2022 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson was built on a new platform, offering a long-wheelbase model in North America with two rows of seating and an expanded cargo area. Its front design featured Hyundai's new vehicle face, with a parametric grille that cleverly concealed LED daytime running lights, Bi-LED headlights, and LED front turn signals. The illuminated lights formed a distinctive shape reminiscent of the Aztec Spirit Bird's wings. The Tucson's side profile borrowed design elements from the Hyundai Elantra, with a silver D-pillar creating a floating roof effect. At the rear, the Tucson boasted toothy taillights illuminated by LEDs, contributing to its standout design among compact SUVs. Depending on the trim level, the Tucson rode on either 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- and odour-resistant cloth seats as standard, and leather-trimmed seats available on higher trims. The dashboard's horizontal lines and uncluttered aesthetic added to the sense of spaciousness.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, while featuring Kia's signature tiger-nose grille, had a front-end design that some found less appealing, with oversized headlights and a chrome trim that resembled a fake mustache. However, the Sportage excelled in other design aspects, with a four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a symmetrical rear fascia. The SX trim's 19-inch alloy wheels gave it a planted stance. Inside, the Sportage adopted Germanic design cues, with a black dashboard featuring polished metallic accents and straightforward instrumentation. The interior was user-friendly, with buttons and knobs for easy control of the stereo, cabin temperature, and infotainment system. The transmission shifter's solid operation added to the sense of quality, making the Sportage feel upscale and refined.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered two powertrain options: a 2.5-litre direct-injected four-cylinder engine and a hybrid powertrain with a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. The ICE engine produced 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid delivered a combined 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain was more powerful and efficient, with a fuel consumption rating of 6.4 L/100 km combined. The Tucson's AWD system performed well in off-road testing, providing stability and control. The upcoming plug-in hybrid version promised even more power, with an estimated 261 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque.

The 2022 Kia Sportage featured a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, with the Sportage SX offering a more robust 237 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Sportage's Dynamax AWD system, standard on most trims, included a locking centre differential for improved traction. The SX trim offered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available at low RPMs. The Sportage's suspension provided a smooth and compliant ride, with a hint of body roll. While the Sportage was fun to drive, it lacked the refinement of some competitors.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered a spacious and well-appointed interior, with a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat as standard and an eight-way version available on higher trims. Heated front seats were standard, with ventilated front seats and heated rear seats available. The Tucson's new platform provided more passenger and cargo space, with 1,095 litres of cargo space and a 60-40 split-folding rear bench seat. The Tucson's interior was comparable to or better than many competitors in its class.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, despite being on the smaller side of the compact crossover scale, offered a roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim featured perforated leather upholstery, with a ten-way power-adjustable driver's seat and an eight-way power-adjustable front passenger seat. The rear seats provided generous legroom and comfort, with heated seats and air conditioning vents. The Sportage's cargo space was limited compared to segment leaders, with 1,703 litres of maximum cargo space and 868 litres behind the rear seats. The Sportage's smart liftgate technology offered hands-free convenience.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson came equipped 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 touchpoints on the centre console were responsive, but the lack of physical buttons made it challenging to use while driving. The Tucson's tech features were comprehensive and user-friendly.

The 2022 Kia Sportage featured a standard 8-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was easy to use, with knobs for volume and tuning. However, the UVO Intelligence system lacked some modern features, such as a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and a driver attention monitor. Additional features like blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system were available. The Tucson had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of writing.

The 2022 Kia Sportage's EX and SX trims included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The SX trim also featured adaptive cruise control. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX earning an Acceptable headlight rating.