2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited, with a price tag of $42,083, presented a robust yet understated appearance. Despite being fully loaded, it resembled a standard rental car model, lacking the larger wheels of its non-hybrid counterpart. The RAV4 Hybrid's design was rugged for a compact SUV, though it could have benefited from bolder wheels. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid was a mix of style and practicality, with a blend of high-quality materials and some less impressive glossy plastics. A minor rattle from the license plate was noted, but overall, the interior was functional and user-friendly.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson, built on a new platform, offered a long-wheelbase model in the U.S., providing ample cargo space. Its exterior featured a distinctive parametric grille with integrated LED lights, creating a unique visual signature. The Tucson's design was modern, with a floating roof effect and LED taillights that stood out. Depending on the trim, it rode on 17- or 19-inch wheels, with high-end models boasting premium features like gloss black pillars and a panoramic sunroof. Inside, the Tucson was well-appointed, with stain-resistant cloth seats and a spacious cabin, offering more passenger volume than many competitors.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. This setup provided standard AWD and several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV. The RAV4 Hybrid weighed between 3,690 and 3,780 pounds, offering lively acceleration and a combined fuel economy of 40 mpg. Its CVT operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. The suspension design and steering contributed to favorable driving dynamics, though the tires lacked grip in corners. The RAV4 Hybrid handled off-road conditions well, thanks to its ground clearance and Trail mode.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered two powertrain options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and a hybrid version with 226 horsepower. The hybrid powertrain was more powerful than competitors like the Ford Escape Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. The Tucson's AWD system performed well in off-road tests, similar to Subaru's reactive system. The ICE engine achieved 29 mpg combined, while the hybrid reached 37 mpg. A plug-in hybrid version was planned, promising 261 horsepower and an estimated 25 miles of electric range. The Tucson's powertrain options provided a balance of power and efficiency.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Rear passengers enjoyed decent legroom and heated seats. The dashboard was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. The RAV4 Hybrid provided 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson featured a spacious interior with a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, lumbar support, and available heated and ventilated front seats. The new platform allowed for more passenger and cargo space, with 74.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity. The rear seats offered more legroom than the RAV4, and a dual-level cargo floor was available. The Tucson's interior was well-suited for families, with ample space for road trips.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came with a choice of infotainment systems, featuring either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The top-tier system included an 11-speaker JBL audio system and dynamic navigation. The RAV4 Hybrid also offered advanced camera-based technology, such as a 360-degree surround-view camera system.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson boasted an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch screen, though it required wired connections for smartphone integration. The Tucson's tech package included a digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. The touchpoints on the center console were responsive, though the steering wheel controls were less user-friendly.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. It earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights. The lane-centering assist was occasionally resistant, and adaptive cruise control could be erratic in heavy traffic.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson's safety features included forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor. Additional options included blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. Hyundai's warranty coverage was extensive, with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and complimentary maintenance for three years.