Hyundai Tucson N Line
Sporty version of Hyundai’s top-selling SUV paves the way for a full-blooded N variant
Sporty SUV on the way
Hyundai has previewed a possible hot Tucson N SUV with a performancehoned N Line version. Due on sale in the UK later this year, the Tucson N Line features a stiffened chassis, revised bumpers, new blackpainted 19in alloy wheels and a restyled interior. It is the first of Hyundai’s SUVS to get the N Line treatment and follows the i30 N Line hatch.
Thomas Bürkle, Hyundai’s European design chief, described the new machine as “an understated sporty car”. The firm’s best-selling model has been restyled with a more muscular look, including a new front bumper, dark chrome grille, revised LED headlights and twin exhausts.
Inside, the dark theme continues with bucket-style seats trimmed in breathable microfibre cloth, while red stitching for the steering wheel, dashboard and gear selector provides a visual highlight.
The front suspension is 8% stiffer and the rear 5% stiffer than standard and software changes in the electric power steering are designed to “give a slightly more direct, linear feel at the wheel”.
In the UK, the Tucson N Line will be offered with a 136bhp 1.6-litre diesel engine equipped with 48V mild-hybrid technology. This set-up results in WLTP fuel economy of between 41.1mpg and 51.3mpg and CO2 emissions that range from 110g/km to 118g/km. There will also be a 175bhp 1.6-litre turbo petrol N Line.
The pricing has yet to be finalised but the N Line is expected to sit between the £25,445 SE Nav and the £27,945 Premium trim levels.