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The 2022 Hyundai Tucson has dethroned the 2022 Toyota RAV4 and 2022 Honda CR-V on some ranking lists. It is easily one of the best compact SUV options available for consumers. How does the base model Hyundai Tucson compare to the Toyota Corolla Cross final trim level, the XLE? Is the 2022 Hyundai Tucson base model better than the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross XLE?

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson is a great all-around compact SUV

According to U.S. News & World Report, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson is the best new compact SUV. The Hyundai Tucson starts at $24,950. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 187 horsepower. The compact SUV achieves 26 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.

The Hyundai Tucson comes standard with a dual-level cargo floor. It features front dual USB outlets and two 12-volt outlets. The Tucson includes a remote keyless entry system and side mirrors with LED turn-signal indicators. It features an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

U.S. News gives the Tucson such a high ranking because of its spacious cabin and cargo area. It also had premium cabin features and great ride quality. The redesigned compact SUV model comes standard with plenty of safety features like Driver Attention Warning and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross XLE comes with plenty of standard features

A red 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross is on display.
A red 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross | Eva Marie Uzcategui Trinkl/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross XLE starts at just $26,325 despite being the final trim level of the compact SUV model. The Corolla Cross XLE is smaller than the base model Hyundai Tucson but it comes with more standard features. It uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to make 169 horsepower. The SUV achieves 31 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.

The Corolla Cross XLE comes standard with ambient lighting and wireless device charging. It features SofTex-trimmed seating and a heated 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The compact SUV includes roof rails as well. It comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Is the 2022 Hyundai Tucson base model a better buy than the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross XLE?

A red 2022 Hyundai Tucson on the street.
2022 Hyundai Tucson | Hyundai

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson is much more spacious than the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross XLE. It also produces more horses. The only advantage that the Corolla Cross’ final trim level has over the base model Tucson is its creature comforts.

The Corolla Cross’ heated driver’s seat and SofTex-trimmed seats make it more comfortable than a cloth interior. The wireless device charger adds convenience. It provides incredible value for its price. The fact is, despite the Corolla Cross XLE’s many standard features, its lack of space and power will be underwhelming for many consumers. The Corolla Cross isn’t ideal for small families and is much more driver-centric than the Hyundai Tucson.

If you don’t plan on squeezing any passengers into the Corolla Cross XLE, it’s a great compact SUV option for buyers on a budget. If you regularly drive with a small family or friends, the Tucson is the better buy.


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