2023 Honda CRV Hybrid vs 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybri

In this comparison, you’ll get a sense of each hybrid electric vehicle as well as specifics about size and performance. This is meant to answer your questions about which one is a better buy, which one is more technologically advanced, and more. After all, your hybrid SUV will have to take care of the daily commute,and long distance trips. Plus you may need a family car that offers comfort for the kids and capability for the family driver.

1. Newest Redesign

   The Tucson Hybrid was introduced in 2022, making it seem as if it is the newest ride on the block. Of course, since it was new last year, it has not been updated much for 2023. This carry-over model has no substantive changes in size or capability.

   The 2023 CRV Hybrid, on the other hand, is completely redesigned for 2023. The redesign allowed it to take the highest rating at Kelley Blue Book. This ‘from-the-ground-up overhaul’ has ensured that the popular Honda hybrid SUV maintains its status as a benchmark 2-row SUV.

2. Cargo Space and Utility

   There’s more cargo space in the CRV Hybrid. That’s because it has gotten bigger for the 2023 model year. It’s now the same size as the regular CR-V, allowing the trim levels to offer the same size advantages to all buyers.

   The Tucson lags slightly behind in both standard cargo space and total cargo area behind the front row. In terms of ground clearance, the Honda is very competitive with 7.8 or 8.2 inches of ground clearance. The Tucson AWD edges out .1 inch more.

   

   Until 2023, the Honda hybrid SUV wasn’t recommended for towing. Now it has a 1,000-pound capability. This makes it more competitive with the Tucson Hybrid and other rivals.

3. Spaciousness and Seating

   Both SUVs seat five on two rows. Bigger than ever before, the new CR-V Hybrid is a bit longer and taller than its competitor. That has helped it overtake the Tucson Hybrid again in terms of spaciousness.

   New body-stabilizing front seats are standard in the CR-V Hybrid. This Honda exclusive feature is designed to provide more support and comfort, even on long trips. Second-row seats were improved for 2023 and have better recline capability than before. Best of all, rear-seat legroom is 41 inches.

   Furthermore, the new CR-V has a large glass greenhouse. Large windows make it feel more spacious and provide better visibility for the driver. Helping you in and out, the doors are big to allow more space when entering and exiting. This is especially important on the second row where you may be packing up for a trip or installing a child’s safety seat.

4. Fuel Efficiency

   The CR-V Sport Hybrid claims the best fuel economy with 40 mpg combined. That breaks down to 43 mpg in city driving and 36 mpg on the highway.

   AWD models of both brands are rated at 37 combined, according to EPA estimates. However, the CR-V Hybrid AWD earns 40 MPG in city driving while the Tucson Hybrid lags behind at 37 MPG in stop-and-go city traffic.

5. Capability

   Equipped with an electric continuously variable transmission, the CR-V Hybrid has instant torque. This is similar to electric vehicles where a high torque rate is practically instantaneous. That’s why you’ll see many test drivers praising the Honda hybrid for its quick reflexes.

   US News and World Report praises Honda's “surge-from-a-stop acceleration.” Kelley Blue Book notes this new dimension of driving enjoyment. They call out the Honda hybrid’s poise, pep and agility. There’s no downside to the SUV’s regenerative braking with precise feedback and strong stopping power.

   Of these two rivals, only the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid has a dual-motor side-by-side design. With this new layout and a revised gas engine, the hybrid’s maximum speed has gone from 86 to 115 miles per hour.

   Last year there was a bigger gap in horsepower, but this year Honda has narrowed it. The 2023 CR-V Hybrid generates 204 horsepower, which compares favorably with 226 horsepower for the hybrid Hyundai. Torque is similar with 247 lb-ft (Honda) vs 258 lb-ft (Hyundai).

6. Drivetrain Choices

   The standard CR-V Hybrid Sport price includes front-wheel drive. Many shoppers will prefer this for its remarkable fuel economy. However, you can add all-wheel drive to the CR-V Hybrid Sport or enjoy it as a standard on the CR-V Hybrid Sport Touring.

   If you prefer front-wheel drive, you’ll have to step back to a regular gas-powered Tucson. There isn’t a hybrid FWD model available in this style from Hyundai.

7. CRV Hybrid vs Tucson Hybrid Price

   The 2023 Tucson Hybrid price starts out lower than the Honda CR-V price. However, the two SUVs flip-flop when it comes to the top trim levels. In fact, the top CR-V Hybrid MSRP saves the buyer more than $5,000 over its hybrid Hyundai rival. This makes it very important to understand what you get for your money.

8. Packaging

   The standard features on the two hybrid SUVs are fairly similar, but the way they are divided is a bit different. There are two main Honda hybrid models, the Sport and Sport Touring. These are the top models in the CR-V lineup and have been packed with technology and comforts accordingly.

   Tucson Hybrid models come in Blue, SEL Convenience, SEL, and Limited trims. This adds more price points and divides the features list more.

9. Technology

   The two are equally well equipped with technology. Dash tech includes a choice of two touchscreens, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and an available digital instrument panel. It may look different on the Honda hybrid due to the clever streamlined horizontal dash design and the glare-blocking screen hood.

   While both have rear view cameras, only Honda provides a camera with three angles to show you more. Furthermore, Honda airbags have been completely redesigned for smarter, more cushioned deployment. Plus, there are ten airbags, beating most competitors including the 2023 Tucson Hybrid.

10. Driver Assistance

    Driver assistance standards are similar on both. This includes an emergency autobrake with forward collision warnings, lane watch, lane keeping, and more. A blind spot monitor is standard, bringing with it rear cross traffic alerts.

    However, the Honda system is better than ever. For 2023, it has been upgraded with the ability to see better and, therefore, work better. It has a wider range via both camera and radar to allow it to see more up front and respond more accurately.

    Furthermore, Honda has exclusive road departure assistance. This includes the ability to assist with braking and steering if the SUV starts to leave the road.

    For the new model year, Honda has greatly improved its smart cruise control. As before it slows and speeds automatically, but it does its job with greater precision. Another helpful aspect is traffic jam assist, which isn’t currently available on the hybrid Hyundai.

Conclusion

To sum it up, Honda gets the nod for its comprehensive and successful redesign as well as the best fuel efficiency and the best cargo space.

Plus, shoppers will find a better, more complete package at both CR-V Hybrid trim levels.

That’s evidence right there that it’s worth a test drive of the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid to see what it can do for you. Stop by Earnhardt Honda and judge the value for yourself.