Hyundai is preparing the first high-performance version of its Tucson crossover under the N badge. The new model is expected to feature a hybrid powertrain, all-wheel drive, and dynamics-focused tuning rather than efficiency, according to infohub.kz.
Preliminary reports suggest the Tucson N will be equipped with a new generation of the 1.6-liter gasoline-electric powertrain, producing around 300 horsepower. An electric motor on the rear axle is likely to provide all-wheel drive.
Jun Park, head of Hyundai's N division, said the company is considering two approaches to hybrids: one focused on maximum efficiency, the other on performance. For N models, the latter will be chosen.
"We are not limiting ourselves to electric vehicles," Park said.
Hyundai's plan is for the electric component to provide quick response and additional torque, while the gasoline engine retains the character typical of N models. The Tucson N itself is planned to be lighter and more agile than a regular hybrid crossover. Park described the upcoming model as lighter, more agile, and more exciting.
The exterior remains speculative. The Korean Car Blog has published a rendering based on spy shots of the next-generation Tucson. It suggests the crossover could adopt a more aggressive design with elements from the new Santa Fe.
The Tucson may be just the first Hyundai N model with a hybrid powertrain. The company is also considering this technology for future versions of the Kona N, i20 N, and i30 N. For these, Hyundai wants to use more compact and lighter batteries to avoid increasing the weight of the performance models.
Thus, Hyundai N is not abandoning internal combustion engines but rather combining them with electric drive where it can enhance vehicle dynamics.