Hyundai's new Tucson gets over 15,000 bookings on launch day in South Korea, breaking 2022 record

Hyundai has launched the new model of its popular SUV, the Tucson, in the South Korean domestic market. On the very first day, customers showed strong confidence in the vehicle, with more than 15,000 bookings recorded.

The company has broken its own record set in 2022. Sales of the new model have shown a robust rise of about 39 per cent.

The new Tucson is larger and wider than before, and its wheelbase is longer too. The design has seen major changes, with particular attention paid to passenger comfort. The rear door now opens up to 83 degrees, making it easier to get in and out.

The cabin has a 17-inch Pleos Connect central display screen. It also gets a wireless charger for two smartphones, a digital key, a head-up display and a premium sound system with 12 speakers. A panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats and heated rear seats make the ride quite comfortable.

The SUV is offered mainly with two powertrain options: a 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine and a 1.6-litre turbo petrol hybrid setup. The petrol variant comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid variant gets a 6-speed automatic transmission, regenerative braking and Hyundai's special E-Motion drive technology.

On safety, the SUV comes with nine airbags as standard. Modern ADAS features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist and adaptive cruise control are also included.

In South Korea, the starting price is 31.4 lakh Korean won, which works out to about Rs 22.34 lakh. The top model goes up to about Rs 26.91 lakh. The car has come in four variants: H-Pick, Exclusive, XRT and Inspiration.

In India, Hyundai has for now stopped selling the Tucson. The company has made no official announcement on when the new model will be launched in India. Indian customers will have to wait for the company's next announcement.