The Hyundai Veracruz was only released a couple years ago in 2008 and it has been a very well accepted new full size model into the Hyundai line up. This full sized sports utility brought some winds of change to the standard styling on Hyundai's in general, no longer would the boxy and over the top curves be the sure sign of a Hyundai. The new sleek looking Veracruz brings a very attractive and aerodynamic body style to Hyundai's lineup that many other models would be quick to follow.
The Veracruz offers over 13 cubic feet of storage when it is has filled its 7 passenger capacity and can offer an 86.8 cubic foot storage room when only the front seats are being occupied. The Veracruz has a 2060 horsepower V-6 engine that uses continuously variable valve timing and a six speed automatic transmission to bring a very sporty and comfortable ride to this sports utility. The interior quality and amazing drivability put the Veracruz in the same class as the Lexus RX 350. However in a direct competition the Hyundai Veracruz definitely comes out victorious.
The Range
Bodystyles: Crossover SUV
Engines: 3.8L V-6
Transmissions: 6-speed automatic
Models: GLS, Limited
What's New
Little has changed for the company's biggest crossover SUV. Minor packaging changes are the only updates for 2011: for the GLS model, the Premium package no longer includes the LG navigation system, but now comes with an auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink. Aside from that change, the model is essentially carryover: one engine, one transmission, and three-row seating standard.
Exterior
Hyundai's largest SUV is 190.6-inches long, allowing for plenty of room for gear and/or people. Its elegant lines and attractive 17- or 18-inch wheels give it the looks of a more expensive vehicle.
Interior
Extensive use of sound-deadening material makes the interior very quiet. It also is available with features such as surround sound, navigation, leather, and seat heaters. Driver's power seat is standard; front passenger power seat is optional.
Performance & Handling
Cruising down the highway, you might feel some of the lumps and bumps in the road. That may be seen as a downside, but where the Veracruz benefits from its firm suspension is in curves, where handling is very good and steering is quick, with plenty of feedback. The 3.8-liter engine is less powerful than others in its class, and transmission shifts are a little slow.
Safety
Dual front airbags, dual front seat-mounted side airbags, and roof-mounted three-row side curtain airbags are standard on the Veracruz. So are stability control, traction control, and disc brakes with ABS with brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution.
EPA Fuel Economy
FWD: 17 mpg city/22 mpg highway
AWD: 16 mpg city/21 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Beautiful interior
- Terrific value
- Plentiful safety equipment
- Responsive steering
You Won't Like
- Tight third row
- Not quite enough power
- Slow transmission
- Firm suspension
Sum Up
Solid player in the segment
If You Like This Vehicle
- Buick Enclave
- Lexus RX 350
- Toyota Highlander
- Mazda CX-9