2025 Hyundai Tucson SE vs 2025 Toyota Highlander LE
$11,715 less and 2 mpg better vs 78 more hp and 132 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $11,715 price gap, 187 vs 265 hp, 26 vs 24 MPG.
The Tucson SE leads on $11,715 less, 2 MPG better. The Highlander LE leads on 78 more hp, 132 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE | 2025 Toyota Highlander LE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,205 | $41,920 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.4L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 265 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.3 gal | 17.9 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $1,800/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,572 lbs | 4,332 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.5" | 112.2" |
| Length | 182.7" | 194.9" |
| Width | 73.4" | 76.0" |
| Height | 66.3" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 2yr/25k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE and 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE starts at $30,205, $11,715 less than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE at $41,920. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $206/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $11,715 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $135/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is the stronger pick when the extra 78 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE or 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE rates 26 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE or 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE produces 265 hp, 78 more than the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE at 187 hp. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE bigger than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is 12.2″ longer at 194.9″ vs 182.7″. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE has a 3.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Tucson comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Toyota Highlander offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Tucson trims, Toyota trims, Toyota Highlander trims
How the Tucson and Highlander Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE ($30,205) and 2025 Toyota Highlander LE ($41,920) solve similar problems in different ways. The $11,715 gap adds up to $206/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Tucson vs Highlander
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE has 78 more hp (265 vs 187). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE adds 132 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE saves roughly $135/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $675. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is 12.2″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE weighs 760 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE when you want to keep $11,715 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE when the extra 78 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $206/month more, the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Hyundai or Toyota or any dealership.