Hyundai Ramps Up SUV Plans

Hyundai aims to keep its U.S. lineup fresh. Really fresh.

And the focus is squarely on SUV/crossover vehicles.

The carmaker is launching 12 all-new or significantly enhanced utility vehicles over the next 15 months, including a mix of conventionally powered nameplates, hybrids, plug-in hybrids and full-electric models—as well as a few “N” performance variants.

What to Expect

                         2022 Hyundai Tucson (Image: Hyundai)

The product blitz includes a handful of previously unveiled models, such as all-new versions of the midsize Santa Fe and compact Tucson. The tiny Kona will get a facelift next year.

Multiple variants of all three models are expected. For the Tucson, this includes two hybrid options and a sporty N-line trim package.

The long-awaited Santa Cruz (a compact utility vehicle with a short pickup bed) also is in the works. As is the Ioniq 5 midsize crossover—the first model in Hyundai’s new EV sub-brand.

Future Buzz

Hyundai is keeping the rest of the new models under wraps for now. But the company is clearly excited about the future, boasting that it will have “one of the freshest SUV and eco-focused lineups in the entire industry.”

Olabisi Boyle, vice president, product planning and mobility strategy for Hyundai North America, adds: “Hyundai’s SUVs, eco-focused vehicles and high-performance N products are here, and I can’t wait to see how consumers and enthusiasts react to our most impressive new product lineup to date.”