The new Hyundai Tucson plug-in-hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) SUV, which rolled off the assembly line in Montgomery, Alabama, in 2022, is fully loaded, has a high-capacity battery, and improved regenerative braking that extends the driving range.
Bear in mind that the average commute for most people is 35 miles; the Tucson PHEV can go 33 miles on all-electric before the gas-powered motor kicks in. The range can be extended through regenerative braking, depending on how well you adapt your driving style to the latest EV technology.
The new compact 2022 Hyundai Tucson PHEV has more room for drivers and passengers and an impressive list of performance and safety features, making it a leader in its class. Its main competitors include the Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, and the Kia Sportage, which shares the same platform.
The Tucson is rated “top of its class” by Consumer Reports, which ranks it as “one of the most affordable, safe, and reliable SUVs.” U.S. News also ranks it at “the top of the compact SUV class for “composed ride and handling, spacious and upscale interior, user-friendly infotainment system, and a long list of driver assistance features.” I was quite impressed.
Other accolades for the 2022 Hyundai Tucson include: “winner of U.S. News 2022 Best Compact SUV for the Money’, the 2022 Best Compact SUV for Families, and the 2022 Best New Cars for Teens awards.”
Models/Price: There are only two trims for the 2023 Hyundai Tucson PHEV: The Tucson SEL PHEV ($37,050) and the Tucson Limited PHEV ($44,310 MSRP). Both models come standard with AWD and are fully loaded with high-end features and technology.
After a complete redesign of the 2022 Tucson and the introduction of the PHEV, there are only a few changes to the 2023 Tucson. Standard features now include Forward Collision Warning and Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go. In addition, all models now have Highway Driving Assist, Rain-sensing Wipers, and Curve Control.
Other standard features and conveniences in the Tucson PHEV trim include a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, a 10.25-inch digital gauge display, a surround-view camera, and leather seats.
Power: The 2022 Hyundai Tucson PHEV is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine that generates 180 horsepower with 195 lb-ft of torque and a 66.9-kW motor that increases the total horsepower to 261 with 258 lb-ft of torque. Power is complemented by a six-speed automatic transmission and Hyundai’s HTRAC on-demand all-wheel-drive system.
Fuel Economy: The EPA estimates for the Hyundai Tucson PHEV rates it at 80 MPGe and 33 miles of electric-only driving. Recharging the Tucson PHEV takes about 10.6 hours on a 110-volt outlet and around 1.7 hours on a 220-volt level 2 charger.
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