What's up, car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, a vehicle that's been turning heads and earning its place in driveways everywhere. If you're in the market for a midsize SUV that balances practicality with a touch of style, the Santa Fe Sport is definitely worth a closer look. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and interior features to what makes it a solid choice for families and adventurers alike. So, buckle up, grab your favorite beverage, and let's get into the nitty-gritty of this popular SUV.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

Let's talk horsepower, guys! The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport comes standard with a respectable 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 185 horsepower. This setup is perfectly adequate for daily commuting and most driving situations. However, if you're looking for a bit more pep in your step, especially when merging onto the highway or carrying a full load of passengers, the available 3.3-liter V6 engine is the way to go. This beast churns out a healthy 290 horsepower, offering a much more engaging driving experience. Both engines are paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. The Santa Fe Sport is known for its comfortable ride, soaking up bumps and road imperfections with ease, making it a great companion for long road trips. While it's not exactly a sports car, the handling is composed and predictable. You won't feel like you're wrestling with it around corners, and the steering provides a decent amount of feedback. For those who need it, all-wheel drive is available, giving you extra confidence and traction during inclement weather or on less-than-perfect roads. The fuel economy is pretty decent for its class, too. With the four-cylinder, you're looking at an EPA-estimated 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway, while the V6 gets around 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. These numbers might not be class-leading, but they're certainly competitive and won't break the bank at the pump.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Step inside the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, and you'll find an interior that's both spacious and well-appointed. Hyundai really stepped up their game with this model, offering a cabin that feels surprisingly upscale for its price point. The materials used are of good quality, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas, and the overall design is clean and intuitive. Seating is comfortable, with supportive front seats that make long drives a breeze. The second-row seats offer ample legroom and headroom, making it a great option for families with growing kids or for shuttling friends around. Even with all seats occupied, there's still a generous amount of cargo space in the back. With the rear seats folded down, you get a substantial 71.5 cubic feet of room, which is plenty for hauling groceries, sports equipment, luggage, or even that new piece of furniture you just couldn't resist. When it comes to technology, the 2017 Santa Fe Sport is well-equipped. Higher trims come with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that's user-friendly and responsive. It supports Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, and features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available on select models, seamlessly integrating your smartphone with the vehicle's system. Other available tech features include a premium audio system, a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light, a rearview camera, and a suite of advanced safety features. These safety technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning, can provide an extra layer of security and peace of mind for you and your passengers. The cabin is also surprisingly quiet, with good noise insulation that keeps road and wind noise to a minimum, contributing to a more relaxed and enjoyable driving experience, whether you're on a short errand or a cross-country adventure.

Safety Features and Reliability

When it comes to safety, the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport scores well, giving you confidence on the road. It earned good ratings in crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This means that in the unfortunate event of a collision, the Santa Fe Sport is designed to protect its occupants effectively. Beyond the passive safety features like airbags and a strong chassis, Hyundai also offers a good selection of active safety technologies. These advanced driver-assistance systems can help prevent accidents or mitigate their severity. Depending on the trim level and options chosen, you could find features like automatic emergency braking, which can apply the brakes automatically if a potential collision is detected, blind-spot detection, which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, and lane-keeping assist, which helps you stay within your lane. Rearview cameras are standard on most models, making parking and backing up much easier and safer. The overall reliability of the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is generally considered to be good. Hyundai has a solid reputation for building durable vehicles, and the Santa Fe Sport is no exception. While no vehicle is immune to issues, reports and owner surveys often indicate a positive long-term ownership experience. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring any vehicle's longevity, and the Santa Fe Sport is no different. Following the recommended service schedule will help keep it running smoothly for years to come. The availability of parts and qualified mechanics is also generally good, making maintenance and repairs relatively straightforward and affordable compared to some other brands. This combination of strong safety ratings and good reliability makes the 2017 Santa Fe Sport a sensible choice for those who prioritize security and dependability in their vehicle, especially for families who need a trustworthy ride.

Trim Levels and Value Proposition

The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is available in a few different trim levels, each offering a different mix of features and price points, allowing buyers to find a model that best suits their needs and budget. The base model, often referred to as the 'Sport,' comes with a good array of standard equipment. You'll typically find features like a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a 7-inch touchscreen audio system. Moving up the trim ladder, you'll encounter the 'Sport 2.0T' model. This trim level often includes the more powerful V6 engine (though sometimes it's a turbocharged 4-cylinder, so always check the specifics for the exact model year and configuration), along with upgraded interior amenities and exterior styling cues. Additional features on the 2.0T might include leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, a power liftgate, and larger alloy wheels. For those looking for the maximum in comfort and technology, there are often premium packages available that can add features like a panoramic sunroof, an upgraded navigation system, a premium sound system, and advanced safety features. One of the most attractive aspects of the 2017 Santa Fe Sport is its value proposition. Hyundai consistently offers a lot of vehicle for the money, and this SUV is a prime example. You get a well-built, comfortable, and feature-rich SUV that often comes in at a lower price point than many of its competitors, especially when comparing similarly equipped models. This makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers who don't want to compromise on quality or features. The generous warranty that Hyundai typically provides also adds to the overall value, offering peace of mind for the long haul. When considering the blend of space, comfort, features, and affordability, the 2017 Santa Fe Sport presents a compelling case for anyone seeking a practical and well-rounded midsize SUV without emptying their wallet. It's a smart buy that delivers on multiple fronts, proving that you don't always need to spend a fortune to get a great vehicle. The choice of trims ensures that whether you're looking for a straightforward daily driver or a more luxurious cruiser, there's likely a Santa Fe Sport configuration out there that will tick all your boxes and provide solid performance and comfort for years of enjoyment on the road ahead.

Conclusion: Why Choose the 2017 Santa Fe Sport?

So, to wrap things up, why should the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport be on your radar? Simply put, it offers a fantastic combination of style, comfort, practicality, and value. It's an SUV that doesn't try to be something it's not; it's a well-rounded family vehicle that excels at everyday tasks while also being capable of handling weekend adventures. The available engine options provide flexibility for different driving needs, the interior is spacious and comfortable with plenty of room for passengers and cargo, and the technology and safety features available on higher trims ensure a modern and secure driving experience. Furthermore, its reputation for reliability and Hyundai's typically strong warranty coverage make it a smart and secure investment. Whether you're a growing family needing more space, an individual looking for a versatile daily driver, or someone who enjoys the occasional road trip, the 2017 Santa Fe Sport proves to be a capable and compelling option. It strikes a great balance, offering a premium feel without the premium price tag often associated with competitors. When you weigh its strengths – the comfortable ride, the versatile interior, the available power, the solid safety ratings, and the overall excellent value – it's easy to see why the Santa Fe Sport remains a popular choice in the crowded SUV market. It's a vehicle that delivers on its promises, providing a dependable and enjoyable ownership experience for its drivers. If you're looking for an SUV that ticks most of the boxes without breaking the bank, the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is definitely one you should consider taking for a test drive. You might just find it's the perfect fit for your lifestyle.