Hyundai Tucson vs Toyota RAV4: A Comprehensive Comparison

Compare Hyundai Tucson vs Toyota RAV4 – When it comes to choosing a compact SUV, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 stand out as top contenders.

Both vehicles boast a range of features and advantages, making them appealing options for families and individuals alike. In this blog post, we will compare various aspects of each SUVs.

By the end, you should have a clearer picture of which one aligns better with your needs and preferences.

What is the Difference Between Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4?

Difference Between Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4
Difference Between Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4

The Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4 are two of the most popular compact SUVs on the market. Both vehicles offer a variety of features and benefits, making them a great choice for families and individuals alike.

Here is a comparison of the two vehicles in terms of pricing, fuel economy, dimensions, colors, safety features, warranty, and specifications.

Pricing

When comparing the pricing of the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Toyota RAV4, it’s evident that both models offer a range of trim levels to suit various preferences and budgets.

Let’s take a closer look at the starting prices for each trim.

– 2023 Hyundai Tucson Price:

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson offers a diverse range of trim levels, each catering to different preferences and needs. Here is an overview of the starting prices for each trim:

  • 2023 Hyundai Tucson SE: The base SE trim starts at $26,450. This trim provides a solid foundation of features and is an excellent option for budget-conscious buyers.
  • 2023 Hyundai Tucson SEL: The SEL model comes with additional features and starts at $28,050. It represents a well-rounded choice with a blend of comfort and technology.
  • 2023 Hyundai Tucson XRT: For those seeking a more rugged and adventurous option, the XRT trim starts at $33,275. It comes equipped with features suitable for off-road enthusiasts.
  • 2023 Hyundai Tucson N Line: The sporty N Line model starts at $33,325. It offers a more dynamic driving experience and a sport-inspired design.
  • 2023 Hyundai Tucson Limited: The premium Limited trim starts at $35,710. It comes fully loaded with luxury features, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize comfort and convenience.

Additionally, all trim levels of the 2023 Hyundai Tucson offer the option of adding an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for an additional $1,500, enhancing traction and stability in various road conditions.

It’s essential to keep in mind that a destination fee of $1,295 applies to all Tucson models.

– 2023 Toyota RAV4 Price:

Similar to the Hyundai Tucson, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 also offers a variety of trim levels, providing versatility and options to suit different preferences. Here is an overview of the starting prices for each trim:

  • 2023 Toyota RAV4 LE: The base LE trim with front-wheel drive starts at $27,575. It serves as a reliable and budget-friendly option for those seeking a capable SUV.
  • 2023 Toyota RAV4 XLE: The XLE model offers additional features and starts at $30,025. It strikes a balance between value and technology.
  • 2023 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium: The XLE Premium trim, starting at $32,195, adds more comfort and convenience features to enhance the driving experience.
  • 2023 Toyota RAV4 Adventure: For drivers seeking a more adventurous experience, the Adventure trim starts at $35,875. It comes equipped with features designed for off-road exploration.
  • 2023 Toyota RAV4 Limited: The premium Limited trim starts at $36,725. It offers a luxurious driving experience with high-end amenities.
  • 2023 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road: The TRD Off-Road model is the most expensive option, starting at $37,195. It is specifically designed for off-road enthusiasts and comes with features optimized for rugged terrains.

As with the Hyundai Tucson, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 offers the option to upgrade to All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for an additional $1,400, providing better traction and stability.

Read also: Honda CR-V vs Hyundai Tucson

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is indeed an essential factor to consider when choosing a vehicle, and it’s great to see that both the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 offer competitive fuel efficiency for compact SUVs.

The EPA estimates for the 2023 Hyundai Tucson indicate impressive fuel efficiency figures for both city and highway driving.

With front-wheel drive, the Tucson is expected to achieve up to 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

These figures are commendable for a compact SUV, making the Tucson an attractive option for daily commuting and long-distance journeys.

While the 2023 Toyota RAV4 also boasts class-competitive fuel economy ratings according to the EPA.

When equipped with front-wheel drive, the RAV4 can achieve an estimated 35 mpg on the highway, making it one of the more fuel-efficient options in its class for highway driving.

During our own 75-mph highway fuel-economy route test, the all-wheel-drive Adventure trim of the RAV4 returned 32 mpg, which is only 1 mpg shy of the EPA’s estimated rating for that specific trim.

This result is considered favorable for the compact SUV category, though the RAV4 was slightly outperformed by the Volkswagen Tiguan, which achieved 33 mpg in the same test.

For more detailed and up-to-date information about the Toyota RAV4’s fuel economy, it is recommended to visit the official website of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Dimensions

When choosing a compact SUV, understanding the vehicle’s dimensions is essential to ensure it meets your space and practicality requirements.

In comparing the Hyundai Tucson vs Toyota RAV4, we can observe the following differences in their dimensions, providing an overview of their measurements for both interior and exterior aspects.

– 2023 Hyundai Tucson Dimensions:

Exterior Dimensions:

Length182.3 inches
Overall Width without Mirrors73.4 inches
Height65.6 inches
Wheelbase108.5 inches
Turning Circle38.6 feet
Ground Clearance8.3 inches

Interior Dimensions:

EPA Interior Volume146.9 cubic feet
Cargo Capacity (All Seats in Place)38.7 cubic feet
Maximum Cargo Capacity (Rear Seats Folded)74.8 cubic feet
Curb Weight3,494 lbs.
Maximum Towing Capacity2,000 lbs.
Maximum Payload1,305 lbs.
Gross Weight4,761 lbs.

Front Seat Dimensions:

Front Head Room40.1 inches
Front Leg Room41.4 inches
Front Shoulder Room57.6 inches
Front Hip Room54.5 inches
ClothStandard
Bucket Front SeatsStandard
8-Way Power Driver SeatStandard
Height-Adjustable Driver SeatStandard
Driver Seat with Power Adjustable Lumbar SupportStandard
6-Way Manual Passenger Seat AdjustmentStandard
Height-Adjustable Passenger SeatStandard
Multi-Level Heating Driver SeatStandard
Multi-Level Heating Passenger SeatStandard

Rear Seat Dimensions:

Rear Head Room39.5 inches
Rear Leg Room41.3 inches
Rear Shoulder Room56.0 inches
Rear Hip Room53.9 inches
Split-Folding Rear SeatbackStandard
Reclining Rear SeatsStandard
Folding Center ArmrestStandard

– 2023 Toyota RAV4 Dimensions:

Exterior Dimensions:

Length180.9 inches
Overall Width without Mirrors73.0 inches
Height67.0 inches
Wheelbase105.9 inches
Turning Circle36.1 feet
Ground Clearance8.4 inches
Angle of Approach19.0 degrees
Angle of Departure21.0 degrees

Interior Dimensions:

EPA Interior Volume136.4 cubic feet
Cargo Capacity (All Seats in Place)37.5 cubic feet
Maximum Cargo Capacity (Rear Seats Folded)69.8 cubic feet
Curb Weight3,450 lbs.
Maximum Towing Capacity1,500 lbs.
Maximum Payload1,160 lbs.
Gross Weight4,610 lbs.

Front Seat Dimensions:

Front Head Room39.5 inches
Front Leg Room41.0 inches
Front Shoulder Room57.8 inches
Front Hip Room54.3 inches
ClothStandard
Bucket Front SeatsStandard
8-Way Power Driver SeatStandard
Height-Adjustable Driver SeatStandard
Driver Seat with Power Adjustable Lumbar SupportStandard
4-Way Manual Passenger Seat AdjustmentStandard

Rear Seat Dimensions:

Rear Head Room39.5 inches
Rear Leg Room37.8 inches
Rear Shoulder Room56.4 inches
Rear Hip Room47.7 inches
Split-Folding Rear SeatbackStandard
Folding Center ArmrestStandard

In summary, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 offer slightly different dimensions, catering to varying space and practicality needs.

The Tucson boasts a slightly longer length, providing potential advantages in terms of interior space and cargo capacity.

On the other hand, the RAV4 offers a higher ground clearance, making it a suitable choice for drivers seeking better off-road capabilities.

Read also: Hyundai Tucson vs Kia Seltos

Color Options

Both the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 offer a range of appealing exterior and interior color options.

The Hyundai Tucson provides seven distinct exterior color choices, allowing buyers to select from a variety of elegant and vibrant shades. On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4 offers seven exterior colors, including unique options like Lunar Rock and Ruby Flare Pearl.

For the interior, both vehicles offer cloth upholstery in various color schemes to suit different preferences.

The Hyundai Tucson provides both Gray and Black options in cloth and leatherette upholstery, while the Toyota RAV4 offers Ash, Nutmeg, and Black cloth interiors.

When deciding between these two compact SUVs, the available color options can play a role in personalizing your vehicle to match your taste and style.

Whether you prefer classic shades or bold and distinctive colors, both the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 provide a selection of colors that can complement your individual preferences.

Safety Features

Safety is of utmost importance when choosing a new vehicle, and both the Hyundai Tucson and the Toyota RAV4 are equipped with a range of advanced driver-assistance features to enhance protection and prevent accidents.

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson comes with a host of driver-assistance features, with many of them offered as standard across the trim levels. Key safety features include:

  • Standard Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: This feature uses sensors to detect potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or prevent an accident.
  • Standard Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: The lane-departure warning system alerts the driver if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane. Lane-keeping assist can gently steer the vehicle back into the lane if needed.
  • Available Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane-Centering Assist: The adaptive cruise control system allows the driver to set a desired speed and maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. The lane-centering assist feature helps the vehicle stay centered within its lane during highway driving.

While the 2023 Toyota RAV4 also boasts a comprehensive suite of standard driver assists for added safety. Some additional features are available as optional upgrades on the base model. Key safety features include:

  • Standard Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: Similar to the Tucson, the RAV4 is equipped with automated emergency braking technology that can detect potential collisions and apply the brakes to prevent or minimize the impact.
  • Standard Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: The RAV4’s lane-departure warning system alerts the driver if the vehicle veers out of its lane, and lane-keeping assist can help steer the vehicle back on track.
  • Standard Adaptive Cruise Control: The RAV4 comes with adaptive cruise control, enabling the driver to set a desired speed and automatically adjust the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.

Both the Hyundai Tucson and the Toyota RAV4 offer additional safety features as optional upgrades, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross-traffic alert.

These features are not standard on the base models and may require selecting higher trim levels or available packages.

Warranty

Both the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 provide competitive warranty coverage for their respective models.

The Tucson stands out with its impressive warranty duration, including a five-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and a remarkable ten-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Additionally, the complimentary maintenance program for three years or 36,000 miles further enhances Tucson’s appeal to potential buyers.

The Toyota RAV4 offers industry-standard warranty coverage, including a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

While the RAV4’s complimentary maintenance program for two years or 25,000 miles is a notable inclusion, it falls slightly short compared to Tucson’s more extended offering.

When choosing between these two compact SUVs, warranty coverage may be a critical factor to consider for long-term ownership and cost-effectiveness.

Potential buyers should carefully assess their preferences and priorities to make an informed decision that aligns with their needs and provides peace of mind throughout the ownership experience.

Read also: Toyota RAV4 vs Subaru Forester

Specifications

When considering a new compact SUV, understanding the technical specifications can help buyers evaluate the performance and capabilities of each vehicle.

In this section, we will compare the key specifications of the Hyundai Tucson vs Toyota RAV4 2023.

– 2023 Hyundai Tucson Specs:

Base Engine Size2.5 L
CylindersInline 4
Base Engine TypeGas
Transmission8-speed shiftable automatic
Drive TypeAll-wheel drive (AWD)
Horsepower187 hp @ 6,100 rpm
Torque178 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Valves16
Cam TypeDouble overhead cam (DOHC)
Valve TimingVariable
Dual Fuel InjectionStandard
Max Towing Capacity2,000 lbs.
Max Payload Capacity1,305 lbs.

2023 Toyota RAV4 Specs:

Base Engine Size2.5 L
CylindersInline 4
Base Engine TypeGas
Transmission8-speed shiftable automatic
Drive TypeFront-wheel drive (FWD)
Horsepower203 hp @ 6,600 rpm
Torque184 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
Valves16
Cam TypeDouble overhead cam (DOHC)
Valve TimingVariable
Dual Fuel InjectionStandard
Max Towing Capacity1,500 lbs.
Max Payload Capacity1,160 lbs.

In comparison, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 come equipped with a 2.5L inline 4-cylinder engine, providing sufficient power for daily driving and various road conditions.

However, there are notable differences in their specs. The Hyundai Tucson offers all-wheel drive (AWD) as the standard drive type, providing enhanced traction and stability, especially in challenging weather or rough terrains.

On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4 comes with front-wheel drive (FWD) as the standard drive type, which may appeal to buyers looking for better fuel efficiency and lower manufacturing costs.

Regarding performance, the Toyota RAV4 boasts slightly higher horsepower at 203 hp compared to Tucson’s 187 hp. However, the Tucson offers slightly more torque at 178 lb-ft compared to the RAV4’s 184 lb-ft.

In terms of towing capacity, the Tucson has the advantage of a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 lbs, while the RAV4 can tow up to 1,500 lbs.

Similarly, the Tucson has a higher payload capacity of 1,305 lbs compared to the RAV4’s 1,160 lbs.

Overall, the choice between the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 will depend on individual preferences and priorities.

Those seeking all-wheel drive capability and higher towing capacity may lean towards the Tucson, while those prioritizing slightly higher horsepower may opt for the RAV4.

Pros and Cons

2023 Hyundai Tucson Pros:

  • Smooth Ride Quality: The Tucson provides a comfortable and smooth ride, ensuring a pleasant driving experience for passengers and drivers alike.
  • Plenty of Standard Tech and Safety Features for the Money: Hyundai equips Tucson with a generous array of tech and safety features, providing excellent value for the price.
  • Roomy Interior and Comfortable Front Seats: Tucson’s interior is spacious, offering ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The front seats are particularly comfortable for extended drives.
  • Generous Warranty: Hyundai offers an outstanding warranty package, including a 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, providing peace of mind for owners.

2023 Hyundai Tucson Cons:

  • Sluggish Acceleration from the Base 2.5-Liter Engine: Some drivers may find the base engine of Tucson to be less responsive during acceleration, especially when carrying heavy loads.
  • Touch-Style Center Stack Controls Can Be Distracting to Use: The touch-sensitive controls on the center stack may require more attention from the driver to operate, potentially causing distractions while driving.
  • Hybrid Can’t Match Rivals on Fuel Economy: The hybrid variant of the Tucson may fall short in terms of fuel efficiency compared to some of its competitors in the hybrid SUV segment.

2023 Toyota RAV4 Pros:

  • Quiet Interior and Comfortable Ride Quality: The RAV4 offers a quiet and comfortable cabin, providing a serene driving experience on various road surfaces.
  • Abundant Cargo and Passenger Space: The RAV4 boasts ample cargo space and a roomy interior, making it an excellent choice for families and individuals who require additional storage capacity.
  • Easy-to-Use Controls: Toyota’s user-friendly controls and infotainment system contribute to a hassle-free and enjoyable driving experience.
  • Extra Off-Road Capability of the TRD Off-Road Trim: The TRD Off-Road trim enhances the RAV4’s off-road capabilities, making it a suitable option for adventurous drivers seeking more rugged terrain performance.

2023 Toyota RAV4 Cons:

  • Lackluster Acceleration: Some drivers may find the RAV4’s acceleration to be underwhelming, especially when compared to more powerful competitors in its class.
  • Vague Steering: The RAV4’s steering may lack precise feedback, potentially reducing the driver’s sense of control and responsiveness.

Conclusion

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 each have their strengths and weaknesses, providing buyers with diverse options to suit their preferences and needs.

The Tucson offers a smooth ride, a wealth of standard features, and a spacious interior, bolstered by an impressive warranty package. However, its base engine’s acceleration and touch-style controls may not be ideal for some drivers.

On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4 boasts a quiet interior, abundant cargo and passenger space, and user-friendly controls.

The availability of the TRD Off-Road trim provides extra off-road capabilities for adventurous drivers. However, some may find the RAV4’s acceleration and steering to be lacking compared to its competitors.

Ultimately, the best choice between the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs Tucson Hybrid 2023 will depend on individual priorities, driving preferences, and desired features.

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