The 2011 Hyundai Tucson boasts all anyone could want in a compact SUV. This five-passenger mini-Ute features a complete exterior redesign for 2011 and picks up a few new gizmos and goodies as well. Still able to pack 56 cubic feet of cargo into its aft compartment with the rear seats folded, the next-gen Tucson remains a small gas-sipper with a penchant for fun and a hankerin’ for the highway. Available in three trim levels, the base GL, mid-level GLS, and top-dog Limited, the Tucson also continues to use the Elantra platform and offers available full-time all-wheel drive (AWD) in both the GLS and Limited trims. This family-friendly hauler is the lightest vehicle in its class, yet features a roomier cabin than the BMW X3. Additionally, Hyundai is expected to offer an even greener Blue trim with a more fuel-efficient engine in early 2011.

A welcome upgrade to the second generation, the 2011 Hyundai Tucson has an up-powered 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder (I4) powerplant that makes both the six-speed manual and automatic transmissions feel good. The GL trim gets the six-speed manual standard, with the six-speed auto-manual being an option, while the GLS and Limited trims each come delivered with the six-speed auto-manual transmission standard. Some 176 hp and 168 lb-ft of torque can be expected from the I4, no matter the transmission, while the standard front-wheel-drive (FWD) GL stick gets 22/30 mpg, the FWD auto-manual gets 23/31, and the AWD auto-manual-equipped trims, 21/28. All trims can tow up to 2,000 pounds of trailer, when properly equipped, with the AWD trims boasting a driver-selectable AWD lock for added traction.

Standard appearance, comfort and convenience features for the 2011 Tucson GL include 17-inch steel wheels, rear spoiler, cloth upholstery, remote keyless entry, power windows and mirrors and power door locks, including the rear liftgate lock. Expect, as well, a single-CD player and at least four speakers for this new-for-2011 trim. The GLS trim level, meanwhile, adds standard leather-trimmed upholstery, telescoping tilt-wheel steering, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with mounted audio and cruise controls and two additional speakers, along with satellite radio. The top-shelf Tucson Limited throws full leather upholstery, multi-level heated front seats, dual-zone climate control and a universal remote garage door opener on top of the standard equipment mix.

Options for the GL include a tow hitch, mudguards and the Homelink automatic garage door opener, while the GLS adds such options as the Navigation Package 2 with DVD navigation, premium audio and rear-view camera. The Limited trims add a panoramic sunroof to the list of options, as well as Bluetooth technology.

Safety-wise, the 2011 Tucson GL and GLS will be equipped with standard four-wheel ABS, traction and stability control, downhill braking assist, hill-start assist, dual front side-impact airbags and front and rear head airbags. Befitting its status as king of the hill, the Limited trim level adds front fog/driving lights, turn-signal-integrated mirrors and a remote anti-theft alarm to the list.

Some chintzy interior materials, limited rear visibility, and the lack of an available driver memory feature figure prominently in the few complaints about the 2010 Tucson, while ride comfort seems to be a matter of some divided opinion. Styling, however, as well as pump-passing fuel efficiency, value, quality and an abundance of passenger and cargo room dominate owner hosannas for this compact Ute.