Hyundai Veracruz Limited AWD, 2008
An Unbiased, Week-Long Road Test of Hyundai's Most Expensive Vehicle
May 11, 2008
Hyundai Veracruz Limited AWD Road Test, 2008
When an automaker known for low prices suddenly tries to challenge the segment’s luxury leader it’s a sure sign of changing internal focus. That’s exactly what Hyundai’s done with its Veracruz SUV, setting its sights squarely on Lexus. Hyundai’s effort is noteworthy, even managing to keep a $4,200 differential between the U.S. built Veracruz and the Lexus RX AWD. Can the company also change the fact Lexus vehicles have a different image than Hyundai’s? Possibly ... but the firm’s shy of its goal.
Underhood
You’ll find a fairly smooth 3.8 liter, 260 HP V6 with four valves per cylinder here. There’s adequate low end torque but at speeds above 75 engine noise tells you it’s working hard. Real-world zero to 60 acceleration averaged 8.3 seconds on an accelerometer, a mid-class number. Fuel efficiency was recorded at 15 city and 20 highway (EPA 15/22), at the genre’s bottom. This seven passenger vehicle’s weight was listed as 4,431 pounds, not far from competitors. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard and handles gear changes with competence. It’s reluctant to shift down, however, an annoyance. Towing capacity is 3,500 pounds.
The Interior and Safety
Power leather captain’s chairs proved comfortable during the week-long test. The second row bench, which along with the third folds flat, cradles adults for trips of moderate length. Reserve the last row for kids. There’s little room between the power tailgate and the last row but with the second and third row seats folded a cavern appears. Overhead is an electric sunroof and roof rack, up front is a Backup Warning System and power point. A Tilt/Telescope Steering Column with Adjustable Pedals makes finding a comfortable driving position easy. Auxiliary vehicle controls reside in the column’s middle. Note, too, everywhere there can be a power assist Hyundai has installed one.
In designing this vehicle the company made safety a priority. It’s reflected by the U.S. government’s various crash tests, in which the Veracruz earned the highest ratings. Six airbags and Active Front Headrests are ready for most accidents while Stability and Traction Control help keep you out of trouble. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Brake Assist plus a tire pressure warning system are welcome. Homelink, Hyundai’s version of General motors OnStar, is standard too. Automatic Temperature Control is standard but the air conditioner struggles above 90 degrees.
Handling and Ride
Here Hyundai has work to do. While in no way a problem handling needs to be sharpened. This is a high profile vehicle, on which tires are crucial. Unfortunately they’re narrow and made for long service. This combination, along with the Hyundai’s “boulevard” soft ride, guarantees aggressive driving won’t be high on your list. The turning circle is 37 feet, a number in line with rivals. Remember this vehicle’s all-wheel drive system and four-wheel independent suspension are made for inclement weather, not off-roading. There’s no High/Lo transfer case, an indication of the market this automaker’s targeting.
Other Considerations
Quality control was near flawless, something it must be to rival Lexus. The sound system, an Infinity AM/FM/CD unit with XM Satellite Radio, was mediocre. The Veracruz’s warranty is probably the best the market offers but beware: all auto warranties exclude many items and contain provisions that may be of no importance to you. Is the Lexus 70,000 mile powertrain warranty better than the Hyundai’s 100,000? How long will you keep the Veracruz and how many miles will you drive?
The Veracruz Limited, at a base price of $35,750, is more reasonable than its Lexus rival. As noted earlier, too, the Lexus “aura” is different than the Hyundai’s. The Veracruz isn’t quite equal to its target but neither is it far.
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