Hyundai's Upcoming Performance SUV Might Compete as a Hybrid Against the RAV4 GR Sport | Carscoops

      The Tucson N may feature a hybrid powertrain boasting approximately 300 hp.

      Hyundai is expected to introduce a high-performance version of the Tucson.

      This model might also come with an electric rear axle.

      Recent spy photos have captured the boxy new Hyundai Tucson, and details about the upcoming variant are emerging. Specifically, it is said that a high-performance N variant will be available, aiming to compete with the new 320 hp Toyota RAV4 GR Sport.

      Joon Park from Hyundai N stated to Auto Express, “We’re not limiting ourselves to EVs” and “we will go further with the ICE-based cars as well.” This is encouraging news, especially since the brand has recently focused on fully electric models, introducing the Ioniq 6 N and the updated Ioniq 5 N.

      Furthermore, Park indicated that the company is open to incorporating hybrid powertrains into N models, though these would need to have distinct “characteristics.” This aligns with the typical focus of hybrids on efficiency rather than performance.

      This is evident in the Tucson Hybrid N Line, equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, a 1.49 kWh battery pack, and an electric motor, delivering a total output of 231 hp (172 kW / 234 PS) and 271 lb-ft (367 Nm) of torque, while achieving a fuel economy of 35 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 35 mpg combined.

      Reports suggest that Hyundai plans to address performance with a high-performance powertrain leveraging hybrid technology alongside a next-generation 1.6-liter turbo engine. They also mention that the Tucson N could be fitted with a rear electric axle for all-wheel drive, potentially resulting in around 300 hp (224 kW / 304 PS).

      This output would surpass that of the Elantra N, which features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing up to 286 hp (213 kW / 290 PS) and 289 lb-ft (391 Nm) of torque.