By Otsile Kadiege 

Hyundai has expanded the new Tucson range with the addition of the new N Line model derivative. The new range-topper adds sporty cosmetic touches to the exterior and interior of the Tucson. 

Tucson N Line exterior 

Styling wise on the exterior includes a darker, slightly redesigned grille, a redesigned front bumper with larger air intakes, body colour side skirts, sporty-looking 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, a larger rear spoiler, a faux rear diffuser, dual exhaust outlets and N Line badging all round.

Visually, the new derivative stands out from the rest of the Tucson range thanks to sporty elements on its exterior. 

Tucson N Line interior

Inside, the Tucson’s premium cabin gets sporty leather/suede seats with red stitching and piping as well as an ‘N’ badge embossed on the back rest. More model-specific detailing includes fabric door and dashboard inserts with red styling, a red stitched steering wheel with ‘N’ badging and an ‘N’ gear lever which is fitted to N models like the Kona N.

The interior of the Tucson N Line is well-appointed and also comfy and spacious both at the front and rear. Hyundai, however, needs to replace the dated touchscreen which is an eyesore in an upmarket interior. 

Tucson N Line performance

Unlike full-blown N models which receive Performance and mechanical upgrades, the N Line package is only a cosmetic package. The Tucson N Line is still powered by a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine developing 137kW and 416Nm. It’s paired to an 8-speed auto gearbox and power is fed through to all wheels via Hyundai’s HTRAC AWD system.

Driving impressions 

The Tucson continues to impress with commendable ride quality, a punchy turbodiesel engine which is also frugal and a welcome AWD system. It also has impressive range and perfectly paired with a smooth 8-speed auto gearbox. A bunch of assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist makes long distance driving less strenuous.

We’ve driven the new Tucson about a year ago and we were thoroughly impressed with it. The N Line package spruces things up a bit for those who desire a premium SUV with sporty styling.

Pricing and warranty

The Hyundai Tucson N Line is priced at R799,900.