The first year's VED is based on emissions and included in the 'on the road' price (the figure quoted by manufacturers). After this, you'll pay a flat rate of £150 a year. The exceptions are alternative vehicles (such as hybrids), which qualify for a £10/year discount. Electric vehicles are free to tax. Cars with a list of price of more than £40,000 are taxed an extra £325 a year for five years (after the first year). So, it's worth hunting out an SUV with a list price below £40,000, but other than that don't let the cost of VED influence your search too much. There are better alternatives to both the Outlander and the Tucson. We'd recommend a Skoda Karoq or Peugeot 3008. If you need more space, consider a Ford Kuga or Honda CR-V.