Table of Contents

Exterior and Key Specs: Is a Tucson bigger than a Sportage?
Driving Impressions: Is the Hyundai Tucson worth buying?

The compact crossover market is larger than ever, with dozens of models available at Indianapolis car dealerships. Gasoline, hybrid, electric, and plug-in hybrid versions further expand the options. To narrow the field, let’s focus on two standout family SUVs: the Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD and the Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige. Both are built on the same platform and share many mechanical features, but they deliver surprisingly different looks, handling, and interior experiences.

Exterior and Key Specs: Is a Tucson bigger than a Sportage?

At first glance, these two compact Kia and Hyundai SUVs are strikingly different.

Sportage rides on 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, leaning toward an adventurous image.
Tucson looks more futuristic and artsy, with emphasis on design details.

Approach, breakover, and departure angles are nearly identical, though the Tucson edges out slightly at 19.6 / 19.5 / 26.7 degrees vs. the Sportage’s 18.9 / 19.0 / 26.6. Both, however, are closer to passenger cars than true off-road SUVs.

Kia vs. Hyundai: pros and cons

Which engine is better, Kia or Hyundai?

Underneath, they are remarkably similar. Both ride on the same platform, use a 2.5-liter inline-four (187 hp, 178 lb-ft of torque), and send power through an eight-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels.

Neither the Tucson nor the Sportage is sporty. At around 3,700 pounds, their weight-to-power ratio limits speed:

0–60 mph: Both at 9.3 seconds
Quarter-mile: Sportage 16.9 sec at 82.1 mph, Tucson 17.0 sec at 83.6 mph

The Tucson has the edge in braking and handling:

60–0 mph: Tucson 118 feet, Sportage 128 feet
Figure-eight lap: Tucson 27.4 sec, Sportage 27.9 sec

Fuel efficiency sits below rivals like the Honda CR-V (and its alternatives) and Nissan Rogue.

Sportage: 23/28/25 mpg (city/highway/combined)
Tucson: 24/29/26 mpg
Honda CR-V: ~27/32/29 mpg
Nissan Rogue: ~28/35/31 mpg

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of both crossovers are significantly faster and return better mileage, with up to 30 miles of electric-only range.

Kia Sportage vs. Nissan Rogue comparison

Driving Impressions: Is the Hyundai Tucson worth buying?

Tucson vs Sportage comparison | driving experience

On regular roads, both SUVs keep things safe but uninspiring.

Hyundai Tucson: Feels closer to a sedan, with a lower driving position, firmer suspension, and heavier steering. The stiffness transmits bumps more clearly into the cabin.
Kia Sportage: Feels like a softer crossover, with lighter steering and better absorption of potholes thanks to its all-terrain tires.

Engines in both models are loud and underwhelming during passing or hill climbs, especially when passengers are aboard. Kia’s transmission tuning helps slightly: it holds gears longer and downshifts quicker, while Hyundai’s transmission rushes into higher gears and hesitates to downshift until the driver pushes the throttle hard. Both offer Sport, Smart, and Eco modes, but neither changes driving character significantly.

Interior and Comfort: Is Sportage Better Than Tucson?

Cabin and cargo space are nearly identical, but style and function differ.

Hyundai Tucson: Modern and minimalist, with metallic trim, a 10.3-inch digital cluster, and a multimedia touchscreen. Climate controls are managed by touch-sensitive buttons, which are tricky while driving. The push-button gear selector takes up unnecessary space, leaving less room for storage or extra cupholders.
Kia Sportage: Warm and inviting design with wood and metal accents, robust handles, and two 12.3-inch displays forming one curved panel. Practical touches include a wider wireless charging pad and convertible cupholders. The shared touch panel for climate and media controls is sleek but distracting on the move—drivers must check which function is active to avoid errors.

For passengers, both SUVs deliver similar levels of comfort and practicality.

Results: Tucson and Sportage comparison

Both crossovers are solid choices, but the Kia Sportage comes out on top. While the Tucson wins in design flair and braking performance, its firmer ride and transmission behavior hold it back. The Sportage scores higher for smoother handling, smarter transmission tuning, and a more inviting cabin design.

If fuel efficiency and acceleration matter most, the hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions of either SUV are the best bet, offering improved performance and efficiency along with about 30 miles of all-electric driving.

If you’re weighing the Hyundai Tucson vs. the Kia Sportage, the real difference comes down to experience behind the wheel. Come to the Indy Auto Man dealership in Indianapolis for a test drive and choose the SUV that feels like the right fit for you and your family.