New 2022 Hyundai Tucson XRT Looks Rugged, But It’s Still No Off-Roader
Is the new XRT variant enough to make the Tucson even more appealing?
by Isaac Atienza, onHyundai is introducing a rugged-looking Tucson XRT for the 2022 model year. But that’s basically what this new variant is. It looks rugged, but it’s not by any means an off-roader.
Whereas the Tucson N Line is its sportier sibling, the XRT caters to those who want a rugged-looking crossover SUV. The 2022 Hyundai Tucson XRT sets itself apart from other Tucson models with its unique front and rear fascia treatments, more rugged front and rear bumpers, new wheel arch cladding, new side steps, and new 19-inch alloy wheels.
Also in line with its more rugged image, the Tucson XRT’s satin silver and chrome details have been ditched in favor of a mix of gloss black and matte black elements. There are also a few additional exterior features that should make the Tucson more attractive during outdoor use, such as the roof rails, tow hitch, and approach lighting.
In case you’re wondering, the Hyundai Tucson XRT does not get any enhancements for its suspension, powertrain, or ground clearance. Don’t expect this crossover SUV to have the enhanced off-road capability of something like a Subaru Forester Wilderness, Jeep Compass Trailhawk, or the recently-unveiled Mazda CX-50.
Hyundai has not provided any interior shots for the Tucson XRT, which means it should look just like the standard model as shown above. Because the Tucson XRT is based on the SEL variant with the Convenience Package, we can expect features such as a hands-free powered tailgate, 10.25-inch digital gauges, Hyundai’s Digital Key, wireless charging, ambient LED lighting, just to name a few.
You can also expect other niceties such as an 8-way powered driver’s seat, heated front seats, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a BlueLink telematics system.
Hyundai’s SmartSense suite of advanced safety tech also comes as standard and this includes Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Cyclist and Junction Turning Detection, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), just to name a few.
Powering the Hyundai Tucson XRT is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This drives the front or all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
If you want the Hyundai Tucson XRT, prepare to spend $32,625 for the front-wheel drive (FWD) model or $34,125 if you want extra power being sent to the rear wheels. Both prices include a $1,225 destination fee.
