Shop New Tucson Models at Wilkins Hyundai in Elmhurst, DuPage County, by Chicago, IL

How the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Bests the Honda CR-V for Chicago Drivers

If you're shopping for a small SUV in Elmhurst or the greater Chicago area, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson stands out as the smarter, more stylish, and better-equipped choice over the Honda CR-V. At Wilkins Hyundai, we've seen drivers from Glen Ellyn to Streamwood fall in love with the Tucson's bold looks, advanced tech, and unbeatable value. Let's see how Hyundai's star performer stacks up head-to-head.

Features2026 Hyundai Tucson2026 Honda CR-V
DrivetrainFront-wheel driveFront-wheel drive
Engine Power187 hp @ 6,100 rpm190 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Engine Torque178 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm179 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm
Engine Displacement2.5 L1.5 L
Engine ConfigurationInline 4Inline 4 Turbo
Transmission8-speed automaticCVT
City/Hwy/Combined MPG25 / 32 / 28 MPG28 / 34 / 30 MPG
Fuel Capacity14.3 gallons14.0 gallons
Driving Range (City/Hwy)357 / 457 miles392 / 476 miles

Engines, Power, and Drivetrain

The Tucson offers three available powertrains-each one engineered to deliver the perfect balance of strength and efficiency:

  • 2.5-liter four-cylinder: 187 horsepower / 178 pound-feet torque
  • 1.6-liter Turbo Hybrid: 226 horsepower combined
  • 1.6-liter Turbo Plug-In Hybrid: 261 horsepower combined with standard AWD

The CR-V offers two options: a 190-horsepower gas engine or a 204-horsepower hybrid. Both are fine, but neither delivers the torque punch or efficiency of Hyundai's turbo-assisted lineup. Plus, Tucson's available HTRAC® AWD system offers terrain modes that feel downright adventurous next to the CR-V's mild manners.

Performance and Efficiency

Even with more power, the Tucson remains impressively efficient:

  • Gas: up to 32 MPG highway
  • Hybrid: up to 38 MPG combined
  • Plug-In Hybrid: 33 miles of electric-only range

That last number is a game-changer for suburban commuters from Bloomingdale, as the Tucson PHEV lets you run errands in full EV mode, then tackle road trips with gas backup. The CR-V can't match that flexibility.

Interior Comfort and Tech

Inside, the 2026 Tucson feels like it was designed by people who actually use their cars. The clean dash layout, available 12.3-inch touchscreen, and quiet cabin make it feel almost luxury-grade. Meanwhile, the CR-V's interior feels less modern and lacks character.

Tucson highlights include:

  • Dual 12.3-inch digital displays (Limited trim)
  • Wireless Android Auto™ & Apple CarPlay®
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • Smart posture and climate settings

Tech junkies will also love Hyundai's Bluelink® Connected Car services and over-the-air update capability. It's not just modern-it's future-proof.

Safety and Ratings

Both SUVs are safe, but the Tucson edges ahead with its standard Hyundai SmartSense suite and an expected IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. Features like Highway Driving Assist, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning, and available Remote Smart Parking make daily driving feel almost futuristic.

Honda's suite is solid, but it lacks the nuanced driver aids and semi-autonomous precision Hyundai's tuned to perfection. It's safety with style-and smarts.

Cargo and Towing

  • Tucson: 38.7 cubic feet behind 2nd row / 74.8 cubic feet max
  • CR-V: 36.3 cubic feet behind 2nd row / 76.5 cubic feet max
  • Towing: Up to 2,000 lbs (gas) or 2,000 lbs (PHEV)

The CR-V offers a smidge more max space, but the Tucson's adjustable load floor and hands-free tailgate make it more usable day-to-day. Think of it as the SUV that plays chess while others play checkers.

Pricing, Value, and Depreciation

MSRP ranges from $28,500-$38,500 for the Tucson lineup versus $29,500-$40,000 for the CR-V. Hyundai backs that with America's Best Warranty, including a 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty and our dealership offersadditional coverage.

The Tucson also holds its value remarkably well, with an estimated 3-year depreciation of 33% vs. the CR-V's 36%. Average CPO prices hover around $25,000 for lightly used Tucsons versus about $27,000 for CR-Vs, and Hyundai's CPO program includes an impressive 10-year/100K-mile warranty for eligible models.

Want to upgrade sooner? Check your trade-in value instantly with our Trade-In Advisor or explore new Hyundai incentives for even greater savings.

Programs and Ownership Perks

Whether you're a college grad, military member, or first responder, Wilkins Hyundai makes it easy to get behind the wheel with exclusive offers. Plus, every customer enjoys The Wilkins Way promise of transparency, respect, and exceptional service for drivers across DuPage County.

Visit Our Dealership to Experience the Hyundai Tucson Today

In a world full of copycats, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson is the SUV that actually delivers on its design, engineering, and technology promises. It's bolder than the CR-V, smarter under the skin, and backed by a warranty that turns competitors pale. See for yourself-use our CarFinder tool to locate your perfect Tucson today and experience what modern driving should feel like.

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  1. Wilkins Hyundai

    750 N. York St
    Elmhurst, IL 60126

    • Sales: 630-279-3000
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