Vehicle Data Hub

Ford Explorer vs Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson is more fuel-efficient at 28 MPG combined, against 22 MPG for the Ford Explorer. At EPA assumptions that is about $650 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)

Side by side

Ford ExplorerHyundai Tucson
Complaints (NHTSA)3,0522,182
Most reported problemBody & structureDrivetrain & axles
Crashes and fires58 and 2123 and 43
Typical mileage at complaint47,000 miles29,000 miles
Recalls145
Fuel economy, combined22 MPG28 MPG
City and highway19 and 2726 and 32
Yearly fuel cost (EPA)$3,050$2,400
NHTSA overall safety

What the numbers say

NHTSA has 3,052 complaints for the Ford Explorer and 2,182 for the Hyundai Tucson. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.

NHTSA's overall safety ratings: 5 stars for the Ford Explorer, 5 stars for the Hyundai Tucson.

Safety recalls on file: 14 for the Ford Explorer, 5 for the Hyundai Tucson.

Work out the fuel cost of each on your own mileage