Terracan gets SLX looks

Hyundai has added fresh looks to its seven-seater Terracan off-roader for 2007, introducing a SLX model to the range.

The SLX specification is based on the base model Terracan but includes a new, body-coloured roof extension spoiler above the tailgate window and matt black side steps with alloy chequerplate inserts.

The SLX upgrade is available for both the diesel and petrol engine Terracan models. The V6 manual is priced at $36,490, the automatic at $38,590, while the CRDi SLX manual starts at $38,490 and the automatic at $40,590. Automatic Terracans feature an extra low gearing hill descent facility.

Terracan SLX features Hyundai's version of electronic shift transfer which can shift from rear-wheel drive to '4WD High' on the move up to 80km/h. Both High and Low ranges lock drive into 50/50 front/rear and back to rear-wheel drive via a 'Centre Axle Disconnect' system which disengages drive to the front wheels. A limited-slip rear differential is standard on all Terracan models.

The Terracan is available with a 2.9-litre CRDi twin-cam 16-valve turbodiesel engine or a 3.5-litre quad-cam 24-valve V6 petrol engine. According to Hyundai the diesel delivers 345Nm of torque from 1750rpm to 3000rpm, and 120kW at 3800rpm. The petrol V6 is rated at 143kW/302Nm. The turbodiesel Terracan is distinguished by its bonnet-scoop air intake for the intercooler.

The Terracan SLX is offered in white with 'medium-silver' bumpers and side cladding, silver with grey embellishments, and solid black monotone (pictured). It comes with grey cloth-trim and features white-faced instrument dials and satin chrome finished interior hardware elements.

Hyundai Terracan standards include pollen-filtering air-conditioning, cruise control, alloy wheels including a full-size alloy spare, dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, front seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters, MP3-capable CD/FM/AM audio, remote central locking with alarm/immobilizer, electric windows and mirrors, four 12-volt power outlets and roof rails with integrated carry cross bars.

The big seven-seater features a 60/40-split centre seat and two separate third-row seats which fold up off the floor at each side for cargo space.

Like all Terracans the SLX can be ordered with Hyundai's Trek'n Tow pack, which maximizes its tow capacity to 2.5 tonne braked trailer load. The Trek'n Tow kit includes premium, variable-rate cold-wound springs and bushes and specialist shock absorbers. The kit retails from $2585 plus fitting.

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