2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium vs 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL
49 more hp vs $5,200 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 236 vs 187 hp.
The RAV4 XLE Premium leads on 49 more hp. The Tucson SEL leads on $5,200 less. The spec table compares 3 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 3 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 | 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium | 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $37,500 | $32,300 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 hybrid | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 236 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | No published data | 24 |
| Highway MPG | No published data | 30 |
| Combined MPG | No published data | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.5 gal | 14.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,770 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 105.9" | 108.5" |
| Length | 181.0" | 182.7" |
| Width | 73.0" | 73.4" |
| Height | 66.7" | 66.3" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium and 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL starts at $32,300, $5,200 less than the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium at $37,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $91/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium?
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium is the stronger pick when the extra 49 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,200 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL covers your needs.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium or 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium produces 236 hp, 49 more than the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL at 187 hp. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL is 1.7″ longer at 182.7″ vs 181.0″. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL has a 2.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Toyota RAV4 comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Tucson offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota RAV4 trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Tucson trims
- 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the RAV4 and Tucson Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium ($37,500) and 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL ($32,300) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-5,200 gap adds up to $91/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: RAV4 vs Tucson
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL uses a 2.5L I4. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium has 49 more hp (236 vs 187), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium when the extra 49 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL when you want to keep $5,200 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL covers your needs.
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 Toyota or Hyundai or any dealership.