• Crain Hyundai of Bentonville

Dec 9, 2025
2026 Hyundai Tucson vs 2026 Honda CR-V comparison in Bentonville AR

Drivers in Bentonville and across Northwest Arkansas often compare two of the most popular compact SUVs on the road: the 2026 Hyundai Tucson and the 2026 Honda CR-V. Both are known for everyday comfort, modern safety features, and easy drivability. While each model offers multiple powertrain options, many shoppers still focus on the traditional gas models for their balance of performance, efficiency, and value.

At Crain Hyundai of Bentonville, we compared the gas-powered 2026 Tucson and CR-V side by side to help local drivers decide which SUV fits their daily driving needs best.

TL;DR: Quick Take for Bentonville Drivers

Both SUVs are strong contenders in the compact segment. The 2026 Honda CR-V offers familiar design and solid safety technology. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson, however, stands out with more standard technology, broader all-wheel-drive availability, added capability, and long-term ownership value. For many Bentonville drivers, the Tucson delivers more where it matters most.

Vehicle Comparison

2026 Hyundai Tucson

2026 Hyundai Tucson Deep Sea exterior front view
Horsepower
187
AWD Availability
Available
Fuel Economy / Range
28 combined mpg (city/hwy)
Seating Capacity
5
Top Features
  • Hyundai Smartsense
  • Standard 12.3-inch touchscreen
  • HTRAC AWD + up to 2,750-lb towing

2026 Honda CR-V

2026 Honda CR-V Platinum White Pearl exterior front view
Horsepower
190
AWD Availability
Available
Fuel Economy / Range
30 combined mpg (city/hwy)
Seating Capacity
5
Top Features
  • Honda Sensing
  • Touchscreen infotainment system
  • Real Time AWD

Design: Modern Presence vs Clean Simplicity

The 2026 Hyundai Tucson continues the bold, modern design introduced with its recent refresh. Sharp lines, a distinctive grille, and sleek lighting give it a confident look that feels right at home on Bentonville roads, whether you’re heading through downtown or parking near Walton Boulevard.

The 2026 Honda CR-V features a clean, straightforward design that prioritizes simplicity and practicality.

Edge: Hyundai Tucson for its modern styling and standout road presence.

Interior Comfort and Space

Inside, the 2026 Tucson offers a quiet, spacious cabin with generous rear-seat legroom and an open, refined layout. Premium materials and thoughtful design details give it an upscale feel that works well for both families and commuters.

The 2026 CR-V provides a comfortable interior with good visibility and functional seating, making it easy to drive and live with day-to-day.

Edge: Hyundai Tucson for its roomy feel and refined cabin design.

Performance and Fuel Economy (Gas Models)

The gas-powered 2026 Hyundai Tucson features a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel-drive models earn up to 28 combined mpg, while available HTRAC all-wheel drive delivers up to 26 combined mpg.

The gas-powered 2026 Honda CR-V uses a turbocharged engine producing 190 horsepower and achieves up to 30 combined mpg. All-wheel drive is also available.

Both SUVs offer smooth acceleration and comfortable driving manners for everyday use.

Result: Close comparison, with both delivering strong performance and efficiency for compact SUV shoppers.

All-Wheel Drive and Capability

The 2026 Hyundai Tucson offers HTRAC all-wheel drive on every trim, giving Bentonville drivers flexibility when choosing their preferred setup. When properly equipped, the Tucson can tow up to 2,750 pounds, adding versatility for small trailers or outdoor gear.

The 2026 Honda CR-V offers Real Time AWD, providing added traction when road conditions change.

Edge: Hyundai Tucson for wider AWD availability and added towing capability.

Technology and Connectivity

Technology is a major strength for the Tucson. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson comes standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, available digital instrument cluster, and Bluelink+ connected services. Higher trims add features like a head-up display and Digital Key compatibility.

The 2026 Honda CR-V includes a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration and driver-assist displays, offering a clean and user-friendly experience.

Edge: Hyundai Tucson for its larger standard screen and advanced available tech.

Safety Features

Safety is a priority for both vehicles. Every 2026 Tucson includes Hyundai SmartSense, featuring Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Monitoring, and Driver Attention Warning.

The 2026 CR-V includes Honda Sensing, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The CR-V also earns strong safety ratings.

Result: Both SUVs perform well in safety, with comprehensive driver-assist systems included.

Ownership Value and Warranty

This is where the Tucson clearly stands apart. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson is backed by Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, along with 3 years or 36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance.

The 2026 Honda CR-V includes a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and 1 year or 12,000 miles of complimentary maintenance.

For Bentonville drivers planning long-term ownership, the Tucson delivers greater confidence and value.

Edge: Hyundai Tucson for warranty coverage and ownership benefits.

Our Choice: Why We Recommend the 2026 Hyundai Tucson

The Honda CR-V remains a well-known and capable compact SUV. However, when comparing gas-powered models side by side, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson offers more of what Bentonville drivers value most.

We recommend the Tucson because it delivers:

  • More standard technology for the price
  • Available AWD across the lineup
  • Added capability with towing capacity
  • A refined, spacious interior
  • Industry-leading warranty coverage

At Crain Hyundai of Bentonville, we see why so many local drivers continue to choose the Tucson for everyday driving and long-term peace of mind.

In addition to the gas models compared here, the Hyundai Tucson lineup also includes hybrid options for Bentonville drivers who want even more efficiency.

FAQs: 2026 Tucson vs CR-V

Is the 2026 Hyundai Tucson available near me?
Yes. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson is available at Crain Hyundai of Bentonville, serving drivers across Northwest Arkansas.

Does the Tucson offer all-wheel drive?
Yes. HTRAC all-wheel drive is available on every gas-powered Tucson trim.

Which SUV offers better warranty coverage?
The Hyundai Tucson offers significantly longer powertrain coverage and more complimentary maintenance than the Honda CR-V.

Visit Crain Hyundai of Bentonville

If you’re comparing the 2026 Hyundai Tucson to the Honda CR-V in Bentonville, AR, the best next step is to see the Tucson in person. Visit Crain Hyundai of Bentonville to explore available trims, take a test drive, and experience why the Tucson continues to be a top choice for local drivers.

Check out how the Tucson compares to the Toyota RAV-4.