New Hyundai Tucson vs Ford Kuga: verdict
Versatile and potentially cheap to run, plug-in hybrid SUVs are tempting for families and company car drivers alike. Let’s see if the new Tucson has what it takes to beat the class-leading Kuga...
Our Verdict
These are two of the best plug-in hybrid SUVs on sale, and which is right for you really depends on your priorities. If those are agile handling and excellent fuel economy when not running on battery power then choose the Kuga. It’s also the usefully cheaper option for those paying cash or signing up to a PCP deal.
However, we reckon more buyers will be swayed by the Tucson’s classier interior, quieter cruising manners and more comfortable ride. Factor in its bigger boot, faster charging capability and better infotainment system and it just clinches the win. If you’re a company car driver looking for a great all-rounder without a whopping monthly tax bill, it’s well worth considering.
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1st – Hyundai Tucson
For Classier interior; cushy ride; stronger acceleration; more practical boot
Against Pricey on PCP finance; unrefined power delivery; no sliding rear seats
Recommended options Metallic paint (£665)
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Read our full Hyundai Tucson review >>
Find Hyundai Tucson deals >>
2nd – Ford Kuga
For More agile handling; better economy with battery depleted; cheaper to run; flexible seating
Against Firmer ride; cheap-feeling interior; boot could be bigger
Recommended options Driver Assistance Pack (£1100), Tech Pack (£550)
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Read our full Ford Kuga review >>
Find Ford Kuga deals >>
Specifications: Hyundai Tucson
Engine 4cyl, 1598cc, turbo, petrol, plus electric motor
Peak power 261bhp (combined)
Peak torque 258Ib ft (combined)
Gearbox 6-spd automatic
0-60mph 7.6sec
30-70mph 6.8sec
Top speed 119mph
30-0mph 8.5m
70-0mph 42.0m
Noise at 30mph 61.5db
Noise at 70mph 67.6db
Kerb weight 1818kg
Tyre size (std) 235/50 R19
Fuel tank 42 litres
CO2 emissions 31g/km
Battery capacity 13.8kWh
Peak charging rate 7.2kW
Charging time 1hr 42min (0-100%)
Specifications: Ford Kuga
Engine 4cyl, 2448cc, petrol, plus electric motor
Peak power 222bhp (combined)
Peak torque 148Ib ft (petrol), 170lb ft (electric)
Gearbox CVT automatic
0-60mph 9.4sec
30-70mph 7.7sec
Top speed 125mph
30-0mph 7.7m
70-0mph 46.2m
Noise at 30mph 62.5db
Noise at 70mph 68.9db
Kerb weight 1844kg
Tyre size (std) 235/50 R19
Fuel tank 45 litres
CO2 emissions 25g/km
Battery capacity 14.4kWh
Peak charging rate 3.7kW
Charging time 3hr 30min (0-100%)
Test weather conditions Dry
Cars pictured
Ford Kuga 2.5 Duratec PHEV ST-Line X Edition with White Platinum metallic paint (£850) and 20in alloy pearl grey alloy wheels (£1100)
Hyundai Tucson 1.6 T-GDI Plug-in Hybrid Premium with Dark Knight Grey Pearl metallic paint (£665)
