New Hyundai Tucson vs Vauxhall Grandland X vs Volvo XC40: verdict
A hybrid family SUV is a great way of combining practicality with fuel efficiency – but which type should you choose? We compare the three main options...
Our verdict
Given the differences between our contenders, which one you choose might well come down to your priorities, with two of them – the Tucson and Grandland X – performing very well in specific areas.
The Grandland X makes a lot of sense as a company car, thanks to its good electric range and low CO2 emissions. But despite the fact that it’s also likely to be the cheapest to run for private buyers, it’s too flawed in other areas to challenge for the win.
The Tucson may not be as frugal, but it isn’t far off in terms of ownership costs and stands out for its performance, the roominess of its interior and its large boot. Only its fidgety ride and ordinary handling count against it.
The XC40, however, is the best all-rounder. It may not offer spectacular fuel economy, but its composed handling, smooth ride, refined cruising manners and beautifully crafted interior more than offset the higher running costs. In fact, the XC40 is the best family SUV you can buy
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1st – Volvo XC40
For Highest-quality interior; best driving position; most confidence-inspiring handling; comfiest ride; most refined engine
Against Priciest to buy outright; so-so infotainment; least frugal
Recommended options Versatility Pack (£475), phone integration (£300)
What Car? rating 5 stars out of 5
Read our full Volvo XC40 review >>
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2nd – Hyundai Tucson
For Best interior and boot space; strongest performance; best infotainment system; relatively frugal for its size
Against Unsettled ride; engine sounds gruff when worked hard; so-so handling; vague brakes
Recommended options Metallic paint (£665)
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Read our full Hyundai Tucson review >>
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3rd – Vauxhall Grandland X
For Cheapest to buy outright; best fuel economy; low company car tax payments
Against Smallest boot; least rear space; worst infotainment; vague steering; spongy brakes
Recommended options Metallic paint (£600), heated seats (£360)
What Car? rating 3 stars out of 5
Read our full Vauxhall Grandland X review >>
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Specifications: Hyundai Tucson
Engine 4cyl, 1598cc, turbo, petrol, plus electric motor
Peak power 227bhp (combined)
Peak torque 195lb ft @ 1500-4000rpm (petrol only)
Gearbox 6-spd dual-clutch automatic
0-60mph 6.9sec
30-70mph 6.1sec
Top speed 120mph
30-0mph 9.5m
70-0mph 48.5m
Noise @ 30mph 59.3dB
Noise @ 70mph 66.3dB
Kerb weight 1569kg
Wheels/tyres (std) 235/50 R19
Fuel tank 52 litres
Official economy 49.6mpg
Test economy 36.1mpg
CO2 emissions 130g/km
Specifications: Vauxhall Grandland X
Engine 4cyl, 1598cc, turbo, petrol, plus electric motor
Peak power 221bhp (combined)
Peak torque 265lb ft (combined)
Gearbox 8-spd automatic
0-60mph 7.8sec
30-70mph 6.4sec
Top speed 140mph
30-0mph 10.3m
70-0mph 50.5m
Noise @ 30mph 60.4dB
Noise @ 70mph 66.5dB
Kerb weight 1800kg
Wheels/tyres (std) 225/55 R18
Fuel tank 43 litres
Official economy 192.0mpg
Test economy 40.8mpg (with battery depleted)
Battery capacity 13.2kWh
Peak charging rate 7.4kW (with opt on-board charger)
Charging time 1hr 45min (7kW, 0-100%)
CO2 emissions 31g/km
Specifications: Volvo XC40
Engine 4cyl, 1969cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 197bhp @ 4800-5400rpm
Peak torque 221lb ft @ 1500-4200rpm
Gearbox 8-spd automatic
0-60mph 7.8sec
30-70mph 7.2sec
Top speed 112mph
30-0mph 9.8m
70-0mph 49.5m
Noise @ 30mph 59.9dB
Noise @ 70mph 65.8dB
Kerb weight 1640kg
Wheels/tyres (std) 235/55 R18
Fuel tank 54 litres
Official economy 39.2mpg
Test economy 32.6mpg
CO2 emissions 163g/km
Weather conditions Cold/damp
Cars pictured
Hyundai Tucson 1.6 T-GDi Hybrid 230 Premium auto with Teal metallic paint (£655)
Vauxhall Grandland X 1.6 Hybrid 225 Business Edition Nav auto with Dark Ruby Red metallic paint (£710)
Volvo XC40 B4 R-Design auto with Bursting Blue metallic paint (£850)
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