2022 Hyundai Tucson

　　

2022 Hyundai Tucson Review

byKurt NiebuhrSenior Vehicle Test Editor

　　Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of zzdcar' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.

　　Hyundai has been revamping its lineup of SUVs as of late. Just about everything is a recent addition, including the extra-small Venue and three-row Palisade, or has been redesigned. Now, for 2022, it's the Tucson's turn. This is Hyundai's small SUV that competes against the likes of the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. It's historically played things safe and stuck to conservative styling conventions, but not the 2022 Tucson. Can an affordable SUV be avant-garde?

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 Hyundai Tucson SE 4dr SUV w/Prod. End 07/21 (2.5L 4cyl 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$131/mo  for Tucson SE

　　Tucson SE

　　SE 4dr SUV w/Prod. End 07/21 (2.5L 4cyl 8A) - $24,950 MSRPSE 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 8A) - $25,800 MSRPSE 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 07/21 (2.5L 4cyl 8A) - $26,450 MSRPSE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A) - $27,300 MSRPSEL 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 8A) - $27,100 MSRPSEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A) (Most Popular) - $28,600 MSRPBlue Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 6A) - $29,750 MSRPN Line 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 8A) - $31,200 MSRPN Line 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A) - $32,700 MSRPXRT 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 8A) - $31,850 MSRPXRT 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A) - $33,350 MSRPSEL Convenience Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 6A) - $32,350 MSRPLimited 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 8A) - $35,300 MSRPLimited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A) - $36,800 MSRPLimited Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 6A) - $38,050 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　Now in its fourth generation, the all-new version is quite different with its distinctive cascading headlight design, squared wheel arches and bold creases on the bodywork. The interior is also more dynamic, with a center stack devoid of hard buttons and a shroudless digital instrument panel. Also new for 2022 is the availability of three powertrain options. There's a conventional gasoline engine as well as two hybrid options: a standard hybrid and a plug-in hybrid with up to 28 miles of electric-only range. But some things, like Hyundai's generous warranty and general good value for money, remain unchanged.

　　Overall, we think Hyundai's done a nice job with the new Tucson. The hybrid, in particular, stands out as a compelling pick for a small SUV. Read our Expert Rating below to get our in-depth take on the Tucson's hits and misses.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Good

　　7.9

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.0/10

　　How does the Tucson drive? Unfortunately the Tucson's engine struggles to get the SUV moving with authority. Around town and on the highway, it's OK to drive, but if you're in a hurry the sluggishness is apparent. The Tucson accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 10.2 seconds during our testing, making it one of the slowest crossovers we've measured in some time.

　　The rest of the driving experience is unremarkable. We like the easy, direct steering and the way the Tucson remains composed around corners. The transmission upshifts smoothly, but downshifts can feel abrupt and crude when you quickly mash the gas.

　　

Comfort

8.0/10

　　How comfortable is the Tucson? The Tucson approaches luxury-level quality when it comes to comfort. It has a supple suspension that provides an excellent ride, and bumps and cracks in the road are absorbed very well. It's among the best rides in the class.

　　We found the front seats on our Limited trim test vehicle to be excellent. They featured plush and supportive cushions covered in nice material and provided good lateral support and power lumbar adjustments. We also appreciate the level of quiet and insulation provided while the Tucson's in motion. It keeps noise outside of the cabin out better than most rivals, and even when the wind kicks up you won't strain to hold a conversation or enjoy the radio.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below