The Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson are two of the most popular mid-size SUV choices on the market today. Both offer hybrid powertrains, distinctive styling, and a healthy dose of practicality for family buyers. But which one represents the better overall package?
In this detailed comparison, we'll take an in-depth look at how the RAV4 and Tucson stack up across key areas like interior space, driving dynamics, equipment levels and running costs. We'll highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each to help you decide which SUV is the better fit for your needs and budget.
Toyota RAV4 vs Hyundai Tucson
Practicality
When it comes to interior space and versatility, both the RAV4 and Tucson acquit themselves well as practical family haulers. The RAV4 offers a decent 580 litres of boot space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,690 litres with them folded down. However, it loses 90 litres if you opt for the plug-in hybrid model. The Tucson trumps it with 620 litres of boot space (1,799 with seats flat) in the non-hybrid petrol version, though hybrid variants see a drop to around 577-558 litres.
Both offer ample head and legroom for adults in the rear seats, though fitting three abreast is tighter. Both the RAV4 and the Tucson are strict five-seaters, while some rivals like the Skoda Kodiaq offer seven seats - an advantage for larger families. And while very close on practicality, the Tucson just about sneaks the win here.
Driving Impressions
In terms of performance, the RAV4's entry 215bhp hybrid can hit 62mph in 8.4 seconds - decent if not blistering pace. The Tucson range tops out with a 261bhp plug-in hybrid, making it slightly punchier. However, most buyers are likely to prioritise the smooth and relaxed driving experience that both cars' hybrid systems provide.
The RAV4 suffers slightly from an occasionally disconnected feel between engine speed and road speed due to its CVT gearbox. It can also get noisy when pushed hard or at higher speeds. The Tucson has a more polished powertrain with its conventional automatic gearbox, and feels slightly more refined and better insulated against noise.
Handling-wise, there's not a huge amount to split them. Both offer safe, predictable dynamics suited to family duties rather than outright driving thrills. With its lighter steering, the Tucson shades it for urban driving, while the RAV4 has fractionally more composure and grip for out of town driving. Overall though, they're very evenly matched from behind the wheel.
Technology and Equipment
Both the RAV4 and Tucson impress when it comes to the sheer amount of technology and equipment included as standard, even on lower trim levels. The RAV4's entry Icon grade gets LED lights, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors and an 8-inch touchscreen. Higher trims add luxuries like a panoramic roof. The Tucson keeps pace with a 10.25-inch digital instrument display and infotainment screen on pre-facelift models. The latest models raise the stakes further with a sophisticated curved 12.3-inch display that's one of the best in this class. Wireless phone charging and a head-up display are available too.
While the RAV4's interior quality is perfectly acceptable for a mainstream SUV, the Tucson has a clear advantage with a more premium-feeling cabin and sleeker design. It takes another victory against its rival in this regard.
Running Costs
Thanks to their hybrid powertrains, both the RAV4 and Tucson promise affordable running costs versus petrol/diesel alternatives. The RAV4 has a slight edge for fuel economy, with the front-wheel drive hybrid managing an impressive 50.4mpg on the WLTP cycle. Even the heavier AWD model can achieve around 48.7mpg.
The non-hybrid Tucson lags behind at 41.5mpg, though the mild hybrid versions improve to 43.5mpg. For maximum efficiency, you'll want the Tucson plug-in hybrid which can achieve over 200mpg with frequent charging for short trips, or 50mpg+ on longer runs.
When it comes to other costs like servicing, tax and insurance, there's not a huge amount separating the two. But the RAV4's superior real-world fuel economy makes it the cheaper car to run day-to-day.
Verdict
Choosing between the Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson comes down to where you want to prioritise. The RAV4 delivers superb fuel economy and Toyota's renowned reliability, along with decent practicality and equipment levels. However, its interior feels a little plain compared to the upmarket Tucson cabin.
The Tucson delivers bolder styling, a more premium interior ambiance and the slight edge for interior space and versatility. Its infotainment tech is also cutting-edge. It can't quite match the RAV4's fuel-sipping talents, but the plug-in hybrid makes it a viable eco option too.
For most family buyers, we suspect the Tucson's added visual flair and sense of quality will make it the more attractive option. But if maximum efficiency and peace-of-mind motoring are priorities, the RAV4 remains an extremely compelling choice. Ultimately, both are great SUVs that deserve their popularity.