From Manila to Dagupan and back on a Hyundai Tucson

The 2014 Hyundai Tucson is what I like to call a real compact SUV.  It is not long, measuring 173.2 inches from nose to end.   Although it is a “smaller” SUV, it does a good job of keeping stable on the road. It is easy to maneuver and is really fun to drive. If you’re looking for more of a hatchback-on-tiptoe, the Tucson could be a nice fit.

This was my first time to test-drive a Hyundai Tucson and because of the kind of SUV it is, I figured that an out-of-town drive with Vodka the Bichon was in order.

I read up on the Tucson and discovered that with this SUV, Hyundai has tweaked styling with a revamped model lineup. The formerly midgrade GLS is now the base trim. There’s also a well-stocked  trim level that bridges the gap between entry level units and top of the line variant, and the infotainment scene gets an update with a pair of new touchscreens: a 4.3-inch unit and a seven-inch setup with updated software on the top of the line's navigation system. Engines have been redone and now boast direct fuel-injection technology. This means that there is more power to the punch when driving the Tucson.

If you like to drive yourself, prefer an SUV and like to feel that you are in control of the car, not the other way around, the Hyundai Tucson is a good choice. If you’re looking for a value-packed crossover SUV that’s light on its feet and really easy to park, the Tucson still fits the bill.

TAKE A LOOK INSIDE

The 2014 Hyundai Tucson is a five-passenger compact crossover SUV that’s offered in four variants: GL 6MT 2WD, GL 6AT 2WD, GLS 6AT 2WD, and GL 6AT 4WD (diesel). I got to test drive the GLS 6AT 2WD — of course, I wasn’t disappointed.

The Tucosn I test drove turns on the charm with 17-inch wheels, chrome exterior trim, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a rearview camera, Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a retractable rear cargo cover.

It adds a technology package that includes LED taillights, a sporty and casual like a roof rack for extra luggage, an upgraded seven-speaker sound system, a seven-inch touchscreen, HD radio and a navigation system.

I fell in love with the cockpit — the knobs are within easy reach, making driving, even in heavy traffic, really so much fun. I must make a comment here about the leather-wrapped steering wheel, which gave me the feel of being a racecar driver — really! I love this about the Tucson — everything about this car is fun. Yet it does the job in good speed and makes getting in and out of little spaces, whether parking lots or tight streets, so easy.

I loaded Vodka the Bichon in her usual seat in the car and started off for a drive towards the North. Of course, as with all my drives, destination was unknown. The first stop I made on the NLEX was at a gas station, not only because I had to go but because it was a really hot day and I wanted to Vodka to stretch her little legs a bit before we journeyed on.

Toilet stop completed and walking stop for Vodka done, I got to check out the interiors of the Tucson. As I sat in the driver’s seat I noticed the unusually stylish cabin, highlighted by a sleek dashboard that complements the exterior’s striking lines. In spite of the emphasis on style, the controls are generally clearly labeled and simple to use, with extra credit due this year for the Limited’s much-improved optional touchscreen interface. 

OFF WE GO

I started off again and this time I opted to drive straight to Dagupan and see what kind of food Vodka and I might find out there.

While driving I tried testing the safety features the Hyundai is equipped with. The Tucson has antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, active front head restraints, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, a hill-holder feature and hill-descent control.

The brakes are great when you need to stop on a dime. And, many times while driving on the smaller town roads in the provinces, it is the brakes that will save you, especially when someone opts to cross the street or when a tricycle wants to make a quick turn.

I also remember reading that in government crash testing, the Tucson received four out of five stars for overall crash protection, with four stars for overall frontal-impact protection and five stars for overall side-impact protection. So, it just feels safer in a car that has passed so many stringent safety tests.

The rest of the drive to Dagupan was smooth. Vodka had fallen asleep and I was in the zone as I drove through the hot streets of the North.

When we got to Dagupan, I opted to go to a small shack where they were selling fresh buko juice and banana cue, too.

After I had my fill, I pulled out Vodka’s baon of kibble, treats and water and let her eat her lunch in peace.  Meals over, it was time for the drive back to Manila.

I did allow Vodka to do some walking in the breezy empty fields that we passed. She watched as the cows chewed on grass and was a bit cautious when a horse strode her way.

I did not want to get home too late so I loaded Vodka back into the Tucson and started our drive back to Manila.

The drive back home was uneventful and Vodka slept for the better part of it.  I just love days like these when I can drive for almost four hours straight and get home and still be raring to drive even more.