All-New 2022 Hyundai Tucson Is a Segment Buster

The Hyundai Tucson is all-new for the 2022 model year. The design is none other like we’ve seen from Hyundai thus far. Hyundai has sold over seven million Tucson SUVs since its inception in 2004, so Hyundai cannot mess this up.

2022 Hyundai Tucson Exterior

I won’t discuss exterior much because you have eyes, and you can decide for yourself if the radical looks are to your liking. One of the exclusive segment features is a choice of wheelbases for the 2022 Tucson. There is a short wheelbase and long wheelbase. I would be interested to see where these models compare in size with the Santa Fe.

2022 Hyundai Tucson Powertrain & Handling

The most significant changes happen under the hood. There is a selection of powertrain options available; a 2.5l direct-injected four-cylinder, 1.6l turbo direct-injected four-cylinder hybrid, or plug-in hybrid powertrains. The 2.5l produces 187 HP & 182 LB. FT. of torque. This motor will get mated to Hyundai’s excellent eight-speed automatic transmission.

The hybrid 1.6l turbo powertrain generates about 226 combined system HP and 258 LB. FT. of torque combined. The power will run through a CVT or a Continuously Variable Valve Duration CVVD as Hyundai calls it now since it manages valve opening.

Hyundai is offering a first in class “E-Handling” technology for HEV and PHEV models improving steering response and stability in corners. Hyundai’s excellent HTRAC system will also be available on the new Tucson, making it a great year-round vehicle.

2022 Hyundai Tucson Safety Features

Since society is continuing to worsen at driving, you can expect the Tucson to come loaded with many safety features, even some new ones. The Hyundai SmartSense safety feature suite includes: Highway Driving Assist (HDA), Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with pedestrian detection, Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Blind-Spot View Monitor, Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW), Surround View Monitor, Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (RPCA), Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA), High Beam Assist (HBA), and Driver Attention Warning (DAW). The all-new Tucson is available with advanced technology features including Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) with Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) Advanced Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop and Go and Safe Exit Warning (SEW). Source: Hyundai

2022 Hyundai Tucson Interior Features

Hyundai is also claiming best-in-class digital features. Some of which we have seen on other Hyundai products like the NFC key. This feature utilizes your smartphone as a key to operate the vehicle without a physical key.

The 8.4” infotainment flagship screen is gone, and Hyundai has since upgraded to the 10.25” screen for top of the line models. Now the base Tucson SUVs come with an 8” screen as opposed to the 7” screens Hyundai used to offer. The standard screen vehicles still come with Apple Carplay & Android Auto, but now two phones can be connected simultaneously. An optional Bose audio system is available as well. Many new Mazda products offer Bose audio, and it sounds stellar.

The Tucson very well might be the first vehicle in the lineup to take advantage of Hyundai’s latest HVAC upgrades. The new climate control system monitors air quality and purifies the air if necessary. Real-time air pollution data is shown on the Dual Automatic Temperature Control display window. This system also reduces moistures from the evaporator and keeps the system clean and odor-free.

2022 Hyundai Tucson N Line

Now, let’s end on the fun bit. There are plenty more features on the Tucson, but the N Line takes the cake. Hyundai is trying to provide performance cars at a price point most can handle with styling cues to match. The European market got the Tucson N Line last year, now Hyundai plans to offer the N Line globally, but the official launch date is yet to be determined.

2022 Hyundai Tucson Conclusion

So, what do you think of the new Tucson? Is it a bit much, or do you like the overstated design? There is no doubt that the new Tucson is trying to be a “segment buster” and will attempt to shake up the compact SUV market. But, let us know if the new Tucson is a vehicle you will want to put on your driveway in the comments below.

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Kevin Meyn is an automotive journalist for Torque News concentrating on Hyundai content. Kevin is the founder of Exhaust Sports Auto Youtube channel, where he does professional car reviews on new and used vehicles. Through the use of various resources and extended Automotive expertise, Kevin documents the latest in automotive news revolving around Hyundai. Kevin graduated from NC State University studying Supply Chain Management but has had a passion for cars since he was a child. Follow Kevin on Twitter and Instagram @exhaustsports.