The compact SUV segment is one of the most competitive in Canada, with the 2025 Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4 standing out as top contenders. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, advanced technology, and efficient powertrains, making them popular choices for families, commuters, and adventure enthusiasts. With similar pricing, versatile hybrid options, and robust safety features, choosing between the Tucson and RAV4 can be challenging. This article compares the 2025 Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4 across key categories—performance, interior, technology, safety, and value—to determine which SUV is the better choice for Canadian buyers in 2025. Drawing from detailed specifications and expert insights, we’ll explore their strengths, weaknesses, and unique offerings to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Powertrains
Both the Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4 offer a range of powertrains, including gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options, catering to diverse driving needs. The Tucson’s base model features a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Its hybrid variant combines a 1.6L turbocharged engine with an electric motor for 231 horsepower, while the PHEV delivers 268 horsepower and a 33-mile electric-only range. The Tucson’s hybrid and PHEV models come standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), enhancing traction in Canada’s varied climates. Fuel efficiency for the Tucson ranges from 8.8 L/100km (gasoline) to 3.1 Le/100km (PHEV, equivalent) in combined driving, per NRCan ratings.
The RAV4’s base gasoline engine, a 2.5L 4-cylinder, produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, also paired with an 8-speed automatic. Its hybrid model, combining a 2.5L engine with electric motors, delivers 219 horsepower, while the RAV4 Prime PHEV boasts 302 horsepower and a 42-mile electric range. The RAV4 offers front-wheel drive (FWD) or AWD on gasoline models, with AWD standard on hybrids and PHEVs. Fuel efficiency is a strong suit, with the RAV4 Hybrid achieving 6.0 L/100km combined and the PHEV rated at 94 MPGe.
In performance, the RAV4 edges out with slightly more horsepower in its gasoline engine and a significant power advantage in the PHEV (302 hp vs. 268 hp). The Tucson, however, offers smoother power delivery in its hybrid, with a 6-speed automatic transmission compared to the RAV4’s CVT, which some drivers find less engaging. The Tucson also has a slight towing advantage, with a capacity of 2,000 lbs compared to the RAV4’s 1,750 lbs for gasoline models. For Canadian buyers prioritizing winter traction, both SUVs offer capable AWD systems, but the RAV4’s Woodland Edition adds off-road-specific tuning for rugged terrain.
Interior and Comfort
The Tucson’s interior is a standout, featuring a modern, premium design with high-quality materials. Its 2025 refresh introduced a panoramic curved display with dual 12.3-inch screens for the gauge cluster and infotainment, creating a sleek, tech-forward cabin. The Tucson offers 41.4 inches of front legroom and 41.3 inches in the rear, ensuring ample space for passengers. Cargo capacity is impressive, with 41.2 cu. ft. behind the rear seats and up to 80.3 cu. ft. with seats folded. Features like heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a hands-free power liftgate enhance comfort and convenience. The Tucson’s “Baby Mode” softens acceleration for smoother rides, ideal for families with young children or pets.
The RAV4’s cabin, while functional, leans toward a utilitarian design with durable materials like SofTex upholstery. It offers 41.0 inches of front legroom but less rear legroom at 37.8 inches, which may feel cramped for taller passengers. Cargo space is slightly smaller, with 37.6 cu. ft. behind the rear seats and 69.8 cu. ft. with seats folded. The RAV4’s interior includes practical storage solutions and a high-mounted touchscreen (8-inch standard, 10.5-inch available), but it lacks the Tucson’s premium feel. Cabin noise is a noted drawback, with engine and road noise more noticeable than in the Tucson’s quieter interior.
For Canadian families, the Tucson’s spacious rear seating and larger cargo area make it a better choice for road trips or grocery hauls. The RAV4, however, appeals to those prioritizing durability and off-road capability, especially in trims like the TRD Off-Road.
Technology and Features
The Tucson takes the lead in technology with its standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Hyundai’s Bluelink connected services for remote start and diagnostics. Higher trims add a Bose audio system, wireless charging, and Remote Smart Parking Assist, allowing the vehicle to park itself while the driver stands outside. The Tucson’s interface is user-friendly, with physical buttons for climate controls, addressing previous complaints about touch-sensitive surfaces.
The RAV4’s base 8-inch touchscreen (10.5-inch on higher trims) also supports wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, with Toyota’s Connected Services offering similar remote features. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is available on top trims, but the base model’s part-analog display feels dated. The RAV4’s optional 11-speaker JBL audio system is a highlight, rivaling the Tucson’s Bose setup. However, the Tucson’s larger standard touchscreen and innovative features like the Blind-Spot View Monitor (displaying side camera feeds in the gauge cluster) give it a technological edge.
Safety and Reliability
Both SUVs prioritize safety, earning high ratings from the NHTSA. The Tucson secures a 5-star overall rating, with 5 stars in side impact and 4 stars in rollover tests. The RAV4 also earns a 5-star overall rating, with 5 stars in side impact, 4 stars in frontal crash, and 4 stars in rollover tests. The Tucson is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2025, while the RAV4 falls short due to a middling score in an overlap test.
Hyundai’s SmartSense suite includes standard features like forward collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The RAV4’s Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 offers similar features, including pre-collision braking and lane departure alert, but lacks the Tucson’s Blind-Spot View Monitor. Both vehicles come with eight airbags, though the RAV4 includes a driver knee airbag, absent in the Tucson.
Reliability favors the RAV4, with a J.D. Power score of 80/100 compared to the Tucson’s 85/100, though the Tucson’s score is still “Great.” Hyundai’s warranty is a major advantage: 5 years/100,000 km comprehensive, 10 years/100,000 km powertrain, and 8 years/160,000 km for hybrid components. Toyota offers 3 years/60,000 km comprehensive, 5 years/100,000 km powertrain, and a 10-year hybrid battery warranty, but its shorter basic coverage is less competitive.
Pricing and Value
In Canada, the Tucson starts at $34,699 (SE FWD) and ranges up to $52,899 (PHEV Limited AWD), while the RAV4 starts at $33,685 (LE FWD) and tops out at $45,305 (XSE Hybrid AWD). The RAV4’s lower entry price gives it an edge for budget buyers, but the Tucson’s base model includes more standard features, like a larger touchscreen. The Tucson’s hybrid ($38,999) is slightly pricier than the RAV4 Hybrid ($36,250), but the Tucson PHEV ($47,599) undercuts the RAV4 Prime ($49,265).
Servicing costs favor the RAV4, with a 5-year capped-price program at $260 per service (every 12 months/8,000 km). The Tucson’s servicing, at $408–$425 per year (12 months/10,000 km), is slightly higher. Resale value is a RAV4 strength, retaining 68% of its value after three years compared to the Tucson’s 63%. For Canadian buyers, the Tucson offers better value through its longer warranty and feature-rich trims, while the RAV4 appeals to those prioritizing fuel economy and resale.
Comparison Table
|
Feature |
Hyundai Tucson (2025) |
Toyota RAV4 (2025) |
|---|---|---|
|
Base Price (CAD) |
$34,699 (SE FWD) |
$33,685 (LE FWD) |
|
Base Engine |
2.5L 4-cyl, 187 hp, 178 lb-ft |
2.5L 4-cyl, 203 hp, 184 lb-ft |
|
Hybrid Powertrain |
1.6L Turbo + Electric, 231 hp, 35 MPG |
2.5L + Electric, 219 hp, 39 MPG |
|
PHEV Powertrain |
268 hp, 33-mile EV range, 80 MPGe |
302 hp, 42-mile EV range, 94 MPGe |
|
Cargo Space (cu. ft.) |
41.2 (seats up), 80.3 (seats down) |
37.6 (seats up), 69.8 (seats down) |
|
Legroom (front/rear) |
41.4 in / 41.3 in |
41.0 in / 37.8 in |
|
Infotainment |
12.3-inch touchscreen (standard) |
8-inch touchscreen (standard) |
|
Warranty |
5 yr/100,000 km, 10 yr/100,000 km powertrain |
3 yr/60,000 km, 5 yr/100,000 km powertrain |
|
NHTSA Safety Rating |
5 stars |
5 stars |
|
Towing Capacity |
2,000 lbs (gasoline) |
1,750 lbs (gasoline) |
Driving Experience
The Tucson offers a smooth, composed ride, with its hybrid powertrain delivering refined acceleration (0–60 mph in ~7.1 seconds). Its steering is light, with an 11.8-meter turning circle, though slightly less agile than the RAV4’s 11.4-meter circle. The RAV4’s hybrid is slightly quicker (0–60 mph in 7.8 seconds), and its Woodland Edition enhances off-road capability with tuned suspension. However, the RAV4’s CVT can feel less responsive, and its noisier cabin detracts from long drives. For Canadian winters, both SUVs perform well with AWD, but the Tucson’s quieter ride and plush seats make it more comfortable for daily commuting.
Which Is Better?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson edges out the Toyota RAV4 for Canadian buyers seeking a modern, feature-rich compact SUV. Its spacious interior, advanced technology (e.g., dual 12.3-inch displays, Remote Smart Parking Assist), and superior warranty make it a compelling choice for families and tech enthusiasts. The Tucson’s higher cargo capacity and rear legroom further enhance its practicality, while its competitive pricing and robust safety features add value. The RAV4, however, excels in fuel efficiency, particularly in its hybrid and PHEV models, and offers better resale value and lower servicing costs. Its rugged design and off-road trims appeal to adventure-seekers.
For most Canadian buyers, the Tucson’s combination of modern design, spaciousness, and longer warranty makes it the better overall choice, especially for those prioritizing comfort and tech. However, if fuel economy and resale value are top priorities, the RAV4 remains a strong contender. Test-driving both at a dealership like First Hyundai or Toyota Canada is recommended to find the best fit.
FAQs
Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid achieves 6.0 L/100km combined, slightly better than the Tucson Hybrid’s 6.2 L/100km. The RAV4 Prime also leads with 94 MPGe vs. the Tucson PHEV’s 80 MPGe.
Q: How do their warranties compare?
A: The Tucson offers a 5-year/100,000 km comprehensive warranty and 10-year/100,000 km powertrain warranty, outpacing the RAV4’s 3-year/60,000 km comprehensive and 5-year/100,000 km powertrain coverage.
Q: Which SUV is more spacious?
A: The Tucson has more rear legroom (41.3 in vs. 37.8 in) and cargo space (80.3 cu. ft. vs. 69.8 cu. ft. with seats down), making it roomier for passengers and cargo.
