2022 Tucson is a contender for best compact crossover
Well, where did this come from?
Hyundai’s Tucson was always a decent competitor, but for 2022 it has blossomed into a vehicle that’s far more than competitive; it heads to the top of the compact crossover class. Well, almost. I still have a place in my heart for the Mazda CX-5. No automaker better marries agility with an upscale elan and reasonable price.
But a case can be made that the redesigned 2022 Hyundai Tucson is nipping at the CX-5’s heels while outclassing many of its mainstream competitors, including the Toyota RAV-4, Nissan Rogue, Honda CR-V and Ford Escape and Ford Bronco Sport.
Yup, it’s that good. Let’s start with its face, where triangular diamondshaped LED headlights blend with the similar shaped grille texture, allowing them to disappear somewhat. That angularity reappears throughout the Tucson’s body shell, a look the company calls “parametric design.” It certainly lends the vehicle a dynamic, modern appearance. The whole look hangs together a whole lot better than the larger Santa Fe, with a dynamic sporty
demeanor that’s quite fetching.
Climb inside, and you’ll be treated to a very stylish interior, with fit and finish that’s a clearly superior to what we’ve come to expect from a Tucson. Door trim wraps into the instrument panel, with seams lining up, a particularly difficult manufacturing feat.
The interior has a distinctly modernist vibe, with a push-button automatic transmission shifter, and a 10.3-inch touchscreen (an 8-inch screen is standard) with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. But you’ll have to make do with the smaller 8-inch screen if you want wireless Apple CarPlay. Below it is a touch-sensitive climate control panel all nestled in a center stack that feels more upmarket than you’d expect. It even comes with built-in nature sounds, so if the sound of a gentle rain relaxes you, you can play it while driving.
Beyond its design, this new Tucson is larger and roomier than the 2021 model. The added space is immediately apparent when you climb into the saddle, where head and leg room are plentiful. Rear seat space proves generous as well, and the cabin remains remarkably quiet at speed.
While you might wish for more power, you will appreciate the Tucson’s handling.
It makes for a surprisingly adept dance partner, confidently tackling corners with the utmost poise and accurate steering. Its firm suspension ably soaks up most bumps. But the Tucson’s most impressive trait is its demeanor at highway speed, providing an aura that punches above its status.
It makes for a compact crossover that’s among the best you can buy in its class. It’s a true surprise, although in retrospect it shouldn’t be. Hyundai is firing on all cylinders these days, and the 2022 Hyundai Tucson is proof of its continued excellence.