Kia Sportage vs Hyundai Tucson: 2022 Twin Test Review

If there is one important indicator of how successful these two brands are, the sales of Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson tells a big part of the story.

Based on the latest new car registration data from the Association of Automobile Manufacturers and Traders, That sold 18,206 Sportages in 2022 as of the end of July, becoming the fifth most popular car in UK. Right behind in sixth place, with 17,173 units, is the Tucson. Both are now more popular with buyers than anything else Volkswagen production, including Golf.

Of the four competitors we’ve gathered here, the Tucson and the Sportage are the most similar, at least under the skin. The fifth-generation Sportage and Tucson Mk4 both use the same Hyundai-Kia N3 platform, both use MacPherson struts at the front and multi-link suspension at the rear.

Both offer similar petrol engines, all based on a 1.6-liter turbocharged unit, but the Sportage is also available with a mild hybrid. diesel oil optionally generates 320Nm of peak torque.

Gasoline grades come in different grades mixture support, from nothing to plug in arrangement. The entry-level 148bhp version can be chosen as a standard combustion model or a 48-volt mild-hybrid engine. Above are the full hybrids we have here; they can cover short distances on electric power alone and at 226bhp they generate more power than MHEV models. The PHEV increases that to 261bhp and can cover around 38 miles on a single charge.

From a driving point of view, there isn’t much in it. The Sportage has lighter controls, so at lower speeds it’s a bit easier to get around. In contrast, the Tucson feels stable and sure to drive at high speeds. Both are more focused on comfort, but the Tucson is a bit softer, which we like from one SUV like this.

The engines can sound a bit rough during hard acceleration, but the integration of the hybrid system means you don’t have to explore their limits too often. The transition between the petrol engine and the electric motor is also smooth.

The difference is mainly aesthetic. The Tucson’s impressive front end uses an almost solid LED strip that makes it look like nothing else is on the road. The same can be said for the Sportage, which has a wide grille flanked by a number of angled headlights.

Inside, Kia is inspired by EV6, with a wraparound dashboard creating a sporty alternative to Hyundai’s tough-looking design. There is little to separate the two for space; The Tucson’s rear knee space is slightly better because the backs of the front seats are sculpted a bit more inward. In the trunk, it is 616 liters compared to 587, in favor of Hyundai.

Across most ranges with the best trims, the Tucson at first glance falls a bit below the Sportage for monthly PCP figures. The top-spec Tucson Ultimate with hybrid powertrain costs £535 per month when you deposit £4,000 on a three-year agreement with an annual 10,000-mile limit. When powered by the same hybrid setup, the Sportage GT-Line S costs from £573 per month.

But those numbers are closer in reality, because Kia has a slightly more standard set of driver aids. For example, Remote Park assist, which can drive out of a tight parking spot from the outside with the key, is included on the Sportage, but is part of the £1,500 Tech Package for the Tucson. .

Identify

First place: Hyundai Tucson

Out of all the matches we’ve done here, this is the closest one. The Hyundai wins for the tiniest of reasons: it’s a bit more comfortable than the Sportage, the boot is a bit larger, and if you don’t feel the need to tick every option box, it’s a bit cheaper. compared to the monthly financial contract , also .

Second place: Kia Sportage

While the Sportage comes in second, it still has all of the Tucson’s strengths to a very narrow extent. It’s practical, great to drive and has a cracking warranty. We’ll let your choice depend on three things: which car is available first, which dealer offers the best deal, and which car you like better.

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Now read ours twin test of Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6…