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In our unending search for the very best used vehicles we examine one of the top mid-size SUVs of the past 10 years, the Hyundai Tucson. Rugged, roomy, and affordable this SUV ticks all the right boxes.
For Starters – Winning the Depreciation Race
We here at the Daily Driver have a love of both cars and smart deals. Which is why we’re always on the lookout for the very best in used vehicles. Whether you’re needing something both cheap and safe for your teenager or looking for the best deal on a used luxury car, we’re always on the hunt for the absolute best choices among used vehicles.
That’s why we’re highlighting the 2017 Hyundai Tucson, because it’s one of the best deals out there for a used small to midsize crossover. The average new vehicle depreciates by nearly 33% in the first two years, the Tucson beats that average by approximately 5% and continues to maintain a higher than average value for the next ten model years. The combination of affordability and utility are a big reason why.
Specs – This Time Smaller Is Better
The 2017 Tucson came with either a 164 hp 2.0-liter I-4 or a 175hp 1.6-liter turbo I-4, the latter of which adds noticeably to the acceleration (the 2.0 is quite pokey) and ends up being slightly more efficient at the same time. The 1.6 in the Sport and Limited trims delivers 25 city /30 hwy mpg, the AWD on any version dips that a bit to 24/28 mpg. However, the Eco trim gets 26/32 mpg meaning if you want to beat the segment average in efficiency, the Tucson offers good options.
The Tucson runs about average on cargo space, with 31 cu. ft. with the rear seats in use and 61.9 cu. f.t with them folded down. That’s more than the Honda HR-V, but less than the Toyota RAV4 or Ford Escape.
Performance/Comfort – Turbo with a Placid Ride
Even if we don’t buy SUVs for their acceleration, a serious lack thereof can blunt the attraction. That’s why the addition of the 1.6-liter turbo in 2016 gave Tucson shoppers a reason to give it a second look. The turbo was a much needed upgrade over the somewhat sluggish 2.9-liter.
The ride is smooth enough over rough roads but still athletic around corners, with minimum body roll and a well-planted feel. The cabin is quiet, doing a good job of insulating passengers from road and wind noise. This quiet yet refined driving experience is one of the big pluses in favor of the Tucson versus other comparable vehicles.
The “Why Buy” Features, And Notes of Caution
Here’s a run-down of key considerations for the 2017 Hyundai Tucson.
Why Buys
- Pleasurable drive
- Good fuel economy
- Available AWD
- Decent cargo space and towing capacity (1,500 lbs.)
- Affordable, running between $18,000-$22,000 with an average of 30,000 miles after 3 years
- Hyundai offers a 10 year/100,000mile warranty, with 2nd owners covered for 5-years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first
- IIHS top safety pick (at Limited trim, with blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane change assist)
Notes of Caution
- Turbo engine does noticeably lag at times
- The transmission isn’t the most responsive, exacerbates turbo lag
- Have to spring for top trim Limited to get those desirable safety features
The Takeaways
The real genius of the Hyundai Tucson, like all successful mid-size SUVs, is in doing a lot of things well instead of doing any one or two things great. The ride is smooth, the acceleration is decent (with the 1.6-liter at least), the cabin is quiet, and the cargo space adequate. Bundling all that together with a good assortment of safety features and even the top trim Limited is a great deal at around $22,000.
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