Toyota RAV4 vs Renault Kadjar vs Hyundai Tucson

The compact crossover class is fit to burst, with nearly every manufacturer offering one of these fashionable family cars. Yet that hasn't stopped the flow of new arrivals, like Toyota's new RAV4.

It's essentially a mid-life refresh, but has moved away from its rugged SUV roots with more kit, stronger fuel efficiency and sleeker looks. Yet the RAV4's core appeal remains undimmed. Spacious, practical and well-built, the high-riding Toyota still has substance to match its new-found style.

It faces some very stiff competition in the shape of the Renault Kadjar and Hyundai Tucson. The Renault is our remaining class champ, with its blend of slick design, top-notch quality, a spacious interior and impeccable refinement. It also represents great value for money and costs no more to run than a compact family hatchback.

Equally desirable is the Hyundai Tucson, which replaces the ungainly ix35. Featuring shrunken Santa Fe looks, a roomy interior and a class-leading aftersales package, it's very desirable. But which crossover is king of the hill?

Head-to-head

Rear space

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There's not much between our contenders for outright space, but the Toyota has some neat touches to boost rear comfort. For starters, the seatbacks have a reclining function that's operated by well placed levers on the sides of the bases. Plus, as the floor is almost flat in the rear, middle seat occupants have more than enough foot room.

Design

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All three of these cars fall into the compact crossover class, but each takes a different approach to styling. While the Renault has flowing curves, the Hyundai gets sharply defined creases. The Toyota looks utilitarian in this company, but gets a lift from its new LED light signatures.

Four-wheel drive

The RAV4 AWD is available only with 2.0-litre petrol or 2.5 hybrid power; prices start at £28,295. You'll need at least £26,175 for a Tucson 4WD, with the 2.0 CRDi diesel. The cheapest 4WD option is the Kadjar; a 1.6 dCi Dynamique Nav 4x4 weighs in at £24,295.

Verdict

First place: Renault Kadjar

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It's a third road test victory on the trot for the Renault Kadjar. Handsome, well made, practical and refined, this is a genuinely desirable family car. It also represents good value for money, as it comes crammed with equipment as standard, plus it's a cost-effective company car choice. Only the weak predicted residual values count against it in this test.

Second place: Hyundai Tucson

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The Hyundai narrowly misses out here, but it's still a hugely capable choice. Smart styling, an upmarket interior and generous kit count are highlights, while the 1.7 CRDI engine won't cost the earth to run. However, the diesel is outgunned for performance in this encounter, plus the ride quality on the 19-inch alloy wheels can be uncomfortable around town.

Third place: Toyota RAV4

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If you're looking for a solid, dependable and spacious crossover, then the new RAV4 certainly deserves consideration. It's also good to drive and delivers punchy real-world performance. But in this crowded sector, the dowdy looks and dated cabin limit the Toyota's showroom appeal, while it can't quite match the competition for low running costs.

Rivals

Other options in this category...

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 dCi Acenta Premium

Price: £24,980

Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 128bhp

The Nissan Qashqai underpins the Kadjar, and delivers the same refinement and composure. An identical 1.6 diesel offers fine pace and efficiency, too. But the Qashqai doesn't feel as upmarket, plus it's pricier and not as well equipped.

Mazda CX-5 2.2D SE-L Nav

Price: £24,995

Engine: 2.2-litre 4cyl, 148bhp

Agile CX-5 still sets the crossover standard for driving fun, while the 2.2-litre diesel delivers an unrivalled blend of performance and economy. SE-L Nav trim provides all the essentials, but four-wheel-drive is an expensive £2,000 option.

Figures