In an effort to propel its momentum as the fourth-ranked import brand in the United States, Hyundai has promised one new product every six months between now and 2007. The first volley of that barrage is the new four-door Tucson, scheduled to arrive in dealerships this summer as Hyundai's entry into the small SUV segment. Slotted to fit below the Santa Fe, the Hyundai Tucson is designed to compete with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mitsubishi Outlander. With pricing estimated to range from $17,000 to $22,000, it promises to be an economical and versatile playtime companion to a young buyer's sporty and active lifestyle. Base model GL is powered by 2.0L/140-hp DOHC four-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed manual or optional Shiftronic automatic transmission; Hyundai's 2.7L/173-hp DOHC V-6 and Shiftronic are standard in both GLS and LX models. Standard features across all levels include four-wheel disc brakes, on-demand four-wheel drive, 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, remote keyless entry alarm system, power windows and locks, and seat-mounted side-impact airbags for the driver and front seat passenger. Due in dealerships this summer, Hyundai aspires to sell 18,000 Tucsons this year, with annual production between 40,000 to 50,000.
