Highs Daring exterior design, well-equipped cabin, available hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
Lows Goofy push-button shifter, no volume knob, no high-performance model offered.
Verdict Its futuristic look turns heads, but the Tucson's practicality and pleasant driving dynamics are more likely to win the hearts of buyers.
Overview
Previewed by the Vision T concept at the 2019 LA auto show, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson sports a daring new design that seems destined to shake up the compact-SUV marketplace. The entry-level Tucson is powered by a more conventional 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine shared with the Sonata family sedan but a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid will be offered, both using a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder augmented by an electric motor. All models are fairly well equipped and the Tucson is among the most stylish options in the segment. It goes head-to-head with several strong rivals such as the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4, and the Volkswagen Tiguan, but the new Tucson has brought its A-game.
We suggest the SEL Convenience trim as it offers a great balance between features and price. It comes standard with heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, a sunroof, and a 10.3-inch digital gauge display, among other niceties. A sporty N Line model is also available for the first time, but for buyers hoping for a high-performance turbocharged four-cylinder will be disappointed to learn that opting for this trim amounts to nothing more than an appearance package.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
A 187-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder will be standard and comes with an eight-speed automatic and either front or all-wheel drive. A turbocharged 1.6-liter four will power hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, which Hyundai says is good for a combined 227-hp in the former and 261-hp in the latter; all-wheel drive is standard with the electrified powertrains and both come with a six-speed automatic transmission. The nonhybrid powertrain, the Tucson offers adequate pep for both city driving and highway passing maneuvers, but lead-footed drivers will yearn for more power. The more powerful hybrid and plug-in hybrid models both feel quicker, but don't expect Toyota RAV4 Prime level acceleration from either of them. While the Tucson is no sports car, its handling is confident, its steering is reasonably crisp, and its ride is agreeable.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
The plug-in hybrid model sports a 13.8-kWh battery pack that is said to offer up to 32 miles of electric-only driving. A 7.2-kW on-board charger allows the battery to be fully recharged in about two hours when connected to a level 2 charging station.
