The 2011 Hyundai Tucson is another entry of the new generation Hyundai’s. A sporty driving compact crossover this unit is a more refined and sophisticated upgrade from years past. In a sea of crossover vehicles the Tucson stands out in the crowd.

Hyundai, which is known for value, affordability, and good overall quality brings all that to the table with this years trim entries. A GL trim model has been added which offers good value and awesome looks at the expense of less power. The 2.0 inline 4 cylinder engine is a step down from the 2.4 but the slight decrease in power is offset by an increase in miles per gallon fuel efficiency.

The 2011 Hyundai Tucson GLS trim is top of the line and comes well supplied accessory wise. The crossover sits on 17 inch cast aluminum wheels which are standard and has features such as hill holder, hill-descent control, full power accessories, and keyless entry. The driver side is spacious for most any size driver and includes a height adjustment feature. The steering wheel has tilt and telescoping capabilities and the stereo has 6 speakers that play CD’s, satellite radio, has an auxillary audio jack, as well as, providing a USB port.

Roof rails are standard for the GLS model of the 2011 Hyundai Tucson. Heated side mirrors, cruise control, and Bluetooth are also standard on the Hyundai Tucson GLS. If the all wheel drive upgrade is purchased, additional upgrade options are included, such as heated front seats, a touch screen navigation system, rear view camera, and automatic headlights to name a few.

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety named the 2011 Hyundai Tucson one of it’s top safety picks awarding it the top rating of Good for frontal offset, side impact protection, and roof strength tests. In brake tests the Hyundai Tucson comes to a stop in 123 feet from a 60mph start. As fas as comparable crossovers this is considered average.

One of the most outstanding benefits of the new and improved 2011 Hyundai Tucson is the EPA estimated fuel economy. The 2.0 liter 4 cylinder manual trans mission model is rated at 20mpg city and 27mpg highway with an overall 23 combined mpg. The upgraded GLS trim of the Tucson with it’s 2.4 liter engine has an EPA estimate of 22/31/26mpg.

As far as power goes the 2.0 liter engine has 165 horsepower and 146 foot pounds of torque. The 2.4 liter has 176 horse and 168 ft/lbs of torque. On the track the 2011 Hyundai Tucson was timed going 0-60 in 9.6 seconds which is considered average among similar comparable small SUVs.

Overall the 2011 Hyundai Tucson gets high marks for style, it’s maneuverability, and overall good looks. The 0-60 speed and the breaking ability are on par with similar models. It’s European inspired suspension makes for sporty driving but unfortunately, the stiffer suspension provides a rougher ride. Value, affordability and overall good quality are other considerations that make the 2011 Hyundai Tucson a top choice by many.