Hyundai Motor PH previews model lineup including all-new Tucson

In preparation for Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) commencing its operations next month, the automaker held a dealer conference at Okada Manila on June 20. It was here that the refreshed Hyundai Philippines lineup was revealed, which includes the all-new Tucson compact crossover. 

Hyundai Motor PH gave dealers a glimpse of the models they'll be carrying [Image: Hyundai Motor PH via Top Gear Philippines] 

HMPH will reportedly bring in the model’s long wheelbase version, measuring 4,670mm long, 1,865mm wide, and up to 1,665mm high. This will be initially available with a Smartstream D 2.0-liter diesel power unit good for 186 horsepower and 417 Nm of torque, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. HMP says the gasoline version will follow at a later date. 

It remains to be seen whether the local release will come with the same driver-assist features found on the international version. In terms of the exterior, the Philippine-spec Tucson will still sport Hyundai’s Parametric design, led by the intricate grille that conceals the LED headlamps. 

The all-new Tucson will initially be released as a diesel in our market

The all-new Staria was also shown as part of the range, officially replacing the Starex in the full-size multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment. Three variants are expected, from a base 11-seater to a Premium trim that offers 7- and 9-seater options. 

Each Staria variant will come with its own unique selling point. The base version, for instance, features rear seats that fold flat for expanding cargo capacity. Relaxation Seats on the 7-seater Premium are designed to provide a zero-gravity experience, while the second-row seats on the 9-seater version can swivel to face occupants at the third row. 

Three variants of the Staria will be available to local customers

Making an appearance as well was the Santa Fe midsize crossover, which will likely come equipped with 19-inch alloys and a 360-degree camera system. For power, the model is expected to come with a Smartstream D 2.2-liter engine capable of 202 horsepower and 441 Nm of torque, although the unit will reportedly use a timing belt to save weight. 

Joining the lineup is the Creta reportedly aimed at the compact crossover segment, featuring Hyundai’s latest design language to match its corporate siblings. This will be sourced from Indonesia, equipped with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine making 115 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque in tandem with a continuously variable transmission. 

HMPH will be importing the Creta from Indonesia 

Reports say that the Venue will be retained as HMPH’s entry-level offering in the SUV class. The facelifted Palisade full-size SUV will also be released here eventually, replacing the Kona. 

No pricing information for the upcoming models has been disclosed, but HMPH said that there will be adjustments made to the existing warranty coverage starting in July: 

• 5-year/200,000-km warranty as standard, including the paint 
• 5-year/100,000-km corrosion warranty
• 24-month/40,000-km battery warranty
• 36-month/60,000-km infotainment system warranty

Get wind of more upcoming releases at Philkotse.com.