Hyundai Tucson vs. Toyota RAV4: Complete comparison 2026

The South Korean Hyundai Tucson, which was also sold in the past and in some markets under the Hyundai ix35 designation, is an exceptionally popular compact SUV that attracts customers with its bold design and advanced technological equipment. Its main competitor is the iconic Japanese Toyota RAV4, which can be found in various global markets under alternative names such as Toyota Vanguard, Toyota Wildlander, or in Europe as the rebranded twin Suzuki Across, and which builds primarily on its legendary reliability and fuel-efficient hybrid powertrains. The following comparison will provide a detailed look at the key differences between both cars on the used car market and help you find out which of these models represents a smarter choice for your daily journeys.

When choosing a compact family SUV, exterior dimensions play a key role not only for overall interior space but also for daily maneuvering in heavy city traffic. If we focus on models roughly four years old, namely the widely represented third-generation Hyundai Tucson and the fifth-generation Toyota RAV4, we find that although both cars target the same audience, they approach proportions slightly differently. The Toyota RAV4 makes a slightly more massive and classic impression on the road, which is confirmed by the numbers themselves – with a length of 4,600 mm, it is roughly 90 to 100 mm longer than its South Korean competitor.

The Tucson, on the other hand, bets on a more dynamic and slightly wider stance. With a width of 1,865 mm, it exceeds the Toyota by 10 mm, which, together with its bold design, gives it a visually more planted look. However, the RAV4 takes its decimeters back in overall body height, where at 1,685 mm, it towers over the Tucson by 35 mm. This taller build results not only in a generally more robust off-road appearance for the Japanese car but also in a slightly higher driving position, which many drivers in this category subconsciously seek.

An interesting look at the wheelbase, which primarily determines the longitudinal space in the cabin for the crew. Here, there is almost perfect agreement, as the Toyota with a wheelbase of 2,690 mm surpasses the Hyundai (2,680 mm) by a completely negligible one centimeter. In practice, this means that although the RAV4 is longer overall, it does not benefit from this in terms of cabin architecture and legroom. For daily life, the final choice may depend mainly on your space constraints – the shorter Tucson fits a bit more easily into tight parallel parking spots or smaller garages, while the RAV4 will appeal to motorists who prefer the more conservative proportions of a slightly larger SUV.

Luggage space is one of the key parameters for family SUVs, and it plays a crucial role when choosing a roughly four-year-old used car. Whether you're planning regular weekend shopping, daily transport of strollers, or long family holiday trips, every extra liter of available volume simply counts. In a direct comparison of popular representatives of this class – specifically the third-generation Hyundai Tucson and the fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 – we find quite clear differences that define the extent to which both models are adapted for maximum family practicality.

The South Korean Hyundai Tucson (3rd generation, on the market since 2020) boasts a transport capacity that is among the very best in its segment. In the standard version with a conventional or gasoline mild-hybrid engine, it offers a generous trunk volume of an excellent 620 liters. After easily folding down the rear seats, this space increases to a massive 1,799 liters, representing a huge loading area perfectly sufficient even for transporting bulky furniture or complete sports equipment. In contrast, the Japanese Toyota RAV4 (XA5 generation, available since 2019) provides a slightly more modest, though still very usable, base volume of 580 liters. With the backrests fully folded, the RAV4 offers a maximum capacity of 1,690 liters. A numerical difference of exactly 40 liters in the basic configuration means, in practice, space for about one additional small suitcase or several bulky shopping bags for Tucson owners.

When choosing a specific used car, however, it is also necessary to take into account the increasingly popular plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants, where additional battery packs necessarily take up some of the valuable trunk space. If you opt for the RAV4 variant with plug-in charging, the base trunk capacity drops to 520 liters. A similar compromise also awaits you with the plug-in hybrid Tucson, whose trunk shrinks to approximately 558 liters (for diesel mild-hybrids, it is 546 liters). Despite these technologically driven trade-offs, both SUVs remain exceptionally spacious for daily driving. Overall, however, the Tucson benefits from more efficient interior space packaging and emerges as the clear winner of this comparison for those looking for maximum volume.

Towing Capacity Comparison

Towing capacity is a key parameter for many SUV drivers, whether they are planning a camping trip with a family caravan or need to transport heavy loads. Between the Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4 models on the market for roughly four-year-old used cars (the current 3rd generation Tucson and the XA5 generation of the RAV4), there are very significant differences that can play a decisive role when choosing a vehicle. While one model relies on balanced values across the entire range, the other shows extreme differences depending on the chosen drivetrain type.

The Hyundai Tucson (3rd generation) offers excellent consistency. Standard petrol and diesel versions (1.6 T-GDI and 1.6 CRDi, including mild-hybrids) can tow a standard braked trailer with a maximum weight of 1650 kg, and the full hybrid variant maintains this decent capacity without compromise. A noticeable difference only comes with the plug-in hybrid version (PHEV), where the maximum towing capacity is reduced to 1350 kg due to the heavy battery (it even drops to 1210 kg for the latest model years).

The fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 (XA5), on the other hand, offers a wide range of extremes. If you are looking for maximum towing power, the classic conventional engine version with a two-litre petrol engine easily handles an excellent 2000 kg. However, those interested in hybrid versions with reduced capacity must be very careful. While the RAV4 Hybrid with all-wheel drive (AWD-i) can handle a satisfactory 1650 kg, the front-wheel drive (FWD) version offers only a very modest 800 kg. The popular Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) then represents a kind of middle ground with a limit of 1500 kg.

Although exact factory data for unbraked trailers are not always specifically stated for these generations, the standard legislative limit of 750 kg applies to cars in this category. Towing such a trailer works, in simple terms, as space for a few extra suitcases, which is fully sufficient for weekend shopping or a longer holiday. Owners of the basic front-wheel drive RAV4 Hybrid will have to rely mainly on lighter cargo or tent trailers (800 kg limit). Conversely, with the Tucson in most engine versions, or with the petrol and AWD hybrid Toyota, you can already tow a medium-sized caravan.

Conclusion: If maximum possible towing power for pulling heavy trailers is your priority, the purely petrol Toyota RAV4 (2.0) represents an unbeatable choice with a value of 2000 kg. However, if you are aiming for hybrid engines, the Hyundai Tucson proves to be a much more user-friendly and safer option – unlike the Toyota, where you must pay extra for all-wheel drive to get reasonable towing power in a hybrid, most Tucson models will tow 1650 kg regardless of the drivetrain type.

While both the Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4 offer a diverse range of engines reflecting modern trends with an emphasis on electrification, their overall approach differs slightly. Hyundai relies exclusively on small-displacement turbocharged engines (both petrol and diesel) with a uniform displacement of 1.6 litres. These are combined with a wide spectrum of electric motor assistance – from 48V mild-hybrid and full hybrid (HEV) to plug-in hybrid technologies. This will be particularly appreciated by buyers looking for a wide range of choices or those who prefer economical diesel units for long motorway journeys. In contrast, the Toyota RAV4 bets on what it does best – 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engines, which it combines with its long-renowned and reliable full hybrid system. Furthermore, the conventional pure petrol two-litre engine at Toyota completely disappeared from the range as early as mid-2020. So, if you are looking for a roughly four-year-old used car on the market, you will mostly be choosing from hybrids with Toyota, while the Tucson will provide you with a much more varied range of internal combustion alternatives.

The basic range for the Hyundai Tucson (3rd generation, from 2020) opens with the 1.6 T-GDI turbocharged petrol four-cylinder with an output of 110 kW (150 hp). This engine is also available as a 48V mild hybrid, in two power versions: 110 kW (150 hp) and a more powerful 132 kW (180 hp). Unlike its competitor Toyota, Hyundai does not abandon diesel engines. However, the basic pure diesel variant 1.6 CRDi (85 kW / 115 hp) was only kept in the range until February 2022. Buyers interested in newer used cars from recent years will therefore more often come across its more powerful alternative, the 1.6 CRDi supplemented with 48V mild-hybrid technology (100 kW / 136 hp), which is commonly paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and optional all-wheel drive. An alternative for the most demanding is the full hybrid version 1.6 T-GDI Hybrid (169 kW / 230 hp) and the top-of-the-range 1.6 T-GDI Plug-in Hybrid with an output of 195 kW (265 hp).

The Toyota RAV4 (XA5 generation, from 2019) is an absolute master of hybrids in the market and bets on simplicity. Although it was initially possible to purchase the car with a classic 2.0 naturally aspirated petrol four-cylinder with 129 kW (175 hp), this pure internal combustion engine was withdrawn from the official range in mid-2020. Customers looking for a four-year-old used car thus have almost exclusively electrified variants available. The core is the reliable 2.5 Hybrid combining a petrol engine with an e-CVT continuously variable transmission. The powertrain has an output of 160 kW (218 hp) for front-wheel-drive models and 163 kW (222 hp) for all-wheel-drive models with the AWD-i system, which adds a dedicated electric motor for the rear axle. For those who are not afraid to plug in and want significant power, there is also the 2.5 Plug-in Hybrid offering a massive 225 kW (306 hp) and dynamics that will surprise many a driver of much sportier cars.

Choosing the right engine is a key factor for long-term satisfaction with a used car, with our recommendations based on real-world experience, mechanical reliability, and fuel consumption in normal traffic. While Hyundai offers a wide range for the Tucson model, from classic internal combustion engines to plug-in hybrids, Toyota has bet almost exclusively on its renowned hybrid drive for the RAV4 generation. Looking at the history of available engines, the retreat of diesels is clearly visible – previously popular powerful diesel engines, such as the 2.0 CRDi in the Tucson, definitely ended with the second generation in 2020. Toyota is in a similar position, having completely removed the 2.2 D-CAT or 2.0 D-4D diesel versions from the current fifth generation (XA5, available since 2019) from its lineup. Today's market for approximately four-year-old used cars is thus clearly dominated by sophisticated electrified units, which make the most sense for most users.

For Hyundai Tucson we recommend: 1.6 T-GDI Hybrid, 169 kW

This full hybrid powertrain (HEV) represents the best choice within the third generation of the Tucson (on sale since late 2020) in terms of balance between performance, consumption, and user-friendliness. The combination of a turbocharged four-cylinder and an electric motor offers a total output of 169 kW (230 hp), ensuring very confident dynamics even for a fully loaded family car. A major advantage over most Asian competitors is the use of a classic six-speed automatic transmission. This eliminates the unpopular "vacuum cleaner" effect during sharp acceleration and provides the driver with a more natural driving feel. In real-world operation, the consumption of this hybrid hovers around a very respectable 6 liters per 100 km. From a maintenance perspective, however, it is necessary to take into account that the internal combustion engine is equipped with direct fuel injection (GDI) and a gasoline particulate filter (GPF).

• Why it matters and how to spot a problem: On exclusively short city routes, where the engine fails to warm up, carbon deposits can form on the intake valves and the GPF can become clogged. During a test drive of a used car, check if the car jerks during sharp acceleration and if the emission system warning light is on the dashboard. This engine is ideal for drivers with a universal route profile, combining daily city hopping with regular longer trips where the system safely warms up and regenerates.

For Toyota RAV4 we recommend: 2.5 Hybrid, 160 kW (2WD) / 163 kW (AWD-i)

Toyota is an absolute pioneer of hybrid technologies, and its naturally aspirated 2.5-liter hybrid in the XA5 generation (available since 2019) is considered one of the most mechanically durable powertrains on the entire used car market. The system uses a robust gasoline engine operating on the Atkinson cycle, which is paired with a proven e-CVT planetary gearbox. A fundamental advantage is that risky and expensive components such as a turbocharger, classic clutch, starter, or conventional alternator are completely absent – mechanically, there is simply almost nothing to go wrong. Despite the huge interior space, the RAV4 with this engine can drive in urban and suburban traffic for a fantastic 5 to 5.5 liters of gasoline.

• Why it matters and how to spot a problem: The only real bogeyman of older hybrids is the condition of the traction battery and especially its cooling. The cooling vents are located near the rear seats and can become clogged with dust or pet hair, leading to overheating and rapid battery degradation. Before buying a used car, always visually check the cleanliness of these grilles and have a battery capacity diagnostic test performed at an authorized service center. Also, focus on the service book – Toyota conditions the extended battery warranty (up to 10 years) on regular inspections. This engine is an absolutely ideal choice for calmer drivers and families looking for bulletproof reliability, primarily driving in the city and on country roads where the specific monotonous sound of the engine revved up by the transmission during sharp highway acceleration is not an issue.

Official fuel consumption figures provided by manufacturers often differ significantly from everyday reality, which is especially true for modern hybrid and plug-in hybrid technologies. To get the most accurate picture possible, we rely on real-world data from thousands of everyday drivers collected on the crowdsourcing platform Spritmonitor.de. We focused exclusively on vehicles that make the most sense in today's four-year-old used car market – namely the third generation of the Hyundai Tucson (produced since 2020) and the corresponding XA5 generation of the Toyota RAV4 (since 2019).

Source: Spritmonitor.de

Looking at the collected data, the sophistication with which Toyota tunes its hybrid systems is clearly evident. Its full-hybrid RAV4 (HEV) achieves an excellent average consumption of 5.6 l/100 km. In the case of the Tucson, only the economical 1.6 CRDi diesel mild-hybrid can compete with this figure in the long term. A surprising finding may be the real-world operation of Hyundai's small-displacement turbocharged petrol engines. Although they rely on advanced mild-hybrid assistance, their consumption is dangerously close to the 7-liter mark, and downsizing does not bring the expected savings here. In contrast, Toyota's old-school naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine manages to run at a very respectable 6.2 liters. The extremely low values for both plug-in hybrids (1.0 to 1.4 l/100 km) naturally reflect the specific profile of drivers who diligently charge their cars from the grid every day, and do not represent the vehicle's consumption once the traction battery is depleted.

The facts above clearly indicate what a potential buyer should focus on. If you are a city driver or spend most of your time commuting on suburban routes, the full-hybrid Toyota RAV4 is a clear all-rounder that saves fuel on every kilometer. However, for drivers crisscrossing the country on motorways, the XA5 generation does not offer any diesel engine. This opens up a huge advantage for the Hyundai Tucson with the 1.6 CRDi engine, which is the most economical choice in the entire comparison for long distances. For budget-conscious buyers, the clear message is to be cautious with the base petrol engines of the Tucson, where the savings at purchase are offset by higher operating costs.

In conclusion, fuel consumption certainly does not take a back seat in this comparison. On the contrary, it is a fundamental decision-making factor, where the reliable and time-tested hybrid Toyota reigns supreme in urban areas, while Hyundai attracts those whose annual mileage on high-speed roads gives them a compelling reason to opt for diesel.

Price range on the used car market (2021–2022 models)

Looking at approximately four-year-old used cars, which are among the most sought-after on the market, the different pricing policies and depreciation rates of both brands are clearly evident. For comparison, we focused on the fourth-generation Hyundai Tucson (NX4) and the fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 (XA50) from 2021 to 2022. Both cars at this age represent an attractive alternative to new vehicles, offering modern technology and often still being covered by the factory warranty.

Hyundai Tucson: Great value for money and equipment

The South Korean SUV benefits from a very wide range of engines on the used car market, which is also reflected in the greater price variability. As a four-year-old used car, the Tucson represents a much more affordable entry point into the family SUV segment than its Japanese rival.

• Basic petrol versions: Models with the 1.6 T-GDI engine, manual transmission, and front-wheel drive start at around €17,000.
• Mild-hybrids and better equipment: The sweet spot in the form of the 1.6 T-GDI MHEV with an automatic transmission or in the sporty N-Line trim commonly ranges from €20,000 to €24,000.
• Full hybrid versions (HEV): If you are looking for a full hybrid with all-wheel drive (often in the top-tier Premium trim), expect to pay roughly €27,000 to €29,000.

Toyota RAV4: The king of residual value

The Toyota RAV4 is considered an absolute phenomenon on the used car market. Its reputation for bulletproof reliability combined with a proven hybrid powertrain means it holds its value significantly better than most competitors. This is great news for sellers, but it means a higher initial investment for buyers.

• Classic internal combustion versions: Purely petrol two-litre engines (2.0 Valvematic) with an automatic, which are in the minority on the market, start at roughly €25,000 to €27,000.
• Hybrid powertrains (HEV): The most popular 2.5 Hybrid version, especially models with all-wheel drive (AWD-i), sell from €27,000 (for higher mileage) up to €35,000 for well-maintained vehicles in trims such as Selection or Adventure.
• Plug-in hybrids (PHEV): If you come across a plug-in RAV4, prices even after four years often approach and exceed the €37,000 mark.

Overview of indicative market prices (vehicle age approx. 4 years)

Depreciation over time

While the Hyundai Tucson experiences its greatest drop in value in the first three years of operation, for a used car buyer, this represents an excellent opportunity to acquire a modern, attractively designed vehicle for very good money. In contrast, the Toyota RAV4's price drops very slowly. For the same budget, you will get an older Toyota with higher mileage or a vehicle with less equipment, but you will be rewarded with a car that has the lowest long-term loss of value for potential resale.

Both the Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4 achieved the maximum five-star rating in crash tests by the independent organization Euro NCAP, confirming their excellent level of overall safety. However, when comparing these two popular family SUVs on the used car market, it is crucial to put their overall results into the correct context and consider the year the respective tests were conducted.

Euro NCAP's testing methodology has evolved continuously over the years to reflect progress in engineering. Testing protocols become stricter year by year and place increasing emphasis on proactive safety and active assistance systems. They include, for example, new frontal crash simulations with a mobile barrier, more sensitive cyclist detection, or vehicle behavior at complex intersections. For this reason, percentage results for cars from different years cannot be directly and simply compared – percentages obtained in recent years almost always mean meeting significantly tougher criteria.

The Toyota RAV4 in its current fifth generation underwent testing in 2019. The fourth-generation Hyundai Tucson entered the testing laboratories two years later, in 2021, when it already had to comply with the most modern and noticeably stricter requirements of the redesigned protocols.

At first glance at the table, it may seem that the Toyota RAV4 clearly dominates with its score, especially in adult occupant and vulnerable road user protection. However, it is essential to take into account that these are results based on the milder standards valid until the end of the decade. The rating of the Hyundai Tucson, which may appear slightly more modest on paper, actually represents an exceptionally strong level of protection within a much more demanding testing cycle.

In terms of equipment, both manufacturers installed the best from their workshops into the vehicles – Toyota uses the proven Toyota Safety Sense package, while Hyundai relies on the rich Hyundai Smart Sense system. Euro NCAP safety certification usually has a formal validity of six years, which for the RAV4 means it already corresponds to an earlier engineering generation in terms of emergency assistants. Conversely, the Tucson reflects a step newer trend in how the car communicates with the driver and how it can automatically prevent accidents.

In conclusion, both vehicles represent an excellent and perfectly safe choice that reliably protects adult passengers and children. However, if you are looking for the most modern standard of assistance features, the Hyundai Tucson has a slight technological lead due to its newer development and success in the tougher testing conditions of 2021, which can play a key role in confusing real-world situations.

In addition to standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that can be decisive for customers when choosing a car, with both automakers taking a completely different approach to innovation and added value.

Hyundai Tucson: Futuristic Design and Technological Dominance

• Iconic light design: The front grille uses so-called Parametric Hidden Lights technology. LED daytime running lights are seamlessly integrated into the grille and, when the vehicle is off, they blend in completely with its dark texture.
• Innovative comfort: The Tucson prioritizes daily passenger comfort with the Multi-Air Mode system. This mode uses hidden ventilation vents to gently and evenly disperse air throughout the cabin, eliminating the unpleasant sensation of direct airflow. Families will appreciate the special "sleep mode," which can mute the rear speakers.
• Connectivity and infotainment: The interior is dominated by a modern digital instrument cluster without a traditional cowl and a recessed 10.25" central display. It also features the advanced Bluelink telematics system, which allows for remote locking, unlocking, or fuel level checks via a mobile app.
• Advanced assistance (ADAS): A total rarity in its class is the Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM). As soon as the driver activates the turn signal, a live camera feed from under the mirror is displayed on the digital instrument cluster. Parking in tight spaces is made easier by the Remote Smart Parking Assist, which allows the car to be moved from the outside using only the key.
• N Line sporting spirit: Those looking for a more dynamic feel can opt for the N Line trim. In addition to more aggressive bumpers and sports seats, it offers electronically controlled adaptive suspension (ECS) on selected engines, which adjusts the chassis stiffness depending on the selected driving mode.

Toyota RAV4: Hybrid Efficiency and Unstoppable Practicality

• Smart design for daily use: Toyota focuses on maximum ergonomics and durability. A typical example is the massive, heavily rubberized rotary controls for the air conditioning and audio system. They ensure a secure grip and can be easily operated even in thick winter gloves.
• Utility and storage spaces: The luggage compartment offers a very practical reversible floor. One side is covered in elegant carpet, while the other side is made of washable plastic. This seemingly small detail significantly facilitates the transport of muddy shoes, sports equipment, or pets.
• Electronics and rear visibility: In higher trims, you'll find a digital interior rearview mirror (Smart Rear View Mirror). With the press of a single button, the mirror can be switched from a classic reflection to a wide-angle display projecting the image from the rear camera. Visibility remains perfect even when the trunk is loaded to the roof.
• Smart drivetrain and chassis: Hybrid versions with all-wheel drive (AWD-i) use a separate electric motor on the rear axle. The system is complemented by Trail Mode, which acts as an electronic limited-slip differential lock and helps free the vehicle during axle articulation in light off-road conditions. Furthermore, the plug-in hybrid version impresses with an electric range that realistically exceeds 70 km, placing it at the top of the segment.
• Specific trim lines: While standard versions opt for a more conventional look, the Adventure variant adds rugged plastic cladding, a different grille, and more robust roof rails, targeting active individuals who prefer an outdoor style. Conversely, the GR SPORT version (available on newer model years) adds a stiffer chassis setup and sporty visual enhancements.

The fourth-generation Hyundai Tucson is a perfect choice for those looking for a technologically advanced, comfortable, and practical family SUV with a slightly premium feel. It impresses primarily with its unmistakable appearance and a very wide range of powertrains, allowing it to meet the needs of a very diverse range of drivers.

The Toyota RAV4 is the undisputed leader in terms of overall operating efficiency, real-world fuel consumption, and long-term reliability. It is an ideal car for rational buyers who prefer robust and proven technology with minimal depreciation over state-of-the-art displays and luxury materials.

Based on long-term user experience, service statistics, and reports from our inspection technicians, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems for both models that are worth focusing on before buying a used car. However, every safe purchase should be preceded by a detailed physical vehicle inspection, which will help reveal any potential hidden defects of a specific unit and protect your finances.

For the fourth generation of the Hyundai Tucson (produced since 2020), users report above-average mechanical reliability overall, yet some recurring ailments related to electronics and specific driving conditions appear:

• Electronics and infotainment: Probably the most common complaint from owners is the occasional freezing of the multimedia system, slow loading after starting the car, and dropouts of the wireless connection via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Fortunately, many of these errors are resolved by ongoing software updates.
• Transmission: In models equipped with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT), occasional jerking or a perceptibly more hesitant response may occur when crawling very slowly in traffic jams.
• Powertrain: Diesel engines are sensitive to predominantly urban traffic, where the diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogs more quickly. In some hybrid versions, users report surprisingly fast discharge of the classic 12V battery when the vehicle is stationary for longer periods.
• Interior and workmanship: Although the interior is robust, creaking plastics in the center console area and front door panels occasionally make noise on rougher surfaces. The softer body paint, which is more prone to minor scratches and scuffs from operation, is also worth mentioning.

The fifth generation of the Toyota RAV4 (since 2018) has long been ranked at the top of reliability charts, yet there are several specific and often structural weaknesses that need to be monitored:

• High-voltage cable corrosion: The most well-known problem with hybrid versions with all-wheel drive (AWD-i) is the so-called "Cablegate". In older model years of this generation, the connection at the traction cable connector powering the rear electric motor often corrodes, especially due to the effects of road salt. If the cable was not treated in time under warranty or a recall, it can be a costly repair.
• Starter battery: Similar to the Tucson, the hybrid RAV4 also suffers from unexpectedly fast discharge of the 12V starter battery if the car stands motionless for several weeks.
• Electronics: Models from the first years of production of this generation are known for an older type of infotainment, which tends to have slow touch responses, lags behind the competition graphically, and occasionally suffers from spontaneous screen restarts (resolved only in models from late 2022).
• Body and soundproofing: A weakness of the RAV4 is poorer acoustic comfort. At highway speeds, aerodynamic noise flowing around the mirrors and noise from the rolling tires penetrate the cabin more significantly. The eco-friendly paint is very thin, and stone chips easily form on the front hood, which tend to start surface rusting.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Both of these SUVs are considered advanced and generally reliable cars, however, they have their specifics and weak points that you should watch out for. Before making a final decision, it is always worth getting a detailed independent technical inspection of the car's condition, which will reveal hidden defects before they cost you money.

When choosing a Hyundai Tucson:

• Dual-clutch transmission (7DCT) behavior: For pure petrol or diesel engines, focus on the smoothness of starts and the transmission's behavior when crawling in traffic during the test drive. If the car jerks at low speeds or you feel vibrations, it may indicate worn clutch linings, which means an early and expensive service investment.
• Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) condition on the 1.6 T-GDI: Direct-injection petrol engines are equipped with a particulate filter. If the car was primarily used for short city trips, the filter may not have had time to regenerate. Check if the orange engine or emission system warning light is on the dashboard.
• Smoothness of the hybrid system and battery: For hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants, pay attention to the coordination of both motors. Try different levels of acceleration during the drive. The transition from all-electric drive to the internal combustion engine must be smooth and without significant jolts or delays. For PHEV versions, check the remaining battery capacity and estimated electric range in the onboard menu.
• Infotainment and software functionality: Early NX4 generation models (around 2021) occasionally struggled with a freezing central display or image dropouts from the rear parking camera. Click through all menus and ensure the system responds quickly. It is worth verifying if the car has undergone all necessary software updates under warranty.

When choosing a Toyota RAV4:

• High-voltage cable corrosion (so-called Cablegate): For hybrid versions with all-wheel drive (AWD-i) from the first years of production of the current generation, there is a high risk of oxidation of the large high-voltage cable connector leading to the rear electric motor. The repair can be extremely expensive. For this reason, a thorough physical inspection of the used car on a lift is an absolute necessity so that a mechanic can check the condition of the protective cover and the possible presence of corrosion.
• Health of the auxiliary 12V battery: Hybrid Toyotas that sit in a used car lot for a long time or were driven only sporadically by the owner tend to quickly drain the small 12V battery that "wakes up" the entire hybrid system. If the car starts hesitantly or the onboard system does not activate at all, the battery will likely be due for replacement.
• e-CVT transmission performance: Toyota's planetary transmission is technically almost indestructible, but it requires attention during the test drive. Accelerate under full throttle – the transmission keeps the engine at high revs, which is normal, but you must not hear any loud metallic whining or humming from the unit. This would indicate rare bearing wear.
• Paint quality and interior noises: The RAV4 is known for a somewhat thinner layer of paint, which is prone to damage from flying stones. Therefore, check the condition of the front hood and the edges above the radiator grille for any surface corrosion starting from untreated chips. When driving on cobblestones, listen for any creaking of the dashboard plastics in the A-pillar area or around the center console.

Sources: ADAC, forbes.cz, aktualne.cz, hybrid.cz, motorvize.cz, automotodrom.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.