The Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage represent two of the most compelling choices in the UK’s competitive compact SUV market. Both vehicles share the same parent company and underlying platform, yet each offers distinct characteristics that appeal to different buyer preferences. This comprehensive comparison examines the 2025 model year versions to help British buyers make an informed decision.
Performance and Powertrain Options
The powertrain offerings between these two SUVs reveal interesting strategic differences. The Hyundai Tucson provides a broader range of options, including a 160PS petrol engine with manual transmission starting at £30,940, whilst the Kia Sportage begins its range with a 157 BHP mild hybrid variant priced slightly lower.
Both manufacturers offer impressive hybrid technology. The Tucson’s hybrid system produces 215PS in front-wheel drive configuration, achieving a combined fuel economy of 49.6 mpg. The Sportage matches this with its 212 BHP hybrid variant, delivering 48.7 mpg in comparable specification. For those seeking maximum efficiency, the Tucson plug-in hybrid delivers an impressive 252PS whilst achieving up to 282.5 mpg and offering 43 miles of electric-only range.
Acceleration and Driving Dynamics
Performance figures favour the hybrid variants of both vehicles. The Tucson hybrid achieves 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds for the front-wheel drive version, whilst the Sportage hybrid manages the same sprint in 8.4 seconds. Both vehicles feature sophisticated suspension systems, with MacPherson struts at the front and multi-link rear setups ensuring composed handling on British roads.
Dimensions and Practicality
The dimensional differences between these vehicles are minimal but noteworthy. The Tucson measures 4,510-4,520mm in length, making it marginally longer than the Sportage. Both vehicles share similar width measurements, with the Tucson at 1,865mm. The wheelbase measurements are nearly identical, with the Tucson’s 2,680mm providing excellent interior space.
Boot Space and Storage
Luggage capacity varies significantly depending on the chosen powertrain. The Tucson offers 620 litres of boot space in petrol variants, reducing to 577 litres in mild hybrid versions and 558 litres in plug-in hybrid models. The Kia Sportage provides comparable space with 562 litres in standard configurations, expanding to 587 litres in hybrid variants but dropping to 540 litres for the plug-in hybrid.
Technology and Features
Both vehicles showcase cutting-edge technology with 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation systems as standard on most trim levels. The Tucson features Bluelink connectivity with a 10-year LITE subscription included, whilst the Sportage offers 7-year Kia Connect services. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on both models, ensuring seamless smartphone integration for UK drivers.
Driver Assistance Technologies
Safety technology represents a key battleground between these competitors. The Tucson includes Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with junction turning functionality across all trim levels. Higher specifications add Highway Drive Assist and Blind Spot View Monitor. The Sportage matches these features but reserves some advanced systems like Remote Smart Parking Assist for top-tier GT-Line S variants.
Interior Quality and Comfort
Interior appointments differ notably between the brands despite shared underpinnings. The Tucson offers leather seat facings in Ultimate trim with options for Black, Moss Grey, or Cypress Green colour schemes. The Sportage provides leather and suede combinations in GT-Line variants, with the unique Midnight Green artificial leather option in Shadow specification.
Both vehicles prioritise passenger comfort with heated front seats standard across most trims. Ventilated seats appear on higher specifications, with the Tucson Ultimate and Sportage GT-Line S both featuring this premium amenity. Rear seat heating varies by trim level, with the Tucson Premium and above including this feature.
Cabin Technology
The driver display technology showcases each manufacturer’s approach to digitalisation. The Tucson features a 12.3-inch LCD supervision cluster across all models, whilst the Sportage reserves this for models above the base GT-Line, which makes do with a 4.2-inch display. Audio systems differ too, with the Tucson offering KRELL premium audio on Premium trims and above, whilst the Sportage GT-Line S features a Harman Kardon system.
Running Costs, Insurance, and Warranty
Insurance group ratings favour the Sportage slightly, with the entry-level GT-Line starting in group 19E compared to the Tucson Advance’s group 16E rating. However, comparable trim levels show similar insurance costs. Autodoc experts recommend regular oil changes for the Tucson to maintain optimal performance and reliability throughout ownership.
Warranty Coverage
Both manufacturers offer exceptional warranty packages that set them apart from many competitors. Hyundai provides a five-year unlimited mileage warranty with 12 years’ anti-perforation cover. Kia’s seven-year warranty extends even further, though specific mileage limitations may apply after the initial period.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Tucson’s retail price begins at £30,940 for the Advance 1.6T petrol manual, rising to £45,095 for the Ultimate plug-in hybrid all-wheel drive variant. The Sportage shows competitive positioning, being cheaper overall at a retail price of £28,850 for the 1.6T-GDi petrol manual and the highest price being £44,995 for the variants of the plug-in hybrid. Though the exact differences of trim are something to keep in mind.
Equipment Levels
Standard equipment levels impress on both vehicles. Even entry-level Tucson Advance models include LED headlights, privacy glass, dual-zone climate control, and comprehensive connectivity features. The Sportage GT-Line matches this generosity whilst adding its distinctive styling elements. Moving up the range, both vehicles add premium features like panoramic sunroofs, advanced driver assistance systems, and enhanced audio systems at similar price points.
Environmental Considerations
Both vehicles offer impressive environmental credentials, particularly in hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. The Tucson plug-in hybrid achieves just 22-29g/km CO2 emissions depending on specification, whilst offering substantial company car tax benefits for business users. The Sportage plug-in hybrid matches these figures closely, making both vehicles attractive options for environmentally conscious buyers and fleet operators.
Electric Driving Range
Plug-in hybrid variants of both models offer similar electric-only capabilities. The Tucson PHEV provides up to 43 miles of electric range, whilst the Sportage PHEV achieves a comparable figure. Real-world usage will vary based on driving conditions, but both vehicles offer sufficient range for typical UK daily commutes on electric power alone.
Maintenance and Reliability
Regular maintenance remains crucial for both vehicles’ long-term reliability. Service intervals are set at 12 months or 10,000 miles for all Sportage variants, ensuring straightforward maintenance scheduling. For those preferring DIY maintenance or seeking replacement parts, Kia Sportage repair components are readily available through various suppliers.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage ultimately depends on individual priorities. The Tucson offers slightly more interior space, a broader powertrain range, and Hyundai’s sophisticated design language. The Sportage counters with Kia’s longer warranty, competitive pricing, and distinctive styling that stands out in traffic.
Both vehicles represent excellent value in the compact SUV segment, offering advanced technology, impressive fuel efficiency, and comprehensive safety features. British buyers should test drive both models, considering factors like preferred styling, specific equipment requirements, and local dealer support when making their final decision.
The negligible differences in core capabilities mean the choice often comes down to subjective preferences regarding design, brand loyalty, and specific feature availability at desired price points. Either choice delivers a capable, efficient, and well-equipped family SUV suited to UK driving conditions.
Powertrain Comparison: Hyundai Tucson vs. Kia Sportage (2025)
| Model | Fuel Type | Drivetrain | Engine Displacement (cc) | Max Power (PS/bhp) | Torque (Nm) | Transmission | Electric Motor Output (kW) | Battery Capacity (kWh) | Fuel Tank (L) | 0–62 mph (s) | Top Speed (mph) |
| Tucson 1.6T 160PS 6MT 2WD | Petrol | 2WD | 1598 | 160 PS | 265 | 6MT | – | – | 54 | 9.9 | 121 |
| Tucson 1.6T Hybrid 6AT 2WD | Hybrid | 2WD | 1598 | 215 PS | 264 | 6AT | 44.1 | – | 52 | 8.2 | 116 |
| Tucson 1.6T Plug-in Hybrid 6AT AWD | Plug-in Hybrid | AWD | 1598 | 252 PS | 304 | 6AT | 66.9 | 88 | 42 | 8.2 | 116 |
| Sportage 1.6 T-GDi 48V MT 2WD | Mild Hybrid | 2WD | 1598 | 157 bhp | 264 | 6MT | – | – | 54 | 9.9 | 120 |
| Sportage 1.6 T-GDi HEV 6AT 2WD | Hybrid | 2WD | 1598 | 212 bhp | 350 | 6AT | 44.2 | 1.49 | 52 | 8.4 | 115 |
| Sportage 1.6 T-GDi PHEV 6AT AWD | Plug-in Hybrid | AWD | 1598 | 248 bhp | 350 | 6AT | 66.9 | 13.8 | 42 | 8.4 | 115 |
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