When the 2022 Hyundai Tucson broke cover last year, it arrived as a tech-filled crossover with a controversial aesthetic. However, like with most Hyundai models, it seems a couple of performance-oriented versions are underway.

According to Autoblog, a new sporty N Line version of the Tucson will arrive for the European market with enhanced styling and interior features. However, this could be our first glimpse of what will eventually arrive in the U.S. market.

What is a 2022 Hyundai N Line?

The concept for the 2022 Hyundai Tucson N Line is surprisingly simple. The first thing that stands out from this sporty variant is the stunning shade of Shadow Grey paint. Additionally, you even get a gloss black roof, which gives the crossover a very sharp look.

If you look at the front bumper, it looks fairly similar to the one found in the standard model. However, a closer inspection reveals a sporty new lower section. In fact, most of the touches are quite subtle but manage to add to the Tucson’s overall road presence.

On all four corners, you’ll notice that this 2022 Hyundai Tucson features a brand-new set of 19-inch wheels. Unfortunately, Autoblog does not mention if stickier tires will also be on offer. You get new side skirts finished in black down the sides, which makes the crossover look slightly lower to the ground.

In the rear of this 2022 Hyundai Tucson, the changes remain relatively minor. The only major difference is a new lower diffuser, which hides the two small exhaust exits.

Is this sporty crossover any faster?

Unfortunately, this 2022 Hyundai Tucson N Line isn’t any faster than the standard European model. According to Autoblog, this updated crossover only features an updated appearance pack. According to Autoblog, this means that European buyers will have to make do with the current range of available powertrains.

As of writing, the most powerful option available for this European model is a 265-hp plug-in hybrid 1.6-liter engine. Thankfully for U.S. buyers, a plug-in hybrid will eventually become available. The plus side here is that Motor1 reports that the plug-in powertrain will develop the same power output in the U.S. model.

As a result, this 2022 Hyundai Tucson isn’t a fully-fledged N model like the Veloster N is. Thankfully Yahoo News reports that the smaller Kona crossover will get a proper sporty N version with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine developing some serious punch. An eight-speed dual-clutch transmission will likely send all of the available power to the front wheels.

Should I give the standard Tucson a shot?

Since the 2022 Hyundai Tucson N Line isn’t confirmed for the U.S. market, you’ll have to settle for the standard version. However, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing considering how many improvements the 2022 model brings. For starters, the U.S.-bound Tucson still offers a distinct look that separates it from most other new crossovers.

According to Motor1, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson will bring with is plenty of brand-new driver-assist features. These include front collision monitoring with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, automatic high beams, and driver attention warning as standard.

If you’re looking for a quick crossover, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson has you covered with the aforementioned 265-hp plug-in powertrain. However, rumors suggest that the crossover may, in fact, receive the 2.5-liter engine out of the Sonata N Line, which develops 290 hp and 311 lb-ft. As a result, there may not be a need for a fully-fledged N model.