Hyundai Launches Tucson XRT, Adding Off-Road Qualities (Photos)

The new generation of Hyundai Tucson launched last year already possesses a sportier and more personal exterior than its predecessor, but with the Korean brand that is still not enough. This week Hyundai introduced a “sporty” configuration called the XRT for the Tucson with a series of new toys that serve the sole purpose of further personalizing the mid-size SUV.

Among these upgrades are exclusive front and rear fascias with rugged detailing and a particularly striking matte black finish. Hyundai has also equipped the Tucson XRT with new wheel arch cladding and additional cladding on the rocker panels. There are also a pair of black monotone wing mirrors and black 19-inch alloy wheels, also with a design more fitting of a proper off-roader. Further adding to the aggressive looks of the SUV are dark side window surrounds, approach lighting, side steps, cloth interior seating finished in black, a black headliner, a tow hitch, and roof cross rails.

Since it is based on the SEL, it also gets the same equipment level, meaning proximity key with push-button start, heated side mirrors, heated front seats with eight-way electric adjustment for the driver, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 4.2-inch instrument cluster display, multi-function steering wheel, and electric parking brake. The wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also included, and so are the Bluetooth functionality, second-row air vents, and USB ports, HD radio, and reversing camera.

Buyers can opt for the XRT with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, but you can’t have a rugged SUV with a hybrid powertrain. The XRT is only available on the standard Tucson, packing Hyundai’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower (139 kilowatts) and 178 pound-feet (241 Newton-meters) of torque.

• Also See: Hyundai Adds XRT Trim To The Santa Fe Which Is Off-Road Inspired (Photos)