There’s No Competition: 2011 Honda CR-V LX vs. 2012 Hyundai Tucson GLS

When it comes to purchasing a new crossover SUV, your choices are plentiful. Nearly every manufacturer offers at least one, and these comparatively eco-friendly family haulers have replaced many of the traditional body-on-frame SUVs of past years.

So, does it make a difference to buy a crossover instead of a SUV? Absolutely. Ride quality has improved immensely, fuel economy has nearly doubled in most cases, and the vehicles haven't lost much, if any, of the cargo-hauling capabilities that made SUVs famous in the first place. When it comes to the pioneering classic of the crossover SUV segment, the Honda CR-V is far and away the clear choice. But can a newcomer, in the form of the redesigned Hyundai Tucson, take away the Honda's glory? Honda of El Cerrito has decided most definitely not. Read on to find out why:

First introduced for the 1997 model year, the Honda CR-V practically invented today's crossover SUV market. And if imitation really is the sincerest form of flattery, then color the CR-V thrilled. Nearly every competitor since has followed the basic formula brought forth by Honda, and the new Hyundai Tucson is no exception. While both SUV crossovers can easily be optioned to include nearly any gadget and convenience imaginable, we're going to compare the two basic models so you can get a feel for the virtues of which these vehicles are really made.

Power comes at the top of nearly every SUV shopper's list. With 176 horsepower from a 2.4-liter engine, the Hyundai Tucson's engine does a commendable job. However, the Honda CR-V makes 180 horsepower from an identically-sized 2.4-liter inline-4 cylinder. While both vehicles feature automatic transmissions, the extra horsepower of the Honda will always be appreciated in situations such as towing--the CR-V can tow up to 1,500 pounds in standard form, compared to the Tucson's 1,000 pounds.

Inside, the Honda CR-V shows again why it's been a favorite in the segment it helped pioneer. One of the hallmarks of crossover SUVs is their car-like driving characteristics with the interior space of a much larger sport-utility vehicle. The CR-V's roominess simply cannot be matched, not even by a freshly-redesigned competitor. After all, cargo volume often is for what an SUV is purchased. With a whopping 35.7 cubic feet of storage in the CR-V, the Honda dwarfs the Tucson's cargo-carrying capability by a massive 10 cubic feet. As a measure of comparison, the new Fiat 500 subcompact has 9.5 total cubic feet of storage, so there is a huge advantage for the Honda CR-V.

In addition to the rear-seat-up difference, maximum cargo room is a massive 72.9 cubic feet for the Honda CR-V with the rear seat stowed, compared to only 55.8 cubic feet for the Hyundai. Add to this the fact that the Honda also has two cubic feet of extra passenger volume, and it's no wonder the CR-V is the best choice when it comes to a roomier vehicle. With substantial wins in categories such as front headroom, front and rear hiproom, front legroom, and rear shoulder room, the Honda CR-V has the numbers to support its domination.

Some other very important numbers include pricing, and let's face it, the bottom line is something that will always be a major factor when it comes to purchasing a new crossover SUV. If it is value you want, look no further than the Honda CR-V. It's as simple as that. At a base price of only $21,895, the Honda CR-V LX 2WD undercuts the $22,195 base MSRP of the Hyundai Tucson GLS FWD. And when it comes time to trade in your CR-V for another Honda, the ALG residual value after five years is better than the Tucson's, as well.

When a single vehicle pioneers a major automotive segment, you know there must be a reason for its popularity. One look at the Honda CR-V and its specifications and it's clear why this crossover has been the one other automakers seek to imitate. Add Honda's decades-old heritage and pursuit for quality, and it's no wonder the Honda CR-V continues to impress.

Browse Honda of El Cerrito’s  inventory of the 2011 Honda CR-V to find the perfect one for you!