Buoyed by the overwhelming response that Creta SUV has received, Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) is planning to strengthen its SUV portfolio by bringing the Tucson SUV. The new SUV that will position above Creta and below Santa Fe in the Indian line-up is currently in its third generation and was unveiled at Geneva Motor Show on 3 March, 2015.

An NDTV Auto report says the India debut has been confirmed at the Auto Expo 2016, which is going to be held at Greater Noida from 3 February. The launch is expected in the first half of this year. The new Tucson's design is in line with the company's Fluidic design theme, which most of cars in the portfolio follows. The face of the SUV is dominated by signature hexagonal front grille flanked by LED headlamps. Unlike the Creta SUV that posses boxy design, the Tucson has more rounded body panels.

The new Tucson is built on a new platform that offers larger cabin space and provides 513 litres of luggage capacity. The Tucson offers electronic driving aids like an autonomous emergency braking system, lane keeping assist system, rear traffic cross alert, blind spot detection, speed limit information function and an active hood system. However, which of these features will be part of India-specific model remains to be seen.

The SUV is available with a wide range of powertrains in the global market. The range include a new turbocharged 173bhp (1.6-litre) T-GDI engine with six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and a petrol engine developing 130bhp (1.6-litre GDI) unit. Additionally, the SUV is available in three diesel engines -- 113bhp (1.7-litre), 134bhp (2.0-litre) and 183bhp (2.0-litre).

The first generation of the Tucson was sold in India during 2005-2010 and it was discontinued due to poor sales. Hyundai is likely to import the new Tucson initially with a starting price of approximately Rs 18 lakh.

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