2022 Hybrid SUV Comparison: Honda CR-V vs Kia Sportage vs Mazda CX-5 vs Hyundai Tucson
Introduction
The 2022 model year brought some of the strongest contenders yet in the compact hybrid SUV class. The Honda CR-V Hybrid, Kia Sportage Hybrid, Mazda CX-5 (Mild Hybrid), and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid all target families who want space, safety, and efficiency without sacrificing style or performance.
But with so many similarities in price and purpose, which one stands out as the smartest buy? Let’s compare them in depth — including size, drivetrain, fuel consumption, hybrid battery systems, and overall driving experience.
1. Exterior Design and Dimensions
| Model | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Cargo Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CR-V Hybrid | 4,623 mm | 1,855 mm | 1,679 mm | 2,660 mm | 1,065 L |
| Kia Sportage Hybrid | 4,515 mm | 1,865 mm | 1,650 mm | 2,680 mm | 1,010 L |
| Mazda CX-5 (M Hybrid) | 4,575 mm | 1,845 mm | 1,680 mm | 2,700 mm | 870 L |
| Hyundai Tucson Hybrid | 4,500 mm | 1,865 mm | 1,650 mm | 2,680 mm | 1,095 L |
All four SUVs are very close in size, but the Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson offer the best overall interior space and cargo capacity. The Mazda CX-5, though slightly smaller inside, compensates with an elegant design and solid build quality. The Kia Sportage looks the most modern with its bold LED “boomerang” headlights and aggressive front end.
Verdict: For practicality, the Honda CR-V wins. For style, the Kia Sportage is the most eye-catching.
2. Powertrain and Performance
| Model | Engine | Electric Motor | Total Power | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CR-V Hybrid | 2.0L I4 | Dual motor | 212 hp | e-CVT | AWD |
| Kia Sportage Hybrid | 1.6L Turbo I4 | Single motor | 227 hp | 6-speed auto | FWD/AWD |
| Mazda CX-5 (M Hybrid) | 2.5L I4 | Mild hybrid (48V) | 187 hp | 6-speed auto | AWD |
| Hyundai Tucson Hybrid | 1.6L Turbo I4 | Single motor | 226 hp | 6-speed auto | FWD/AWD |
The Kia Sportage Hybrid and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid share similar Hyundai-Kia Group technology and produce nearly identical power figures. Both offer a smooth combination of turbocharged gasoline engines and electric assistance. The Honda CR-V Hybrid delivers slightly less peak horsepower but uses a more refined dual-motor system that transitions between modes seamlessly.
The Mazda CX-5’s mild hybrid setup offers only minimal electric boost — it cannot drive on electricity alone, so it’s more of an efficiency aid than a true hybrid system.
Verdict: The Tucson Hybrid and Sportage Hybrid lead in performance, but the CR-V provides the most refined hybrid feel.
3. Battery, Hybrid System, and Electric Range
| Model | Battery Type | Capacity | Electric-Only Drive | Regenerative Braking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CR-V Hybrid | Lithium-ion | 1.4 kWh | Yes (short range) | Yes |
| Kia Sportage Hybrid | Lithium-ion polymer | 1.49 kWh | Yes (low speed) | Yes |
| Mazda CX-5 | 48V mild hybrid | 0.33 kWh | No | Limited |
| Hyundai Tucson Hybrid | Lithium-ion polymer | 1.49 kWh | Yes (low speed) | Yes |
The CR-V, Sportage, and Tucson all use compact lithium-ion batteries designed for smooth transitions between gas and electric modes. None of these are plug-in hybrids, so the electric range is limited (usually under 2 km at low speeds).
Mazda’s 48V system, on the other hand, is designed mainly to reduce fuel consumption and improve stop-start smoothness — not to drive the car purely on electric power.
Verdict: The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and Kia Sportage Hybrid have the most advanced, balanced hybrid systems.
4. Fuel Economy
| Model | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CR-V Hybrid | 40 mpg | 35 mpg | 38 mpg |
| Kia Sportage Hybrid (AWD) | 38 mpg | 38 mpg | 38 mpg |
| Mazda CX-5 Mild Hybrid | 26 mpg | 31 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Hyundai Tucson Hybrid (AWD) | 37 mpg | 36 mpg | 37 mpg |
In real-world driving, the Honda CR-V tends to achieve slightly better consistency, especially in urban settings. The Kia Sportage and Tucson are close behind, while the Mazda CX-5 is clearly less efficient due to its mild hybrid system.
Verdict: The Honda CR-V Hybrid remains the fuel economy leader.
5. Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The Honda CR-V Hybrid continues its tradition of spaciousness and user-friendly ergonomics. Cabin quality is solid but conservative in design.
The Kia Sportage offers a more futuristic dashboard with dual 12.3-inch displays, ambient lighting, and advanced driver aids. The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid matches it closely, with premium materials and the best infotainment interface.
The Mazda CX-5 is arguably the most luxurious to sit in, with its soft-touch materials and elegant simplicity, but its tech offering feels dated next to the Korean rivals.
Verdict: For modern features and infotainment, Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson take the lead. For pure comfort and quality, Mazda CX-5 still shines.
6. Driving Experience
Each SUV has a distinct driving character:
- Honda CR-V Hybrid: Quiet, smooth, and composed — not sporty, but very comfortable.
- Kia Sportage Hybrid: Responsive throttle, stable handling, light steering.
- Hyundai Tucson Hybrid: Similar to the Sportage but with slightly softer suspension for comfort.
- Mazda CX-5 Mild Hybrid: The driver’s choice — agile and engaging, though not as efficient.
7. Price and Value
| Model | Starting Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Honda CR-V Hybrid | ~$31,500 |
| Kia Sportage Hybrid | ~$28,500 |
| Mazda CX-5 Mild Hybrid | ~$27,900 |
| Hyundai Tucson Hybrid | ~$29,750 |
All four are competitively priced, but the Kia Sportage Hybrid and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid deliver the most features for the money — with standard safety tech, large screens, and hybrid performance at under $30k.
Final Verdict: Which Hybrid SUV Wins in 2022?
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Space & Practicality | Honda CR-V Hybrid |
| Performance | Hyundai Tucson Hybrid |
| Technology | Kia Sportage Hybrid |
| Fuel Economy | Honda CR-V Hybrid |
| Driving Fun | Mazda CX-5 |
| Overall Value | Kia Sportage Hybrid |
Overall Winner: Kia Sportage Hybrid
The 2022 Kia Sportage Hybrid offers the most complete package — combining strong performance, impressive fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and excellent value.
However, if maximum reliability and resale value matter most, the Honda CR-V Hybrid remains a rock-solid, proven choice. The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is nearly identical to the Sportage but feels more comfort-oriented. The Mazda CX-5, while not a true hybrid, still attracts those who care more about driving pleasure than fuel economy.
Conclusion
In 2022, the hybrid SUV world became more sophisticated than ever. Whether you prioritize fuel economy, driving enjoyment, or advanced tech, there’s a perfect option for every type of driver:
- Choose Honda CR-V Hybrid for reliability and efficiency.
- Choose Kia Sportage Hybrid for best all-around value.
- Choose Hyundai Tucson Hybrid for comfort and refinement.
- Choose Mazda CX-5 for premium feel and fun-to-drive character.
Whichever you select, these four SUVs prove that hybrid power is no longer just about saving fuel — it’s about driving smarter.