Top 3 Hyundai Cars & SUVs for Families
When you are shopping for a new family vehicle, there are a number of factors to consider in order to find the right choice. You need enough power to handle highways around Kansas City, tech and comfort so everyone can relax on rides, and safety features to keep everyone protected. Fortunately, Hyundai makes some of the best cars for families on the market today. In this roundup, we’ll look at the best cars for families and examine three different sizes of vehicles and what makes them stand out from the competition. Read on to learn why Hyundais are great cars for parents.
If you’re shopping for a reliable family vehicle near Olathe, Overland Park, Lenexa, or Kansas City, Hyundai offers some of the safest and most versatile options on the road today. At McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe, we help families compare sedans and SUVs to find the perfect combination of space, comfort, safety, and value. Here are three of the best Hyundai vehicles for families in 2025.
Best Car for Families: Hyundai Sonata
For fans of sedans, there are few that compete with the value delivered by the Hyundai Sonata, especially when it comes to getting your family around town. Ideal for smaller or starting families, the Sonata seats up to five and has a solid amount of cargo space to pack essentials. The trunk offers 15.6 cubic feet of storage, while the interior delivers 104.4 cubic feet of passenger volume. The Hyundai Sonata comes standard with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine worth 192 horsepower, more than enough to tackle the highways; additionally, other Hyundai Sonata trims offer more powerful engines, if that’s your thing. Front-wheel drive is standard, though some trims have available all-wheel drive for improved handling.
The standard infotainment system is a 12.3” touchscreen, though higher trims have navigation built in. Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® come standard across all trims, and dynamic voice recognition is available.
Where the Sonata really shines is in its safety features, though. It received a 5-star rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and comes equipped with a host of driver assistance features, including:
- Forward collision avoidance assist
- Lane keeping assist
- Lane following assist
- Driver attention warning
- Available highway driving assist
- Available surround view monitor
- And more
Best Compact SUV for Families: Hyundai Tucson
Next up is the Hyundai Tucson. While it seats five, due to its SUV style, it offers a bit more room for passengers and much more cargo space, especially with the rear seats folded down. The total passenger volume clocks in at 108.2 cubic feet, and the max cargo space is a whopping 80.3 cubic feet. All Hyundai Tucson trims share the same engine, a 2.5L 4-cylinder that makes 187 horsepower. While a little less than the Sonata, it still offers plenty of pep, with slightly more fun when it comes to handling. You’ll also have a choice between FWD or AWD, depending on the trim.
Heated front seats are available, but heated rear seats are only available on the highest trim, the Hyundai Tucson Limited. The infotainment system is the same as the Sonata, a 12.3” touchscreen with available built-in navigation, as well as Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® compatibility.
Once again, safety reigns in a Hyundai, thanks to the SmartSense suite, with features including:
- Blind-spot collision warning
- Available blind-spot monitoring
- Lane assist
- Available highway driving assist
- Smart cruise control
- Safe exit warning
- And more
Best Midsize SUV for Families: Hyundai Palisade
For larger families or for those who want the most room for stretching out, the Hyundai Palisade is the top choice. This 3-row behemoth seats up to eight, so if your family is growing, it’s perfect. The standard Palisade comes with a 3.5L V-6 engine with 287 horsepower; the Hyundai Palisade Hybrid comes with a setup that nets a powerful 329 horsepower. With available AWD, if you and your family like heading off-road, the Palisade is more than capable of getting you to your next camping trip home base.
If you need additional comfort, you can opt for the available heated second and third rows. All Hyundai Palisade trims, like the Sonata and Tucson, come with a 12.3” infotainment system; higher trims get onboard navigation and traffic flow updates. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard, though upper-level trims get an intercom system to speak to passengers in the back without needing to yell.
We once again see a five-star rating from the IIHS for the Palisade, with safety features including:
- Intelligent speed limit assist
- Blind-spot collision warning
- Rear cross-traffic avoidance assist
- Lane following assist
- Lane keeping assist
- Highway driving assist
- Available surround view monitor
- Navigation-based smart cruise control
- And more
Test Drive a New Hyundai Today
Ready to pick the best car or SUV for your family? Look no further than McCarthy Olathe Hyundai. Head down to our showroom to explore our full lineup of new and pre-owned Hyundai vehicles to find the perfect fit for your family. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a test drive!
Families throughout Olathe, Shawnee, Gardner, and the greater Kansas City metro trust McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe for competitive pricing, Hyundai specials, and a stress-free buying experience. Whether you prefer a sedan like the Sonata or a spacious SUV like the Tucson or Palisade, our team is here to help you choose with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hyundai Family Vehicles
1. Which Hyundai is best for a growing family?
The Hyundai Palisade is ideal for growing families because it offers three rows of seating and room for up to eight passengers.
2. Is the Hyundai Tucson big enough for a family of four?
Yes. The Tucson offers spacious seating for five and up to 80.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded.
3. Does the Hyundai Sonata have good safety ratings?
Yes. The Sonata has earned top safety ratings and comes standard with advanced driver assistance features.
4. Which Hyundai SUV has the most passenger space?
The Hyundai Palisade offers the most passenger volume, making it the most spacious Hyundai SUV for families.
5. Where can I test drive a Hyundai family vehicle near Kansas City?
You can test drive the Sonata, Tucson, or Palisade at McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe, located at 683 North Rawhide Drive in Olathe, KS.
6 Weird Car Sounds and What They (Could) Mean
One of the worst feelings as a driver is to hear an unusual sound coming from your car. When a weird car noise happens, it could be any number of issues that you’ll need to address (usually quickly) at a nearby auto service center. From simple fixes such as necessary brake replacement to larger problems like the transmission starting to falter, there’s plenty to keep your senses attuned to.
If you’re hearing unusual sounds while driving around Olathe, Overland Park, Lenexa, or the greater Kansas City area, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected quickly. At McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe, our certified technicians help drivers diagnose and repair strange car noises before they turn into expensive problems. Below, we break down the most common weird car sounds and what they could mean.
Why Does My Car Squeak When I Turn?
A squeaking sound from your car, truck, or SUV is usually the first warning sign that something isn’t right, and it will only get worse from there. In most cases, a squeaking sound that only happens when you turn is caused by the power steering system beginning to fail, the suspension loosening and wearing out, or a problem with your tires.
- The power steering system may be low on fluid, or the parts from your steering wheel to your tires could be wearing out, such as ball joints or rods.
- You may find that your shocks or struts have worn down significantly enough to begin squeaking.
- For your tires, you may need to add air or check the tread level.
In any event, a trusted auto service center should be able to diagnose the problem fairly quickly.
Why Is My Car Making a Rattling Noise?
A rattling sound could be as inconspicuous as a loose part knocking around to more costly components, such as your pipes, heat shield, or catalytic converter, wearing down. Unfortunately, a rattling sound from your vehicle could be any number of things. Other culprits include:
- Low oil leading to friction and parts clanking in your engine
- A failing timing chain
- A failing serpentine belt
- Loose or worn engine mounts
- And suspension issues
While it could be a harmless sound an older car makes over time, it’s best not to ignore rattling sounds, as it could be a major issue that’s waiting to rear its head.
Why Is My Car Making a Clicking Noise?
A clicking noise usually happens when you go to turn on your vehicle, which explains why the culprit is often located in the starting system. You could have low or dirty oil, causing the engine to click, or it could be a part of the ignition system.
- A faulty alternator will click as it tries to turn the car on
- A nearly-dead battery can cause clicking when you turn the key
- The starter itself may be faulty, though you’ll usually only hear one louder click if this is the case
- A loose connection to the brake system has been known to cause clicking sounds when you apply pressure to the pedal
- Or a worn timing chain may click (or rattle)
If you want to try saving a trip to an auto body shop, you can try checking your battery for corrosion, changing your oil, and jump-starting your battery. If the clicking sound stops, you’re in the clear for a bit. As always, it’s usually best to have a professional look things over.
Why Is My Car Making a Grinding Sound?
In most cases, if you hear a grinding sound, it’s your brakes. It takes quite a bit to get to a grinding sound, and you would have had to have ignored a squealing sound when braking for it to develop. Essentially, your brake pads have worn down so much that it’s metal-on-metal to slow your car to a stop.
A grinding sound is never something you should ignore, as it means you’re not only in for a brake repair job, but likely will need to replace your rotors and calipers. Bring your car in immediately if you start hearing a grinding sound.
Why Is My Car Making a Humming Sound?
If you hear humming, clunking, or buzzing, you may have an issue with your tires wearing unevenly, but it’s most likely your transmission warning you that it’s on its way out. If you also notice a burning smell or trouble shifting gears, you’ll know it’s the transmission. Unfortunately, that can be a costly repair, so it may be better to look into a new vehicle or pre-owned vehicle, depending on the age and mileage of your current vehicle.
Drivers throughout Olathe, Overland Park, Gardner, Shawnee, and Kansas City trust McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe for professional vehicle diagnostics and repairs. Whether you drive a Hyundai or another make, our factory-trained technicians are here to help.
Bring Your Vehicle to a Trusted Auto Service Center
Your car shouldn’t make strange noises, and if you hear any, it’s ill-advised to ignore them. Weird car noises are some of the earliest warning signs that your car is facing issues, and the longer you avoid bringing it to an auto repair shop, the more likely it is that the problem will worsen and will increase your repair bills.
Save yourself the time and trouble and visit our service center if you hear strange car noises at any point; we’ll be happy to help diagnose the problem and offer options to fix it or potentially trade it in for a newer vehicle. Contact us or call us at 913-324-7200 to schedule an appointment, or schedule service online using our helpful tool.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strange Car Noises
1. Should I drive my car if it’s making a strange noise?
It depends on the sound. Grinding or loud knocking noises should not be ignored and may require immediate service. If you are unsure, schedule a diagnostic appointment at McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe as soon as possible.
2. How much does it cost to diagnose a weird car sound?
Diagnostic costs vary depending on the issue. Many service centers, including McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe, offer transparent pricing and will explain repair options before any work begins.
3. Can low oil cause unusual engine noises?
Yes. Low or dirty oil can cause ticking, knocking, or rattling sounds due to increased friction between engine components.
4. Why does my car make noise when braking?
Squealing or grinding during braking often means your brake pads are worn and may need replacement. Ignoring brake noises can lead to rotor damage.
5. Where can I get my car checked near Olathe, KS?
You can schedule service at McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe, conveniently located at 683 North Rawhide Drive in Olathe, KS.
Top 3 Hyundai Models for Car Camping
If you’re planning a camping trip near Olathe, Overland Park, Lenexa, or the greater Kansas City area, choosing the right SUV can make all the difference. At McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe, we help outdoor enthusiasts find Hyundai SUVs that combine space, capability, and comfort for unforgettable adventures. Here are the top Hyundai models for car camping in 2025.
Car camping in an SUV is a fun and easy activity to enjoy the nature around us, just outside of Kansas City, Olathe, and Overland Park. Simply pack up, drive, and enjoy a break from routine, everyday life, and work; sit back and relax. However, Car camping in an SUV requires a little bit of thought and prep, especially when it comes to choosing the right Hyundai vehicle for your adventure. Fortunately, there are some great options in the Hyundai lineup, so we’ll review the 3 best SUVs for car camping to help you narrow down your choice. Read on to find out which Hyundai SUV is right for you.
2025 Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is perfect for solo, duo, or smaller groups to go camping, particularly when you plan on staying in a tent. When you plan on car camping in an SUV alone or with one other person, it is possible to configure the interior cabin to accommodate sleeping. Or, you can purchase a Hyundai car camping tent that can attach to the trunk or sit atop the SUV.
The Hyundai Tucson comes with a 2.5L, 4-cylinder engine that delivers 187 horsepower, so you’ll have enough power to tackle the trails to get to the good spots. Front wheel drive comes standard on all trims, and while that will likely get the trek done, we recommend going for the available all-wheel drive for the improved handling, especially for off-road. Now let’s look at space.
The Hyundai Tucson is a compact SUV with seating for up to five passengers, but there’s plenty of space despite the compact moniker. You’ll have access to a max of 80.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, which is plenty of space to sleep. Or, you can use that space for loading gear if you plan to use a tent. Total passenger volume is 108.2 cubic feet, which is a very comfortable ride if you bring some friends along. If you want more space or power, read on to learn about the larger siblings in the Hyundai family of SUVs.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe
We mentioned power, and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe delivers. The standard turbocharged 2.5L, 4-cylinder engine is standard across all trims, so you’ll have control of a whopping 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. Max towing capacity is 4,500 lbs. if you choose the XRT trim and get trailer brakes, otherwise you’ll have a maximum of 3,500 pounds with trailer brakes. Like the Tucson, the Santa Fe comes standard with front-wheel drive. With all of that power, you can handle more challenging trails, but we once again recommend stepping up to the all-wheel drive option to make sure you don’t get stuck.
Space is no issue, as the Santa Fe is a three-row SUV with seating for up to seven passengers. Max cargo space clocks in at 79.6 cubic feet, so there’s no shortage of storage space for gear when you go camping. Passenger volume is 151 cubic feet, so you can comfortably sleep in the back if you choose to forego a car tent. Properly equipped, you could take the Santa Fe out for quite a long stretch. But what if you wanted an even bigger ride?
2025 Hyundai Palisade
Like the Tucson and Santa Fe, the Hyundai Palisade only has one engine across all the trims. However, that engine has power. You’ll have a 3.8L, V-6 engine worth 291 horsepower under the hood, so feel free to hit the rugged trails to get to the pristine, untouched, and secluded spots when SUV camping. With all of that power, and properly equipped, you can haul up to 5,000 lbs. with the Palisade, so you can camp to your heart’s content. Front-wheel drive is again standard, but AWD is available on all but one trim. The Calligraphy Night Edition comes standard with all-wheel drive.
Looking for the most space for camping? The Palisade has you covered. Enjoy seating for up to eight passengers, a max of 86.4 cubic feet of cargo space with seats folded, and 155.3 cubic feet of passenger volume to lounge on the ride.
The Best SUVs for Camping for Sale in Kansas City
If you’re looking for the best SUV for car camping and to take SUV camping to the next level, head down to McCarthy Olathe Hyundai to see our lineup of new Hyundai vehicles and pre-owned Hyundai vehicles to find the perfect fit for your needs and budget. Contact us today to learn more and to schedule a test drive of your next Hyundai SUV.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hyundai SUVs for Camping
1. Which Hyundai SUV is best for car camping?
The best Hyundai SUV for camping depends on your needs. The Tucson works well for solo or couple trips, the Santa Fe offers more power and space, and the Palisade provides maximum cargo and passenger room.
2. Can you sleep inside a Hyundai Tucson?
Yes. With the rear seats folded down, the Tucson offers up to 80.3 cubic feet of cargo space, which can accommodate sleeping arrangements for one or two people.
3. Which Hyundai SUV has the most cargo space?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade offers up to 86.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, making it ideal for camping gear and larger groups.
4. Is AWD recommended for camping trips?
All-wheel drive is recommended for camping, especially if you plan to drive on gravel, dirt roads, or uneven terrain around Kansas and Missouri.
5. Where can I buy a Hyundai SUV for camping near Kansas City?
You can explore the 2025 Hyundai Tucson, Santa Fe, and Palisade at McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe, conveniently located at 683 North Rawhide Drive in Olathe, KS.
Hyundai Santa Fe Vs. Tucson: Which is Right for Me?
Looking for a new Hyundai SUV? You’ve likely come across the 2025 Hyundai Tucson and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe by now, but like many shoppers, you may be unsure which one is the better choice for you. Do you want more power, or is space more important? Which tech and safety features come standard on which vehicle? Is one better for towing larger payloads than the other?
If you’re shopping for a new SUV near Olathe, Overland Park, Lenexa, or Kansas City, chances are you’re comparing the 2025 Hyundai Tucson and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe. At McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe, we help drivers find the perfect Hyundai SUV based on their lifestyle, family size, and performance needs. Below, we break down the key differences to help you decide which model is right for you.
Hyundai Santa Fe Vs. Hyundai Tucson: Size
The first and most notable difference between the Santa Fe and the Tucson is their size. The Hyundai Santa Fe is a midsize SUV (and is at the top of the list for best midsize SUV), while the Tucson is a small-but-mighty compact SUV. The Tucson seats up to five (5) passengers, making it an attractive option for new or smaller families. Stepping things up, the Santa Fe can seat between six (6) and seven (7) passengers (depending on the seating configuration you choose), making it an ideal midsize SUV for larger families or those who want a bit more space.
The interior dimensions of the Santa Fe and Tucson are:
Santa Fe
- Max cargo space: 79.6 cubic feet
- Max passenger volume: 152 cubic feet
Tucson
- Max cargo space: 80.3 cubic feet
- Max passenger volume 108.2
As you can see from the numbers above, the Tucson has a tad more cargo space due to its design, but the Santa Fe has a massive lead in passenger volume, meaning more room is dedicated to the comfort of riders than storage.
Hyundai Santa Fe Vs. Hyundai Tucson: Performance
As you may expect from the size difference, the base engines available in the Tucson and Santa Fe differ. The Tucson comes standard with a 2.5L, 4-cylinder engine that delivers 187 horsepower. The Santa Fe, on the other hand. Also has a 2.5L engine, but it’s a turbocharged 4-cylinder that pumps out 277 horsepower. Their maximum towing capacities reflect their engine sizes.
The Tucson can haul 2,000 lbs., while the Santa Fe can tow up to 4,500 lbs. Front-wheel drive comes standard on all five trims of the Tucson, while the Santa Fe has front-wheel drive standard on all but one trim, the Santa Fe XRT. However, all-wheel drive is available on all trims.
Hyundai Santa Fe Vs. Hyundai Tucson: Interior and Tech
The Tucson entry trims come with cloth seating, while the entry-level trim of the Santa Fe, the SE, comes with YES Essentials® stain-resistant cloth seats. To get to H-Tex® trimmed seats in the Tucson, you’ll have to choose the SEL Convenience Package. To get heated and ventilated leather seating, you’ll need to choose the Limited trim of both vehicles.
Regardless of the trim you choose, both the Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe come standard with a 12.3” infotainment touchscreen with Wireless Android Auto™ & Apple CarPlay® and available dynamic voice recognition. For those who like to feel the wind in their hair, only the Santa Fe has an available sunroof. A hands-free power liftgate is standard on all trims of the Santa Fe, while it’s an available feature on the Tucson.
Hyundai Santa Fe Vs. Hyundai Tucson: Safety
Both the Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe come with Hyundai SafetySense, the safety and driver assistance suite that protects you and your passengers while driving in and around Kansas City, Olathe, and Overland Park. While some driver assistance features are only available on higher-level trims of either vehicle, standard safety features include:
- Blind-spot warnings
- Lane keeping assist
- Safe exit warning
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian (FCA-Ped), Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection
- Electronic stability control
- And more.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Santa Fe four stars overall for safety, and the Tucson received five stars overall.
Test Drive a New Hyundai Today
Still unsure of whether you should choose the Hyundai Tucson or Santa Fe? The best way to decide is to head down to our Olathe Hyundai dealership and test drive both vehicles to see which feels right. Our team is ready and excited to help you determine your wants and needs from your next Hyundai vehicle and guide you to the perfect fit. Contact us today to learn more about our Hyundai specials and to schedule a test drive, or schedule a test drive online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hyundai Santa Fe vs Tucson
1. Which is bigger, the Hyundai Santa Fe or Tucson?
The Hyundai Santa Fe is larger. It is a midsize SUV with available third-row seating, while the Tucson is a compact SUV with seating for five.
2. Which Hyundai SUV has better towing capacity?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offers more towing power, with up to 4,500 lbs when properly equipped. The Tucson can tow up to 2,000 lbs.
3. Is the Hyundai Tucson or Santa Fe better for families?
The Santa Fe is better for larger families because it offers seating for six or seven passengers. The Tucson is ideal for smaller families or commuters.
4. Do both SUVs come with Hyundai SafetySense?
Yes, both the 2025 Tucson and Santa Fe come standard with Hyundai SafetySense driver assistance features.
5. Where can I test drive a Hyundai Santa Fe or Tucson near Kansas City?
You can test drive both SUVs at McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe, conveniently located at 683 North Rawhide Drive in Olathe, KS.
The playing field is thick with competition for who makes the best small and midsize SUVs these days. Sometimes, the market for sporty small SUVs can even feel downright bloated. Is there such a thing as too many options? Some say there is. After all, buying an SUV for the family is no minor commitment. So, how do you know you’re making the right choice?
In the race for best compact SUV, Hyundai has clearly and consistently been a favorite for casual drivers and professional critics alike. Could there be a contender?
How about this, Greater Kansas City: we’re putting our money where our mouths are. We’re gonna give the 2023 Hyundai Tucson, and pit it against its stiffest competition on the market: the Kia Sportage.
2023 Hyundai Tucson vs. Kia Sportage: the Similarities
Right away, the savviest among readers might be cocking their heads in confusion. Aren’t Hyundai and Kia under the same corporate umbrella? Aren’t the Tucson and Sportage built using nearly identical powertrains and platforms? Wait, they’re even made in the same country! What gives?
It’s true that Hyundai and Kia are two sides of the exact same coin, generally speaking which is exactly why we figured they’re the perfect candidates for some friendly competition. There can be no denying that both are world-class family SUVs in their own right.
Base Engine, Transmission, and Drivetrains
Both SUVs come standard with front-wheel drive, with the option to upgrade to the sturdier all-wheel drive.
Likewise, the ICE (internal combustion engine) of both the Tucson and the Sportage is a 2.5L inline 4-cylinder both of which put out 187 horsepower. Some find these engines a tad underpowered, but these gas station friendly motors will have most people smiling when the time comes to check your bank account.
Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid
If draining your funds at the pump is your main concern, the Tucson and Sportage also offer hybrid and PHEV engines.
For the hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, you’re looking at a 1.6L Turbocharged 4-cylinder in both SUVs. It’s worth noting, however, that both of these options eschew front-wheel drive entirely; because of the way hybrid motors generally work, AWD is the only option available.
Fuel Economy
Considering the nearly identical design and dimensions, it should come as no surprise that both get pretty much the same mileage across the board, so long as they’re equipped with the same powertrain.
| 2023 Hyundai Tucson | 2023 Kia Sportage | |
| ICE (FWD) | 25 city/32 highway/28 combined | 25 city/32 highway/28 combined |
| ICE (AWD) | 23 city/28 highway/25 combined | 23 city/28 highway/25 combined |
| Hybrid | 38 city/38 highway/38 combined | 38 city/38 highway/38 combined |
| Plug-in Hybrid | 33 miles all-electric | 34 miles all-electric |
2023 Hyundai Tucson vs. Kia Sportage: the Differences
Remember a minute ago, when we said Hyundai and Kia are two sides of the same coin? Well, we wanna be clear: don’t leave your decision up to chance, because there are some key differences in the compact SUV rankings.
Safety
Regarding general safety ratings, both compact sport utility vehicles received high marks. When you take a closer look, though, one comes out the clear winner.
The IIHS is perhaps the most trusted standard for safety and crash test ratings, and they’ve already evaluated the 2023 models. They use a four-tier rating system for crashworthiness, with Poor being the lowest rating, then Marginal, then Acceptable, then Good as the highest rating.
For 2023, the Kia Sportage was given a Good rating in all but one: headlights. In this category, they were given a Poor rating for their base headlamps. The Sportage was given a Top Safety Pick award, which is indeed impressive, but it actually isn’t the highest honor they hand out.
The Hyundai Tucson, on the other hand, was granted the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, earning almost perfect marks across all crash categories tested, meaning the Tucson is the undeniable winner for safest small SUV.
Driver Assistance Features
Once again, it’s a close call. Both Hyundai Smartsense and Kia Drive Wise include multiple ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) features, including:
- Front Collision Warning
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Departure Warning
- Lane Following Assist
- Blind Spot Collision Avoidance
- Rear Cross Traffic Avoidance
This list and more almost places both SUVs neck-and-neck, but with the newest iteration of Hyundai SmartSense, higher trim levels offer a more impressive and complete list of ADAS features, including a Remote Smart Parking Assist in the higher-end Limited trim. For this reason, the Tucson has the edge again.
Remember: if you’re looking for a Hyundai Tucson near Kansas City, be sure to do a bit of research beforehand so you can let your sales specialist know which features you can’t live without. Or, ask about placing an order for your perfect Hyundai.
Ride Quality
Many critics and initial test drivers have pointed out that, while they may share much of the same DNA, both SUVs feel markedly different.
The Sportage, for its part, seems to want to live up to its name—it tends to cater to a marginally sportier market. That may seem like praise for Kia, but in practice, its reportedly underwhelming engine isn’t exactly tailor made for off-roading. Outdoorsy types and avid campers will likely have more luck with a more capable vehicle.
The Tucson, meanwhile, is generally described as somewhat more carlike, with a lower profile and more manageable level of bulk. Basically, this translates to a more universal level of comfort regardless of driving experience, which makes the Hyundai Tucson a better car for teen drivers to cut their teeth on.
Interior Passenger and Cargo Space
In terms of total passenger space, both plucky SUVs are, you probably guess it, pretty close to identical, with the Tucson being just a bit roomier:
| 2023 Hyundai Tucson | 2023 Kia Sportage | |
| Head Room (Front/Rear) | 40.1in/39.5in | 39.6in/39.4in |
| Leg Room (Front/Rear) | 41.4in/41.3in | 41.4in/41.3in |
| Shoulder Room (Front/Rear) | 57.6in/56.0in | 57.5in/55.6in |
| Hip Room (Front/Rear) | 54.5in/53.9in | 54.8in/53.4in |
With such minor differences in passenger volume, most consumers will likely barely notice a difference, if at all. What they will probably notice is the difference in cargo space. With the rear seats folded down, the Tucson gets an impressive 80.3 cubic feet, compared to the Sportage, which comes in at 74.1 cubic feet—that’s over six less cubes available for grocery missions, road trips, playdates, and any number of other family activities.
Warranty Coverage
Hyundai and Kia are both well-known to reign supreme when it comes to warranty coverage. Industry-leading perks include:
- 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Coverage
- 5-year/60,000-mile Bumper-to-Bumper Coverage
While it’s true that these are some of the longest terms in the game, Kia falls behind when you examine the finer points. They offer:
- 5-year/100,000-mile Anti Perforation
- 5-year/60,000-mile 24-Hour Roadside Assistance
- No Complementary Maintenance
Meanwhile, Hyundai pulls ahead pretty quickly. They offer:
- 7-year/Unlimited mile Anti-Perforation
- 5-year/Unlimited mile 24-Hour Roadside Assistance
- 3-year/36,000-mile Complementary Maintenance
Turns out, Hyundai really does have America’s Best Warranty, making the Tucson one of the most reliable midsize SUVs on the market today.
Once Again, Hyundai Beats Kia
In the contest for the best small-to-midsize SUV, Kia puts up one heck of a fight, but the 2023 Hyundai Tucson once again proves that it has that extra something that makes all the difference. If you’re curious about whether it’s the right SUV for your family, load up the kids and come on out to McCarthy Olathe Hyundai at 681 North Rawhide Drive. Give us a call at (913) 324-7200, and ask about our new vehicle specials!
Drivers throughout Olathe, Shawnee, Gardner, and the greater Kansas City metro choose McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe for competitive pricing, Hyundai specials, and one of the largest selections of new Hyundai SUVs in the area. If you’re searching for the safest and most versatile small SUV for your family, our team is here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tucson vs Sportage
1. Is the Hyundai Tucson safer than the Kia Sportage?
Yes. The 2023 Hyundai Tucson earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, while the Kia Sportage received Top Safety Pick but not the “Plus” designation.
2. Which SUV has more cargo space?
The Hyundai Tucson offers more cargo room with up to 80.3 cubic feet compared to the Sportage’s 74.1 cubic feet.
3. Does the Hyundai Tucson get better gas mileage?
Fuel economy is nearly identical across comparable trims and powertrains, including hybrid options.
4. Which SUV has the better warranty?
Hyundai offers additional benefits like 3-year/36,000-mile complimentary maintenance and unlimited-mile roadside assistance, giving it an edge over Kia.
5. Where can I test drive a Hyundai Tucson near Kansas City?
You can test drive the 2023 Hyundai Tucson at McCarthy Hyundai of Olathe, located at 681 North Rawhide Drive in Olathe, KS.
Connect with us
McCarthy Olathe Hyundai
Address
683 North Rawhide Drive
Olathe, KS 66061-3688
Phone
- Sales 913-213-0411
- Service 913-324-7200
- Parts 913-324-7200
| Monday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Thursday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Friday | 9:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Thursday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Friday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 7:00AM - 3:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Thursday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Friday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 7:00AM - 3:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |