Toyota may be kicking GM’s butt in global sales numbers early this year, but the Japanese manufacturer needs to keep an eye on its own backside for several Korean competitors.
Introduced last year, the Hyundai Veracruz is a worthy competitor in the mid-size SUV category. The seven-passenger SUV comes very well loaded in its base trim level, but the top-of-the-line Limited model can hold its own with the Lexus RX 350 and the Acura MDX, both considered leaders in the field.
We recently tested a Limited edition with all-wheel drive that was priced at $38,270, almost $10,000 less than a similarly-equipped RX 350. The only option package was the $1,500 rear entertainment center that included the obligatory DVD player/screen and an upgraded Infinity audio system. That final price did include $125 for floor mats and $205 for the roof rack rails.
A base model without some of the frills starts around $26,000, however.
Otherwise, everything you would expect was included such as electronic traction control, two-tone leather seating and leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, power-adjusted pedals, power tailgate and a sunroof.
New this year, but not included in our test model, is Hyundai’s first navigation system, which comes with a premium package option.
The Veracruz is the biggest and most expensive vehicle Hyundai has ever offered in the U.S. and may be one of it’s the best.
After a week of driving the Veracruz, we both were amazed by the agility, power, convenience features and utility of the SUV.
A 3.8-liter V6 with 260 horsepower supplied the giddy up with fuel mileage figures of 15 in the cit and 22 on the highway. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard. A front-wheel drive version is available.
The Veracruz received five-star approval in government testing in both frontal and side crash tests. Combined with a 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty that includes five years of unlimited mileage for roadside assistant, the Hyundai warranty is among the industry’s best.
So, what’s not to like? Actually not much. The exterior styling may be a little clunky but the spacious and well-appointed interior makes you forget about that in a hurry.
The rear seats are easily accessible and fold flat, along with the third-row seats for 86.8 cubic feet of available cargo space. With the second row seats upright, there’s still 40 cubic feet of space available. That’s slightly less than in the Lexus or Acura.
After an extended trial run on city, highway and mountain roads, the Veracruz was a joy to drive wherever we took it.
It may take some more aggressive marketing, but buyers need to look closer at the offerings from Hyundai and its sister company, Kia. They are both turning out some great vehicles with terrific warranties and great value. The Veracruz is one of those.

Ryan’s Ride –
Since its introduction, I’ve been a big fan of the Lexus RX 350 (and earlier renditions). However, after driving the Veracruz, there’s a new kid on the block – and for a lot less money.
Hyundai may not have the name recognition or cache of the Lexus, but it is a solid vehicle backed by an incredible warranty.
The two-tone, leather interior is beautiful with touches of faux wood and chrome adding highlights in a tasteful manner. The controls are all easy to understand and operate. The availability of XM satellite radio, power foot pedals and power tailgate are all pluses.
The potent V6 provides more than enough power and the transmission shifts seamlessly without any sudden lurches under heavy acceleration. The steering is a bit flat to the feel, but this isn’t a sport car after all.
Given the list of standard features, most optional on many other SUVs, the Veracruz is definitely a vehicle you need to consider if you’re in the market for a seven-passenger SUV.

Marilyn’s Moment –
Like most people, I’m not that familiar with the Hyundai lineup and the Veracruz was a very pleasant surprise. This is a big SUV but not huge.
I found it very easy to drive and park. The engine was quiet and responsive and got onto the freeway with ease.
I love the interior. There are plenty of cupholders and storage places for all my stuff. The two-tone color scheme is beautiful. All the controls were well positioned and easy to operate. The audio controls on the steering wheel are nice.
The power front seats, power foot pedals and adjustable steering wheel make it easy to find a comfortable driving position.
I especially liked the power tailgate you can open and close with the key fob. That makes it so much easier to open for loading groceries or other items. Our 2-year-old granddaughter thought it was magic and had to see it open and close several times.
If the Veracruz is magical to our granddaughter, then it’s good enough for me.