The 2 Most Reliable Used Hyundai Tucson Years Under $20,000 in 2023
Hyundai provides industry-leading warranties on all of its vehicles. However, buying a used Hyundai Tucson drops the 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty down to the five-year or 60,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty. While that still offers good peace of mind, it amplifies the need to choose the most reliable Hyundai Tucson model year when buying a used Tucson.
The best used Hyundai Tucson model years under $20,000
The 2017 and 2018 Hyundai Tucson model years landed in a four-way tie at No. 2 in the U.S. News “Best Used Compact SUVs $15K to $20K for 2023.” U.S. News ranked 36 compact SUVs based on its proprietary scoring system that analyzes reviews from automotive critics, performance specs, interior finish, safety ratings, and J.D. Power predicted reliability. The top five ranked compact SUVs include the two Tucsons and models from Mazda and Kia, all in the 2017 to 2018 model year range.
2017 Hyundai Tucson
The 2017 Hyundai Tucson carried an original MSRP starting at $22,700. In 2017, it beat out the competition in several U.S. News compact SUV rankings thanks to favorable critics ratings, its exceptional safety record, and above-average J.D. Power predicted reliability. Used 2017 Hyundai Tucson prices range from $17,000 to $28,000 depending on trim and individual vehicle condition, but the average price lands around $21,300.
According to the U.S. News review, the Tucson underwent a complete redesign for the 2016 model year, increasing fuel economy, cargo space, touchscreen size, and predicted reliability ratings. However, the 2017 Tucson has one recall that involves trailer brake lights illuminating without applying the vehicle brakes.
The 2017 Tucson received a IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award and came with a rearview camera and brake assist on every trim level. Additionally, consider opting for available lane change assist, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning systems for more safety.
2018 Hyundai Tucson
The 2018 Hyundai Tucson, with an original MSRP starting at $22,550, also received above-average predicted reliability scores from J.D. Power and was a top contender in the 2018 model year affordable SUV U.S. News rankings. Like the 2017 Tucson, the 2018 model year got high scores for critic ratings, safety, and predicted reliability.
The average used 2018 Tucson price calculates to $19,300, ranging from $16,500 to $25,300. U.S. News prices show a used 2018 Tucson is less expensive than a 2017 model. The price difference, combined with the 2018 model’s lack of recalls and fewer owner-reported problems at CarComplaints, make the newer model more attractive.
The base 2018 Tucson features front-wheel drive, a six-speed automatic transmission, and a 164-hp 2.0-liter inline-four engine. The available turbocharged 1.6-liter I4 increases horsepower to 175 and has a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Additionally, available all-wheel drive increases traction on slippery surfaces.
Is a used Hyundai Tucson worth buying?
A used Hyundai Tucson is worth buying if you’re looking for a dependable, thrifty, compact SUV with two rows of seating. However, other models in the top five of the U.S. News ranking, such as the 2017 and 2018 Mazda CX-5 and the 2017 Kia Sportage, also deserve consideration. Furthermore, Hyundai, Kia, and Mazda offer similar powertrain warranty durations for previously-owned models.
