2022 Subaru Forester vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson was built on a new platform, offering North American buyers a long-wheelbase model with two rows of seating and an expanded cargo area. Its front showcased Hyundai's new vehicle face, with a parametric grille that cleverly concealed LED daytime running lights, Bi-LED headlights, and LED front turn signals. When lit, these lights formed a distinctive shape reminiscent of the Aztec Spirit Bird's wings. The Tucson's side profile borrowed design cues from the Hyundai Elantra, featuring a silver D-pillar that created a floating roof effect. At the rear, the Tucson sported toothy taillights illuminated by LEDs, adding a unique touch to its design. Depending on the trim level, the Tucson rode on either 17- or 19-inch alloy wheels, with high-end models boasting premium fascias, gloss black pillars, and a panoramic sunroof. Inside, the Tucson's cabin was well-appointed, featuring stain- and odour-resistant cloth seats, with options for sport combination or leather-trimmed seats. The dashboard's horizontal lines and uncluttered aesthetic contributed to a sense of spaciousness.

The 2022 Subaru Forester, including the new Wilderness trim, offered a range of models from base to Premier. The Forester Wilderness, with its white paint and dark grey interior, featured water-repellant StarTex simulated leather. While the Forester's exterior design was not its strong suit, its practicality and utility shone through. The Wilderness trim added a suspension lift, higher ride height, and protective cladding, giving it a rugged appearance. Inside, the Forester emphasized function over form, with a cabin that combined hard plastic and soft surfaces. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system with physical knobs and buttons made it easy to navigate, though the presence of three display screens was less than ideal. The Forester's driving dynamics were pleasing, with a re-tuned suspension for improved ride and handling. The Wilderness trim further enhanced its off-road capabilities with longer springs, shocks, and all-terrain tires. Overall, the Forester excelled in various environments, from city streets to off-road trails, despite its lack of engine power and wind noise at higher speeds.

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 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid delivered a combined 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain was the standout, providing more power and a more enjoyable driving experience. The Tucson Hybrid was also more fuel-efficient, with a combined fuel consumption rating of 6.4 L/100 km. The Tucson's AWD system performed well in off-road testing, comparable to Subaru's AWD system. The upcoming plug-in hybrid version promised even more power, with an estimated 261 horsepower and 224 pound-feet of torque.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. All Foresters featured a CVT and AWD drivetrain, with the Wilderness model offering a 25% increase in initial torque supply. The CVT allowed for a towing capacity of up to 1,360 kilograms. The Forester's fuel consumption was rated at 9.0 L/100 km combined. While the engine was adequate at sea level, it felt sluggish at higher altitudes. The CVT's eight programmed ratios simulated an automatic transmission, and the SI-Drive system added a Sport mode for more lively response. The Forester's dual-function X-Mode system improved off-road performance, and the Wilderness trim's longer suspension and all-terrain tires enhanced its capabilities. The Forester excelled in various driving conditions, from city streets to off-road trails, despite its lack of engine power.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered a spacious and well-appointed interior, comparable to its competitors like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Ford Escape. It featured a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with an eight-way version available on higher trims. Heated front seats were standard, with options for ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and memory settings. The Tucson's new platform provided more passenger and cargo space, with a 1,095-litre cargo area. The rear seats offered ample legroom, and the cabin comfortably accommodated a family of four. The Tucson's dual-level cargo floor and 60-40 split-folding rear seats added to its practicality.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit thanks to tall seating hip points. The Wilderness trim featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery, all-weather floor mats, and a rubber cargo mat. The Forester's roof rails accommodated a dynamic load of 100 kilograms and a static load of 362 kilograms, making it suitable for a roof tent. The cabin offered high comfort levels, with excellent visibility and rear air conditioning vents. The Forester's cargo space measured 818 litres without the panoramic sunroof and 762 litres with it. Folding the rear seats expanded the cargo area to 2,101 litres. The Forester's practical design and spacious interior made it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, HD Radio, Bluetooth, and two USB ports. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with navigation and a fully digital instrument cluster. The touchpoints on the centre console were responsive, though finding the right button while driving could be challenging. The Tucson's tech features were comprehensive, providing a modern and connected driving experience.

The 2022 Subaru Forester featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and Starlink connected services. Higher trims offered an 8-inch screen with navigation and a Harman Kardon premium sound system. The Forester Wilderness included a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the voice recognition system was hit-and-miss. The Forester's tech features catered to both convenience and adventure.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson had not been tested by the IIHS or NHTSA. It featured the Hyundai SmartSense Safety Feature suite, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, automatic high beams, and a driver attention monitor. Additional safety features included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. Hyundai offered a 5-year/100,000-kilometre limited warranty.

The 2022 Subaru Forester debuted the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, with improved camera-based driver assist technology. It included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centring assist. The Forester also featured a rear-seat reminder system, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The NHTSA awarded the Forester a 5-star overall crash-test rating. The Forester's safety features provided peace of mind for drivers and passengers.