2021 Audi Q5 vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille, emphasizing width. The body had crisp character lines, and the rear showcased bold taillights, contributing to its classy and modern appearance. Inside, the Q5 was equally sophisticated, with a technology-packed yet uncluttered cabin. The materials used were authentic, with real wood and metal, and the 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for optimal driver visibility. The second row was well-appointed with standard leather upholstery.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson, riding on a new platform, was offered in a long-wheelbase version in North America, providing two rows of seating and expanded cargo space. Its front featured a parametric grille with integrated LED lights, creating a unique visual signature. The side profile mirrored the Hyundai Elantra's design, with a floating roof effect. The rear had distinctive LED taillights, and the Tucson rode on either 17- or 19-inch alloy wheels, depending on the trim. High-end trims boasted premium fascias, gloss black pillars, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was well-appointed, with stain-resistant cloth seats and available leather-trimmed options, offering a spacious and upscale feel.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with an additional 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque from a 14.1-kWh battery, resulting in a total output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed for impressive acceleration, reaching 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, and offered fuel efficiency of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 km combined. The Q5 PHEV featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with Quattro AWD, providing various driving modes for battery management. Its handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered two powertrain variants: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid powertrain with a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine and electric motor, delivering 226 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid was more powerful and efficient, with a combined fuel consumption of 6.4 L/100 km. The Tucson's AWD system performed well in off-road conditions, and the hybrid model was notably more fuel-efficient than its ICE counterpart. The upcoming plug-in hybrid version promised even more power and efficiency, with an estimated 261 hp and 224 lb-ft of torque.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV offered a well-balanced interior space, with 710 litres of cargo space behind the second row and up to 1,503 litres with the seats folded. The second row provided ample legroom (960 mm) and headroom (958 mm), accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with available heating and ventilation. The cabin featured smartly arranged storage options and an uncluttered design.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson's new platform allowed for increased passenger and cargo space, with a 1,095-litre cargo area comparable to competitors like the RAV4 and CR-V. The rear seats offered more legroom than the RAV4, and the cabin comfortably accommodated a family of four. The interior featured a 60-40 split-folding bench seat and a dual-level cargo floor, providing flexibility for various cargo needs.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV was equipped with Audi’s MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit Plus instrument cluster, offering customizable views. The cabin featured LED ambient lighting and a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto were included, enhancing connectivity.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and a fully digital instrument cluster. The centre console featured touch-sensitive controls, which required some adjustment for ease of use. The Tucson also included dual-zone climate control and additional USB ports for convenience.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA, but the 2020 gasoline model received high ratings. It featured six airbags, electronic stability control, and various driver-assistance systems like Audi Pre Sense front and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson had not been tested by IIHS or NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive Hyundai SmartSense Safety Feature suite, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and available features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. Hyundai provided a 5-year/100,000-kilometre limited warranty for added peace of mind.