2012 Hyundai Veracruz Limited SUV

Twenty years from now, the Veracruz might be regarded as a watershed product for Hyundai, the vehicle that sprang the Korean manufacturer onto even ground with the likes of Honda and Toyota -- and even Acura and Lexus. Indeed, Hyundai's lineup is now filled with world-class cars that compete on many levels, not just on the merits of superlow pricing and an excellent warranty. The Veracruz, which first hit the streets in 2007 and isn't aging all that well, can easily be spec'd out to a Lexus RX350-like $39,000 (although a Lexus at that price wouldn't have as many features as this Hyundai). Your family might not love the strange front-end styling, but everyone will probably adore the car's oceans of space, numerous standard amenities, very nice interior, and respectable towing rating. Rear-seat DVD entertainment is no longer available, but a navigation system is paired with a 605-watt Infinity sound system, Pandora internet radio, and a rearview camera. Classy illuminated doorsill scuff plates, leather upholstery, heated first- and second-row seats, dual automatic climate control, a power sunroof, a power liftgate, and eighteen-inch wheels are standard equipment on Limited models. All-wheel drive can be added to either model for less than $2000. A six-speed automatic, an XM- and MP3-ready stereo, rear parking sensors, and seven-passenger seating are standard. For all its positive aspects, though, the Veracruz isn't a very strong seller because it's overshadowed by many rivals that have been launched or redesigned more recently, most notably the Ford Explorer.