The Tucson is the most compact crossover in Hyundai's lineup. It was first introduced for the 2005 model year, and is built on the same Elantra-based platform as the Kia Sportage.

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The standard powerplant in all Tucsons is a 2.0-liter DOHC 'Beta' in-line four-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels. Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) optimizes the valve timing for better performance, fuel economy and lower emissions. At 6000 rpm, the engine develops 140 horsepower, with the 136 pound-feet torque peak arriving at 4,500 rpm.

The Tucson is also offered with an optional 2.7-liter V6 featuring the Variable Intake System (VIS). Horsepower peaks at 173 at 6000 rpm, and torque crests at 178 pound-feet at an accessible 4000 rpm. The V6 with its standard four-speed automatic and front-wheel drive now delivers 18 mpg in the EPA city driving cycle and returns 24 mpg on the highway.

In GLS trim with the standard four-cylinder engine, owners can choose between a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed Shiftronic automatic.

The optional all-wheel-drive system has the ability to put anywhere from 99 percent of the power to the front wheels, to a 50/50 split between the front and rear.

Three trim levels -- GLS, SE, and Limited -- are offered.

Tucson GLS

The Tucson entry model is the GLS. It comes standard with the 2.0-liter inline four cylinder engine, five-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive. Electronic Stability Control, traction control and ABS are standard, as are 16-inch alloy wheels, advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags covering both rows of seating. The GLS also includes power windows, door locks and exterior mirrors and an 80-watt AM/FM/CD audio system. Standard active front head restraints, XM Satellite Radio, tire pressure monitoring and the auxiliary jack will be available first quarter of 2008. Options include a four-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission, air conditioning and cruise control.

Tucson SE

Stepping up to the mid-range SE trim brings a 2.7-liter DOHC V6 engine, four-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission, 16-inch double-spoke alloy wheels with 235/60R16 tires, bodyside cladding, foglights and bodycolored door handles and mirrors. Interior features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and deluxe cloth seating surfaces. SE models also include a standard 140-watt AM/FM/CD/Cassette audio system, air conditioning, cruise control and trip computer with two modes, which in addition to mpg and distance to empty, now include drive time and average speed. Standard XM Satellite Radio, an auxiliary jack and active front head restraints were added for 2008. Options include electronically controlled four-wheel drive, power tilt-and-slide sunroof and heated front seats.

Tucson Limited

The limited trim level introduces leather seating surfaces and a standard 200-watt AM/FM audio system with a six-disc in-dash CD changer, six speakers and subwoofer. The Limited also has a monochromatic exterior appearance package, fully automatic temperature control with outside temperature display, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with compass, and rear cargo mat. New for 2008 is a standard XM Satellite Radio, an auxiliary jack and active front head restraints which will be available first quarter of 2008. The only options are electronically controlled four-wheel drive and a power tilt-and-slide sunroof.