What To Know
- While the Highlander offers more power, the Tucson Elite excels in fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway compared to the Highlander’s 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
- The Tucson Elite is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact and fuel-efficient crossover with a comfortable cabin and a range of advanced features.
- The Highlander, on the other hand, is ideal for buyers who prioritize space, power, and versatility, making it a great option for families or those who frequently engage in outdoor activities or require additional cargo capacity.
When it comes to choosing a reliable and versatile crossover SUV, two names that often come to mind are the Hyundai Tucson Elite and the Toyota Highlander. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and technology, making them popular choices among car buyers. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the Hyundai Tucson Elite vs Highlander matchup, examining their key features, specifications, and overall driving experience to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Power: A Battle of Efficiency vs. Robustness
Under the hood, the Hyundai Tucson Elite boasts a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, delivering a smooth and responsive driving experience. On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the Highlander offers more power, the Tucson Elite excels in fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway compared to the Highlander’s 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Cabin Comfort and Convenience: A Focus on Space and Amenities
Stepping inside the Hyundai Tucson Elite, you’ll find a spacious and well-appointed cabin with comfortable seating for up to five passengers. The interior features a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium audio system. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, offers a more spacious cabin with seating for up to eight passengers, making it a great choice for families or those who frequently transport large groups. It also boasts a larger infotainment screen, measuring 12.3 inches, and offers a panoramic moonroof for an airy and open feel.
Safety Features: A Commitment to Protection and Peace of Mind
Both the Hyundai Tucson Elite and the Toyota Highlander come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to ensure the well-being of occupants and other road users. These features include advanced driver assistance systems such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Tucson Elite also offers a surround-view camera system for enhanced visibility and parking assistance.
Driving Dynamics: A Balance of Agility and Stability
Behind the wheel, the Hyundai Tucson Elite feels nimble and agile, with precise handling and responsive steering. Its smaller size and lighter weight make it easy to maneuver through tight spaces and navigate city streets. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, provides a more stable and composed ride, thanks to its larger dimensions and robust suspension. It handles well on both paved roads and off-road terrains, making it a versatile choice for various driving conditions.
Cargo Capacity and Practicality: Meeting Your Storage Needs
When it comes to cargo space, the Hyundai Tucson Elite offers 31 cubic feet behind the second row of seats, which expands to 61.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The Toyota Highlander, however, provides a more generous cargo area, with 16.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 84.3 cubic feet with both rows folded down. This makes it a better option for those who frequently transport bulky items or large amounts of luggage.
Price and Value: Striking a Balance between Affordability and Features
The Hyundai Tucson Elite has a starting price of $26,450, while the Toyota Highlander starts at $36,420. While the Highlander offers more power, space, and features, the Tucson Elite provides excellent value for money, delivering a comprehensive package of performance, comfort, and technology at a more affordable price point.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Crossover for Your Needs
In the Hyundai Tucson Elite vs Highlander comparison, both vehicles offer distinct strengths and cater to different needs and preferences. The Tucson Elite is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact and fuel-efficient crossover with a comfortable cabin and a range of advanced features. The Highlander, on the other hand, is ideal for buyers who prioritize space, power, and versatility, making it a great option for families or those who frequently engage in outdoor activities or require additional cargo capacity. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, budget, and driving style.
Conclusion: Navigating the Crossover Landscape
The Hyundai Tucson Elite and Toyota Highlander represent two compelling options in the competitive crossover SUV segment. With their unique strengths and characteristics, both vehicles cater to different buyer preferences and lifestyles. Whether you prioritize efficiency, agility, and affordability or seek a spacious, powerful, and versatile crossover, the Tucson Elite and Highlander offer compelling propositions. By carefully considering your needs, budget, and driving habits, you can make an informed decision and choose the crossover that best suits your requirements.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Q: Which vehicle has better fuel efficiency, the Hyundai Tucson Elite or the Toyota Highlander?
A: The Hyundai Tucson Elite offers superior fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway compared to the Highlander’s 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
2. Q: Which crossover provides more cargo space, the Tucson Elite or the Highlander?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers more cargo space, with 16.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 84.3 cubic feet with both rows folded down, compared to the Tucson Elite‘s 31 cubic feet behind the second row and 61.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
3. Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine, the Tucson Elite or the Highlander?
A: The Toyota Highlander boasts a more powerful engine, with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, compared to the Tucson Elite’s 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.