Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL, a compact SUV that's been making waves in the market. We'll be taking a comprehensive look at what makes the SEL trim tick, from its performance and features to its overall value proposition. If you're in the market for a new SUV, you're in the right place because this review will give you a detailed breakdown to help you make an informed decision. The 2022 Tucson SEL offers a compelling package, blending practicality, technology, and style, all while maintaining an attractive price point. Let's break it down, shall we?

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about the heart of the matter: performance. The 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL comes equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which generates a respectable 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Now, it's not going to win any races, but it provides adequate power for daily driving. It handles city commutes with ease and has enough grunt for highway merging and passing. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which generally performs smoothly, offering seamless gear changes. You won't feel any jerky transitions; it's designed to provide a comfortable and refined driving experience.

One of the standout features is its available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which greatly enhances traction and stability, especially in challenging weather conditions. This is a significant advantage if you live in an area with snow, ice, or heavy rain. The AWD system constantly monitors the road conditions and adjusts power distribution to the wheels, improving handling and control. The front-wheel-drive (FWD) model is also available, which offers better fuel efficiency. When it comes to the ride quality, the Tucson SEL strikes a good balance. The suspension system is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and parking lots. However, some reviewers have noted that the steering feel might lack a bit of feedback, which might not be ideal for those seeking a sportier driving experience. Overall, the Tucson SEL prioritizes comfort and ease of use, making it a great choice for everyday driving. The Tucson SEL provides a good blend of performance and fuel economy. The EPA estimates for the FWD model are 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the AWD model gets 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. These figures are competitive within the compact SUV segment, making the Tucson SEL a practical choice for those who want to save on gas costs. The engine's responsiveness and the transmission's smooth shifts make it a pleasant vehicle to drive. The Tucson SEL is designed to provide a comfortable and composed ride, making it suitable for both short trips and longer journeys. For those who prioritize fuel efficiency, the front-wheel-drive model is a great option. If you are looking for added security and improved handling in various weather conditions, the all-wheel-drive system is a worthwhile investment.

Interior and Technology

Let's move inside and explore the interior and technology features of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL. The cabin design is modern and well-executed, with high-quality materials used throughout the interior. The layout is clean and user-friendly, with a focus on simplicity and functionality. The dashboard is uncluttered, and the controls are within easy reach. The seats are supportive and comfortable, providing good support for both short and long drives. The SEL trim level offers a good balance of features and value. One of the standout features is the 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is standard on the SEL trim. The infotainment system is user-friendly and intuitive, offering a variety of features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. These features allow you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the car's system, providing access to navigation, music streaming, and other apps. The system also includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to make hands-free calls and stream audio from your devices. The SEL also comes with a digital instrument cluster, which displays important information like speed, fuel level, and other vehicle data in a clear and easy-to-read format. It adds a modern touch to the interior and enhances the overall driving experience. In terms of comfort and convenience features, the Tucson SEL offers a range of amenities. These include automatic climate control, which allows you to set the desired temperature and automatically maintains it throughout the cabin. The SEL also includes a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of the area behind the car, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces.

The SEL trim also offers keyless entry and push-button start, which adds to the convenience. The interior space is another strong point of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL. Both front and rear passengers will find ample legroom and headroom, providing a comfortable seating experience. The rear seats offer plenty of space for adults, making it a great choice for families or those who frequently carry passengers. The cargo area is also spacious, offering a generous amount of storage space for luggage, groceries, or other items. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space. The combination of a well-designed interior, user-friendly technology, and ample space makes the Tucson SEL a compelling option in the compact SUV segment. The integration of modern technology and high-quality materials creates a comfortable and enjoyable driving environment. The interior design of the Tucson SEL emphasizes practicality and functionality. The touchscreen infotainment system is the central hub for many vehicle functions, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Overall, the interior and technology features of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL are well-designed and functional.

Safety Features

Alright, let's talk safety, which is always a top priority, right? The 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL doesn't disappoint in this area. It comes packed with a suite of advanced safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. First off, it has a comprehensive airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags. This is standard across the board, and it's essential for protecting occupants in the event of a collision. The Tucson SEL also includes a forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection. This system uses sensors to detect potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians in front of you and can automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate an impact. Another key safety feature is lane keeping assist, which helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. The system monitors the lane markings and can gently steer the car back into its lane if it detects that you're drifting out. This is especially helpful on long highway drives. Blind-spot collision warning is also included, which alerts you to the presence of vehicles in your blind spots. The system uses sensors to detect vehicles that are approaching or are in your blind spots and provides visual and auditory warnings to help you avoid a collision when changing lanes.

Rear cross-traffic collision warning is another valuable feature. This system detects vehicles approaching from the side when you're backing up and alerts you to potential collisions. This is particularly helpful when backing out of parking spaces or driveways. The Tucson SEL also includes driver attention warning, which monitors your driving behavior and alerts you if it detects signs of driver fatigue or inattention. The system can provide visual and auditory warnings to encourage you to take a break. The SEL trim also includes smart cruise control with stop-and-go, which maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you and can automatically adjust your speed to match the flow of traffic. It can even bring the vehicle to a complete stop and resume driving when traffic starts moving again. The 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL has received positive safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It's a great choice if safety is a priority, as it offers a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your loved ones. The inclusion of advanced safety features like forward collision-avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, and blind-spot collision warning gives you added peace of mind on the road. The Tucson SEL's high safety ratings from reputable organizations provide further confidence in its ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The driver attention warning feature can help prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue. Overall, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL offers a well-rounded package of safety features, making it a safe and reliable choice.

Value and Trim Levels

Let's get down to brass tacks and talk about value and trim levels. The 2022 Hyundai Tucson is available in several trim levels, but the SEL trim often strikes a sweet spot between features and affordability. Generally, the SEL trim offers a great balance of essential features and a reasonable price point, making it a popular choice for many buyers. It typically sits in the mid-range of the Tucson lineup, offering a step up from the base trim levels in terms of features and amenities. When comparing the SEL trim to the higher trims, you'll find that it still provides most of the key features that drivers are looking for, such as the 8.0-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of advanced safety features. It often comes standard with things like heated front seats, power-adjustable driver's seat, and a push-button start, making it a more comfortable and convenient daily driver. The value of the Tucson SEL lies in its ability to provide a well-equipped vehicle at a competitive price. Hyundai is known for offering a lot of features for the money, and the Tucson SEL is a prime example of this. You get a lot of bang for your buck, with a stylish design, a comfortable interior, and a host of advanced technology features. The Tucson SEL offers a practical and versatile package that meets the needs of most drivers.

Its spacious interior, ample cargo space, and efficient engine make it a great choice for both city driving and longer trips. The price of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL will vary depending on your location, optional features, and any dealer incentives. However, it's generally priced competitively within the compact SUV segment. It’s always a good idea to check with your local Hyundai dealer for the most accurate pricing information. Compared to other SUVs in its class, the Tucson SEL offers a compelling value proposition. It often comes in at a lower price point than some of its competitors while still offering a similar level of features and performance. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who don't want to compromise on quality or features. The Hyundai Tucson SEL is a well-rounded package that delivers excellent value for the money. The SEL trim provides a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle. It offers a great mix of practicality, technology, and style, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a compact SUV. Hyundai has a strong reputation for reliability and providing a long-term value that many competitors struggle to match. The Tucson SEL is a great option for those looking for a practical, well-equipped, and affordable SUV.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's wrap things up with a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL:

Pros:

• Stylish and modern design.
• Spacious and comfortable interior.
• User-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Comprehensive suite of standard safety features.
• Competitive fuel economy.
• Excellent value for the money.
• Available all-wheel drive for enhanced traction.

Cons:

• Engine performance could be a bit more spirited.
• Steering feel might lack feedback for some drivers.
• Some higher-end features are reserved for higher trim levels.

Conclusion

So, what's the bottom line? The 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL is a solid contender in the compact SUV market. It offers a great blend of style, practicality, technology, and value. Its spacious interior, user-friendly features, and comprehensive safety suite make it an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers. While the engine might not be the most powerful in its class, it provides adequate performance for everyday driving. If you're in the market for a reliable, well-equipped SUV that won't break the bank, the Tucson SEL is definitely worth considering. It's a testament to how Hyundai has evolved its vehicles, with a focus on delivering value and a positive ownership experience. The Tucson SEL successfully balances style, functionality, and affordability. It's an excellent choice for anyone seeking a versatile and practical SUV. It's a great option for families, commuters, or anyone who needs a vehicle that can handle daily tasks with ease. Consider test driving the Tucson SEL at your local Hyundai dealer; you will be pleasantly surprised! Thanks for reading, and happy car hunting!