2021 Toyota RAV4 vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior, reminiscent of a traditional SUV, with its boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end. This aggressive styling set it apart from previous RAV4 generations and most compact crossovers, enhancing its appeal as more than just an ordinary vehicle. Despite its bold exterior, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, shared with other Toyota models, which meant its mechanical underpinnings were more akin to a Camry than a 4Runner. The RAV4 offered options like the Trail model with a retro Ice Edge roof and the TRD Off-Road package with matte black alloy wheels and red interior accents, adding to its rugged appeal. Inside, the RAV4 featured functional touches like large rubberized knobs and SofTex upholstery, though material quality did not significantly improve with higher trims.

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 showcased Hyundai's new design language with a parametric grille hiding LED lights, creating a unique shape reminiscent of the Aztec Spirit Bird. The Tucson's side profile borrowed design elements from the Hyundai Elantra, featuring a silver D-pillar for a floating roof effect. At the rear, LED-illuminated toothy taillights added to its distinctiveness. Depending on the trim, the Tucson rode on 17- or 19-inch alloy wheels, with high-end models featuring premium fascias, skid plates, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was well-appointed, with stain-resistant cloth seats standard and leather-trimmed seats available on higher trims. The dashboard's horizontal lines and uncluttered design contributed to a spacious feel.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered standard front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive. While the engine boasted 40% thermal efficiency and impressive output for a naturally aspirated four-cylinder, the transmission's hesitancy and lack of steering feel detracted from the driving experience. The RAV4's off-road capabilities were enhanced in the Trail and TRD Off-Road models, featuring torque-vectoring all-wheel drive, 21.7 centimetres of ground clearance, and a 3,500-pound towing capacity. However, its off-road prowess was limited by suspension articulation and approach angles.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered two powertrain options: a 2.5-litre direct-injected four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, and a hybrid powertrain with a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine and electric motor, delivering 226 combined horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid powertrain provided a more engaging driving experience, especially during elevation changes. The Tucson's all-wheel drive system performed well in off-road conditions, similar to Subaru's reactive system. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, with the hybrid achieving 6.4 L/100 km combined, significantly better than the ICE models. The upcoming plug-in hybrid version promised even more power and efficiency, with an estimated 261 horsepower and 224 pound-feet of torque.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a tall, upright roof providing ample headroom and good visibility, though legroom was slightly lacking compared to competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had flat, hard cushions, making long trips less appealing. Cargo space was above average at 1,059 litres with seats up and 1,977 litres with them folded, though still behind the Honda CR-V. The interior featured oversized knobs and easy-to-use controls, but lacked large cupholders and storage space.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson's interior was well-appointed, with a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat standard and an eight-way version with lumbar support available. Heated front seats were standard, with ventilated front seats and heated rear seats optional. The Tucson's new platform provided more passenger and cargo space, with rear legroom surpassing the RAV4 by 90 millimetres. The cabin comfortably accommodated a family of four, with 1,095 litres of cargo space comparable to the RAV4 and CR-V. The rear featured a 60-40 split-folding bench seat and a dual-level cargo floor.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with most trims featuring a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered an 8-inch screen. The infotainment system was user-friendly but lacked standout features, with a JBL premium audio system and SiriusXM available. The RAV4 Prime offered a 9-inch screen and a head-up display, but these were not available on the gasoline model.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson boasted a strong set of standard tech features, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and a fully digital instrument cluster. The touchpoints on the centre console were responsive, though the lack of physical buttons made it challenging to use while driving. Steering wheel controls and voice commands were more heavily relied upon.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention tech. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. A 360-degree camera system was available in certain packages.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. Its Hyundai SmartSense Safety Feature suite included standard features like forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and rear occupant alert. Additional features like blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system were available, offering a comprehensive safety package comparable to luxury SUVs.