2021 Hyundai Tucson vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson featured a more conventional design compared to its futuristic successor. Its upright layout provided a commanding view of the road, while the interior boasted a modern and attractive dash design. Tech features were seamlessly integrated, with buttons and dials easily accessible. The Tucson offered various trims, including SE, Value, SEL, Sport, Limited, and Ultimate, each adding progressively more features such as alloy wheels, power-adjustable seats, and advanced tech options.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid had a bold design with a blunt, bulbous nose and black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect. Despite its polarizing appearance, the Highlander aimed to remain distinctive. The interior offered upscale features like leather upholstery and a 12.3-inch touchscreen in higher trims. However, the design had some drawbacks, such as reflections on sunny days and a busy gauge appearance at night.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson came with two engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 161 horsepower and a 2.4-liter engine with 181 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and offered either front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The base engine felt underwhelming, while the 2.4-liter provided a livelier experience. The Tucson offered a comfortable ride and a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds with the larger engine.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid switched from a V6 to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 243 horsepower. It achieved impressive fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 36 mpg combined. The hybrid used an "E-CVT" transmission, and while power was adequate, the engine sounded strained during hard acceleration. The Highlander Hybrid's steering was lifeless, but regenerative brakes performed well. It offered a smooth ride on flat terrain but struggled with body movement on uneven roads.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson provided 31 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 61.9 cubic feet with seats folded. While compact, it offered adequate space for everyday needs. The front seats were comfortable, and the rear seats accommodated adults on trips. The Tucson featured numerous storage compartments for convenience.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered roomy front seats with power adjustments and heating/ventilation options. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight but felt narrow for three adults. The third-row seat was uncomfortable, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage was plentiful but less generous than previous models.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate trim offered an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and wireless charging. The system was user-friendly, with logical menus and hard buttons for ease of use.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a comprehensive infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL premium audio, and navigation. The system was well-designed, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror enhanced convenience.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson included standard driver-assistance features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. It earned a five-star rating from NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" from IIHS.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, adding intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The Highlander received a five-star rating from NHTSA and was expected to achieve a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS.