Hyundai New Zealand is set to launch an updated "Series II" version of its Tucson medium SUV, with hybrid technology now right across the range. Oh, and a mysterious 75mm stretch in the wheelbase.

In fact, this generation of Tucson has been sold in two different wheelbase lengths globally since launch. The core of the local Tucson range has been the longer model (2755mm wheelbase), but the production base for the hybrid in the Czech Republic only made that model as a short-wheelbase (2680mm). So we've previously had both sizes.
With Series II, the Tucson hybrid has now been made available in long form for NZ (sourced from South Korea), which means you'll notice a stretch if you're coming from the previous hybrid... but not if you've been in a conventional petrol or diesel. The lengths they go to, right?
The rest of the interior has been revamped for the Series II, with a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen (including wireless phone projection), a new matching 12.3in driver display and the relocation of the gear selector to the steering column.

On the outside, there's a new grille, redesigned LED headlights and reshaped bumper.
The 172kW/367Nm 1.6-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain is now standard across the range, which starts at $54,990 for the Active, rising to $60,990 for the Elite and $71,990 for the choice of the luxury-themed Limited or sportier-looking N Line.
The base cars are front-drive, with AWD available for a $3000 premium on the Active and Elite models. It's standard on the Limited and N Line.
Tucson II deliveries start in April. For customers who place a $1000 deposit before March 31 get a "launch offer" of a 5-year/150,000km warranty, 3-year service plan and the option of a 7.9% finance rate. Hyundai NZ's standard warranty is 3 years/100,000km, with the the option of extending it another 2 years/50,000km with a service plan.