2009 Hyundai Veracruz

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The 2009 Hyundai Veracruz has a very simple lineup; there are just two models, GLS and Limited, and both of those come with a choice of either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

A 260-horsepower, 3.8-liter V6 and 6-speed automatic transmission are standard across the entire lineup. The combination is very smooth and responsive, and the transmission includes a manual mode for those who want to select the gears themselves. Fuel economy ratings are 16 mpg city, 23 highway with front-wheel drive and 1 mpg lower in the city with all-wheel drive.

The so-called Torque Controlled Coupling All Wheel Drive system that's offered on the Veracruz is designed for snowy and slick road conditions, rather than off-roading. The system sends more power to the rear wheels only when it's needed, so the effect on mileage is minimal; it also includes an AWD Lock mode for tough mud, sand or deep snow.

The Veracruz also features 7-passenger seating -- the third-row seat stows away into the floor when it's not needed, leaving a flat, low loading floor comparable to those in minivans. And at the far back, there's an additional storage well. Meanwhile the second-row seats fold forward flat for easy access to the second row or long cargo items, and third-row occupants get their own vents and climate controls.

Safety content is generous in the Veracruz; it features electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, along with front side airbags and side-curtain airbags that cover all three rows of seating.

Base GLS models of the Veracruz start attractively at just over $27,000, and they're very well-equipped. The GLS includes air conditioning, heated power side mirrors with puddle lamps, cruise control and a trip computer. A Preferred Package adds a power sunroof, heated front seats, a power driver seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, a reverse-parking sensor system, automatic headlamps, fog lamps and a temperature-controlled center console storage box. A Premium Package includes the contents of the Preferred Package, but also adds leather seat trim, a power-assisted tailgate and 18-inch alloy wheels. At the top of the range, the Limited gets most of those Premium Package extras as standard equipment. A navigation system is optional on the Limited, as is rear-seat video entertainment. An audiophile-grade Infinity Logic 7 surround system with iPod compatible USB jacks is also optional.
The SE trim has been dropped for 2009. In its place, the GLS offers optional Preferred and Premium packages. The Preferred package includes a power sunroof, power driver seat, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, reverse sonar, 115-volt power outlet, automatic headlights, fog lamps, temperature-controlled center console storage. The Premium package offers all the contents of the Preferred package, but adds leather seat trim, power tailgate, auto-dimming rearview mirror, HomeLink universal garage door opener, compass and 18" alloy wheels.
Smooth ride; refined, quiet interior; safety features; very generous standard-features list
When designing the Veracruz, Hyundai used the popular Lexus RX luxury SUV as a target. As a result, the Hyundai crossover offers a higher standard of smoothness, refinement and noise suppression than most shoppers will expect. The Veracruz also stands out for its long features list; from features-for-the-money point of view, the Veracruz is an excellent deal compared to most other crossovers. And with a premium audio system and navigation system available, it's truly competitive with the feature sets of entry luxury vehicles.