It’s been a month since Hyundai unveiled the all-new Tucson mid-size SUV for the 2022 model year. Equipped with a 2.5-liter direct-injected gasoline engine that delivers up to 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, the model stands out in its rather saturated segment.
Also being offered is a hybrid version the Tucson, which is powered by a 1.6-liter turbo that makes 177 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. A high-performance Tucson N (a first for the nameplate) is also rumored to be in the works.
But there is one more variant that deserves the spotlight just as much—the new Tucson PHEV that will compete with Toyota’s RAV4 Prime. This plug-in hybrid variant features a 1.6-liter T-GDi Smartstream engine mated to a 66.9-kW electric motor and a 13.8-kWh lithium-polymer battery.
The setup delivers a combined range of 265 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque sent to the four-wheel-drive system with the help of a six-speed automatic transmission. There is also an optional Electronically Controlled Suspension system that comes with adaptive damping technology for customers who want a smoother ride.
“The plug-in hybrid powertrain represents a new milestone in the Tucson range,” said Andreas-Christoph Hofmann, Hyundai Motor Europe’s Vice President for Marketing and Product. “With gasoline and diesel mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, the all-new Tucson offers the widest range of electrified powertrains in its segment. This is just the latest proof of Hyundai’s commitment to electro-mobility.”
According to Hyundai, the Tucson PHEV can last over 31 miles on a single charge when running on pure electric power. It is fitted with a 7.2-KW onboard charger, which can be plugged at an EV charging station or a home wall box. And despite the addition of a high-voltage battery in the vehicle, it still has more than enough cargo space and legroom for passengers.
The 2022 Hyundai Tucson plug-in hybrid is expected to be available in the United States in summer 2021.
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