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
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee still antes up considerable trail-riding talent, but other crossover SUVs do a better job of daily driving. The name is one of the oldest applied to a modern-day SUV, but the 2017 Jeep Cherokee is no Conestoga wagon. It's a thoroughly modern family wagon, recast from its hardcore sport-utility roots into something much broader, more capable in all sorts of conditions.
Pros Family-sized interior (albeit with no third row) Daring exterior Front seat comfort Quick enough with the base engine Strong active-safety set
Cons Exterior styling doesn't feel fully committed-to Numb steering Gas mileage okay but not excellent Transmission woes come and go
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee ranks 13 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Jeep Cherokee combines an upscale and spacious cabin with good off-road capability. Although you can find a smoother ride and larger cabin in competitors like the Honda CR-V or Ford Escape, the Cherokee’s off-road capability means it strikes a pretty rare balance in this class.
Pros Premium-quality cabin Spacious and comfortable seating Great off-road capability with 4WD option
Cons Sluggish base engine Below-average fuel economy Small cargo space
The 2017 Cherokee gets only minor equipment revisions, including standard xenon headlights on every trim but the base Sport. This is also the first full year for the top-of-the-line Overland trim that was introduced in mid-2016.
Pros Available V6 engine provides smooth and assertive power Absorbent suspension smooths out rough surfaces Capable and user-friendly 8.4-inch touchscreen on many models Trailhawk offers unique off-road capability for a small crossover.
Cons Sluggish acceleration with four-cylinder engine Less cargo capacity than other small crossovers.