| Pros |
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| Hyundai targeted the Lexus RX when originally developing the Veracruz, and it shows; the Hyundai crossover offers a higher standard of smoothness, refinement and noise suppression than most shoppers will anticipate. The Veracruz also stands out for its long features list: Looking purely at features for the money, the Veracruz is a better deal than most other crossovers. With a premium audio system and navigation system available, it's truly competitive with the feature sets of entry luxury vehicles. Safety-wise, the Veracruz is also a standout, with top scores in all U.S. crash tests. |
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| Model Highlights |
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| The 2011 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 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 Torque Controlled Coupling All-Wheel-Drive system offered on the Veracruz is designed for snowy and slick road conditions, rather than for off-roading. The system sends more power to the rear wheels only when it's needed, so the effect on mileage is minimal. The system also includes an AWD Lock mode for tough mud, sand or deep snow.
The Veracruz 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 additional storage well. Meanwhile, the second-row seats fold forward flat to enable easy access to the second row or to fit 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, front-side airbags and side-curtain airbags that cover all three rows of seating.
Base Veracruz GLS models have an attractive price and they're very well-equipped. The GLS includes air conditioning, heated power side mirrors with puddle lamps, a power driver's seat, roof rack rails, leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, automatic headlamps, cruise control and a trip computer. A Premium Package adds an LG navigation system, 705-watt Infinity Logic 7 premium audio, memory seats and mirrors, dual-zone climate control, a power-adjustable steering wheel, a power tailgate and a sunroof. A new option is heated and ventilated front seats.
At the top of the range, the Veracruz Limited gets most of those Premium Package extras, plus 18-inch alloys, a windshield wiper de-icer, chrome door handles and a 115-volt power outlet, among many extras. The navigation system and premium audio are packaged together as options on the Limited. |
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| Model News |
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| For 2011 Hyundai's popular Veracruz SUV now offers optional heated and ventilated front seats. |
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| Value Writeup |
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| Smooth ride; refined, quiet interior; safety features; very generous standard-features list |
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