Hyundai introduced the Vision T concept in 2019. This platform was supposed to underpin the new Tucson crossover. However, the COVID-19 pandemic made the Korean company reschedule the release date. The new vehicle is appearing as the 2022 Hyundai Tucson.
Besides the new release date, we found out a few other details about the compact crossover. There will be at least two new versions available. The hybrid model is finally joining the lineup, which will make the 2022 Hyundai Tucson more competitive. A better fuel economy is the main reason why you should think about this vehicle. Besides Tucson Hybrid, there is also the performance-oriented N package. It’s been in development for quite a long time and the Tucson N is getting into production next year.
Of course, the new vehicle will introduce a fresh design based on the Vision T concept. The Interior is also suffering a lot of changes to provide extra comfort and safety. Modernization will be complete with the new color palette for the Tucson 2022.
What is Vision T Concept?
At the LA auto show in 2019, Hyundai presented the new concept. The Vision T was a futuristic platform and experts immediately get into correlation with the next Tucson. Well, the crossover is not going to take exactly the same look. However, with some modifications, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson might become the vehicle with the most distinctive look in the segment. The “T” in the name definitely suggests the architecture is about to be a base for the compact crossover. What’s more, Vision T is ready to take the plug-in hybrid system. That is another reason why we see it as the new platform for the upcoming Tucson.
Every detail on the Vision T prototype is eye-catching. The most impressive design solution is on the front fascia, where designers managed to melt grille and headlights into one. The grille is modernized and slots can open if the engine needs more cooling. Sharp edges and large wheel arches are also new and something we haven’t seen previously on Tucson.
2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and PHEV
With the Vision T concept, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson will definitely get the plug-in system. Even if the platform is for some other vehicle, the compact crossover will arrive with a hybrid drivetrain. It is a requirement to stay competitive in the market. Some of the rivals are already taking advantage of the gas mileage rating over 40 mpg. Soon, we will see the first serious PHEV compact crossover, Toyota Rav4 Prime. Mitsubishi Outlander is also there, but its performance is not matching the needs of buyers looking for more power. There are no details about either hybrid system. Still, the company will probably take a four-pot unit and upgrade it with electric motors.
2022 Hyundai Tucson N
The 2022 Hyundai Tucson N will join the lineup as the high-performance model. According to sources, the crossover will use a 2.5-liter turbo engine. 290 horsepower is more than enough to rival Ford Escape RS or some premium models. Not only the performance, but Tucson N is about to upgrade the styling. A lot of details will be added and the interior is going to be sportier. Special suspension and damper setup are improving handling and overall driving impression. Still, the highlight is definitely the performance of the engine.
What Will 2022 Hyundai Tucson Look Like?
There are no doubts that the new 2022 Hyundai Tucson is going to take a lot of solutions from the Vision T concept. However, the futuristic look has to be adapted for the compact crossover, which is entering the production next season. The front grille and headlights are bringing more than cool styling. Also, the rest of the vehicle is pretty aggressive and bold. The interior is also going to be modernized. Digital displays will be available both for gauges and infotainment center. From what we see on the Vision T, the cabin is a further upgrade of the existing design languages on Sonata and Palisade. An 8-inch multimedia screen is going to be standard, with the possibility to upgrade it to a 10-inch display through optional packages. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are already part of the base offer.
Other Important Details
The base engine for the 2022 Tucson remains a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Buyers can also purchase a smaller 1.6-liter turbocharged unit. Front-wheel drive is standard and another possible upgrade is an all-wheel drive. The base price is expected at around $25,000. The Ultimate package is a premium offer and it should cost just under $35,000 before upgrades. At the same level the Tucson N is going be available. The hybrid package won’t come with the entry-level equipment. Experts believe that the new unit will make the price jump to at least $30k.