2022 Hyundai Tucson N Line: Manual Transmission Review

Hey guys! Let's dive into a detailed look at the Hyundai Tucson 2022 N Line with a manual transmission. This sporty variant combines Hyundai's stylish design language with a more engaging driving experience, thanks to the rare manual gearbox. In this article, we'll cover everything from its performance and handling to its interior features and overall value. Whether you're a seasoned manual enthusiast or just curious about what this Tucson N Line offers, you're in the right place. We'll break down all the key aspects, providing you with an in-depth understanding of what makes this particular model stand out in the crowded compact SUV market.

Exterior Design and N Line Aesthetics

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson N Line immediately grabs attention with its striking exterior design. The 'Sensuous Sportiness' design philosophy is evident in its sharp lines, bold creases, and dynamic proportions. The N Line enhances this with a more aggressive front grille, unique front and rear bumpers, and sporty side skirts. These elements give the Tucson a more athletic and planted stance on the road.

The front fascia features a distinctive dark chrome grille with the N Line badge prominently displayed. The headlights are integrated seamlessly into the grille, creating a wide and imposing look. The bumper is sculpted with larger air intakes, improving aerodynamics and adding to the sporty appeal. Fog lights are housed in angular housings, completing the aggressive front-end design.

Moving to the side, the N Line boasts body-colored cladding and unique 19-inch alloy wheels that fill the wheel wells nicely. The side skirts add a touch of visual dynamism, making the Tucson appear lower and sleeker. Blacked-out window surrounds and mirror caps further contribute to the sporty aesthetic. The rear of the Tucson N Line is equally striking, with a sculpted tailgate, a full-width taillight design, and a diffuser-style rear bumper with twin exhaust outlets. The N Line badge is also present on the tailgate, signaling the vehicle's sporty intentions. Overall, the exterior design of the Tucson N Line is a successful blend of style and aggression, setting it apart from its more pedestrian siblings.

Interior Features and Technology

Stepping inside the Hyundai Tucson 2022 N Line, you're greeted with a modern and well-appointed cabin. The N Line trim adds sporty touches that elevate the interior ambiance. Black headliner, N-branded sport seats with leather bolsters, and metal pedals are among the exclusive features. The dashboard layout is clean and minimalist, with a focus on user-friendliness.

The centerpiece of the interior is the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It's responsive, intuitive, and offers a range of features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite navigation. The system is also equipped with Hyundai's Blue Link connected car services, allowing remote access to vehicle functions and real-time vehicle diagnostics.

The N Line sport seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample bolstering for spirited driving. They're trimmed in a combination of cloth and leather, with red contrast stitching and the N logo embroidered on the seatbacks. The driver's seat is power-adjustable with lumbar support, ensuring a comfortable driving position for drivers of all sizes. The rear seats are also well-cushioned and offer generous legroom and headroom, making the Tucson a comfortable choice for families.

In terms of technology, the Tucson N Line is equipped with a host of advanced features. A digital instrument cluster replaces traditional gauges, providing a customizable display of vehicle information. A wireless charging pad is available for compatible smartphones, and multiple USB ports are located throughout the cabin. The Tucson also comes standard with a suite of driver-assistance technologies, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. These features enhance safety and provide added peace of mind on the road.

Performance and Manual Transmission

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: the performance and, crucially, the manual transmission of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson N Line. While many modern SUVs have abandoned the manual gearbox, Hyundai offers it as an option in the N Line, catering to driving enthusiasts who crave more control and engagement. This is a significant differentiator in a market dominated by automatic transmissions.

The Tucson N Line is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful engine in its class, it provides ample performance for everyday driving. The turbocharger delivers strong low-end torque, making the Tucson feel responsive and eager off the line. The engine is smooth and refined, with minimal turbo lag.

The six-speed manual transmission is the star of the show. The gear lever has a satisfying weight and feel, and the throws are relatively short and precise. The clutch is easy to modulate, making it forgiving for novice manual drivers. The manual transmission allows drivers to extract the most from the engine, keeping it in the optimal powerband for maximum acceleration. It also provides greater control in challenging driving conditions, such as snow or ice.

The N Line also benefits from a sport-tuned suspension that enhances handling. The ride is firmer than the standard Tucson, but it's still comfortable enough for daily commuting. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback from the road. The Tucson N Line corners with minimal body roll, inspiring confidence in the driver. Overall, the performance of the Tucson N Line with the manual transmission is engaging and rewarding, making it a standout choice for driving enthusiasts.

Driving Experience and Handling

Taking the Hyundai Tucson 2022 N Line manual out on the road is where you truly appreciate its unique character. The combination of the turbocharged engine, manual transmission, and sport-tuned suspension creates a driving experience that's both engaging and enjoyable. Whether you're navigating city streets or carving through winding roads, the Tucson N Line delivers a level of driver involvement that's rare in the compact SUV segment.

In urban environments, the manual transmission allows you to make the most of the engine's low-end torque. You can easily zip through traffic, shifting gears smoothly and precisely. The clutch is light and forgiving, making stop-and-go driving less of a chore. The Tucson's compact dimensions and good visibility also make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

On the open road, the Tucson N Line comes alive. The turbocharged engine provides ample power for overtaking and merging onto highways. The manual transmission allows you to keep the engine in its sweet spot, maximizing acceleration and responsiveness. The sport-tuned suspension keeps the Tucson planted and stable, even at higher speeds. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you a good feel for the road.

On winding roads, the Tucson N Line truly shines. The sport-tuned suspension minimizes body roll, allowing you to confidently tackle corners. The manual transmission gives you precise control over gear selection, allowing you to maximize the engine's power and torque. The brakes are strong and responsive, providing ample stopping power. Overall, the Tucson N Line offers a fun and engaging driving experience that's sure to please driving enthusiasts.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is always a consideration, and the 2022 Hyundai Tucson N Line manual offers respectable numbers for its class. While the manual transmission might suggest a more involved driving experience that could impact fuel efficiency, it's surprisingly competitive with its automatic counterparts. According to EPA estimates, the Tucson N Line with the manual transmission achieves around 26 mpg in combined driving conditions.

In city driving, you can expect around 23 mpg, while highway driving should yield closer to 29 mpg. Of course, real-world fuel economy will vary depending on driving style, road conditions, and other factors. However, these figures provide a good baseline for comparison.

It's worth noting that the turbocharged engine requires premium fuel for optimal performance. While it can run on regular unleaded, using premium fuel will ensure that you're getting the most power and efficiency from the engine. Overall, the fuel economy of the Tucson N Line is reasonable, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and long road trips.

Pricing and Value

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson N Line manual offers excellent value for money, combining sporty styling, engaging performance, and a comprehensive list of features at a competitive price point. While pricing can vary depending on options and packages, the base MSRP for the N Line with the manual transmission typically starts in the mid-$20,000 range.

For that price, you get a well-equipped SUV with a distinctive exterior design, a sporty interior, and a fun-to-drive powertrain. The manual transmission is a unique selling point, appealing to driving enthusiasts who want more control and engagement. The Tucson N Line also comes standard with a generous warranty, providing added peace of mind.

Compared to its competitors, the Tucson N Line offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and value. It's a great choice for those who want a stylish and sporty SUV that's also practical and affordable. Overall, the Tucson N Line represents a smart buy in the compact SUV segment.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Tucson 2022 N Line manual is a standout choice in the crowded compact SUV market. Its striking design, sporty interior, engaging performance, and available manual transmission make it a unique and appealing option for driving enthusiasts. While it may not be the most powerful or luxurious SUV in its class, it offers a compelling combination of style, value, and driving enjoyment. If you're looking for a compact SUV that's fun to drive and won't break the bank, the Tucson N Line with the manual transmission is definitely worth considering. It's a testament to Hyundai's commitment to providing engaging and affordable vehicles for drivers of all types. What do you think, guys? Are you ready to embrace the manual life with the Tucson N Line?