Hyundai Tucson N-Line previewed prior to Geneva debut

Hyundai has previewed a performance-focused variant of its Tucson SUV and confirmed a new mild hybrid variant ahead of the Geneva motor show.

Called the Tucson N-Line, the sporting model follows the i30 N-Line in offering a warm trim to sit beneath full-fat N models.

It features "motorsport-inspired" styling details, which the preview shots show include bigger wheels, N-Line badges and red stitching inside. Expect sportier front and rear bumpers, a twin-exit exhaust and sports seats, too.

It's also likely that Hyundai will make small changes to the Tucson's chassis set-up and upgrade its brakes to reflect the sporting focus, although this is unconfirmed. However, don't expect much more power from the 174bhp 1.6-litre T-GDi petrol engine (the most likely candidate for the N-Line), as has been the case with the i30.

Also confirmed as an addition to the Tucson range is a new 48V mild hybrid powertrain. It's not yet clear which engine will benefit from the efficiency-boosting electrical assistance, which is already available on the range-topping 2.0-litre diesel unit.