Hyundai released some specs for the upcoming 2022 Tucson plug-in hybrid and became the latest addition to the brand new compact SUV range alongside the regular model, hybrid variant and sporty N-Line fairing. With the new plug-in hybrid version, the 2022 Tucson will be available in four different variants, giving consumers an impressive choice. When it comes to the Tucson PHEV, the SUV certainly looks like it has what it takes to compete in the expanding electrified scene.
The power for the Tucson PHEV comes from a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, which is coupled with an electric motor and a 13.8 kWh battery pack. Together, the drivetrain has an output of 261 hp, while the compact SUV can drive 32 miles on electricity. The Tucson PHEV is expected to collectively achieve up to 70 MPGe. All-wheel drive is standard, while gear changes are made via a six-speed automatic. When it comes to charging, the Tucson PHEV has a 7.2 kW on-board charger that can handle level 2 charging. It takes less than two hours to fully charge the SUV battery.
With these numbers, the Tucson PHEV falls behind the Ford Escape PHEV and the Toyota RAV4 Prime. The Escape PHEV, which is front-wheel drive, has a fully electric range of 37 miles and a combined fuel consumption of 102 MPGe. The RAV4 Prime is equipped with all-wheel drive as standard, can travel 42 miles on electricity and has a combined fuel consumption of 94 MPGe. While the Tucson PHEV can’t compete with the other two plug-in hybrid SUVs on the market, it still has some impressive numbers that should be enough for the majority of consumers.
In addition to the plug-in hybrid powertrain, Hyundai has given the Tucson PHEV some other nifty features. The automaker claims the all-wheel drive system was tuned on off-road proving grounds to ensure consumers who want to go off-road can do so without worrying about the SUV getting stuck. In addition, the SUV has e-handling dynamics that improve cornering. When entering a bend, the Tucson PHEV’s electric motor dabs one of the front wheels to improve steering. Something similar happens at the rear end of the vehicle when exiting a curve to improve traction.
For consumers who commute more than 32 miles a day, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson PHEV is a great choice. Unfortunately, Hyundai only plans to sell the vehicle in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Vermont. If you don’t live in one of these states or in an urban area where you can take advantage of electric range, the Tucson Hybrid may be a better choice. Hyundai hasn’t announced pricing for the Tucson PHEV, but the Tucson Hybrid has an estimated MSRP of $ 29,050 and is certainly less expensive than the plug-in hybrid model.
The 2022 Hyundai Tucson PHEV will join the Ioniq plug-in hybrid as the automaker’s second plug-in hybrid model. The Tucson PHEV will be assembled in Ulsan, South Korea and is expected to arrive at dealerships this summer.
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