Hyundai Veracruz Review

The Hyundai Veracruz is the Korean automaker's most luxurious SUV. Boasting an impressively luxurious cabin, a serene and quiet ride and a generous list of standard features, the Veracruz is akin to many luxury-branded crossover SUVs. Anyone shopping for a large crossover SUV should at least test-drive the Veracruz. It doesn't substantially lead the competition in any one area, but definitely deserves consideration alongside more established American and Japanese crossover SUVs.

Current Hyundai Veracruz
The Veracruz is a seven-passenger crossover SUV offered in GLS and Limited trim levels. Both editions are powered by a 260-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 paired to a six-speed automatic with manual shift control. Each trim level is offered in front- or all-wheel drive.

The base model GLS offers standard features that include heated side mirrors, parking sensors, rear-seat air-conditioning, a power driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a six-speaker audio system with satellite radio, an auxiliary audio jack and USB/iPod audio jacks. A host of standard safety features also include front-seat side airbags, full-length head-protection airbags, stability control and antilock disc brakes with brake assist. Major options for the GLS include a sunroof and a power liftgate.

Step up to the Limited and the price climbs considerably. The most luxurious Hyundai Veracruz offers much of the GLS's optional equipment as standard and adds 18-inch wheels, leather upholstery, a power passenger seat and an upgraded stereo. A navigation system, Bluetooth and surround-sound audio are also available.

When the Veracruz was introduced, it drew comparisons to luxury models rather than more pedestrian-badged competitors. The comparisons were not far-fetched. In our reviews, we found the Veracruz luxurious, well-built and very quiet on the road. Generous standard features, top-notch crash test results and long warranty coverage add to the Veracruz's strengths. The V6 is smooth and powerful enough, though low-end torque is a bit lacking. We'd also like a little more room in the third row, which offers less space than several competitors.

Used Hyundai Veracruz Models
The Hyundai Veracruz was introduced for the 2007 model year. Originally it was offered in GLS, SE and Limited trim levels. Engine output and feature content has largely remained the same since then, although the navigation system and power tailgate became available for 2008. Also, the SE trim was dropped for 2009 in favor of two optional packages available on the GLS. Only minor feature content changes have occurred since.