Let's start with the big news. This is one of the best compact SUVs on the market, and that says a lot because this is a competitive segment. We are not the only ones saying this. US News and World report crowned it the best hybrid SUV for 2024 and its hard to argue that designation. Before we dive too deeply into this amazing compact SUV, let's get something straight - There are four trims to choose from.
I'm a big fan of the N Line models. They bring lots of fun, performance and excitement to the game across the Hyundai brand.
N Line models are outfitted with styling and performance upgrades that set them apart from standard trims.
The sporty design elements boost both looks and aerodynamics. With more power, better handling agility, and premium tires, each vehicle makes driving an invigorating rush. N Line models are also more affordable than N models.On the other hand, N models have significant power increases, upgraded suspension, and other performance enhancements and are track-ready performance vehicles.
PERFORMANCE
Lets jump right in; the drive and performance, my favorite part of the experience. The Tucson boasts a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine that pairs with a 44.2-kW electric motor, the latter of which pulls from a 1.49-kWh lithium ion battery pack. Instead of the continuously variable transmission (CVT) that is common amongst hybrids, the Hyundai group shacks this all up with a six-speed automatic. Another change for this year: the hybrid is now only available with all-wheel drive in the U.S.
"I put this Tucson Hybrid N-Line through its paces. Twice, I drove to downtown Miami, navigating the urban jungle with a surprising amount of agility. The turnpike, I-95, and even those scenic coastal roads – this car handled it all with aplomb. And let's not forget about practicality. I packed this thing to the brim for a weekend getaway – luggage, camping gear, you name it – and it swallowed it all without complaint. My friend, a fellow car enthusiast, was equally impressed. He couldn't stop raving about the incredibly smooth ride and the eerily quiet start, a hallmark of a well-executed hybrid system.
"But the real fun began when I started playing with the paddle shifters. Yes, this baby can perform with silky, yet rapid acceleration. Suddenly, this hybrid transformed from a quick, yet sensible commuter to a mischievous and speedy playground toy. The engine responded eagerly to each downshift, unleashing a playful growl that belied its eco-friendly nature. Forget boring – this car had a personality, a spirit that begged to be unleashed. And with ample room for my friends and their gear, it proved that practicality and performance could indeed coexist."
We’re very familiar with this hybrid powertrain producing 37 mpg or 6.4 L/100 km combined. It’ll float around on electric power alone for a few blocks or so, but once the gas engine does have to join the party, it doesn’t kick the door in, launch the cat at the fan, and commandeer the party playlist. The 1.6-liter says hello, maybe shakes a few hands, and asks how your significant other is doing. It’s friendly. The turbo torque also means it does its best work early on, so there’s no need to wring its neck to get the full force to the pavement.
Now parking is so easy, you don’t even have to be inside the vehicle with available Remote Smart Parking Assist. So with your vehicle on, you just press the Smart Key button while standing outside the vehicle, and TUCSON Hybrid parks itself into a tight spot for you. Another push of the button and it easily drives out of the parking space.
Notable safety technology that we looked at included the Lane Keep assist and driver attention warning - both seem so much more important in the era of cell phones and distractions.
The Tucson goes, stops, and turns in a way that is wholly inoffensive, and bang-on with the needs of the target audience. The 19-inch alloys and accompanying low-profile tires do result in a slightly firmer ride and more assertive steer on backroads. Cabin refinement is some of the best in the segment, with low wind and road noise
EXTERIOR DESIGN
The front facia (seen above) is a statement in branding and style. To look at it, you may see wings. Get closer and you see the innovative lighting design along the edges that emphasize the "lighted wings" design. Its a strong, confident design that's both athletic and elegant. It has flair at every angle. The N Line treatment amounts to unique bumpers front and rear, along with body-color wheel arches for a more street-friendly appearance. Aluminum trim gets the black-out treatment, and the whole package rolls on very pretty, split-five-spoke 19-inch alloys.
INTERIOR DESIGN
The usual shiny metallic trim around the push-button shifter is now darker for N Line duty, and it’s a handsome switch. Material quality is pretty solid throughout, and we remain big fans of the waterfall-esque dashboard design. If only Hyundai hadn’t gone for all touch controls below the infotainment screen: there’s no feedback.
The Tucson is one of the most spacious offerings in the class, with 41.3 inches (1,050 millimeters) of rear-row legroom. There’s a good amount of natural light thanks to the standard panoramic sunroof as well. There’s also practically zero cargo capacity sacrifice with the electrified powertrain; it’s just 0.4 cubic feet (11 liters) with the seats down.
COSTS & COMPETITION
As equipped, the 2024 Hyundai Tucson N Line now runs $38,190 ($42,524 CAD) including destination. While it’s the penultimate step on the Tucson Hybrid walk in the US, the N Line is one of two electrified entry points in Canada; in fact, all Tucson's bar the base model are now hybrids up North. Americans will find it right in-line with RAV4 and CR-V hybrid models, but Canada’s N Line saves thousands over equivalent hybrid competitors. Toyota RAV 4 Hybrid, Ford Escape Hybrid, Honda CRV Hybrid
Comments