The engineer behind the wheel of a 2021 Hyundai Tucson prototype at the Nurburgring has narrowly avoided a potential crash after three wheel nuts flew off one of the wheels, nearly hitting our spy photographers.
These images were snapped last month during an industry pool testing day at the famous German circuit. When the 2021 Tucson entered the Brünnchen section of the ‘Ring and sped around a corner, three of the five wheel nuts of the driver’s side front wheel flew off. Evidently, someone hadn’t properly tightened them and had the remaining two nuts come off, the prototype’s wheel would have followed.
Read More: Redesigned 2021 Hyundai Tucson Getting Closer To Production Even As It Tries To Cover Up
Fortunately, the engineer recognized something was wrong and quickly pulled over to the side of the track. The car was then towed to safety and returned to the circuit later that day.
Like some other 2021 Hyundai Tucson prototypes spied late last year, this one is only wearing a thin layer of camouflage, providing us with a good look at the overhauled design. The overall shape of the SUV appears more angular than the outgoing model thanks to bold creases and body lines running along the sides. We can also see a blacked-out grille and the outline of what appears to be split headlights, similar in design to other current Hyundai models like the Sante Fe, Kona, and Venue.
Future Cars: 2021 Hyundai Tucson Will Bring Dramatic New Looks And More Curb Appeal
In addition to overhauling both the exterior and interior of the Tucson, Hyundai will alter the engine lineup. European markets are expected to be offered both 1.6-liter T-GDI and 1.6-liter GDI engines as well as a possible hybrid variant. Buyers in North America will likely have the choice between the brand’s 2.5-liter Theta3 engine in naturally-aspirated and turbocharged forms, both mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Entry-level models will be front-wheel drive while all-wheel drive will be available on high-end models.
Hyundai can be expected to present the new Tucson before the end of the year.
