2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Pros vs Cons

The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is sleeker and sportier than ever before. Drivers across the country enjoy this peppier version of the Hyundai Santa Fe for its enhanced driving experience. The newest version is loaded with features that every loyal Hyundai owner and any midsize SUV crossover enthusiast will love.

What's New For 2017

For 2017, the Santa Fe Sport received a body makeover. New headlights and rear lights are included, and the front fascia looks different. Drivers also have the option of LED daytime running lights and fog lamps. A new drive selector was added for steering. Also, Hyundai said that about 25 percent of the Sport's parts are new and improved for this model year.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport – The Pros

1. Peppy Acceleration

A four-cylinder engine with 240 horsepower makes the engine live up to the trim level's name. There is plenty of on-demand power, and the quicker acceleration lends to a tougher feel when the 2017 Santa Fe is ascending steep hills. This level of acceleration is perfect for everything from a mountain drive to merging onto a busy freeway.

2. Customized Driving Experience

With the new three-level drive mode selector, drivers now have more control over their steering experience. To match the overall sportiness of the vehicle, drivers can use sport mode. There are also the options of normal and eco to match a variety of driving styles.

3. Smooth Performance

Combine the zippy engine of the new Santa Fe Sport with a six-speed automatic transmission that is equipped with Shiftronic technology for the ultimate smooth ride. Power demands match well with shifting to maintain speed and minimize lag with normal use.

4. Rugged Reliability

The Santa Fe Sport's frame is built to be sturdy, which is evident in the unique Sport suspension. Drivers can easily maintain a smooth ride even on bumpier roads. With a history of low maintenance and repair demands, the Santa Fe Sport has become one of the most reliable budget-friendly crossovers for people who need a more rugged vehicle.

5. Versatile Interior Space

The seats of the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport can be stowed easily. This allows for a completely open area behind the driver’s seat. With a tall interior, space is great for hauling, traveling or even camping in the vehicle when it rains. The 2017 Santa Fe Sport can tote up to seven passengers when the third-row seat is set up. This makes it a great vehicle for family use or driving with friends.

6. Feature-rich Interior

One of the best improvements of the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is the addition of tech-friendly features such as Bluetooth and optional Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. There are dual automatic temperature control, adaptive cruise control, and other generous standard features.

7. Plentiful Safety Features

Safety features in the new Hyundai Santa Fe Sport take the worry out of driving with inclusions such as pedestrian detection and lane departure warning. The 360-degree camera system allows drivers to see surroundings around the entire perimeter of the Sport. The camera makes it easier to do everything from park lie a pro to watch for vehicles lingering in blind spots.

8. Unrivaled Warranty

Hyundai offers its legendary warranty package, which includes an impressive powertrain warranty of 10 years or 10,000 miles. This covers big-ticket repairs such as the engine and transmission. Most other repairs and parts are covered under the bumper-to-bumper warranty, which is good for 5 years or 60,000 miles. Many buyers who finance a new Hyundai Santa Fe Sport will have it paid off by the time the warranty expires.

9. Great Night Visibility

Night driving has never been easier with the new Sport's adaptive headlights. When drivers make a turn or approach a curve in the road, the sensors on the steering wheel move the lights to illuminate the curve in the road instead of the path directly in front of the vehicle.

10. Simplified Digital And Manual Controls

The digital display in the new Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is brilliant and simple to use. With organized menus and razor-sharp touch precision, drivers will not have to worry about being distracted on the road. Control knobs are placed and labeled logically for drivers who prefer to push and turn buttons to adjust settings.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport – The Cons

1. Average Fuel Economy

When using the all-wheel drive, the average fuel efficiency is 21 miles per gallon in the city and on the highway. In standard mode, the 2017 Santa Fe Sport averages about 19 miles per gallon on city streets and up to 24 on highways. This is about average and slightly less than some competing vehicles. Buyers who drive a lot and want to save at the pump may be disappointed with the new Sport.

2. Poor Rear Visibility

Although the new body style of the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is sleek and attractive, the rear pillars are very thick and pinched. The 360-degree camera and safety features are meant to compensate. However, the design reduces rear visibility, which could be problematic for drivers who prefer to manually check their surroundings.

3. Turbo Lag

With the turbo engine option, the 2017 Santa Fe Sport engine loses a little horsepower. This causes more lag when trying to accelerate quickly. Drivers who are expecting more on-demand power will be disappointed with the upgrade.

Conclusion

Overall, this is a good midsize crossover for useful features. With all of its new safety features and improved body, the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport also earned the Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS. Its reliability, safety and economical price tag make it a great investment for buyers of any age.