Based on the paper specs, I have put a 2010 Tucson with stick shift on my shortlist of cars to consider. Being in Canada, it should not be a problem locating one to test drive.

I recognize the 2010 transmission (6 gears) will be different, but are there are any 06-09 stick shift owners here who can comment on the reliability / performance of the clutch / gear set-up ?

Am cross-shopping with an Elantra Touring for the hatchback utility, but am more interested in how it feels to shift a vehicle that is heavier than a normal car.

 

I wouldn't try to compare the 2. The 2010 Tucson 6-speed manual has nothing in common with the 2005-09 Tucson 5-speed manual.

As far as comparing the Tucson to the Touring, there is no comparison. The Touring uses the ancient 2.0L Beta 4-cyl with a 5-speed manual while the 2010 Tucson used the modern 2.4L Theta with a 6-speed manual. While the Touring is a very nice vehicle I personally wouldn't consider buying one until they upgrade the engine to the 2.0L or 2.4L Theta engine.

And the Tucson is only available with the manual trans in the base GLS level. The upscale Limited is only available with an automatic. Comparing the top Touring SE against the base Tucson GLS FWD:

MSRP:
- Touring SE = $18,995
- Tucson GLS = $18,995

Engine:
- Touring SE = 2.0L; 138-hp; 136-tq
- Tucson GLS = 2.4L; 176-hp; 168-tq

MPG:
- Touring SE = 23/31 mpg
- Tucson GLS = 22/30 mpg

Weight:
- Touring SE = 2937-lbs
- Tucson GLS = 3179-lbs (only 242-lbs more)

In reality, the Touring and 2010 Tucson are very similar in length, width, and interior space. The touring is just taller and slightly heavier but 242-lbs isn't much at all. That's like driving the Touring with one extra passenger.

 

NovaResource,

Thanks for the comparative figures - found them very useful to read. The thing about the weight really stood out.

Understand what you say about the 'ancient' Beta engine employed in the Touring, but I've also read elsewhere of previous 01-02 Elantra sedan owners who have spoken of doing several hundred thousand miles - perhaps the engineering K.I.S.S principle is working to their advantage. The only negative with the Tucson is that it's a first year model (I plan to make a decision in next 6 weeks), and I'm not sure how proven the Theta engine is.

Not too concerned with the Tucson manual being the base model. It will double up as both a no-frills daily driver and a potential training vehicle for my two teenage learners in a couple of years' time.

I plan to test drive the Tucson next week at my local dealership. Will list my impressions here.

Thanks.

 

The Theta engine has been used in the Sonata since 2006 so it is a proven engine. The Beta is not as efficient or as powerful plus it has a timing belt that needs replacing every 60K miles. The Theta uses a timing chain that does not require replacement.

 

Good reasons to get the Theta.

I do wish that they'd offer the manual in other than the base trim. This is a common Hyundai practice.

 

I actually drove a 2010 Tucson today and absolutely loved it...I was very suprised with this vehicle...liked it so much I bought one...gls awd auto...