Hyundai put us through a light to medium duty off-road course that would have

While slightly smaller than the Santa Fe, passenger space is as good or a bit better. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

been ideal for showing off the manual lock system, that is if my test vehicle at the time hadn't have been a front-wheel drive V6 model. Still, I had no trouble negotiating the trail, especially with the traction control working overtime to make up for slippery surfaces. I think Hyundai is very realistic about just how many people will ever engage its manual lock system, understanding that most will merely use the little Tucson for day to day urban activities. Still, customers will have the comfort of knowing their SUV can tackle more difficult terrain if necessary. So how does the Tucson fit into the existing Hyundai lineup? While slightly smaller than the Santa Fe, passenger space is as good or a bit better. It loses ground behind the second row of seats, when loading in cargo. I've heard reports that the new model will simply cannibalize Santa Fe sales, but Hyundai doesn't seem too worried about offering a second choice in the compact SUV segment. After all, it won't be long until a larger Santa Fe hits the road, with a 7-seat variant in the works, or so I've been told by a reliable source.

If you're in the market for a compact SUV you would be doing yourself a disservice if you didn't put the Tucson on your shopping list. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

What about prices? Well, you already know the 4-cylinder GL comes well-equipped at $19,995. An air package, which includes air conditioning, of course, remote keyless entry, and privacy glass will push the price up to $21,415. If you want to add the V6 to the mix, which by the way also includes the air package, a dual exhaust system that looks especially nice from behind, and tasteful bodyside cladding, color-keyed door handles and mirrors, and a chrome license plate garnish at the rear, it will cost $24,865. Do you want all four-wheels to spin at take-off? You'll need to step up to the plate with $27,145. And finally, if you want to add a power glass sunroof and heated leather seats the final tally is $28,725. And that's a lot of SUV for the money.