Just as the fourth generation of Hyundai’s Tucson SUV is running its final pre-production tests, the company exhibits a Vision T Concept at the LA Show. Chances are good that this is actually what the new Tucson will be based upon.
The main difference is that the Vision T is much larger than the current-gen Tucson. Specifically, it is 130 mm (5.1”) longer, 164 mm (6.4”) wider and 49 mm (1.9”) taller with a 134 mm (5.2”) larger wheelbase. In fact, it is larger than the Santa Fe and even the Palisade.
As far as the design is concerned, the new Grandeur and the Le Fil Rouge Concept both come to mind: the headlights are integrated into the radiator grille, and the grille itself is made up of active cells. The company claims that the elongated hood part and the long wheelbase contrasted against the short overhangs ‘create a sense of speed,’ while the smooth and sharp lines cater for an exotic contrast.
Many concept cars lose much of their ‘wow’ effect underway to production, but the recent Hyundai and Kia models actually sport quite bold looks straight from the factory. The new Optima and the abovementioned Grandeur are both good examples.