2021 Hyundai Tucson

When it comes to the Tucson's ride, it's clear that it's been tuned to deliver an unassuming and civil experience. Comfort is the core focus here rather than performance, so while it can be rather boring to commute around, it is easy to drive on a daily basis, and it remains pleasantly composed and soft most of the time. Hyundai's HTRAC AWD system is more for casual, everyday driving in inclement weather than bonafide off-roading, which makes sense considering the Tucson's urban-centric approach. Everyday road undulations and minor abrasions are taken in the suspension's stride, though the Sport trims 19-inch wheels do make things a little bumpier.

Despite its tall height, the Tucson feels sturdy and controlled around bends even if they're taken a little quicker than intended. Its steering does feel a little too loose, however, and could supply the driver with more feedback, even in the Sport driving mode, which supposedly adjusts the steering's sensitivity and the throttle responses. The braking feel is exceptionally well balanced, not weak or overly grippy, but rather firm and well-modulated, and stopping power is more than appropriate.

The Hyundai Tucson is an exceptional family vehicle and a leading compact SUV. As standard, the little cruiser boasts class-leading safety and reliability ratings and comes equipped with a comprehensive consignment of protective measures. It's rich in value no matter which trim you opt for, with loads of creature comforts and conveniences included right from the starter model. Its ride quality is exemplary for an urban runabout, too, and any driver will have little to complain about when it comes to living with the Tucson on a daily basis. If anything, the Tucson could do with a better selection of engines, however, either more powerful or imbued with turbocharging to match the standards set by competitors. While the Tucson will never be as athletic or as enjoyable to drive as its competitors, it's perfectly fine as a casual everyday transporter. Its cabin is spacious and well-arranged, offering the driver and passengers plenty of comfort and convenience. The trunk and flat-folding rear seats offer a decent level of versatility and practicality, solidifying its purpose. Plus, with a complete remodel scheduled for 2021, this year's Tucson may sell at a very good deal, so be sure to keep your eyes open for dealer specials.

The latest Sante Fe rides into the new year with a comprehensive selection of enhancements and reshuffled features, so it is a little more up-to-date than the Tucson, which is scheduled for a complete remodeling next year. The Sante Fe is larger than the Tucson, and, as such, it features a more powerful base engine and a frugal turbocharged 2.0-liter unit for the two top-tier trims. It is also a little pricier than the Tucson, and for that extra money, buyers only really get more trunk space, a whole four cubic feet more to be exact, which may not be worthwhile to some considering that passenger room remains almost identical to that of the Tucson. Both nameplates otherwise offer the same in-cabin quality, features, and safety and reliability, so if anything, we'd suggest holding off buying either and wait to see what the all-new 2022 Tucson will offer.

The Tucson has a lot in common vs the Kia Sportage; as its corporate cousin, they share many similarities in terms of their design, ethos, and spec sheets. Performance-wise, the Sportage takes the cake; both its engine options, one of which gets a turbo and outputs of 240 hp, feel a lot more competent and both prove to be a little more frugal at the same time. The Tucson carries a more sophisticated look on the outside and in its cabin design. It's the more practical SUV, too, offering a little more passenger room and a larger trunk. Both essentially offer the same value when it comes to features and quality overall, but the Sportage wins our favor purely for its better-performing engines.