Kia Sportage vs Hyundai Tucson: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 671,093 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Hyundai Tucson comes out slightly ahead with a 87% MOT pass rate versus 84% for the Kia Sportage. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Hyundai Tucson has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Kia Sportage
84%
MOT pass rate
473,579 tests
Hyundai Tucson
87%
MOT pass rate
197,514 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Kia Sportage vs Hyundai Tucson
| Category | Kia Sportage | Hyundai Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 84% | 87%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 16% | 13%Winner |
| vs National Avg | +2 pts | +5 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,434 | £1,434 |
| Insurance Group | 15-25 | 15-25 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,500-£3,000 | £1,500-£3,000 |
| Engine Size | 1.8L | 1.8L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Family car | Family car |
| Avg Mileage | 79,633 mi | 78,115 miWinner |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 473,579 | 197,514 |
| Model Years | 20 years | 14 years |
| Best Year | 2022 (92%)Winner | 2019 (90%) |
| Worst Year | 2007 (65%) | 2004 (67%)Winner |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Common Problems Comparison
Kia Sportage Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Hyundai Tucson Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Kia Sportage
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Check a Specific Hyundai Tucson
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Kia Sportage vs Hyundai Tucson FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Kia Sportage or Hyundai Tucson?
Based on MOT data, the Hyundai Tucson is more reliable with a 87% pass rate, compared to 84% for the Kia Sportage.
Which is cheaper to run?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Kia Sportage costs around £1,434 in fuel, while the Hyundai Tucson costs around £1,434. The Kia Sportage is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Kia Sportage or Hyundai Tucson?
The Hyundai Tucson comes out slightly ahead with a 87% MOT pass rate versus 84% for the Kia Sportage. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Hyundai Tucson has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Kia Sportage Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Hyundai Tucson Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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