Of late, Hyundai’s been creating some real head-turners. But, in my opinion, none of them come close to this – the fourth-gen Tucson. Striking isn’t it! Look at it from the front, side or back, and you’ll never say the compact SUV doesn’t have a character. The overall look is busy, with strong creases and angular elements sprouting out from here and there. One particular highlight is what forms the LED DRLs at the front. Those five elements on either side of the grille look great when illuminated, and blend well with the grille’s design when turned off.

Obviously, there will be some who’d say the exterior design isn’t easy to digest. But, faltering the rest of the package will be difficult. For a start, the new Tucson will be available in two sizes – short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase. Their availability, however, will be market dependent. The shorter one, which has a wheelbase of 2.68 metres, measures 4.5 metres in length, stretches close to 1.87 metres in width and stands 1.65 metres tall. The bigger version has the same width but has a wheelbase measuring over 2.75 metres and a length of 4.63 metres. In height, the latter is only marginally taller. The idea is to offer both five- and seven-seat versions in markets across the globe.

The cabin is far easier on the eye. There’s a multifunction steering wheel and, accompanying it, is a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Right next to it is a bulging centre section of the dashboard which houses another 10.25-inch touchscreen display for infotainment purposes. That also is the control centre for Hyundai’s Blue Link connected-car features. Apart from that, there’s a bulging centre console with some storage spaces, gearbox buttons and a wireless mobile charger. Other features include dual-zone climate control, 64-colour ambient lighting, Bose sound system and air purification.

Yes, there are several active and passive assistance systems in the package too. Included in that list are Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist with Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, cruise control, High Beam Assist and a Surround View Monitor.

Bored? How about some numbers? Hyundai will offer the new Tucson with a conventionally-powered, hybrid or a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Catering the first category will be the 2.5-litre petrol engine with close to 190hp/247Nm on tap, while an 8-speed automatic takes care of transmission duties. Both the hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains will include a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine with approximately 180hp/264Nm from the internal combustion powerplant alone. The combined output will be close to 230hp/350Nm.

The new Tucson goes on sale in its home market later this month. Hyundai will start launching it in other markets, including the USA, from the first half of next year.