Soon to be Hyundai owner
 

Hello,

I have made the decision that I will be purchasing a 2013 Hyundai vehicle this spring. Many members of my family and friends have done so in the past. My parents really enjoy their 2012 Elantra. I am looking at buying either the 2013 Sonata and the 2013 Tucson. I am not really sure which way to go. The Tucson would be my choice for the SUV as I really do not want a large vehicle like the Santa Fe. Any suggestions or insights that could be helpful? Thanks.

I think you couldn't go wrong either way. It all comes down to what you want, a car or a small SUV. Actually, the Tucson and the Santa Fe are considered COV's: "Cross Over Vehicles". A traditional SUV was based on a truck with a full frame design. COV's are based on a car and have uni-body design.

The Tucson was based off the Elantra sedan and is basically a jacked up Elantra wagon.

The Santa Fe was based off the Sonata sedan and is basically a jacked up Sonata wagon.

You will probably get slightly better fuel economy from the Sonata because it's lower and more aerodynamic. The Tucson will probably give you slightly more space. But the Tucson gives you a higher seating position for a better view of the road, higher ground clearance for snow, the optional availability of AWD, and other small details like a rear window wiper.

I have a 2006 Tucson (first generation) and still love it.