By: Joshua Lee
April 7, 2024
We loved the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid the last time we’ve had it, and the SUV has been proven popular for consumers, as you’re bound to see one around. For 2023, the crossover receives the sporty N-Line treatment for customers looking for a more unique look; however, it was only available with the 2.5-litre engine. While the new Tucson N-Line Hybrid isn’t the top-of-the-line Ultimate Hybrid model, will this be better for buyers?
Hyundai Canada provided the 2024 Tucson Hybrid N-Line for the week. It features the same 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the Ultimate Hybrid, with a combined output of 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed automatic transmission is smooth, and there is enough torque to get you going. Overall, the Tucson is pleasant to drive, and we appreciate that all-wheel drive is standard. The ride is comfortable and agile, with responsive steering and minimal body roll.
Our Crystal White Tucson Hybrid N-Line features 19-inch exclusive wheels, different bumper designs, an N-Line-exclusive rear lower lamp design, a rear spoiler, gloss black exterior accents, a single twin-tip exhaust outlet, and N-Line exterior badging. Hyundai has made the Tucson very attractive with its angular lines, and the N-Line treatment gives the SUV a lot more attitude and presence. Hyundai’s signature, Hidden Lighting technology, blends the front LED lights into the grille, and you can observe the parametric patterns clearly on the taillights.
The interior of the Tucson is simplistic and feels spacious, especially with the standard panoramic sunroof. There are two 10.25-inch screens for both the driver’s display and the infotainment system with navigation system. The 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support is supportive, while the heated leather wrapped steering wheel kept our hands from freezing during the cold weather. N-Line specific touches include a black cloth headliner, N-Line badging, red interior accents and stitching, aluminum pedals, and door scuff plates. The infotainment system and 8-speaker Bose sound system are enjoyable to use, and the climate control is placed right at the bottom; however, it is controlled by a touch panel, and it’s sometimes difficult to use while you’re driving. The push-button gear selector cleans up the center console, with large cupholders right beside and storage space in front featuring two USB ports and a 12-volt outlet. Cargo space behind the split-folding 60/40 rear bench is 1097L and expands up to 2108L with them folded down.
Safety systems include forward collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control, lane following and lane keeping assist functions, blind-spot monitoring, driver attention warning, high beam assist, and rear cross-traffic monitoring. The Tucson N-Line does have a backup camera, but if you want parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, a blind view monitor, and the remote smart parking assist, you’ll have to go to the Ultimate.
Hyundai rates the Tucson Hybrid at 6.3L/100KM city, 6.6L/100KM highway, for a combined 6.4L/100KM. Even though the hybrid has a battery pack, there’s not enough to provide EV-only range. We’ve got a combined rating of 7.8L/100KM during our week-long test.
The Tucson Hybrid N-Line will cost $48,907.76, including taxes and other fees. The Luxury trim will cost the same but adds features like rear parking sensors, ultrasonic rear occupant alert, and heated rear seats. The Ultimate Hybrid will cost $52,749.76 with Hyundai’s full offering of their safety systems and interior comforts like ventilated front seats, a wireless charging pad, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, and a driver seat memory system.
The Hyundai Tucson provides buyers with a stylish crossover with a spacious interior and great tech. The N-Line treatment adds a sporty flair that’s attractive, and the hybrid powertrain gives it decent power and a quiet ride. If the optional extras on the Ultimate aren’t important to you, the Tucson Hybrid N-Line is great value with enough features that you’ll use on a daily basis.
