Veracruzin' 2007 Hyundai Veracruz Limited
By Alain Gayot

In short: A luxurious SUV with three-row seating.

The first thing that comes to mind when we hear the word Veracruz is a charming city in Mexico with the same name, and perhaps some of the cuisine associated with it.

Korean manufacturer Hyundai decided to lift the name, and now we have a very comfortable and smooth-operating SUV. Right away, it gives you a feeling of luxury with the use of nice-looking materials. It’s rather roomy in the front and space in the following two rows can be easily distributed by sliding the center row on a rail to make any of your seven passengers happy.

Engine response is totally satisfying and smooth. Even at high revolutions using all 260 horses, the cabin remains quiet. Exterior styling is quite pleasing with fluid lines and artistically integrated front and rear lights. Interior layout is no-nonsense and everything has a logical, user-friendly position. Our tester came fully loaded with a cooled center console to keep your favorite beverage at acceptable temperature, dual temperature controls, an Infinity surround sound system with XM Satellite Radio, a power tailgate, all-wheel drive…The list goes on. However, dealers will most likely have a base model available for under $27.000.

It never felt like a big car and maneuvering in tight city parking lots was never an issue. On the freeway, we experienced a solid, smooth and comfortable ride with plenty of passing power.

With a solid warranty and 25 MPG highway, this SUV is a true charmer. You’ll get from Los Angeles to San Francisco on one tank… Watch out, Lexus!