Are you debating whether to buy the 2023 Toyota RAV4 or the 2023 Hyundai Tucson? Both compact crossover SUVs are good choices. In another article, we cover the advantages of the Tucson. However, for this article, we detail the advantages of the RAV4. Here are four reasons to buy a 2023 RAV4, not a 2023 Tucson.

2023 Toyota RAV4 delivers better performance than the 2023 Hyundai Tucson

The first reason to buy a 2023 Toyota RAV4 instead of a 2023 Hyundai Tucson is the RAV4 delivers better performance than the 2023 Tucson. For its engine options, the RAV4 has a higher base engine horsepower and maximum horsepower compared to the Tucson. This includes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (203 hp), a hybrid (219 hp), and a plug-in hybrid with the RAV4 Prime (308 hp).

The Tucson offers similar engine options. However, except for the hybrid, they are weaker than the ones for the RAV4: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (187 hp), a hybrid (226 hp), and a plug-in hybrid (261 hp). 

Also, the more powerful engines for the RAV4 translate to quicker acceleration. Depending on the model, the 0-60 mph time of the RAV4 ranges from 5.5 to 7.8 seconds. In comparison, the Tucson has a 0-60 mph time that ranges from 7.1 to 8.8 seconds.

2023 RAV4 gets higher gas mileage than the 2023 Tucson

The second reason to buy a 2023 Toyota RAV4 instead of a 2023 Hyundai Tucson is the RAV4 gets higher gas mileage than the 2023 Tucson. With the prices of gasoline very high these days, an efficient crossover SUV like the RAV4 means having to pay much less at the fuel pump.

The gas-powered RAV4 has an estimated gas mileage of up to 30 combined mpg, while the RAV4 Hybrid has a fuel economy of up to 40 combined mpg. Also, the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid has a fuel efficiency of 94 MPGe when in electric-only mode and 38 combined mpg in hybrid mode.

In comparison, the Tucson has an estimated gas mileage of 29 combined mpg for the gas-powered model and 38 combined mpg for the hybrid model. Also, for the Tucson Plug-In Hybrid, the fuel economy is 80 MPGe in electric-only mode and 35 combined mpg in hybrid mode.

Toyota RAV4 can tow more than the Hyundai Tucson

The third reason to buy a 2023 RAV4 instead of a 2023 Tucson is the RAV4 can tow more than the Tucson. When properly equipped, the RAV4 has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, compared to 2,000 pounds for the Tucson. With a 3,500-pound towing capacity, you can tow things such as a utility trailer, a small camping trailer, ATVs, jet skis, snowmobiles, a small horse trailer, and an aluminum fishing boat. 

2023 RAV4 has better off-road capabilities than the 2023 Tucson

The fourth reason to buy a 2023 RAV4 instead of a 2023 Tucson is the RAV4 has better off-road capabilities than the Tucson. For one, the RAV4 has higher ground clearance than the Tucson (up to 8.6 vs. 8.3 inches). Higher ground clearance enables the RAV4 to more effectively and safely drive over rugged terrain.

Also, while the Tucson offers a rugged XRT model, it doesn’t match the off-road capabilities of the RAV4’s range of off-road-focused SUVs. This includes the Wilderness Edition, TRD Off-Road, and Adventure trims.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 has advantages over the 2023 Hyundai Tucson for performance, gas mileage, towing, and off-road capabilities. These are four key reasons for crossover SUV shoppers to buy a 2023 RAV4, not a 2023 Tucson.

Stay tuned for a future article about reasons to buy a 2023 Tucson, not a 2023 RAV4. This includes advantages for interior space, safety, warranty coverage, and a cheaper price.