2022 Hyundai Tucson Limited Hybrid AWD

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson is all-new in styling, technology and connectivity. In fact, on-lookers may not even recognize the redesigned Tucson. In many ways, it is a huge improvement and seems to have moved into a whole new category. Getting used to its much larger front grill might be the first order of business for some. That remains true, though, for all new vehicles. Perhaps they took a cue from Lexus when they introduced the rather over-sized grille on their RX.

More dramatic than Tucson’s of the past few years, the styling is bold and handsome. Our dark-dark blue test vehicle with blacked-out wheels, and windows was a knock-out receiving plenty of turned heads. Angular and elegant, the 2022 Tucson boasts better legroom, lots of safety features and several models from which to choose. Our test Tucson was the Limited Hybrid, AWD, equipped with the Hybrid, Smartstream 1.6 L, Turbocharged, GDI 4-cylinder Hybrid engine. After kicking into gear, the power range seemed adequate, and the ride smooth.

For 2022, the Tucson is available with a choice of gas, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid powertrains. The standard 2.5-liter 2022 Tucson boasts 26/33 fuel economy. With AWD, it is rated at 24/29 mpg. With all that is new for 2022, the Tucson is now a very strong competitor in a field of proven favorites such as Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4.

The all-new Tucson is available in several trim levels: SE, SEL, Hybrid Blue, N Line, Hybrid SEL Convenience, Limited, Hybrid Ltd. Prices from $24,950-$37,350. You can choose your spending comfortable spot, as well as gas engine, hybrid or plug-in. Some of the 2022 Tucson’s positive changes include a more spacious cabin, upgraded materials, a wider, longer tech-friendly interior and lots of connectivity and safety features. For those wanting the Tucson in a plug-in hybrid, it has arrived.

Pricing is aligned with competitors Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime, Honda CR-V Hybrid and Nissan Rogue. As years pass, Hyundai resale is also improving, getting in line with the known and established brands of Nissan and Toyota.

interior

Our Limited Hybrid Tucson features 10.25-inch nav screen, surround-view monitor, Remote smart park-assist, blind-spot monitor, heated steering wheel and heated rear seats. Our test Tucson was the hybrid. We would like to compare the drive with the gas engine version. The exterior color (Deep Sea) was very handsome and rich-looking. The interior black. Not sure if Hyundai offers a tan interior, but that would be smashing.

First impressions were very positive for the 3rd generation Tucson. The small lag when first driving the hybrid was a little annoying, but after warm-up, it faded. Our monrony did not include pricing, but we suspected it landed somewhere around low $40,000s. Standard features are numerous, and the only ‘’added’’ feature on our test model was Carpeted Floor Mats-no charge.

This 2022 Tucson is a much different, much improved SUV. Feels like a very different car. Particularly, when you consider the early Tucson-a basic compact SUV. The new suspension is tuned for a sportier ride, but it doesn’t skimp on the smooth ride. Sporty, but not firm. Tall drivers will praise the extra 3 inches of legroom, and one sits higher for better visibility.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for in the new Tucson, it would be a surprise. This is a compact SUV that shines on about every level. Just consider the safety-standard-features, such as: Forward collision-avoidance assist, Lane Keeping Assist: Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Rear Occupant Alert, Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Safe Exit Warning, Parking Distance Warning-front, rear, Electric Stability Control w/ Traction Control, ABS w/electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, Downhill Brake Control; Hillstart Assist Control, Front, front side and side-curtain airbags w/rollover sensors, Tire Pressure Monitoring system w/individual tire indicator. One will need a lesson in understanding all these features.

The exterior includes a panoramic Sunroof, tire mobility kit (no spare), Premium grill finish and Premium LED daytime running lights. Automatic LED headlights, high bean assist, LED Tail lamps, roof side rails and rear privacy glass. Bodycolor rear spoiler w/LED brake light. Lots of good lighting for visibility.

The steering wheel is tilt-and telescopic, with controls for audio, cruise and phone. Of course, it is leather-wrapped. The 10.25 inch digital instrument cluster is new and not terribly difficult to operate. However, there is no volume or station knobs for the audio system?? Adaptive cruise is optional-not included in the safety suite. Sound system includes the usual: AM/FM/HD radio audio system, SiriusXM radio with 90-day trial, dual front USB outlets, 2 12V power outlets, remote park power assist, Blue Link connected services (3 years), Blue Link Remote Start (3 yrs), and a Bose audio system.

Oh, and a full tank of gas!

SPECS