Hyundai Tucson vs Ford Bronco Sport - Best AWD SUV for Montana
Shopping for the best All Wheel Drive SUV in Montana often means comparing the Hyundai Tucson with the Ford Bronco Sport. Both offer capable AWD systems, rugged styling, and the versatility needed for life in the Flathead Valley. But when you look past the outdoorsy image, the Tucson stands out with smoother everyday performance, more cargo space, better efficiency, and Hyundai's 10 year / 100,000 mile powertrain warranty. Whether you are navigating snowy commutes in Kalispell, gravel roads near Bigfork, or weekend trips to Glacier National Park, the Hyundai Tucson delivers a better balance of capability, comfort, and long term value for Montana drivers.
Side by Side Comparison
| Feature | Hyundai Tucson | Ford Bronco Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | Approx. $28,750 | Approx. $29,000 |
| Standard Engine | 2.5L I4, 187 hp, 178 lb. ft | 1.5L EcoBoost I3, 181 hp, 190 lb. ft |
| Available Powertrains | Gas, Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid | Gas only; available 2.0L EcoBoost |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or available HTRAC AWD | Standard 4x4 on most trims |
| EPA MPG (gas models, city / highway) | Up to approx. 26 / 33 (trim and drivetrain dependent) | Up to approx. 25 / 29 (engine and trim dependent) |
| Max Cargo Volume | Up to approx. 80.3 cu. ft. | Up to approx. 65.2 cu. ft. |
| Passenger Volume | Approx. 108 cu. ft. | Approx. 105–107 cu. ft. (trim dependent) |
| Max Towing (properly equipped) | Up to 2,000 lbs. | Up to 2,200 lbs. (selected trims) |
| Infotainment | Standard 8" touchscreen; available 10.25" + digital cluster | Standard 8" SYNC 3; larger screen available on select trims |
| Warranty | 10 yr / 100k mi powertrain (America's Best Warranty) | 5 yr / 60k mi powertrain |
† MSRP excludes destination charges, taxes, title, license, options, and dealer fees. Always verify current pricing with Clark Hyundai.
Performance and Everyday Drive in Montana
The Hyundai Tucson is equipped with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 178 lb.-ft of torque, providing smooth and confident acceleration around Kalispell and on Highway 93. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the Tucson feels refined and composed, whether you are merging onto the interstate or heading out toward Glacier National Park.
Ford Bronco Sport offers a standard 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine that makes competitive torque, but its three-cylinder design can feel busier and noisier when pushed. A more powerful 2.0 liter EcoBoost is available on select trims, but it comes with a higher price and increased fuel use. For most Montana drivers, the Tucson strikes the better balance of power, refinement, and efficiency for daily driving.
AWD Systems and Winter Capability
Winter capability is crucial across Kalispell, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, and the broader Flathead Valley. The Tucson's available HTRAC All Wheel Drive system constantly monitors traction and can send power to the rear wheels when conditions demand it. Selectable drive modes, including a dedicated Snow mode, help optimize throttle response and torque distribution on icy or packed snow.
Ford Bronco Sport comes with standard 4x4 on most trims, and its GOAT (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes are designed for off-pavement exploration. It performs well on rough two tracks and forest roads, especially in higher trims with additional trail hardware. However, for everyday winter use on plowed but slick streets, school runs, and highway commutes, Tucson's smoother ride and snow mode tuning make it feel more predictable and less tiring to drive.
Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Advantages
One of Tucson's most significant advantages over the Bronco Sport is its available hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The Tucson Hybrid and Tucson Plug-In Hybrid deliver strong low-end torque, excellent fuel economy, and available All Wheel Drive, making them ideal for drivers who commute between Kalispell and Missoula or put serious miles on their vehicles each year.
Ford Bronco Sport is gas only. If saving on fuel while maintaining AWD confidence is essential for your Montana lifestyle, the Tucson offers more powertrain options without sacrificing capability.
Interior Space and Cargo Capacity
Both SUVs seat five, but the Hyundai Tucson clearly pulls ahead in cargo flexibility. With the rear seats folded, Tucson offers up to approximately 80.3 cubic feet of cargo space, compared to about 65.2 cubic feet in the Bronco Sport. That extra room matters when you are loading skis, camping bins, coolers, dog crates, or luggage for a road trip to Glacier National Park or Flathead Lake.
Inside, Tucson's cabin feels more open and modern, with a clean dashboard layout and generous legroom. Bronco Sport leans into a more upright, trail-ready design that looks tough but does not offer the same overall volume or rear seat comfort for taller passengers.
Technology and Connectivity
The Hyundai Tucson brings a modern digital experience to every drive. A standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keeps you connected, while available upgrades add a 10.25-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster for a seamless, cockpit-like feel. Available Bluelink Connected Car Services, remote start, and available Digital Key on select models add everyday convenience for busy Montana families.
Ford Bronco Sport offers an 8-inch SYNC 3 touchscreen with smartphone integration and available larger screens on higher trims, but the overall interface feels more traditional. If you prefer a clean, tech-forward cabin that looks and feels upscale, Tucson has the edge.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Hyundai SmartSense driver assistance features come standard on every Tucson and include Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and more. Additional features, such as Blind Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist, are available on select trims.
Ford Bronco Sport offers Ford Co Pilot360 technology with similar features, but some of the most advanced systems require higher trims or option packages. With Tucson, you can get a robust suite of safety features without having to climb far up the trim ladder, which is a big plus for value-focused Montana shoppers.
Warranty and Long-Term Value
Hyundai's warranty coverage is one of the strongest reasons to choose the Tucson over the Bronco Sport. Every new Tucson is backed by a 10-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year / 60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty, plus roadside assistance coverage. Ford Bronco Sport offers a 5-year / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 3-year / 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
For Montana drivers who keep vehicles for many years and routinely face harsh weather, Hyundai's longer warranty and available hybrid options help control ownership costs and add peace of mind.
Watch the Tucson Walkaround Video
Want a closer look at the Hyundai Tucson? Watch this video, then visit Clark Hyundai to experience the Tucson in person.
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The Best AWD SUV for Montana: Hyundai Tucson
Ford Bronco Sport is a fun, trail ready SUV, especially for drivers who prioritize rugged looks and off pavement adventures. But for most Montana drivers who split their time between Kalispell errands, Missoula commutes, and weekend trips into the mountains, the Hyundai Tucson offers more everyday comfort, more cargo space, better efficiency, and a much stronger warranty.
Ready to compare in person?
At Clark Hyundai in Kalispell, we are proud to serve drivers from across the Flathead Valley, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, Bigfork, and Missoula. Our Best Price Promise, transparent financing, and friendly, non commissioned advisors make it easy to shop with confidence.
