2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT vs 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
RAV4 XLE starts at $33,625, $1,925 less. RAV4 XLE leads with 30 MPG. RAV4 XLE makes 203 hp (+16).
| Spec | 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT | 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,550 +$1,925 | $33,625 Save $1,925 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp 16 hp less | 203 hp +16 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Spd AT | 8-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 2 less | 27 +2 |
| Hwy MPG | 32 2 less | 34 +2 |
| Combined MPG | 28 2 less | 30 +2 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 38.7 cu ft | 37.5 cu ft |
| Screen | 10.25" | 10.5" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | No | Avail. |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,620 lbs | 3,715 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.3" | 105.9" |
| Length | 182.3" | 180.9" |
| Wheels | 19" Black | 17" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | SmartSense | TSS 2.5 |
Tucson XRT or RAV4 XLE?
Both are competitive. RAV4 XLE has a lower entry price, RAV4 XLE leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT and 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Tucson XRT or RAV4 XLE?
Should I buy a 2026 Hyundai Tucson or Toyota RAV4?
Which is more reliable, the Hyundai Tucson or Toyota RAV4?
Is the Hyundai Tucson bigger than the Toyota RAV4?
What is the cost of insurance for the Tucson XRT vs RAV4 XLE?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT?
Who Should Choose the Tucson XRT
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT appeals to buyers who prioritize what Hyundai does best: practicality and resale value. At $35,550, it positions itself as the more feature-rich option.
Hyundai ownership comes with excellent warranty coverage and competitive technology. Compare more: Tucson SE vs Tucson SEL, Tucson SE vs Tucson XRT, Tucson SE vs Tucson Limited.
Who Should Choose the RAV4 XLE
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price. Superior fuel economy at 30 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage. With 203 hp, it also delivers stronger performance.
Toyota's approach to this suv emphasizes long-term dependability and conservative engineering. If that aligns with your priorities, the RAV4 XLE deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $1,925 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Tucson XRT is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the RAV4 XLE makes 16 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Suvs Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Hyundai and Toyota often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.