2010 Tucson: New spy shots reveal attractive exterior

Revealing the exterior of the 2010 Tucson crossover. Pilot production in run.

Our latest 2010 Tucson spy report features one image only, but this one is by far the most revealing one we have seen so far. It showcases the new body-shell while sitting on a production line together with the current generation Tucson.

The latest spy shot reveals that Hyundais second generation compact crossover will retain a very distinctive and attractive exterior styling cues first seen on ix-onic concept that made its debut at Geneva Auto Show earlier this year.

In comparison to the current Tucson, the new model will be completely revamped. The interior of the Hyundai Tucson will get a completely new look and will also be built with more quality materials. Thanks to extended wheelbase, the new Tucson will now offer even more cabin space, but will retain seating for five people.

Underneath the sheetmetal, the 2010 Hyundai Tucson will share many of its underpinings with the all-new Kia Sportage, which is expected to go on sale in the first half of 2010. Both models are expected to be built on the same uni-body platform and share many of technical components, but differ in the exterior and interior design.

According to recent Hyundai news report, the 2010 Tucson will be offered with the all-new R-diesel engine roaring under the hood. The R-diesel engine has been developed with the aim of being the worlds best high-powered eco-friendly diesel engine in the competitive 2.0L segment.

The power and torque of the new diesel engine have been dramatically enhanced, while fuel consumption has been lowered by 10 percent in comparison to the current diesel engine.

Pilot production of the 2010 Tucson is already in the run, while its serial production is expected to commence sometime during the summer of this year.

The new Hyundai Tucson is expected to make its US debut at the 2009 L.A. Auto Show and should be on sale across the USA in early in 2010.