2010 Hyundai Tucson Compact SUV Spy Photos

Hyundai recently updated its Tucson compact SUV with a new four-cylinder engine but the next-generation model, seen here testing in prototype form, is now only months away from making its world debut. Due late this year as a 2010 model, the new Tucson will move to a more crossover-styled body and is tipped to share its platform with the next Kia Sportage.

A concept version of the car will be on display at next month’s Geneva Motor Show and the production version should be unveiled at the following Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The new Tucson will be a global model, with Europe to get its own version called the ix35.

These latest spy shots show the upcoming SUV undergoing cold-weather testing in Northern Europe. The rough outline of the prototype reveals that the next Tucson will have a much smoother design than the boxy style of the current model, but will remain largely the same size.

One of the engines planned for the new Tucson will be a highly-efficient 2.0L turbocharged petrol unit with around 200hp (147kW) on tap. A petrol-electric hybrid version of this engine is also expected to be available but not at the 2010 model’s launch. Both FWD and AWD versions will be offered.

Another option will be a more basic 2.4L Theta II four-cylinder engine with about 175hp (130kW). A new six-speed automatic transmission is expected to come as standard. European customers will also be able to select from two new common rail turbodiesels, displacing 2.0L and developing 136hp (100kW) and 175 (130k) respectively.

Source : MotorAuthority