- the 2022 hyundai tucson is adding an xrt model, a new trim level first introduced on the santa fe earlier this year.
- the xrt is meant to look more off-road-oriented, but really just adds more plastic cladding and exclusive wheels.
- the front-wheel-drive tucson xrt starts at $32,625, with all-wheel drive available for $1500 extra.
hyundai's new xrt trim is expanding across its crossover lineup. after debuting it on the mid-size santa fe back in august, hyundai has now revealed the first images of the 2022 tucson xrt. the xrt model brings off-road-oriented design changes for a tougher look, but there are no upgrades under the sheetmetal. like the santa fe, the tucson xrt doesn't even come with all-wheel drive as standard, starting at $32,625 for the front-wheel-drive model. upgrading to all-wheel drive costs an additional $1500.
despite hyundai billing it as "rugged" and claiming that the new design is "for enthusiasts," the xrt model effectively amounts to an appearance package. there are minor changes to the front and rear bumpers—exchanging chrome trim for additional black plastic—and beefier cladding around the wheel wells and on the side sills. the mirrors are finished in gloss black and the window trim is darkened. the xrt also rides on exclusive, black 19-inch wheels.
the xrt features approach lighting and side steps for easy entry into the tucson's handsome interior. the xrt model will only come with black cloth seats and a black headliner, echoing the exterior modifications. all tucson xrts will also feature roof cross rails and a tow hitch. the xrt is based on the tucson sel with the convenience package, and is only available with the non-hybrid 187-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder powertrain. hyundai says the 2022 tucson xrt is arriving at dealerships now.