The Hyundai Tucson Gets Suited Up With The N-Line Trim, Not That It Needs It

Following Hyundai's 'Sensual Sportiness' design language, the Tuscon N-Line adds more bling with distinctive exterior and interior design details. The muscular stance of the Tuscon and the signature parametric jewel pattern are carried over into the N-Line and are the most prominent features of this mid-size SUV. Under the elaborately designed grille sits a more aggressive bumper and a rectangular air intake that's taller and wider than the regular Tuscon. The black bezel surrounding the headlamps works well to contrast the silver bumper trimmings.

Over on the rear, the Tuscon N-Line's derriere ramps up the edgy and angular design language, mimicking the front fascia with a more aggressive bumper featuring gloss black bezel's and contrasting silver trimming. A longer, more aerodynamic roof spoiler with vortex fins, and twin exhaust pipes top-off the sporty, albeit busy looking rear fascia.

Along the sides, the angular design continues with the flared wheel arches now in body colour, compared to a black plastic cladding on the standard trim. The Tuscon-N Line comes with sportier 19-inch alloy wheels with the geometric pattern only found in a kaleidoscope. Customers can choose from seven exterior colours, including Shadow Grey (seen here), exclusive for the N-Line. Customers can select an optional two-tone roof in Phantom Black with five of the available colour trims for even more personalisation.

The black roof on the two-tone paint scheme works wonders to visually lower the Tuscon and add to its sleek, sporty vibe. The Tuscon N-Line comes with darkened privacy glass as standard for the rear windows and third quarter window, which blends together with a blacked-out C-pillar and roof for a stealthy look.

The interior is as classy as the standard Tuscon, albeit with a few subtle 'N' touches to spice it up a notch. The black N-branded suede and leather sport seats paired with the N-specific steering wheel set the interior apart, giving it a sportier-than-usual feel. The gear knob with the N-Logo and yards of red stitching on the dash, door panels and seats add to the interiors dynamic nuance. Last but not least, the metal pedals and door sills with the N-Logo bring the interior together.

Aside from the 'N' treatment, the Tuscon N-Line's interior still has all the creature comforts one would expect from a mid-sized SUV. A 10.25-inch digital driver's display and a 10.25-inch central AVN touchscreen complete are the centrepieces of the Tuscon N-Line. The triple-zone climate control with Multi-Air Mode gives all passengers a comfortable environment to be in. The best-in-class safety features like surround-view monitoring, Blind-spot View Monitor and a myriad of active and passive systems keep occupants in a cocoon of safety.

Under the hood, Hyundai engineers know that N-Line buyers have the need for speed, hence have dropped the diesel engine options found in the standard Tuscon's line-up. Buyers will still be spoilt for choice as the 1.6-litre T-GDI Smartstream engine is available either in its standard guise (150hp), mated to a 48V Mild Hybrid system (180hp), a full hybrid (230hp) or as a PHEV plug-in hybrid (265hp).

To add to the plethora of drivetrain options, the Tuscon N-Line will be available with either a seven-speed dual clutch transmission (7DCT) or a six-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (6iMT) with two-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive, save for the range-topping PHEV, which has a six-speed torque convertor automatic….phew.

Hyundai has also tweaked the Tuscon's Electronically Controlled Suspension (ECS) to have a more dynamic ride, making sure the ride backs up the N-Line nameplate. Yes, folks, this is more than just a cosmetic trim level; you get an actual hardware upgrade.

The Tuscon N-Line is undoubtedly a stylish vehicle, adding a sporty feel to an otherwise mundane family wagon. While there are some mechanical upgrades, the mostly cosmetic trim level may lead to some questioning why would you need a stylised version of an already over-styled car. To those naysayers we say, ask not why, but why not?