While exterior design is rugged yet contemporary, the Tucson is slightly out of balance up front. The wheels should be closer to the front corners the way the rear wheels are placed right at the ends of the fenders, and the fog lights moved lower in the bumper. As it stands, the Tucson has too much nose and chin. Inside the GLS, the psychedelic geometric pattern of the cloth seat and door inserts draws far too much attention to itself, creating a jarring appearance in what is otherwise a tastefully executed cabin. The simple cloth of the GL and perforated leather of the LX are superior to the cloth found in the GLS.

So the future looks good for the Tucson. Dynamically, the 2005 Hyundai Tucson cannot distinguish itself from the pack of small SUVs currently on the market. It drives no better and no worse than the class average. Rather, the new Tucson’s strengths are a full complement of standard safety features, a great powertrain warranty, a small size combined with useful utility, and a low price tag. If these features are important to you, and you like what you see, you should test drive the Hyundai Tucson.