2022 Hyundai Tucson Undergoes More Tests Before Debut

The last few weeks have seen Hyundai sharing a series of teasers for the next generation of the Tucson crossover. It even went as far as to release its own spy shots of the model, slightly camouflaged during its final testing in Europe.

But just before the new Tucson arrives, the automaker tests its mettle once more, this time against market rivals Ford Edge and Toyota RAV4.

Images earlier released by Hyundai showcased the textured front grille and integrated headlights of the SUV. The photos also clearly showed the resemblance of the model to the Vision T concept that was introduced by the company at an auto show.

But in the latest set of teaser photos, these features were not very noticeable. Instead, the images confirmed the bold styling of the new Tucson that slightly resembles that of its corporate siblings, the Elantra and Sonata.

The final testing of the vehicle was conducted on hilly and mountainous terrain somewhere in Austria and the Czech republic. Hyundai, however, maintains that the upcoming model will not be built on a body-on-frame architecture. But this isn’t to say the vehicle is any less capable as it will be offered with an all-wheel-drive option.

The new Hyundai Tucson will be available as a 2022 model and will share the same platform as the Elantra. It will be powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine that delivers up to 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. An optional engine will also be offered, although it has not been confirmed what type.

It is also worth noting that the Tucson shown in the teaser photos is the Euro-spec model. It remains to be seen if the US-bound version will also carry the same features as its European counterpart. What’s sure, though, is that Hyundai will offer two wheelbase lengths for the model, with the longer version likely heading to America.