Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport. If you're considering snagging one of these, or you're just curious about its specs and performance, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know in a way that's easy to understand and, hopefully, a bit fun too. So, let's get started!

Overview of the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport

The 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport is a trim level of the popular Tucson compact SUV, known for blending practicality with a bit of sporty flair. This model year sits comfortably within the Tucson's third generation, which was a significant redesign that brought updated styling, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced technology features. The 'Sport' trim specifically aimed to offer a more engaging driving experience and distinctive aesthetics compared to the base models. Key highlights of the 2017 Tucson Sport include a more powerful engine option, sport-tuned suspension, and unique exterior and interior accents. It was designed to appeal to drivers who wanted a bit more pep in their daily drive without sacrificing the versatility and comfort that the Tucson is known for. In terms of market positioning, the Tucson Sport competed against other sporty compact SUVs like the Ford Escape SE, Mazda CX-5, and Toyota RAV4 SE. These competitors also offered enhanced performance and styling packages to attract buyers looking for something beyond the standard SUV experience. The 2017 Tucson Sport stood out with its combination of value, features, and Hyundai's reputation for reliability, making it a compelling option in a crowded segment. Its blend of practicality and sporty enhancements made it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and fun-to-drive compact SUV. Moreover, the Tucson Sport benefited from Hyundai's strong warranty program, adding an extra layer of confidence for potential buyers. This comprehensive coverage helped set it apart from some of its competitors, making it an even more attractive option in the eyes of many consumers. Overall, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport offered a well-rounded package that balanced everyday usability with a touch of sporty excitement.

Key Specs and Features

Let's dive into what makes the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport tick. First off, the engine. You're looking at a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This little beast puts out around 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. What does that mean for you? It means decent acceleration and enough power to make highway merging and passing a breeze. No need to feel like you're driving a snail! This engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Now, some people love DCTs for their quick shifts, but others find them a bit quirky at low speeds. It's something to be aware of, especially if you do a lot of city driving. Moving on to fuel economy, you can expect around 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. Not the best in its class, but certainly respectable. On the outside, the Sport trim gets some unique touches like sporty alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and some chrome accents. It's not over-the-top, but it does give it a slightly more aggressive look. Inside, you'll find features like leather seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a rearview camera. These were pretty standard features for the time, but they definitely add to the overall driving experience. Safety-wise, the 2017 Tucson Sport comes with a suite of airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. You could also opt for features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which are always nice to have for added peace of mind. One thing to keep in mind is that the Sport trim sits in the middle of the Tucson lineup. It's not the base model, but it's also not the top-of-the-line. This means you get a good balance of features without breaking the bank. However, if you're looking for things like a panoramic sunroof or advanced driver-assistance systems, you'll need to step up to a higher trim level. All in all, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport offers a solid set of specs and features that make it a compelling option in the compact SUV segment.

Performance and Handling

Now, let's talk about how the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport actually drives. With its 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, the Tucson Sport offers a noticeable improvement in performance compared to the base engine. The turbocharger gives it a decent amount of low-end torque, which means it feels peppy around town and doesn't struggle when you need to accelerate quickly. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is generally smooth and responsive, but it can sometimes feel a bit hesitant at low speeds or during stop-and-go traffic. This is a common characteristic of DCTs, and it's something that some drivers may find takes some getting used to. On the road, the Tucson Sport handles reasonably well for a compact SUV. The steering is precise and provides decent feedback, and the suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride without feeling too floaty. It's not going to carve up corners like a sports car, but it's perfectly competent for everyday driving. One of the standout features of the Sport trim is its sport-tuned suspension. While it's not a drastic change, it does make the Tucson feel a bit more planted and responsive compared to the standard models. This can be especially noticeable on winding roads or when making quick maneuvers. In terms of braking, the 2017 Tucson Sport offers adequate stopping power. The brakes feel confident and provide good pedal feel, which inspires confidence in emergency situations. Overall, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport delivers a balanced driving experience. It's not the fastest or most agile SUV in its class, but it offers a good combination of performance, comfort, and handling that makes it a pleasant daily driver. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands around town, or taking a road trip, the Tucson Sport is up to the task.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport, you'll find a cabin that's both functional and comfortable. The design is clean and modern, with a focus on user-friendliness. The materials used are generally of good quality, although there are some hard plastics in certain areas. The front seats are supportive and well-cushioned, making them comfortable for long drives. The leather upholstery in the Sport trim adds a touch of luxury and enhances the overall feel of the interior. In the back, there's plenty of room for passengers, even adults. The rear seats offer good legroom and headroom, and they can also recline for added comfort. The Tucson also has a decent amount of cargo space, with 31 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 61.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This is enough room for groceries, luggage, or other gear. The infotainment system in the 2017 Tucson Sport is easy to use and features a responsive touchscreen display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, which allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. The audio system provides decent sound quality, although audiophiles may want to upgrade to a premium system. One of the nice things about the Tucson's interior is its quietness. Road noise and wind noise are well-suppressed, creating a more relaxing driving environment. The climate control system is also effective at keeping the cabin comfortable, even in extreme temperatures. Overall, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport offers a comfortable and well-appointed interior that's perfect for both daily commutes and long road trips. Whether you're driving alone or with passengers, you'll appreciate the Tucson's spaciousness, user-friendly features, and comfortable ride.

Potential Issues and Reliability

No car is perfect, and the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport is no exception. One of the most common issues reported by owners is related to the dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Some drivers have experienced hesitation, jerky shifting, or even complete transmission failure. While not every Tucson Sport will have these problems, it's something to be aware of, especially if you're considering buying a used model. Another potential issue is with the turbocharger. Some owners have reported problems with the turbocharger failing prematurely, which can be an expensive repair. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, can help prevent this issue. In terms of reliability, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson generally receives average to above-average ratings from reputable sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. However, it's important to keep in mind that reliability can vary depending on how well the car has been maintained and driven. To minimize the risk of encountering problems, it's always a good idea to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic before buying a used 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport. This can help identify any potential issues and give you peace of mind. Additionally, be sure to check the car's maintenance history to see if it has been properly serviced. Regular maintenance is key to keeping any car running smoothly and reliably. Overall, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport is a relatively reliable vehicle, but it's not without its potential issues. By being aware of these issues and taking steps to prevent them, you can increase the chances of owning a trouble-free Tucson Sport.

Is the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport a Good Buy?

So, is the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport a good buy? Well, it depends on what you're looking for. If you want a compact SUV that offers a good balance of performance, features, and value, then the Tucson Sport is definitely worth considering. It's not the flashiest or most luxurious SUV in its class, but it offers a lot for the money. The turbocharged engine provides decent power, the interior is comfortable and well-equipped, and the handling is competent. Plus, Hyundai's reputation for reliability and its generous warranty coverage add extra peace of mind. However, there are a few potential downsides to be aware of. The dual-clutch transmission can be a bit quirky, and some owners have reported issues with the turbocharger. Additionally, the fuel economy isn't the best in its class. If you're concerned about these issues, you may want to consider other options. But if you're willing to take the risk, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport can be a great choice. It's a versatile and practical SUV that's also fun to drive. And with its affordable price tag, it's a great value for the money. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a 2017 Hyundai Tucson Sport is a personal one. But if you do your research and weigh the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that's right for you. So, go ahead and give it a test drive. You might just be surprised at how much you like it!