HONDA CR-V DIESEL VS HYUNDAI TUCSON CRDI Head to Head

3,626 views · Published 3 May 2018 · 5:40 · Indexed 12 November 2026

Channel: Auto Focus · 2018 · Autos & Vehicles

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Setting the benchmark for any segment is for sure the goal of every car companies when coming up with new models. When talking about the compact crossover segment, there are two cars that easily come to mind: the Honda CR-V and the Hyundai Tucson. In this week’s Head-to-Head, we take a closer look at these two vehicles and let’s see how they are similar and different.
Here we have the SX variant of the CR-V. Just like all the other 7-seater variants of the 2018 CR-V, it is powered by a 1.6-liter DOHC i-DTEC turbo diesel engine developed under Honda’s Earth Dreams technology. This engine gives out 120 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the Tucson is powered by a 2-liter CRDI unit that produces 185 PS of power and 402 Nm of torque. Comparing the engine figures of the two vehicles, the Tucson has a higher set of numbers than the CR-V 
Additionally, the two also differ with their powertrain set-up. The CR-V runs on an All-Wheel Drive system, while the Tucson is equipped with a Front-Wheel Drive configuration.
These differences continue on with the cars’ transmission set-ups. The CR-V’s turbo diesel engine is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. On the other hand, the Tucson’s engine is coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Let’s now check the exterior designs of the two.
Outside the CR-V, Honda’s design concept of “Modern Functional Dynamic” is evident with the sharp-lined grille that showcases a sportier look. Moreover, the CR-V is equipped with the standard 18-inch alloy wheels. All variants of the CR-V have full LED headlights with Guide-Type LED daytime running lights, but the SX variant has a High Beam Support. Additionally, the SX gets a panoramic sunroof, power tailgate, and rain-sensing wipers.
Meanwhile, the Tucson also follows its brand’s signature design. Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 philosophy” aerodynamics is easily seen in the Tucson with its grill that takes center stage and is complemented by a pair of slim headlights. The design carries on to the side and rear of the car. Similar to the CR-V, the Tucson also has 18-inch alloy wheels.
After the exteriors, it’s now time to hop onto the interiors of the two.
Taking a look inside the CR-V, the driver’s seat is fitted with an 8-way power adjustment with 4-way lumbar support that offers level of comfort. The second-row seats, on the other hand, offer 60:40 split sliding and reclining function for easy access into the third row. The Tucson, like the CR-V, also get leather seats with 8-way power adjust for the driver and 4-way for the passenger. As for the rear seats, it gets a 60:40 split.
Checking a major highlight of every car’s interiors, the CR-V has an infotainment system that is headlined by a 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio system with Bluetooth connectivity and equipped with 8 speakers. The CR-V variants have GPS navigation and additional controls for its dual-zone climate control system.
Moving to the Tucson, its infotainment system is simpler compared to the CR-V. It uses a 4.3-inch LCD. Functions include CD, MP3, Aux Input, Bluetooth and USB, with the audio being coursed through 6 speakers.
When it comes to safety features, the CR-V is equipped with the standard safety and security features. But what makes the CR-V special is that it comes with Honda SENSING technology, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Low Speed Follow, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keep Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation, Forward Collision Warning, and Lane Departure Warning. Additional safety features such as Honda LaneWatch camera, side airbags, curtain airbags, and a Walk Away Auto Lock features are standard on the S and SX variants.
Meanwhile, Tucson’s safety and security features lean towards the more standard yet the most necessary ones. It is equipped with Anti-Brake System with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, Stability Control and Traction Control. It also comes with parking sensors to lessen the risk of reversing into objects.

That was the Honda CR-V 7-Seater Diesel and the Hyundai Tucson CRDI GLS 2WD, our featured vehicles this week on Head-to-Head.

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