2007 Hyundai Veracruz

2007 Hyundai Veracruz
Type:
A front-wheel drive large crossover SUV.

Models:
GLS, SE, Limited

Retail price:
$26,995 - $38,000

Engine:
3.8-liter multi-point fuel injection,
6-cylinder,
260-horsepower,
257-pound-feet torque.

Transmission:
6-speed automatic,
includes clutchless shifting
EPA mileage: 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
Estimated 12-month insurance costs, according to AAA Michigan: $687
*Includes shipping

Performance :
Sluggish acceleration and soft handling sap the fun out of driving.

Exterior:
A clone of the Lexus RX 350 does not stand out in a diverse and growing selection of vehicles in the crossover market.

Interior:
Offers lots of amenities and creature comforts.

Safety:
Standard side curtain airbags for all three rows,
anti lock brakes,
electronic stability control and electronic roll over mitigation.

The Veracruz fails to close the luxury gap in the crossover market in the same way the 2006 Azera did in the sedan sector. That car feels luxurious at a modest price. The Veracruz is just a photocopy of a photocopy.

It's a heavily loaded knockoff that doesn't hold its own against similarly priced crossovers such as the Honda Pilot, the Toyota Highlander and the Saturn Outlook. Those are the real competitors, not the Lexus RX 350.