Whats the difference between the 2022 Hyundai Tucson SE and SEL?

Do people buy the most recommended version of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson? One trim level is more popular than all the others. Every version of the Hyundai SUV is a viable option, but some are better than others. Some experts say the best Tucson trim level is also the most popular. Most experts recommend the most popular 2022 Hyundai Tucson trim.

Whats the difference between the 2022 Hyundai Tucson SE and SEL?
The 2022 Hyundai Tucson | Hyundai

According to Edmunds, the SEL model is the most popular 2022 Hyundai Tucson trim. Out of eight available options, the second cheapest is the one people usually buy. In its most affordable form, the Tucson SE costs $26,175. However, opting for the SEL trim costs $28,395. What makes the SEL more popular than the base model?

Those who choose the base model get a surprisingly wide variety of equipment. However, it’s undoubtedly no luxury vehicle. But for just over $26,000, there isn’t much to complain about. Moreover, a base model Tucson SE comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. In addition, every version of the Hyundai SUV comes with advanced driver aids like driver attention warning, forward collision mitigation, lane keeping assist, and a rear-seat reminder.

Choosing the most popular 2022 Hyundai Tucson trim gets customers all the SE features plus more. Paying roughly $2,000 more adds fantastic convenience items like roof rails, tinted rear windows, proximity keyless entry, push-button start, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and much more. Other outstanding features like heated seats, USB outlets, blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot intervention, and adaptive cruise control also enter the lineup at this price.

As a result, customers love buying the most popular SEL model much more than the base SE. While 2022 Hyundai Tucson customers love a bargain, the SE just isn’t worth the price. For only a bit more money, the SEL version takes massive strides with more modern features.

The best 2022 Hyundai Tucson trim, according to experts

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Is the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Worth Buying?

The Edmunds and Car and Driver experts disagree on the best Tucson trim. First, Edmunds agrees with customers that the most popular model is the best. The publication recommends buying the SEL trim because it has desirable extras while maintaining an affordable price. In addition, a few optional packages are unlocked at this stage, which is nice for many buyers.

Alternatively, the reviewers from Car and Driver do not recommend the most popular model. However, the C/D recommendation isn’t all that different. C/D tells buyers to purchase the SEL Convenience trim, a Tucson SEL with optional packages. Moreover, the publication lists it at a $30,285 starting price, just a bit higher than the standard SEL.

What does the C/D recommended 2022 Hyundai Tucson come with that lower trims don’t? First, the Convenience package includes a hands-free tailgate, 19-inch wheels, a sunroof, a digital instrument panel, a wireless charging pad, ambient interior lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Combined with basic SEL features, this package makes the Tucson very well-equipped.

The Premium package is the other optional package, which adds even more. These extras are borderline luxurious, so only those who want the most premium Tucson experience should purchase them. For example, ventilated leather front seats, a Bose premium audio system, and a unique dark gray grille with LED lights are included.

In conclusion, the best 2022 Hyundai Tucson is the SEL model. In addition, the most popular version of the SUV is also the SEL trim. While the base SE trim is affordable and has some excellent features, the SEL and SEL Convenience optimizes the Tucson. Finding a suitable model can be challenging, but most experts agree the most popular 2022 Hyundai Tucson trim, SEL, is the best.

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How Much Do the SE, SEL, N Line and Limited Cost?

In addition to the higher prices, Hyundai has reshuffled the Tucson’s lineup. The four trim levels — from least- to most-expensive — are SE, SEL, N Line and Limited. Gone are the previous generation’s Value, Sport and Ultimate trims. All-wheel drive is optional on all gas-only Tucsons and costs an extra $1,400 compared to FWD models. SEL models are also available with a $2,600 Convenience Package and a $1,700 Premium Package, the latter of which requires the Convenience Package, as well (so it’s really a $4,300 option). The Convenience Package includes a power moonroof, a hands-free liftgate, wireless charging, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob among other goodies. The Premium Package adds leather seating surfaces, ventilated front seats and more. All prices below include the destination fee.

  • 2022 Hyundai Tucson SE FWD: $26,135 ($1,250 increase)
  • 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL FWD: $27,685 ($400 increase)
  • 2022 Hyundai Tucson N Line FWD: $31,785 (new for 2022)
  • 2022 Hyundai Tucson Limited FWD: $35,885 ($2,650 increase over 2021 Tucson Ultimate)

What Will the Hybrid Cost?

The new 2022 Tucson Hybrid will have the same $1,185 destination fee as the gas-only models above and come with standard AWD. It will be available in three trims: Blue, SEL Convenience and Limited.

  • 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Blue: $30,235
  • 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid SEL Convenience: $32,835
  • 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited: $38,535

Release Date

Both the gas-only and hybrid 2022 Tucson will go on sale this spring.

What About the Plug-In Hybrid?

We’re still awaiting more information about the plug-in hybrid Tucson, which is expected to go on sale later in the summer. We should have pricing and other information closer to that time.

What is the difference between Hyundai Tucson SE and SEL?

Besides being $1,300 more expensive, the SEL offers more safety, exterior, and interior features not available on the SE. These features include but are not limited to: Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist [BCA] Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Cyclist and Junction Turning Detection.

Does the 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL have remote start?

2022 Hyundai Tucson Connectivity Features Further, the 2022 Tucson comes with a Hyundai Digital Key. Thus, you can unlock doors and start your engine with your smartphone. The Blue Link® Connected Car Service lets you remotely start your 2022 Hyundai Tucson, lock and unlock the doors, turn on the climate control, etc.

What does SEL stand for Hyundai?

SEL and SE are both acronyms typically used to describe the trim level of the vehicle you're working with. Where SEL stands for special edition limited, or special edition luxury, SE simply stands for special-edition.

Does the 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL have a heated steering wheel?

Opt for the $35,885 Limited and your Tucson sports a standard 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display, an in-dash navigation system, a panoramic sunroof, surround-view monitor, front and rear parking sensors, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats.