Overview & Reviews

Although it wasn't around for very long, the Hyundai Veracruz could be a worthwhile choice for a crossover SUV. As with other Hyundai models, the Veracruz boasted plenty of features for a price that was typically less than the competition. On top of this, the Veracruz also provided an impressively luxurious cabin and a quiet ride that was comparable to many luxury-branded crossover SUVs.

On the downside, it came up short in terms of interior space compared to some other large crossovers, and didn't offer much in terms of design flair. Hyundai also didn't sell very many of them, so finding a used model that fits your desires might be hard. But overall, the Veracruz is worth a look for shoppers interested in a feature-packed midsize or large crossover.

Most Recent Hyundai Veracruz
The seven-seat Hyundai Veracruz was produced from 2007 through 2012. Under the hood was a 260-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 paired to a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive optional.

Originally, Hyundai offered the Veracruz in GLS, SE and Limited trim levels. Standard feature highlights for the base GLS trim initially included 17-inch wheels, heated side mirrors, air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a six-speaker audio system with satellite radio. The SE was pretty similar. Major options for these trims included a sunroof, Bluetooth, heated front seats and a power driver seat. On the SE you could also get a power liftgate, leather upholstery and a premium audio system.

The Veracruz Limited came with most of the lower trims' options as standard. It also had dual-zone climate control and a power front passenger seat. Options included a navigation system and a surround-sound audio system.

Feature content largely remained the same throughout its run, although a navigation system and power liftgate became available for 2008. The following year the SE trim was dropped in favor of two optional packages available on the GLS. A rear-seat DVD entertainment system was offered for 2009 and '10 only.

When the Veracruz was introduced, it drew comparisons to luxury models rather than more pedestrian-badged competitors. The comparisons were not far-fetched. In our reviews, we found the Veracruz luxurious, well-built and very quiet on the road. Top crash test scores were another draw. On the downside, total interior cargo space and third-row rear seat room weren't quite as spacious as some competitors like the GMC Acadia. The Veracruz also looked pretty plain, which could be a turnoff for some buyers.

User Reviews:

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  Veracruz Ltd - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By The_Ductor - August 1 - 1:46 am

  We looked at multiple vehicles - eg Mazda CX9, Ford Fusion. Overall this was the best buy by several thousand dollars given the specs. The model we chose was the AWD limited. There were few options as it already had most of them. The ride is comfortable and quiet although not exciting. Audio excellent. Fuel economy is not as good as advertised but is it ever? The exterior is stylish but the colour choices are limited. Most suprising was the internal colours which on this vehicle (Ltd) was limted to a saddle brown leather despite the dash etc being grey. Seats are comfortable,easy to move to allow exit and loading. Overall I am pleased. We have to wait for command start. Recomended.

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  Two Years and 19K miles later - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Mike - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Going on two years now the Veracruz has been decent, but Ive had the rear DVD player replaced and now the rear heat and A/C doesnt work. It started with a squeak in the right rear compartment. It was a part on the rear blower system. The dealer has been great but should I have had these problems so soon? Let me answer my own question NO! I hope this is not the beginning of a lemon car. I gave Hyundai a chance I hope I dont regret it. This is their top of the line SUV, right? Ive taken it on two decent size trips. It has performed flawlessly. I gotten as high as 24 mpg. Enough of the silly problems already. If I had the ging I would have bought an RX Lexus. Good luck to us Veracruz owners.

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  Too many recalls - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By cjunbug - June 2 - 4:00 am

  The first couple of months it was fun to drive; we enjoyed the comfort, quietness and styling, until the recall notifications start to come. In the two year span that we owned it we have about 4 recalls. Then the last incident is the one that really prompt me to dump the vehicle, it wont drive faster than 5 miles per hour, turn it off and then re-start it and it will drive normal. then you drive it again and while it is moving at various speeds, it will just quit on you and will not go no more than 5 MPH. They fixed it for free, and finally traded it in for TOYOTA VENZA. I dont think I will buy another Hyundai, even if they guarantee it for 200,000 miles

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  Pleasant Surprise - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By bayarea - May 23 - 9:46 pm

  This was my first non-Toyota/Honda vehicle and I was pleasantly surprised that my Hyundai Veracruz is such a great vehicle. I have had it for 8 months now and I am very satisfied with it. The ride quality is excellent and very smooth. Handles like a car on curves. In normal commute I get about 20 mpg on average, although I have even got up to 25 mpg on the I-5 from sf to la. The interior design is very thoughtful and practical. Very comfortable seating. No mechanical problems so far after 10k of driving. I paid about $4000 less than what I would have paid for a comparable Toyota highlander.

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  Beware of quirky problems in new car - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By ccoady - May 14 - 7:36 am

  Loved the look and feel of this car but have had serious problems for a new car. First week TPMS light went on and had to be reset by dealer,within one month quirky electrical problems, keyless entry would not work, passenger seat heater not operating. Dealer had to remove dash to get to problem. Just this evening with only 13000 I had to have the car TOWED to the dealer, the transmission seems to have gone, with my foot to the floor the car could only go 15 MPH and could not get up my slightly included driveway. Too much headache for a new car

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  Surprising - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Adam - April 30 - 1:30 pm

  I was not even thinking of buying a Hyundai SUV but the sleek look of it caught my eye. I test drove it and was so pleasantly surprised by the ride and comfort. The price was reasonable and the warranty is exceptional. Hyundai sure has come a long way!

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By dave - April 21 - 10:00 am

  The Veracruz is a very well built auto. With the addition of a hitch, it even tows reasonably heavy loads without much trouble. The engine is very capable. The interior is nearly perfect. Material quality is terrific and better than my previous Honda. In 60k miles the only issue I have had is a power window switch had to be replaced. Great stereo. Has been in two collisions, front and rear, with no damage other than bumper cover replacement. One of the other vehicles was totalled with trunk and roof creases. Compares well with my wifes Acadia.

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  Great! - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Kelly Collier - April 9 - 11:46 am

  We love this vehicle. We have owned Subarus and Chryslers previously, and there is no comparison. It is very well put together and the interior ergonomics are very user friendly. We have 5 children and have plenty room for daily commutes. On longer trips if it were not for the luggage rack on top you would be in trouble. No additional storage with rear seats up.

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  Fantastic Ride!!! - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Lisa - April 4 - 5:10 pm

  Great job Hyundai! Love the handling of the Veracruz. Quiet ride.

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  Great SUV - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By REL - April 3 - 2:26 pm

  The Veracruz is a very quiet smooth riding suv with very good quality, it has many extra features for the money. The only problem I have with the Veracruz is the gas mileage, it is less than I expected.