Comparing Toyota Corolla Cross Non-hybrid with Hyundai Tucson

In our previous blog post, we initiated a comparison series between the Toyota Corolla Cross non-hybrid and its various competitors. Continuing with this series, our second installment will focus on comparing the Toyota Corolla Cross with the Hyundai Tucson. Both vehicles belong to the same crossover segment within the C-segment category, with an approximate price difference of 800k PKR in their top variants. Below are the pricing details:

• Hyundai Tucson: Rs. 8 million 

• Toyota Corolla Cross: Rs. 8.8 million 

These prices pertain to the top-of-the-line variants, namely the Tucson GLS Sport and Corolla Cross 1.8 X. Let’s delve into the comparison between the Toyota Corolla Cross and Hyundai Tucson. Also, don’t forget to check out our previous blog post;

Note: We will be comparing the top variants of both models.

Toyota Corolla Cross & Hyundai Tucson – Historical Background

Nishat Motors introduced the Hyundai Tucson towards the end of 2020 as a key competitor of the Kia Sportage in the Pakistani crossover market. However, with time, several other car brands introduced their own crossovers, intensifying the competition. While the Tucson did achieve a level of success, it struggled to match the demand and resale value of the Sportage.

The Corolla Cross made its debut in 2021 when Toyota Indus Motors launched their first hybrid crossover in the Pakistani market. However, due to escalating inflation and a 150% increase in import duties in 2022, IMC transitioned to locally assembling the Cross through CKD production in December 2023. Subsequently, in March 2024, IMC introduced the non-hybrid variant of the Corolla Cros

Interior

Both vehicles offer smart entry systems and ample legroom and headroom. In terms of interior space, the Tucson provides slightly more room than the Cross, although this difference may not be very noticeable in practical usage.

Hyundai offers electric seat adjustment for both driver and passenger seats, while the Cross only offers this feature for the driver’s seat. Additionally, the Cross comes equipped with all-leather seats compared to the fabric seats in the Tucson. While fabric seats may be more practical in Pakistan’s climate, leather seats are often viewed as more premium.

Another significant distinction is the presence of a rain sensor and blind spot monitor in the Cross, which is absent in the Tucson.

The Cross boasts a Terra Rosa leather interior, while the Tucson features a combination of beige and matte black. The preference between these two interior styles is subjective and varies from person to person. The Tucson’s interior exudes elegance, sophistication, and a timeless appeal, while the Corolla Cross’s interior aligns more with a modern, minimalist design philosophy featuring sleek AC grilles with minimal physical buttons.

Both vehicles offer steering wheel controls, climate control, push-button start, cruise control, rearview camera, telescopic steering, and infotainment systems compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The primary difference is the absence of a sunroof in the non-hybrid Corolla Cross, which is a feature present in the Tucson.

Exterior

The Tucson features a chrome grille that contrasts with the body color, while the Cross incorporates a black piano mesh grille. In terms of lighting, the Tucson’s bumper includes stylish lamps with embedded DRLs, a feature not found in the Corolla Cross.

Both vehicles offer projector headlamps, but the Tucson’s Penta-LED projectors with LED DRLs and indicators give it a more aggressive aesthetic compared to the Cross. Moreover, the Tucson’s headlight design and cuts contribute to its assertive appearance.

On the side profile, the Tucson sports 18-inch alloy wheels, while the Corolla Cross features 17-inch alloys, with distinctive character lines on both models. Similar to the grille, the Tucson comes with chrome-colored door handles, whereas the Cross opts for body-colored door handles.

Engine and Performance

Below is a comparison of the engine specifications for both vehicles:

Safety Features

Both models are equipped with an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) + Emergency Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) + Brake Assist (BA), Emergency Brake Signal, Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), immobilizer, ISOFIX Child Support Anchor, and Occupant Seat Sensor.

However, the game changes when it comes to safety features. While the Hyundai Tucson offers 2 airbags along with hill-assist, the Corolla Cross outshines with 7 airbags but does not include hill-assist.

Dimensions

Here are the detailed technical dimensions for both vehicles:

What are your thoughts on this comparison? Which crossover SUV would you choose? Share your opinion in the comments section below.