Image: Car Magazine
Image: Car Magazine
Image: Car Magazine
Image: Car Magazine
Driving ImpressionsBy: Ryan De Villiers
Hyundai’s N Line denotes purely cosmetic and aesthetic enhancements while leaving the subject’s mechanical foundation relatively unchanged. The Tucson, which is the latest N Line model released into the local market, is (for the most part) no exception. Here are our thoughts from its launch.
What are we driving?
Windy and wet winter weather welcomes the latest N Line model bred with several cosmetic changes as well as a new powertrain configuration expanding the palatability of Hyundai’s Tucson range. Visually bolder than the rest of its stablemates, we had the opportunity to drive Hyundai’s Tucson N Line across the Cape through mountainous backroads to winding coastal roads.
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Why is the Hyundai Tucson N Line significant?
As is the case with other N Line models, not much — except for the introduction of the AWD system — has changed mechanically but visually it boasts an array of cosmetic enhancements to emulate the appearances of thoroughbred N models like the Kona and i30N.
The Tucson’s power output remains relatively undisturbed compared to the rest of its stablemates. The Tucson N Line is motivated by Hyundai’s D4HD or SmartStream 2,0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine producing 137 kW and 416 N.m, which has the same output as the models the N Line supersedes. Compared to its segment contenders, the Tucson’s power output sits within the class’s upper echelons, and now with power fed to all four wheels, its performance capabilities have been heartened.
Aside from this new addition to the Tucson’s arsenal, the N Line model’s driving experience isn’t that much different compared to its standard counterpart. The cabin is left almost unchanged except for the seats and steering wheel. The added exhaust gives it a rougher exhaust note but remains relatively uneventful.
What is new on the Hyundai Tucson N Line?
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It’s minor changes to the Tucson’s exterior that make a big difference. The front fascia has been redesigned and is now characterized by a gloss black grille featuring hidden parametric lights, a taller and bigger rectangular grille which flows into the flanking fog lamps, which are curtailed by a bolder silver skid plate.
The flank of the Tucson features differentiating enhancements such as black mirror caps, an N-Line badge, body-colour matched wheel arches and side skirts which are complemented by the model-exclusive 19-inch N-Line alloy wheels. These culminate in a more unified side profile compared to the rest of the range’s offspring. The Tucson’s rear features an extended aerodynamic spoiler, and a redesigned lower bumper naked by two illuminated side markers all curtailed by a redesigned diffuser and exhaust.
The interior isn’t exempt from N-Line endowments. The seats are now sportier and are a medley of black suede and leather accentuated by the red contrast stitching. The steering wheel and shift knob features many sporty elements inspired by the more potent N-badged cars.
Although N Line model cars are gifted with mainly aesthetic elements, the 2023 Tucson N Line is kitted with Hyundai’s TRACtion (HTRAC) AWD system, which greatly improves the driving experience. In the case of the previous range-topping model, the Tucson Elite suffered from having its tyres hunting for traction under sudden acceleration, even in dry conditions, due to power being fed exclusively to the front wheels. The newly introduced AWD completely mitigates that flaw and provides a greater sense of safety when traversing in wet and dry conditions.
What does the Hyundai Tucson N Line cost?
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Having usurped the R2,0D Elite Diesel AT, the Tucson R2,0 N Line Diesel AWD AT reigns over the rest of Hyundai’s Tucson derivatives by way of its nearly R800 000 price tag. This inflated price tag now sits within the arm’s reach of its competitors. The N Line’s visual enhancements elevate the SUV’s appeal, and the addition of an AWD system gives it more leverage when considering SUV’s priced below R850k. Additionally, the Tucson is outfitted with a slew of features from adaptive cruise control, electric seats, and driver assistance features (Pre-collision system, Lane departure warning, etc) that aid in the car’s appeal over its competitors.
What are the Hyundai Tucson N Line’s rivals?
- BMW X2 sDrive 18d: R865 017
- Mazda CX-5 2,2L DE Akera AWD: R 777 500
- VW Tiguan 2,0 TDI R-Line 4MOTION 130 kW: R866 280
- Mercedes GLA 200d: R957 148
- Kia Sportage 1,6T-GDi GT Line S: R749 995
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Verdict.
The introduction of an AWD system is one of the most notable and welcomed changes to the Tucson’s formula. The N Line model builds on the Tucson’s competent foundation while elevating its visual appeal making resulting in it becoming a stronger contender in the five-seater SUV segment. All in all, the Hyundai Tucson R2,0 N Line AWD is a step up from the Elite version’s offering thanks to its bolder design and the addition of a competent AWD system.
Hyundai Tucson N Line Fast Facts
Price: R799 900Engine: front-mounted, turbodiesel, 1 998cc, inline-fourTransmission: 8-speed automaticPower: 137 kW @ 4 000 r/minTorque: 416 N.m @ 2 000 r/minDriven wheels: All0-100 km/h: 9,2 secTop speed: 201 km/hFuel consumption: 6,5L/100km (claimed)
CO2 emissions: 169 g/km
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Keyword: Review: Hyundai Tucson R2,0 N Line AWD AT