IT'S almost all about the look with Hyundai's new Tucson N-Line which is unashamedly aimed at drivers who want to stand out from the crowd with a sportier looking SUV.
The powertrains remain pretty much the same with petrol and diesel options, two wheel drive and the choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or seven-speed, dual-clutch auto transmission. The previous diesel engine is, however, replaced by a 48 volt mild hybrid diesel and the steering and suspension of the petrol version benefit from minor tweaks.
But there are a host of sporty cosmetic changes inside and out which take inspiration from the Korean maker's N range of high-performance models.
As such, the Tucson N-Line gets bespoke front and rear bumpers, a dark mesh-pattern grille with a dark chrome surround, with 19-inch alloy wheels, door mirror housings and rear spoiler all finished in glossy black. Black-bezel headlamps, unique LED daytime running lights and darkened window frames add to the more dynamic look.
Interior changes include N-branded leather-suede sport seats with red accent stitching while the leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift lever get the same treatment. Alloy pedals complete the package.
On top of that, there's a comprehensive package of comfort, convenience and driver assistance features including an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, heated and height adjustable front seats, electrically adjustable driver's lumbar support, keyless entry with start/stop button, black cloth headlining, climate control, automatic dimming rear view mirror, front and rear parking sensors, electric parking brake and privacy glass.
Active safety is well-catered for too with lane keep assist, autonomous emergency braking, downhill brake control, hill start and trailer stability assist, speed limit information and a tyre pressure monitoring system
The N-Line models go on sale at the end of May with prices starting from £25,995 for the petrol-engined 1.6 T-GDi manual and rising to £29,050 for the diesel hybrid auto. The new diesel hybrid power unit also becomes available on Tucson SE Nav, Premium and Premium SE models with prices starting at £26,450.