Hyundai Vision T, are we looking at a preview of the new Hyundai Tucson?

Hyundai looks to the future with its Vision T SUV Concept, which was just unveiled at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show.

This new model is a plug-in hybrid compact crossover designed to express the global design language Sensuous Sportiness of the South Korean brand, while also seeking to balance its eco-friendly lifestyle approach with the environment in which it is driven.

Although Hyundai has not specified any interior or powertrain features, beyond the fact that it is a plug-in hybrid, its styling clearly reflects everything we have seen from the previously spotted Hyundai Tucson 2021 prototypes, from the front fascia to certain angles and creases found on the bodywork. We need not tell you that the production Tucson will be far less visually aggressive.

It measures 4,610 mm long, 1,938 mm wide and 1,704 mm high, and has a wheelbase of 2,804 mm.

Hyundai Vision T, is this how the new Hyundai Tucson will look?

“We seek innovative solutions in design and add emotional value to our product experience through a sensuous sporty design language,” said SangYup Lee, senior vice president and global design chief of the carmaker.

According to Hyundai, the side profile of the Vision T SUV is meant to convey a continuous sense of speed and forward movement, while the long bonnet, short overhangs and level roofline reflect “all-purpose dynamics”.

Visually, the hidden signature lamp is derived from the Le Fil Rouge concept, while the parametric air shutter is an original development feature that actively influences aerodynamics. When parked, the grille is closed and static, but once the car is in motion, “each individual cell of the grille design continues to move in a prescribed sequence, creating a truly dynamic forward behaviour”.

As for the hidden signature headlights, they sit behind a half-mirror system with a chrome-like appearance, transforming into functional lighting on demand. Other design features include the large satin chrome alloy wheels, dark orange brake calipers, the glass roof, the passenger-side charging port with its sliding cover and more. Furthermore, since there are no exterior mirrors, we assume it would use cameras in the same way as the Audi e-tron.

It looks like a cross between the Range Rover Evoque and a TIE fighter, with a flat hood and roofline, short overhangs, sharp angles and wide flat surfaces. It is, in a word, magnificent. Unfortunately, as a concept vehicle, there is less chance of seeing this on the road than the RN-19. Instead, Hyundai is using it to provide a broad overview of where it plans to take its burgeoning Tucson compact SUV line.

One feature we will probably see in the coming years is the unique grille and headlight configuration of the Vision T. Its semi-integrated headlights blend seamlessly into the front of the vehicle until activated, while the front grille is speckled with triangular studs. These design details are actually quite functional, as they also serve as active air vents, opening and closing as needed to maintain vehicle efficiency, regardless of how fast you drive.

Technical specifications of this car

CrossoverHyundai Tucson27 versions · from 35,525 €