Following up on last year's full redesign, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson receives a few updates to technology and interior quality. Most notably, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration debuts on the Tucson's top trim levels.
Pros Turbocharged engine delivers peppy acceleration and good fuel economy Plenty of advanced safety and infotainment features are available Comfortable ride on rough roads Top safety scores.
Cons Slow acceleration from the base trim's engine Clumsy low-speed shifting from the turbo engine's transmission Certain desirable items are offered only on the Limited Less total cargo space than top rivals.
The 2017 Hyundai Tucson doesn't live on the cutting edge, but it's an attractive, economical crossover SUV that's worth a spot on your shopping list. The Hyundai Tucson was recently redesigned for the third time in the compact crossover's history last year, 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.
Pros Classy looks inside and out Quiet cabin and refined ride quality Innovative automatic liftgate at upper trim levels
Cons SE and Eco interiors feel low-buck Cargo space still a little tight Navigation, emergency braking are costly options
The 2017 Hyundai Tucson ranks 3 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Hyundai Tucson's spacious cabin and expansive list of standard and optional features highlight the crossover’s ability to provide a comfortable and safe ride. Its graceful handling and high safety scores should put both drivers and passengers’ minds at ease.
Pros Quiet cabin Spacious back seats High safety ratings
Cons Some low-rent cabin materials
The 2017 Lexus RX 350 ranks 4 out of 21 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Lexus RX 350 ranks in the top quarter among luxury midsize SUVs because it offers an attractive and spacious interior, good power, and impressive standard features, but some competitors can say the same thing.
Pros Generous list of standard features Comfortable and spacious rear seats Lower base price than many competitors
Cons Difficult-to-use infotainment system Limited cargo space
As a style-conscious statement of indulgence, the Lexus RX shines like never before. Its looks are polarizing and it's not all that fun to drive even in F Sport form, but the RX continues to excel in many ways. Almost ubiquitous with the term "luxury crossover," the Lexus RX was redesigned last year with a far more lavish look and feel inside and out. It's a daring breath of fresh air for the model that essentially pioneered this premium, upscale segment. We like the current Lexus RX, even though it's not quite as polished to drive as some rivals. With its solid feel and eye-catching looks, the RX rates a 7.3 out of 10 on our scale.
Pros Eye-catching design Refined interior Solid power Available hybrid Standard safety tech
Cons Polarizing looks Expensive with options F-Sport rides very firmly No third row
Don’t let the RX’s daring style fool you—it’s still the plush-riding crossover it’s always been, but a technological leap forward from its segment-defining predecessor. A 295-hp V-6, eight-speed automatic and front-drive are standard; all-wheel drive is optional. There is a hybrid, but with optional all-wheel drive, we managed 22 mpg; its combined EPA rating is 30. The cabin uses rich-looking interior materials throughout; the F Sport gets comfortable and supportive seats, among other upgrades. The Lexus RX, which has reigned as the best-selling Lexus model and the top seller among all luxury crossovers and SUVs for nearly two decades, went under the knife for some major work in 2016. It kept the passenger-car mechanicals, raised seating position, posh interior, and cargo-friendly five-passenger SUV body style but cranked the styling volume up to new heights with an outsize snout, a floating roof, and a riotous surface treatment. Voting with their wallets, the car-buying public seems to prefer this new RX, as sales have increased versus the more sedate-looking previous version.