If you want the look and feel of an entry level luxury SUV without the big price tag, then you should check out the 2012 Hyundai Veracruz. This is a vehicle that delivers performance, style and quality for less then half the cost of a Lexus LX570.
Starting at $28,345 the Hyundai Veracruz is a great deal for anyone looking for an SUV that looks great and seats seven comfortably.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Crossover | Base Price: $28,345.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 20.6 gallons (80L) | MPG: 17 city / 22 hwy |
| Length: 190.6 in. (484.1 cm) | Wheel Base: 110.4 in. (280.4 cm) |
| Height: 68.9 in. (175 cm) | Width: 76.6 in. (195 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 4266 lbs (1935 kg) | Ground Clearance: 8.1 in. (20.5 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 13.4 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 7 people |
| Engine: 3.8L V6 DOHC | Compression Ratio: 10.4: 1 |
| Horsepower: 260 HP | Max RPM: 6000 RPM |
| Torque: 257 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic |
| Option:Limited FWD | MSRP: $34,495; MPG: 17 city / 22 hwy |
| Option:GLS AWD | MSRP: $30,245; MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy |
| Option:Limited AWD | MSRP: $36,195; MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy |
Performance
Sweet effortless power from the 3.8liter v6 aluminum block engine puts out 260 horse power and 257ft of torque. The variable valve timing synchronizes the intake and outtake valves to provide better fuel efficiency.
The Shiftronic 6 speed Automatic transmission lets you change gears on demand. It also has preset shift patterns to meet certain driving conditions such as diverse weather, uphill driving and even performance driving.
The front suspension provides coil springs and gas charged shocks while the rear suspension has a multi-link design. This insures superb handling and a quiet cabin. This contributes to the over all luxury feel of this automobile. Of course, the 2012 Hyundai Veracruz features AWD along with an engine sensing power steering that will make driving this SUV a real pleasure.
Exterior
Clean lines and 17 inch aluminum alloy wheels along with a sculpted hood line are enough to catch anyone’s eye. Add the UV windows and heated side mirrors as well as the halogen 3 beam projector style headlights and you have one gorgeous vehicle.
Interior
For a vehicle in this price bracket you would think that the glass sunroof, power tailgate, heated leather surfaced seats and telescopic and tilt steering wheel would be enough. Then you notice the superior wood grain interior accents and the Alpine navigation system mounted in the center console.
The reinforced dash panel and the electronic engine mounts contribute to a quiet, smooth ride. The expanded headroom and larger doors make getting in an out of the auto easy.
With comfortable seating for seven, the 150 cubic ft of interior is more then That of the Mercedes GL but the vehicle is still a full 10 inches shorter which provides for easier handling.
Safety
The best safety features are always the ones that help prevent an accident. Anti-lock brakes and traction control are just the beginning of the safety features you will find included with the 2012 Hyundai Veracruz.
The active front headrests that protect against whiplash and the six airbags which include the side curtain airbags that cover all the way back to the third row of seats are a major plus when it comes to safety. The Insurance Institute for highway Safety has given the Veracruz top scores in rear, front and side collision impact tests.
Reliability
The 2012 Veracruz is covered with a warranty that is better than other auto makers provide for comparable vehicles in its class. Only Kia ties the Veracruz in this area. Included is a five year/60,000 basic warranty and a 100,000 mile power train warranty. Add the five year roadside assistance and we have a winner.
Pros
The exterior stance and the spacious interior are definitely pros as are the safety ratings and reliability factors. Add the smooth comfortable ride and great performance along with the generous warranties all at a reasonable sticker price and you are going to enjoy this vehicle.
Cons
The downside would be the fuel economy which is only at 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.
Competition
The crossover segment has been growing, the Veracruz joins the fray that has been dominated by the likes of the Honda Pilot (MSRP $28,620; 18 city / 25 hwy), the Toyota Highlander (MSRP $29,245; 18 city / 24 hwy), Mazda CX 9 (MSRP $29,725; 17 city / 24 hwy), and the Subaru Tribeca (MSRP $30,595; 16 city / 21 hwy).
Overall Rating
73 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2012 Hyundai Veracruz loses valuable third-row and cargo space to a sloping roofline.”Car Connection
“Veracruz’s suspension tuning favors ride quality over sharp handling response. Body lean is apparent even during moderate cornering, and the steering lacks road feel. Still, Veracruz never feels unstable, even on slick roads. Brakes have adequate stopping control and pedal feel.”Consumer Guide
“The seven-passenger Veracruz is essentially a stretched and more powerful Santa Fe.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“The 2012 Hyundai Veracruz’s ride, handling and acceleration all matched or bested the Lexus, and its interior truly is as quiet, at least at highway speeds.”KBB
“Exceptional value, a nice interior and composed ride quality make the 2012 Hyundai Veracruz a good choice for shoppers seeking a midsize crossover SUV.”Edmunds
