well.The new Tucson also features new front bi-xenon headlights, and a new a TFT Supervision cluster inside, which provides the driver with greater clarity on the vehicle’s data. Finally, the interior has a higher quality touch making the cabin a far nicer place for the driver and passenger. Additionally, the new ix35/Tucson gains Hyundai's Flex Steer electric steering technology, offering Normal, Comfort, and Sport steering tuning.
Just like its European counterpart, the updated Tucson ix features Hyundai's ‘Nu’ 2.0-litre GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) that produces 164hp (166PS) up from 161hp (163PS). Korean buyers can also opt for a 182hp (184PS) 2.0-liter turbo diesel unit.On the inside, the ix35 gets a new 4.2 TFT display in the instrument cluster, and features Hyundai’s adjustable-assist Flex Steer system. Other upgrades include a heated steering wheel, chrome-ringed climate-control system vents, illuminated cupholders, available 7-inch touchscreen audio and navigation system.