Hyundai unveils new Tuscon; eyes greater share in premium SUV segment

Hyundai Motor India on Wednesday launched a new version of its premium SUV Tuscon as it looks to bolster its presence in the segment.

While unveiling the model at the Auto Expo here, Hyundai Motor India Managing Director and CEO SS Kim said the new Tuscon comes with enhanced technology, design and performance.

"Hyundai constantly strives to upgrade its products and services with best-in-class technology that meet the evolving needs of today's customers and their rising aspirations," he added.

The premium SUV further strengthens the company's dominance in SUV segment in the country, Kim said.

Commenting on company's sales performance in 2019, he said the company was able to increase its market share despite challenging market conditions.

"By launching four new products in different segments last year, we were able to increase our market share to 17.3 per cent from 16.3 per cent in 2018," Kim said.

Hyundai Motor India Director Sales and Marketing Tarun Garg said there is a clear shift happening towards SUV bodystyles with the segment now accounting for 24 per cent of the overall passenger vehicle volumes.

"We have strong presence in mid-sized SUV segment with Creta and Venue...I think it is a very logical step for us to now look at premium SUV segment as well...this is where Tuscon comes in," Garg said.

The company is raising the benchmark with power and features in the Tuscon, he added.

The South Korean auto major has sold over 6.5 million units of Tuscon in markets like the US, Europe, South Korea and China till date.

Powered by BS-VI compliant 2 litre petrol and diesel powertrains, the new Tuscon comes with enhanced features like all-wheel drive, automatic traction cornering control, power seats and connected features.

The diesel version of the vehicle now comes mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering best in segment power (185 PS) and torque (40.8 KGM).

The petrol engine delivers 152 PS of power.