An all-new model for 2005, the Tucson returns for 2006 with a new top-of-the-line Limited trim level in place of last year's LX. All versions receive styling tweaks inside and out. Illuminated visor mirrors and a tire pressure monitoring system are now standard on GLS and Limited models.

The Tucson is Hyundai's crossover utility vehicle (CUV) that is mechanically similar to its family cousin, the Kia Sportage. Following in the footsteps of Hyundai's larger Santa Fe, the five-passenger Tucson is based on a car platform with unibody construction, transverse engine mounting, and a choice of front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The Tucson is available in GL, GLS, and Limited trim levels.

Introduced last year, the Tucson is Hyundai's second entry in the compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV) market. Similar in design to the larger Santa Fe, the Tucson offers buyers a way to step into a compact SUV for less than $20,000. Outfitted with either a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine or a peppy V6, the Tucson undercuts competitors such as the Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4 by offering more features for less money. Some examples of those features are the Tucson's standard safety equipment, which includes six airbags, electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes as well as Hyundai's impressive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Also notable are Hyundai's swiftly rising J.D. Power quality survey ratings.