USED HYUNDAI TUCSON 2.0 FWD

The Hyundai Tucson is a 1591cc SUV and was recently redesigned for the third time in the compact crossover’s history 2016, and for 2017 it largely stands pat aside from adding some technology updates inside that are, at least for now, relegated only to the higher-dollar trim levels.

Tucson is available in a variety of flavors depending on choice but can climb quickly with options, although the same comments could easily be levied against rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Subaru Forester. Tucson is available in SE, Eco, Sport, and Limited trim levels, all of which are offered with a choice of sunny state front-wheel drive or slushy road all wheel-drive. Popping for all-wheel drive adds $1,400 to any trim level.

We think the Tucson compares well to other compact crossovers, though its performance is a bit more benign that some, and cargo space slightly on the shy side. It earns a 7.3 overall out of 10.

Styling and performance

The base SE is the only model to utilize a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with direct injection. Rated at 164 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque, the 2.0 won’t win any drag races and it is actually the least efficient Tucson powertrain. If your budget allows, we wholeheartedly recommend opting for the Eco, Sport, and Limited trim levels. They add a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that although smaller, boasts a turbocharger that boosts power to 175 hp and, perhaps more importantly, 195 lb-ft of torque. It’s that latter figure that helps motivate the Tucson around with confidence, although even it can feel a little pokey around town compared to the larger turbo motors optional in the Escape and Forester.

Tuscon SEs utilize a conventional 6-speed automatic, while the other models feature as standard a high-tech 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Opting for the optional all wheel-drive adds a driver-selectable lock that splits engine torque between the front and rear wheels for, say, deep snow, but drivers in all weather will appreciate its torque vectoring that gently brakes an inside wheel to improve hard cornering performance.