For 2017, the Hyundai Santa Fe returns with refreshed front and rear styling that's highlighted by new LED daytime running lights. Inside, there's a 7-inch touchscreen that's standard for even the base SE trim level and an available USB charging port for the third row. On the safety front, a 360-degree parking camera system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking for forward collision mitigation are newly available this year.
Pros Strong V6 engine provides quick acceleration Plenty of standard features for the money Interior features classy design and easy-to-use technology interfaces Warranty coverage is generous.
Cons Cargo capacity isn't as large as some competitors.
The sharper-looking 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe is still a good value for families looking for a three-row hauler—but its powertrain is starting to show its age. For 2017, the Hyundai Santa Fe has received a significant overhaul. The Santa Fe is the larger, three-row crossover SUV that's related to the smaller two-row Santa Fe Sport.
Pros Better look for 2017 Still good value for money Excellent cargo space Standard models still well-equipped Strong V-6
Cons All-wheel-drive penalty is sharp Could use newer transmission Third-row seat space is slight, compared to rivals
The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe ranks 3 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. The Hyundai Santa Fe has impressive safety, comfort, and infotainment features, and it delivers solid performance, though the Sport model's base engine is average at best. The Santa Fe's cabin is full of technology that will keep drivers and passengers safe, comfortable, and entertained.
Pros Strong V6 engine in Santa Fe Generous list of standard features
Cons Weak base engine in Sport models Underwhelming acceleration
Pleasant to drive and built to a price, the 2017 BMW X1 is a mainstream subcompact crossover that is pleasant to drive but lacks the brand's "ultimate driving machine" performance. The 2017 BMW X1 sits apart from other BMWs. With its front-wheel-drive, Mini-sourced platform, is the brand's entry-level subcompact crossover and a more mainstream, less passionate vehicle than you would expect from BMW. It is offered as the front-drive sDrive28i and the all-wheel-drive xDrive28i, the former added for 2017.
Pros Crossover utility Gutsy turbo 4-cylinder Good rear-seat space Fairly thrifty fuel economy Competitive price of entry
Cons Prices climb quickly with options Some cost-cutting in interior trim Driver assists cost extra Poor front seats
The BMW X1 offers shoppers in the compact luxury crossover category an intriguing blend of performance, comfort and utility. If you're looking for something that cleverly blurs the line between a low-slung sedan and a high-riding SUV, the X1 is worth a test drive. The 2017 X1 is BMW's smallest and most affordable utility vehicle, yet it offers a surprising amount of passenger and cargo space. It delivers trademark BMW quality inside and out, and despite having less power than earlier versions, the X1 still accelerates and handles better than most in its class.
Pros Strong performance from its turbocharged engine One of the best-handling compact luxury crossovers you're going to find More rear passenger and cargo room than most other competitors High-level interior fit, finish and materials
Cons Standard sport suspension can be jarring on rough roads Steering feels less precise than some of BMW's sport sedans.
The 2017 BMW X1 ranks 1 out of 5 Luxury Subcompact SUVs. The 2017 BMW X1 finishes near the top of our luxury subcompact rankings because of its good performance, upscale and spacious interior, and outstanding cargo space for the class.
Pros Quick acceleration Athletic handling Roomy back seat Outstanding cargo capacity
Cons No standard driver assistance features