Hyundai Tucson vs Kia Sportage

If you're browsing used SUVs and weighing up the Tucson vs Sportage question, this guide breaks down everything you need to know, including design, practicality, running costs, technology, and overall value for money.

When it comes to practical, stylish, and great‑value family SUVs, the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage are two names that consistently top UK buyers’ shortlists. These models share plenty of similarities, but they each have their own personality; depending on your priorities, one may suit your lifestyle better.

Styling and design

Hyundai Tucson

The Tucson stands out with its sharp, futuristic design, especially the newer generation with its distinctive “parametric” LED lighting. It looks more premium than many rivals, giving it a strong kerb appeal on the used market.

Kia Sportage

The Sportage has always been known for its bold styling, but the latest model pushes things further with its dramatic front end and sporty stance. It’s the more eye‑catching of the two, appealing to buyers who want something that looks modern and dynamic.

Interior and comfort

Hyundai Tucson

The Tucson’s cabin feels refined and well‑built, with soft‑touch materials and a calm, minimalist design. It’s spacious, quiet on the move, and particularly comfortable on longer journeys.

Kia Sportage

Inside, the Sportage offers a similarly high-quality feel but leans more towards sportiness. Higher‑spec models feature a curved dual‑screen layout, giving it a cutting‑edge, tech‑forward look.

Practicality and storage

Both SUVs shine as family cars. Rear passenger space is excellent in both, with plenty of headroom and legroom for adults or growing families. The Tucson tends to edge ahead slightly in overall load space, though differences vary by model year.

The Tucson offers a boot space between 526 and 591 litres depending on age and engine size. The Sportage comes in at a slightly smaller although still competitive size between 526 and 591 litres.

Engine and performance

Since both brands fall under the same parent group, you’ll find similar engine choices including petrol options, diesel (particularly popular in older used models), mild hybrids, full hybrids, and plug‑in hybrids.

Both SUVs are smooth, efficient, and easy to drive. The ride comfort is excellent, though the Tucson often feels slightly softer, while the Sportage leans into a more engaging, responsive feel.

Running costs and reliability

Hyundai and Kia are known for strong reliability and low ownership costs. Both models offer impressive real-world MPG alongside affordable servicing. Hyundai offers five years warranty and Kia offer seven years, which is hugely beneficial on used models.

Because many Kia Sportage models still hold part of their original seven‑year warranty, they often feel like the safer long‑term bet on the used market. Both models are praised for being dependable and reliable, offering peace of mind.

Technology and features

Both cars come well equipped, but spec varies by trim.

• Infotainment: large touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto on most models
• Safety: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) widely available
• Premium features: heated seats, 360° cameras, panoramic roofs appear in mid‑to‑high trims

The newer Sportage tends to offer the flashiest infotainment setup, while the Tucson emphasises simplicity and ease of use.

Used prices in the UK

Prices vary depending on age, mileage, and trim, but generally the Hyundai Tucson is the more affordable option like-for-like, while the Kia Sportage holds its value well due to demand and offers a longer warranty. For budget‑conscious buyers, the Tucson may offer better value. The Sportage may cost more but delivers stronger resale confidence.

Choose the Hyundai Tucson if you want:

• A smooth, comfortable driving experience
• More boot space and practicality
• Sleek, understated styling
• Great value on the used market

Choose the Kia Sportage if you want:

• Sportier handling and bold looks
• A high‑tech interior
• Strong resale value
• Industry‑leading warranty coverage

Hyundai Tucson vs Kia Sportage

You can’t go wrong with either the Hyundai Tucson or Kia Sportage; they’re two of the best all‑round SUVs in the UK used market. Your choice will mainly come down to the balance between comfort (Tucson) and sporty modernity (Sportage). Explore our range today and book a test drive.