Useful utility, plentiful features

How does the Tucson stack up against the competition?
The Tucson has a longer wheelbase, shorter length, and greater width than its key competitors. Lighter than the Escape and the CR-V, the 2005 Hyundai Tucson also features more front leg room than those two models, and exceeds both the Escape and RAV-4 when it comes to rear seat leg room. Other interior dimensions stack up competitively in the class, including cargo space, which measures 22.7 cubic feet with the rear seat raised and 65.5 cubic feet with the rear seat lowered.

What did you like least about the Tucson?
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.

Is the Tucson a serious off-roader?
No. Without a low-range transfer case, the Tucson is meant to travel only well worn trails through the woods, like the utility access road Hyundai had us drive in the forest just east of Tillamook, Ore.