2017 Hyundai Tucson: What's Changed

CARS.COM

• Most significant changes: Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard on the Limited model.
• Price change: SE and Eco models are unchanged. Base prices are $250 lower on the Sport and $125 lower on the Limited.
• On sale: Late July
• Which should you buy, 2016 or 2017? 2016, unless you have to have Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.

Related: What’s the Best Compact SUV of 2016?

The Tucson compact crossover was redesigned for 2016, when it received more appealing styling, an optional turbocharged engine and more available convenience and safety features. The result was a more competitive entry against popular compact SUVs such as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Ford Escape, the top sellers in that segment.

The addition of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is the biggest change for 2017, but it is available only on the Limited models, which start at more than $30,000, including destination. The Limited trim also gets a new 315-watt Infinity premium audio system. A more useful change on lower-priced models is that Yes Essentials stain-resistant fabric is now included on all cloth interior colors (it wasn’t previously available in gray or black interiors).

Most models come with a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder that has more spunk and better fuel economy than the 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the base SE model.

The Tucson seats up to five and has slightly more interior space than its main rivals, but it comes up short in cargo volume against those same rivals. However, it has ample storage bins in the main cabin, a useful dual-level floor in the cargo area, and an available automatic liftgate that opens when the smart key is within 3 feet.

The crowded compact SUV segment has several good choices and, after last year’s redesign, the Tucson became another entry that deserves close consideration.