2016 Toyota RAV4 vs 2016 Hyundai Tucson

2016 Toyota RAV4 vs 2016 Hyundai Tucson

Serving Florence, Fort Mitchell, and Burlington, KY

Compact crossover vehicles combine the best of both worlds: the economy of a compact sedan and the interior space of an SUV. And that’s what entries like the Toyota RAV4 have been fulfilling since the mid-‘90s. The RAV4 was one of the first-ever compact crossover vehicles, and it has been a best-seller thanks to its everyday versatility. Newer entries have showed up—such as the Hyundai Tucson in 2005—that appear to be more modern in approach, and thus pose a serious threat to the RAV4 as a perennial crowd pleaser. And with the 2016 model year in particular, the Tucson is rejuvenated with a full redesign to kick off its third production cycle. In the end, though, the RAV4, which is still in its fourth generation of production, manages to edge out the Tucson in three important areas.

Performance

First, there’s engine power. Powering the 2016 Toyota RAV4 is the 2AR-FE, a comparatively hefty 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder (I4) engine that spurts out 176 horsepower. The I4 on the 2016 Hyundai Tucson is smaller, with a 1.6-liter displacement, and it produces one less horsepower. The Toyota’s I4 is quiet enough to ensure an enjoyably calm driving experience, not to mention the precise handling and accurate steering with its electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and all-wheel independent suspension.

Reliability

Both the 2016 Toyota RAV4 and the 2016 Hyundai Tucson have high projected reliability ratings. This is according to car research information firm J.D. Power, which carries out an Initial Quality Study to determine the likelihood of a new car lasting for a long time based on reported issues during the first three months (90 days) of ownership. The 2016 RAV4 got 4 Power Circles out of a possible five, meaning that it is better than most vehicles in its class regarding predicted reliability. The 2016 Hyundai Tucson, on the other hand, got 3 ½ Power Circles, which is a little above average within the compact crossover segment, but certainly not as good as the RAV4.

Comfort & Interior

Finally, automotive writers heap praise upon the 2016 Toyota RAV4 for front-seat comfortability more so than the 2016 Hyundai Tucson. This is particularly essential for compact crossovers, which are decidedly smaller than the extremely popular midsize crossover vehicles. Thus, occupants have to feel cozy in a vehicle of comparatively reduced size. The 2016 RAV4 particularly stands out in terms of front-row seating, where there’s a lot of support in the form of 42.6 inches of legroom. Not to be left out, though, the rear supplies 37.2 inches of legroom. That’s more than enough to ensure that no one feels cramped, especially after long rides.

Convinced that the 2016 Toyota RAV4 is a better choice than the 2016 Hyundai Tucson? At our Toyota dealership in Florence, Kentucky, we take great pride in serving residents in Covington—as well as those in Cincinnati and Fairfield, Ohio—with a great selection of vehicles. Call us today to set up an appointment, and one of our sales staff will be happy to assist you in getting the exact RAV4 you’re looking for!

* EPA estimated MPG may vary by transmission, trim and individual driving behavior.