Hyundai has launched a four-wheel-drive version of its Tucson SUV at Rs 25.19 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The new variant is only available in the top-spec GLS automatic trim with the diesel engine. The previous top-spec trim, the 2WD GLS has been discontinued in favour of the four-wheel-drive model.

The 4WD AT GLS is Rs 1.33 lakh dearer that the outgoing 2WD AT GLS trim and Rs 2.7 lakh more than the mid-spec 2WD AT GL variant.

The four-wheel-drive system on the Tucson is an on-demand one, automatically redistributing power to the rear wheels when it detects a loss of traction at the front. Hyundai claims that this aids fuel efficiency and minimises wear of the parts. The system comes with a 4WD Lock mode that can be activated by the driver; this results in a 50:50 torque split between the front and rear wheels. The system also features Advanced Traction Cornering Control (ATCC) that sends power to the wheel with the most traction.

Besides the addition of the 4WD system, the top-spec Tucson GLS is unchanged inside, out and under the bonnet. The SUV carries on with the 2.0-litre diesel engine that produces 185hp and 400Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Korean manufacturer has also updated the mid-spec petrol and diesel 2WD GL variants with more safety technology including Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Hill Assist Control (HAC), Down Hill Brake Control (DBC) and brake assist. This has resulted in a price increase of Rs 2,000 over the diesel GL and Rs 9,000 over the petrol GL trim.

At the launch of the SUV in 2016, Hyundai had mentioned it would offer a sunroof and four-wheel drive on the Tucson. However, as of now, it's only AWD that's been added.

The Hyundai Tucson rivals the likes of the Honda CR-V, Jeep Compass and Mahindra XUV500.