The Hyundai Tucson I 2.7 i V6 24V 4WD Automatic, produced between 2004 and 2010, represents Hyundai’s initial foray into the burgeoning compact SUV market in North America and Europe. This variant, powered by the Delta/G6BA 2.7-liter V6 engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, occupied a mid-range position within the Tucson lineup, offering a balance between performance and affordability. It aimed to provide a more refined and powerful alternative to base-model Tucsons equipped with four-cylinder engines, while remaining more accessible than potential future, higher-trim level options. The Tucson I, built on the Hyundai/Kia J2 platform, was a significant step for the brand, demonstrating a commitment to offering a wider range of vehicles to appeal to diverse consumer needs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Tucson |
| Generation | Tucson I |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 i V6 24V 4WD (173 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.2 l/100 km (17.8 US mpg, 21.4 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 152.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 173 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 4000 rpm (180.7 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Delta / G6BA |
| Engine displacement | 2656 cm3 (162.08 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.7 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1609 kg (3547.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2190 kg (4828.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 581 kg (1280.89 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 644 l (22.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4325 mm (170.28 in.) |
| Width | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Height | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2630 mm (103.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tucson I 2.7 i 4WD is the Hyundai Delta engine, specifically the G6BA variant. This 2.7-liter, naturally aspirated V6 engine utilizes a 60-degree V-angle configuration, contributing to a relatively smooth power delivery. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing volumetric efficiency. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The G6BA engine produces 173 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 245 Nm (180.7 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and convenient operation. While not offering the responsiveness of a manual transmission, the automatic provided ease of use, particularly appealing to the target demographic seeking a comfortable and practical SUV.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.7-liter V6 and four-speed automatic combination in the Tucson I delivered adequate, though not particularly sporty, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 10 seconds, making it competitive with other compact SUVs of the era. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for everyday drivability rather than outright speed. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather conditions, a key selling point for buyers in regions with snow or rain. Compared to the base four-cylinder Tucson, the V6 offered significantly more power and a more refined driving experience. However, it lacked the fuel efficiency of the smaller engine and didn’t match the performance of larger SUVs or those equipped with more modern transmissions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.7 i V6 4WD trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Optional extras often included a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and leather upholstery. Safety features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) were standard. The interior design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The dashboard layout was typical of early 2000s Hyundai designs, with a focus on ease of use and durability.
Chassis & Braking
The Tucson I utilized a front independent suspension with coil springs and a rear multi-link suspension, providing a reasonably comfortable ride. The 2.7 V6 models generally featured larger brakes than the base models, with ventilated discs up front and solid discs in the rear. The all-wheel-drive system employed a viscous coupling to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, automatically adjusting to changing road conditions. Steering was rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assistance, offering a decent level of feedback.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Tucson I 2.7 i V6 4WD was generally well-received by automotive critics as a competent and affordable compact SUV. Reviewers praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available all-wheel-drive system. However, some criticized its relatively basic interior materials and the lack of a more modern transmission. Compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Tucson offered a more aggressive price point and a more powerful engine option, but often lagged behind in terms of refinement and resale value. Fuel economy was average for the class, with combined figures around 23.5 US mpg.
Legacy
The Hyundai Tucson I 2.7 i V6 4WD, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played a crucial role in establishing Hyundai as a serious contender in the compact SUV segment. The G6BA engine proved to be reasonably reliable, although routine maintenance, such as timing belt replacement, was essential. Today, these Tucsons are often found as affordable used vehicles, offering a practical and capable transportation option. While not highly sought after by collectors, well-maintained examples represent a good value for buyers seeking a budget-friendly SUV with all-wheel drive.
