The 2008 Hyundai Tucson doesn't offer a lot of new features for this model year; however, the company is planning to introduce a Limited model in the future (4 cylinder). The Tucson may be considered a smaller and less pricey version of the Santa Fe.

The Tucson is available in four different trims: the GLS, Limited, SE and Limited V6. If you choose the GLS trim package, your vehicle will come equipped with your choice of a manual or four speed automatic transmission. Going with the SE or Limited V6 means that your new vehicle will have a 176 hp, 2.7 L engine with an automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is an optional feature if you choose either the SE or Limited V6 trim packages.

If you are considering one of the compact SUVs on the market, you may want to look at the Saturn Vue, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Suzuki Grand Vitara, and the Kia Sportage as well as the Tucson.

The Tucson has been ranked by U.S. News and World Report at a respectable #11 of all compact SUV's. The vehicle was praised for being affordable, but it failed to impress with its driving performance. It was considered a good vehicle if you are going to be confining your driving to urban areas, but other compact SUVs offered a more powerful driving experience.

In terms of having a comfortable interior, the Hyundai Tucson did rank well. With seating for five and a roomy interior, the Tucson is outfitted with controls that are easy to read gauges. They are positioned in a way that is convenient for the driver to access.

The Tucson did perform well in crash tests, scoring either 4 or 5 in all tests conducted. (A rating of 4 means there is a 10-20% chance of sustaining a serious injury and a 5 means the likelihood has dropped to between 5 and 10%.)

This vehicle is being marketed to families and single people who want an SUV that handles well but is not made for a lot of off-road use. In the world of automobiles, it is considered an entry-level model and as long as the consumer understands that they are not getting the full performance that an SUV can offer, they will likely be pleased with their purchase. For a suggested MSRP of $17,420, the buyer gets the look and feel of an SUV without paying full price for one.