Hyundai’s all-new 2022 Tucson takes a big step forward with the debut of the model’s first hybrid version.
The new hybrid Tucson builds on the appeal of the Korean brand’s compact SUV, which is considerably improved for 2022 with a larger, more expressive body design, upgraded standard safety equipment, and more advanced infotainment.
As well as a roomier, better-equipped cabin, the 2022 Tucson hybrid is both efficient and powerful. Its gasoline-electric powertrain translates into pleasing drivability and performance, but not at the expense of fuel economy, which is up to 46 percent better than in the non-hybrid Tucson.
What’s more, the hybrid comes as standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), which is otherwise a $1,400 option.
There is a downside to the hybrid, which is that it costs a few thousand more than its standard powertrain stablemate.
But the price differential is not too great — especially when you factor in the hybrid’s standard AWD — and the 2022 Tucson hybrid is now a serious contender for the well-established hybrid versions of the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Find a Hyundai Tucson for sale
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2022 Hyundai Tucson Blue Hybrid (starting at $29,050)
The 2022 Tucson Blue shares the bigger dimensions of the non-hybrid Tucson. Significantly longer overall and with a longer wheelbase, the Tucson Hybrid provides a spacious cabin, especially for back seat passengers, and more cargo space.
The new hybrid Tucson models are powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 180 horsepower. This is almost as much as power as the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder produces in the standard Tucson.
Add in the output of the electric motor and the Tucson hybrid delivers a total of 226 horsepower. This is routed to all four wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The Tucson Blue trim equates to the SEL level on the non-hybrid Tucson. As such it rides on 17-inch alloy wheels. Headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights are LEDs. Roof rails are also standard.
Inside the 5-passenger cabin, the seats are cloth-trimmed and the rear-folding seat is split 60/40, with remote folding release levers in the cargo area. Both front seats are heated and the driver’s seat is power-adjustable, with power lumbar support.
Up front there is 4.2-inch instrument display for the driver and an 8.0-inch touchscreen in the center of the dashboard. Adaptive cruise control and paddle shifters are included, and the car is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Standard safety features and driver aids include blind-spot collision avoidance assist with rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist, high beam assist, driver attention warning, rear occupant alert, intelligent speed limit assist (the forward camera can read signs), and lead vehicle departure alert.
Adding in the $1,185 destination fee, the Tucson Blue sticker comes to $30,235. Given 3% financing over 60 months and no down payment, that would produce a monthly payment of $519. Find a Hyundai Tucson Blue for sale
2022 Hyundai Tucson Blue Hybrid includes:
- Standout design — new styling puts a fresh face on Hyundai’s compact SUV.
- Spacious interior –- Tucson redesign boosts rear seat space and cargo room.
- Beefy hybrid powertrain -– power gain over standard engine greatly improves drivability.
- Fuel economy gain –- hybrid stretches mileage significantly.
2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL Convenience Hybrid ($31,650)
The SEL Convenience trim comes with all the features of the Blue model, plus some welcome additions.
These include a hands-free power tailgate, 19-inch alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, LED interior lights, auto-dimming rearview mirror, wireless charging, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, dual-zone automatic climate control, and rear occupant alert system.
We prefer the SEL Convenience trim as the best value for money in the hybrid range. It adds several useful features over the base Blue trim for a reasonable price hike.
If we stick with the same 60-month loan at 3% financing as used for the Blue, a Tucson SEL Convenience hybrid would cost an extra $28 per month. Find a Hyundai Tucson SEL Convenience Hybrid for sale
2022 Hyundai SEL Convenience Hybrid includes:
- Hands-free tailgate –- system opens tailgate when driver approaches with key in pocket.
- Panoramic sunroof –- lightens up the interior.
- Dual-zone climate control — allows driver and passenger to set their desired temperatre.
2022 Hyundai Tucson Limited Hybrid ($37,350)
If you feel like being pampered at the same time as being a fuel saver, then the Tucson Limited hybrid is the trim to choose, although you will pay a handsome premium.
In addition to most of the features in the SEL Convenience trim, the Limited brings 8-way power passenger seat, heated rear seats and steering wheel, a10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, and Bose premium audio.
The existing suite of safety features is rounded out with parking distance warning, surround-view camera, blind-spot view monitor and parking collision avoidance rear assist.
The Tucson Limited costs $38,535 including the destination fee, which works out at $661 a month in payments over 60 months, $114 more than the SEL Convenience. Find a Hyundai Tucson Limited Hybrid for sale
2022 Hyundai Tucson Limited Hybrid includes:
- Big center screen –- Enlarged navigation display adds high-tech touch.
- Heated rear seats –- back seat passengers don’t feel left out in the cold.
- Extra safety aids –- parking assistance systems useful in tight spaces.
KBB recently released a video with a Tucson test drive; check it out.
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