If you're traditionally a supporter of the underdog, you'll no doubt be an ally of Korean auto manufacturer, Hyundai. Not so long ago in North America, this nameplate held little prestige and was in fact downright laughable when it came to technology and quality. Those days are over and that reputation is history.
Superior build quality complements eye-pleasing design
The full-size all-wheel-drive (AWD) Veracruz crossover - also known as an LUV (luxury utility vehicle) - germinates from the smaller Hyundai Santa Fe platform. The enhanced dimensions of the Veracruz enable the placement of a truly functional third row seat; a feature often sought after by SUV and crossover buyers but rarely received.
The clean lines of the Veracruz were clearly penned to satisfy the North American market. The overall package is restrained sufficiently to evade criticism while not becoming excessively civil in the process. The dramatic tapering of its side glass and the wrap around headlights and taillights add enough "haute design" to catch the eye and define its character.
Interior architecture and overall cabin design is well beyond expectation. Hyundai has no apologies to make here. Materials used to fabricate the inner sanctum extend surprising appeal. As well as being intuitively laid out and straightforward to operate, all switchgear components impart a sense of purpose and quality beyond the Veracruz's "Hyundai" label.
A close inspection of my tester confirmed that Hyundai's build quality, both inside and out, is of the highest standard for its price point within the segment, which is $39,995 for the Veracruz GLS and $46,295 for the - as tested - Limited.
Silky powertrain sure to rival premium brands
Premium brands, such as Lexus, are notable for the smooth, refined operation of their engines and automatic transmissions. Hyundai has earned such distinction of late. It's evident in their luxurious Azera sedan and equally present in the Veracruz, which was introduced in 2007 and for 2008 is essentially unchanged.
The engine imparting life to the Veracruz is a 3.8 litre, 24-valve DOHC V6 featuring Continuous Variable Valve Timing (CCVT) technology. This is the only mill to power the Veracruz, imbuing it 260 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 257 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm.
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| The clean lines of the Veracruz were clearly penned to satisfy the North American market. |
Superior build quality complements eye-pleasing design
The full-size all-wheel-drive (AWD) Veracruz crossover - also known as an LUV (luxury utility vehicle) - germinates from the smaller Hyundai Santa Fe platform. The enhanced dimensions of the Veracruz enable the placement of a truly functional third row seat; a feature often sought after by SUV and crossover buyers but rarely received.
The clean lines of the Veracruz were clearly penned to satisfy the North American market. The overall package is restrained sufficiently to evade criticism while not becoming excessively civil in the process. The dramatic tapering of its side glass and the wrap around headlights and taillights add enough "haute design" to catch the eye and define its character.
Interior architecture and overall cabin design is well beyond expectation. Hyundai has no apologies to make here. Materials used to fabricate the inner sanctum extend surprising appeal. As well as being intuitively laid out and straightforward to operate, all switchgear components impart a sense of purpose and quality beyond the Veracruz's "Hyundai" label.
A close inspection of my tester confirmed that Hyundai's build quality, both inside and out, is of the highest standard for its price point within the segment, which is $39,995 for the Veracruz GLS and $46,295 for the - as tested - Limited.
Silky powertrain sure to rival premium brands
Premium brands, such as Lexus, are notable for the smooth, refined operation of their engines and automatic transmissions. Hyundai has earned such distinction of late. It's evident in their luxurious Azera sedan and equally present in the Veracruz, which was introduced in 2007 and for 2008 is essentially unchanged.
The engine imparting life to the Veracruz is a 3.8 litre, 24-valve DOHC V6 featuring Continuous Variable Valve Timing (CCVT) technology. This is the only mill to power the Veracruz, imbuing it 260 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 257 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm.
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| The engine imparting life to the Veracruz is a 3.8 litre, 24-valve DOHC V6. |