2008 Hyundai Veracruz Limited
By: Juan G. Robbin
Considering a large SUV but with good cost value and economy? Then take a look at the Veracruz.
Hyundai Veracruz Limited (2008)
The Veracruz Limited is Hyundai’s answer to the full sized, three row SUV but with a feel of a smaller mid-sized vehicle. Being the Limited, it has all the expected bells and whistles, including backup warning system, sunroof, and 115 volt outlet among others. Recently, I had the opportunity of driving the Veracruz around the central California area with my family and came away thoroughly impressed.
The exterior is clean, modern and sleek, with a strong Japanese SUV feel to its entire design. Inside you are greeted with a comfortable leather interior that has excellent finish and feel to it. Third row seating is comfortable for smaller people or kids. The interior design and layout are first rate, appointments, switches and ergonomics are exactly as you would want. We did notice the navigation/multi-function display can, at times due to the sloping angle be difficult to see when the sun hits it directly.
The navigation system is intuitive and easy to use, including finding small, out of the way towns or places of interest. Fit and finish of materials used throughout the cabin and first rate quality. There is a relentless focus on the part of Hyundai not to just get close to the quality of the Japanese, but to in fact, try to surpass them. Interestingly, if you de-badge this SUV and put someone inside it they most likely say they are in a high-end Japanese SUV instead of a Hyundai.
When driving the Veracruz you immediately notice how quiet and smooth it is. We would have liked a bit more power, especially when traveling with four adults. Steering felt a bit too sensitive, especially on the highway. Brakes and suspension felt exactly as they should for a vehicle this size. The rear cargo hold is cavernous with the third-row folded flat into the floor. During our trip, we were four adults with four large bags and other items and all of it fit with ease in the cargo area. A nice touch is the auto open/close feature, nice that there is no need to push the large cargo door down for closing.
With a modern, well executed design, excellent comfort and quality, the Hyundai Veracruz Limited is a superb value in the seven passenger SUV segment.
The Essentials
MSRP: $35,750.00 MSRP (As Tested): $38,405.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 17.5 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.8 liter, 260 HP
Popular Options: Navigation Package
Visit: www.usa.hyundai-motor.com