Tucson I (JM) vs Hunter I: which is better?
Hyundai Tucson I (JM) (2004–2010) vs UAZ Hunter I (2003–present): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Hyundai Tucson I (JM)
UAZ Hunter ISpecifications
| Hyundai Tucson I (JM) | UAZ Hunter I | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2004–2010 | 2003–present |
| Body | crossover SUV | SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.0 | 2.7 (ZMZ-409) |
| Power, up to | 141 hp | 128 hp |
| Torque, up to | 184 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | manual |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 325 mm | 4 100 mm |
| Width | 1 830 mm | 2 010 mm |
| Height | 1 730 mm | 2 025 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 630 mm | 2 380 mm |
| Ground clearance | 195 mm | 210 mm |
| Fuel tank | 58 L | 78 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 16 475 ₸ | ≈ 40 325 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Hyundai Tucson I (JM)
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Beta II 2.0 engine (G4GC): timing belt wear
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Beta II 2.0 (G4GC)): timing belt wear; valve cover gasket leak.
UAZ Hunter I
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- High ground clearance: 210 mm
- Large fuel tank: 78 L
- Local assembly: Russia
Cons
- ZMZ-402/409, UMZ engine: chain and hydraulic tensioner noise (ZMZ-409)
- Modest power: up to 128 hp
Engine (ZMZ-402/409, UMZ): chain and hydraulic tensioner noise (ZMZ-409); oil leaks; overheating.
Which one to choose
- Tucson I (JM) — if you care more about: power, wheelbase, kz tax 2026.
- Hunter I — if you care more about: torque, ground clearance, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Tucson I (JM) or Hunter I?
Tucson I (JM): up to 141 hp, Hunter I: up to 128 hp.
Which has more ground clearance?
Tucson I (JM): 195 mm, Hunter I: 210 mm.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Tucson I (JM) — about 16 475 ₸, Hunter I — about 40 325 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.