We recently tested the new Toyota 4Runner Sport model, an interesting blend of upgraded looks, but without the heavy-duty off-road bits that come on models like TRD Pro.
It’s a trend, like the Honda Passport Trailsport – adding some sporty style without going overboard on performance gear, and here’s another take on that same formula, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson N Line. We previously tested the Tucson Limited, and were very impressed, so let’s see if the N Line keeps those good vibrations!
Buff and Tough
On the outside, Hyundai takes what was already one of the best-looking small SUV’s and dips it in the bad-ass barrel.
That stunning grille remains blacked out with a subtle N Line badge, and black headlamp bezels. There’s a unique front fascia with a nice contrasting lower panel that adds some visual pop.
The profile really shows off the N Line’s chops, with special badging, blacked out mirrors and window surrounds. Our favorite part of the design are the unique 19-inch black alloy wheels that look stunning and really fill out the wheel wells, creating a wide-shouldered, athletic look.
The rear adds to the sporty story with a special fascia with a nice contrasting lower panel similar to the front bumper. Underneath that piece is a serious looking twin-tip exhaust, while an N Line rear spoiler above the rear window gives some Aero cred.
The perfect finishing touch was our tester’s Quartz White exterior, which really shows off all the black trim. If you don’t like the white, there’s a limited palette available for the N Line, along with our white, there’s Red Crimson, Phantom Black and Portofino Gray.
Sporty Spot
Inside, the Tucson takes all of the good of Hyundai’s latest design language (they call it “Interspace”) to create a fresh and modern cabin.
Open the door and you’ll see a sweeping horizontal dash that angles the center console towards the driver to create a cozy cockpit. Plop down in the sporty heated leather and fabric front seats and you’ll feel good support to go along with the nice design.
In front of you is Hyundai’s signature horizontal design steering wheel, a chunky, leather affair with red stitching and a nice little N Line logo at the bottom of the wheel. There’s also an exclusive N Line exclusive leather-wrapped shift knob. Other N Line exclusives include logos on the seats, red accents on the seats and doors, metal pedals and door sill plates, and a black headliner. It all adds up to feel special.
While digital gauge displays are nothing new, Hyundai was one of the first to bring them to affordably priced vehicles, and the 10.25-inch display looks elegant here, in a soft silver tone.
Unlike our higher end Limited model we tested recently, instead of a 10.25-inch touchscreen, the N Line makes do with 8-inch color touchscreen. But it’s plenty big, and with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as Wireless Changing and a thumping Bose Premium Audio system, we felt well looked after. We like having a knob for volume and tuning on our audio systems, and the N Line meets you halfway with an Audi-like thumbwheel-type switch for both next to the screen. Works well enough!
You also get extended connectivity with standard Sirius XM, and Hyundai’s Bluelink Connected Care and Remote packages included.
Another upgrade in our mind is the N Line’s traditional shift lever, simple and sporty to use – much better than the Acura-like pushbutton style shift that was on the Limited. We would have liked the Limited’s paddle shifters to add to the driving fun, but they are not available here. At least you can still nudge the shift lever for some manual-style fun.
While we love being in the driver’s seat, the rear seats are ample for adults, and even with the rear seats up the cargo area is huge. Fold them down and you’re ready for a trip to your big box/home improvement store or throw a bike in the back and head for your favorite trail.
After getting a workout with the heavy manual door in our recent 4Runner TRD Sport, we also appreciated the Tucson’s standard power hatch opener.
Competent and Confident
So. this was the big question, the N Line is mostly an appearance package – will there be enough driving excitement to meet up with the sporty looks inside and out?
Well, there’s nothing new under the hood. Power is supplied by a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder putting out a respectable 187 horsepower and 178 lb.-ft. torque. This is a nice responsive engine, though, and putting the drive mode into Sport gives quicker response. It’s a good engine – just not as thrilling as you’d hope for with something that looks this aggressive. If you want power that will make you smile, you’ll need to opt for the Hybrid model with the 1.6-liter turbo and 226 horsepower.
We liked the 8-speed automatic. It’s a solid player that shifts smoothly in regular use but can be coaxed into some fun in Sport mode, or by going to manual mode with the shifter. Our tester had the optional HTRAC All-Wheel Drive, a real plus in slick and slippery conditions.
Ride quality is quite comfortable, even with those large 19-inch rims, and the Tucson responds quickly to the steering. It’s an easy car to zip around in traffic in, and the nice exterior dimension make parking easy as well. Maybe not thrilling, but certainly very refined.
Make that safe too, the N Line features standard Lane Keep and Following Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance with Pedestrian, Cyclist and Junction Turning Detection, Blind Spot and Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist. Impressive!
Should I get into the N Line?
Like the 4Runner TRD Sport, by basing it on the lower trim level models, the N Line creates a very attractive value story. If you just love the Tucson’s looks, you can get an entry-level SE FWD starting at just $25,800 – a stylish bargain!
The N Line sits in the middle of the lineup, starting at $31,200. H-TRAC AWD adds $1,500, Our striking Quartz White added $400, add in destination at $1,295 and we rang the bell at $34,395.
Competition would include the Mazda CX-5 at $37,370. The Mazda is sportier to drive, but we find the Tucson to be more thrilling to the eye. Toyota’s RAV4 is a worthy competitor, comparably equipped at $36,645. The RAV4 is more trucky, but handsome in its own right. Drive and pick which appeals to you. All in all, the Tucson is tough to beat!
The 2022 Hyundai Tucson N Line gives great styling, a lux interior and a comfortable, solid drive. It’s a stunning looker that’s perfect for the daily commute!
Ben Lewis grew up in Chicago, and after spending his formative years driving sideways in the winter – often intentionally – moved to sunny Southern California. He now enjoys sunny weather year-round — whether it is autocross driving, aerobatics, and learning to surf.