Chapter 7:
The Return, Refreshment,
Recreation and Reflections

As we drove into the Hotel de la Bahía, I couldn’t help but reflect on how well the Tucson handled a full day of press touring without missing a beat, and with plenty of fuel to spare too. In fact, the fuel tank’s capacity has also been uprated by four litres to a total of 62 litres. The seats remained fairly comfortable throughout our drive, everything worked and we experienced no problems whatsoever. It was evident that Hyundai is a brand that values continuous improvement.

Maybe we would like a bit more natural and direct steering feel– but it’s easy to understand compromises that favour a wide cross-section of consumers in a mass-market vehicle. No doubt they will appreciate the up to six, dual-stage airbags among the extensive list of safety features and amenities, and the Tucson’s great new styling that drew attention wherever we went. 

With the driving out of the way, it was time for a brief rest stop. We then reconvened at the hotel’s Grand Ballroom to mingle and compare notes and share feedback in a more relaxed setting, amid hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Soon it was time for dinner, accompanied by one of the best Latin jazz bands I’ve had the privilege to hear live. Seated on our table was Director of Central and South America and Caribbean Regional Headquarters, Chul Youn Park. We had good exchanges consisting of ideas, opinions, opportunities, developments, and of course the excellent Chilean food and wine. 

Finally, we were all treated to a Hyundai party at the hotel’s nightclub where everyone could unwind, socialise and perhaps learn a few new dance moves. At the entrance, the Hyundai models introduced us to a Tucson app that allows you to experience the new Tucson in virtual reality using a standard Samsung phone and a simple plastic headset adapter. I was able to control my experience by moving my head around and pausing in the virtual environment on various menus to explore the Tucson’s interior and exterior. Unlike my last trip to Spain where people were too conservative to ‘baila’ with a Trini, in Chile, the locals and the Latin American journalists were quite affable and easy-going, glad to enjoy the music and the moment. When I returned to my room, there was a Hyundai-branded drone waiting for me, a welcome gesture that will be put to good use at the various local events we attend. Needless to say, sleep came easily after such a packed day.

The next day, Hyundai had arranged individual drives for an hour or two, and we had our final photo and video sessions. With time to spare, I paid the spa one last visit in prep for the long flights ahead. At the Tololo Beach restaurant, the group shared a final lunch and bade farewell for individual departure. 

I had come away enchanted by the new Tucson, which first appeared in 2004, then evolved in 2009 and has now emerged as a world-class third-generation vehicle, with Hyundai as a brand and as a corporation. Kudos are certainly in order for hosting such a large-scale, well-organised event, where nearly 90 participants were able to experience the new Tucson in various driving conditions, enjoy great hospitality and learn a lot about Chile in the process. The next time I visit Chile, I think I’d like to venture to Easter Island to see the Moai. After such a great experience, it’s as good an excuse as any to return. 

Final configurations of the Hyundai Tucson for our local market were already confirmed at press time, so you can head to any branch of Massy Motors and take your test drive. If you are in the market for a mid-size value-packed crossover, we think you will be impressed. We certainly are.