Hyundai Tucson Sport (2017): Specs & Review

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport, a vehicle that blends practicality with a dash of sporty flair. If you're considering a compact SUV that offers more than just basic transportation, the Tucson Sport might just be the ticket. Let's explore what makes this model stand out, covering everything from its performance and features to its overall value.

Overview of the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport

The 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport carves out a niche for itself by offering enhanced features and a more dynamic driving experience compared to the base models. Think of it as the Tucson that's ready for a weekend adventure or a spirited drive around town. Its design incorporates sporty elements, setting it apart from the more understated trims. This model year is particularly appealing because it benefits from Hyundai's commitment to reliability and value, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want a bit of zest in their ride. The Tucson Sport generally includes features like a turbocharged engine, unique exterior accents, and upgraded interior elements, all designed to create a more engaging ownership experience. From a consumer perspective, the 2017 Tucson Sport addresses the desire for a vehicle that’s both practical for daily use and enjoyable to drive. It competes in a crowded segment, facing rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape, but it holds its own with a combination of style, features, and affordability. The vehicle's dimensions are well-suited for city driving and parking, yet it offers ample cargo space for families or individuals with active lifestyles. Plus, the elevated driving position provides good visibility, enhancing driver confidence on the road. Overall, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport is a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and fun-to-drive compact SUV.

Key Features and Specifications

The key features of the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport are designed to enhance both the driving experience and the overall appeal of the vehicle. Under the hood, you'll typically find a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which delivers a peppy 175 horsepower. This engine is a significant upgrade from the base model's engine, providing quicker acceleration and a more responsive feel. Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the Tucson Sport offers smooth and efficient gear changes. One of the standout specs is the fuel economy, which is estimated at around 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. These figures make it a competitive choice for drivers who want a balance of performance and efficiency. The Tucson Sport also boasts unique exterior styling cues, such as a distinctive grille, sporty alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler. These elements give it a more aggressive and athletic appearance compared to other Tucson trims. Inside, you'll find features like sport seats with enhanced bolstering, which provide better support during spirited driving. Other notable features include a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), a rearview camera, and available blind-spot monitoring. Safety is also a priority, with standard features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. The Tucson Sport also offers a comfortable and spacious interior, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, making it a versatile choice for hauling gear. In terms of technology, the infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, making it easy to navigate through menus and access your favorite apps. The available blind-spot monitoring system adds an extra layer of safety, alerting you to vehicles in your blind spots. Overall, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport is well-equipped with features that cater to both performance and convenience.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport truly shines, offering a driving experience that's a cut above the standard Tucson models. The turbocharged 1.6-liter engine delivers a noticeable boost in power, making acceleration feel more brisk and responsive. Whether you're merging onto the highway or navigating city streets, the Tucson Sport provides ample power for confident driving. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission complements the engine perfectly, offering quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power range, resulting in improved fuel economy and a more engaging driving experience. Handling is also a strong point for the Tucson Sport. The suspension is tuned to provide a balance of comfort and control, allowing you to tackle corners with confidence. The steering is precise and well-weighted, giving you a good feel for the road. Compared to other compact SUVs in its class, the Tucson Sport offers a more sporty and dynamic driving experience. It's not quite as athletic as some of the more performance-oriented models, but it strikes a good balance between comfort and agility. One of the things that sets the Tucson Sport apart is its ability to make everyday driving more enjoyable. The extra power and responsive handling make it a fun vehicle to drive, whether you're commuting to work or running errands around town. The ride quality is also commendable, with the suspension absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road without feeling harsh. Overall, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport delivers a satisfying blend of performance and handling. It's a vehicle that's both practical and enjoyable to drive, making it a great choice for those who want a little extra excitement in their daily commute.

Interior Comfort and Design

Stepping inside the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport, you'll immediately notice a focus on interior comfort and design. The cabin is well-appointed with quality materials, creating a pleasant and inviting atmosphere. The sport seats are a standout feature, offering enhanced bolstering that provides excellent support during spirited driving. These seats are designed to keep you comfortable and secure, even on long journeys. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with all the controls within easy reach. The touchscreen infotainment system is seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, providing access to navigation, audio, and smartphone integration features. The use of soft-touch materials on the dashboard and door panels adds a touch of luxury to the interior. The overall design is modern and stylish, with attention to detail evident in every aspect of the cabin. In terms of space, the Tucson Sport offers ample room for both passengers and cargo. The rear seats provide plenty of legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for adults to sit in the back. The cargo area is also generous, with enough space to accommodate luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, making it a versatile choice for hauling larger items. One of the things that sets the Tucson Sport apart is its attention to detail. The stitching on the seats is precise and the trim pieces are well-integrated into the overall design. The interior is also well-insulated, reducing road noise and creating a more peaceful driving environment. Overall, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport offers a comfortable and well-designed interior that's sure to impress. It's a vehicle that's both practical and stylish, making it a great choice for those who want a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

Technology and Safety Features

The technology in the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport is designed to keep you connected and entertained on the road. The touchscreen infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, providing easy access to navigation, audio, and smartphone integration features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the vehicle's infotainment system. This means you can access your favorite apps, make calls, and send texts using voice commands or the touchscreen display. The Tucson Sport also offers a rearview camera, which makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier. Available features include a premium audio system, which delivers crisp and clear sound quality. In terms of safety, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport is equipped with a comprehensive suite of features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. Available safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. These features help to alert you to potential hazards and prevent accidents. The Tucson Sport has also earned high safety ratings from independent testing agencies, giving you peace of mind knowing that it's a safe and reliable vehicle. The blind-spot monitoring system is particularly useful, alerting you to vehicles in your blind spots when changing lanes. The rear cross-traffic alert system helps to prevent accidents when backing out of parking spaces, alerting you to vehicles approaching from the side. Overall, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport is well-equipped with technology and safety features that enhance both the driving experience and your peace of mind. It's a vehicle that's both modern and safe, making it a great choice for families and individuals alike.

Potential Issues and Maintenance

Like any vehicle, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport may have some potential issues, and proper maintenance is key to keeping it running smoothly. Some common issues reported by owners include problems with the dual-clutch transmission, such as hesitation or jerky shifting. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes, can help to mitigate these issues. Another potential issue is with the infotainment system, which may experience occasional glitches or software errors. Keeping the software up to date can help to resolve these problems. In terms of maintenance, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule. This includes regular oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections of key components. Checking the tire pressure and rotating the tires regularly can also help to extend their lifespan. It's also a good idea to keep an eye on fluid levels, such as coolant and brake fluid, and top them off as needed. One of the best ways to prevent problems is to have your Tucson Sport inspected by a qualified mechanic on a regular basis. They can identify potential issues before they become major problems. It's also important to address any warning lights or unusual noises promptly. Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious and costly repairs down the road. When it comes to repairs, it's always best to use genuine Hyundai parts whenever possible. These parts are designed specifically for your vehicle and are more likely to provide reliable performance. Overall, with proper maintenance and care, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport can be a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for many years to come.

Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport a Good Choice?

So, is the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport a good choice? Absolutely! It strikes a fantastic balance between sporty performance, practical features, and overall value. If you're in the market for a compact SUV that offers a bit more excitement than the average commuter, the Tucson Sport should definitely be on your radar. The turbocharged engine provides a noticeable boost in power, making it fun to drive whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The interior is comfortable and well-designed, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. Plus, the technology and safety features are up-to-date, providing you with peace of mind on the road. While there may be a few potential issues to be aware of, regular maintenance and care can help to keep your Tucson Sport running smoothly for years to come. Compared to other compact SUVs in its class, the Tucson Sport offers a compelling combination of features and value. It's not the most luxurious or the most performance-oriented option, but it strikes a great balance between the two. If you're looking for a vehicle that's both practical and enjoyable to drive, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport is definitely worth considering. So go ahead, take it for a test drive and see for yourself what it has to offer!