Hyundai Tucson vs Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was available starting at $41,995, including the destination charge, for the base LE trim with front-wheel drive. Buyers could upgrade to higher trims like XLE, Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum, with all-wheel drive as an optional feature. The test vehicle was a top-tier Platinum trim with AWD, priced at $54,718. Minimal changes were made to its appearance for 2023, with the addition of a new Cypress Green paint color and standard power-folding exterior mirrors for Limited and Platinum trims. The Highlander Hybrid's design was considered over-styled, with exaggerated forms and a lack of subtlety both inside and out. The interior was criticized for its mismatched textures, reflections, and a lack of perceived quality, despite being quiet on the road.

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson, introduced as a fourth-generation model in 2022, carried over its fantastic styling into 2024. It featured taut angles and unique design choices, such as headlights blending into the grille, creating a contemporary and handsome package. The Tucson's design was praised for its athletic presence and distinctiveness among Hyundai vehicles. Trim levels included SE, SEL, XRT, and Limited, each offering unique features like alloy wheels, roof rails, and upgraded headlights. The interior was modern and refined, with technology packaged in an approachable manner. The Limited trim was well-equipped with features like ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium stereo system.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing 243 combined horsepower. It weighed 4,430 pounds in Platinum trim and offered AWD with a third electric motor for the rear wheels. The Highlander Hybrid's performance was focused on fuel economy, with a Predictive Efficient Drive system learning driving habits to maximize efficiency. However, it returned only 28.7 mpg on the evaluation loop, below the EPA's 35 mpg estimate. The driving experience was described as uninspiring, with soft suspension, a groaning CVT, and unengaging steering. It was best suited for city and suburban driving, offering a quiet and compliant ride.

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered front-wheel drive or optional AWD. While the engine was adequate for city driving, it struggled with highway acceleration and passing maneuvers. The Tucson's handling and ride quality were praised, offering a comfortable and well-rounded driving experience. It wasn't as athletic as some competitors but provided a good balance of comfort and cornering prowess.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid could accommodate seven or eight passengers, depending on the trim and configuration. Most models featured second-row captain's chairs, making the third row best for occasional use. The interior offered three-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain's chairs. However, the third-row access was tight, and the seats were uncomfortable for adults. The Highlander Hybrid provided 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. The storage areas were unlined, and the center armrest storage console was unnecessarily complex.

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson offered up to 74.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 38.7 cubic feet with them in use. It featured a hands-free power liftgate on SEL trims and above, making loading easier. The Tucson accommodated up to five passengers, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The interior included deep cup holders and a center tray with a wireless device charging pad.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology for 2023, including a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display on upper trims. The infotainment system featured an 8.0-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Connected services like Wi-Fi Connect and Remote Connect were standard, with Drive Connect offering additional features like natural voice recognition and cloud-based navigation. The test vehicle included a head-up display and an 11-speaker JBL sound system, though the graphics could have been bolder.

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson's standard infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a fully digital instrument panel. While the larger screen lost wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it offered an intuitive layout. The Tucson's remote start system was praised for its convenience, allowing drivers to start the vehicle and drive away without pressing the start button.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. It also featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson offered a range of standard driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Limited trim added front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree parking camera system, and Hyundai's Smart Park feature. The Tucson received high safety ratings from the IIHS, with a "Good" overall score and "Superior" crash-prevention technology.