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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  One of the best for the money - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By steve - January 12 - 12:50 am

  Had the vehicle for a year and half. The ride is quite and smooth even at 80 MPH. We have had one small problem,the rear door seals needed to be replaced due to shrinkage. No MP3 or Ipod adapter. We would buy another Hyundai in the future.

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  Suspension noice - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By magne schille - November 15 - 10:43 am

  I like this car. I have about 12,000 on it. Have been back to dealer twice for service and one complaint that has not been fixed. It is the excessive suspension noise on uneven pavement. It sounds like car is falling apart. Dealer said I had 50 lb. Of air in tires. Second time back I was told nothing is wrong, but that I had to get used to " driving a truck". Consumer magazine talked about this problem, but nobody else.

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  A Little Disapointed - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Billy Lewis - September 27 - 5:56 pm

  After being high pressured by the dealership, we finally signed on the line. Now with 13000 miles, we are beginning to wonder if we made a mistake. at 10,000 miles we had to return to the dealership, because my wife (primary driver) got stranded. At first they said it was the transmission, next they said it was the throttle body. After a week in the shop we got it back, and every time we slowed down for a red light, the transmission would jump and slip, then the drivers seat quit working. We have never gotten better than 22 mpg on a 500 mile trip, and around 1+ in town!I am not a happy camper at all!

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  Great SUV - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Dan - July 4 - 1:00 am

  Having never bought a foreign brand, i was very hesitant. We drove the Veracruz Limited, along with several other brands. I must admit that the car impressed us from the start. We drive several thousand miles per year, have made trips of up to 800 miles in one day. The car continues to impress us. This is absolutely the most vehicle for the money. Drove domestics for 30 years. Last vehicle was an Expedition Eddie Bauer. While smaller, this vehicles quality is every bit as good as the Ford.

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  Its Ok, but not a Lexus - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By c mikaya - June 18 - 7:50 am

  I purchase my car in June 07, going down from a Sequoia. The Veracuse reminded me of a Lexus, but a Lexus it aint. The seats in this car have never been as comfortable as my old Sequoia and I find the velor type material difficult to clean. The all wheel drive has been very reliable on my mountainous road, but the mileage is not good and that was the reason I traded my Sequoia in. With that model I was getting 17.8 mpg and with this vehicle its the same or 18 mpg, what a disappointment. Now that I have 55,000 miles on the vehicle the right ball bearing has gone and the latch on the center console broke. I think Hyundai is working on improvement, but I am ready to try something else

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  Rides like a RX350 - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By THSAutoman - June 13 - 10:00 am

  Purchased for styling, comfort, price & warranty after comparing to Pilot, Highlander & Mazda RX9. Subsequently found it to compare equally in size, comfort and features with XC90 and RX350 owned by other family members. Dealer warranty experience has been good on two occasions. Handles great in town and on highway.

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  From Honda to Hyundai - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Bornitetx - March 13 - 1:56 am

  When the family grew it was time to get into the SUV market...never thought I would have purchased a Hyundai...but glad I did!! I was always a loyal Honda diver..but the Pilot did not compare to the Veracruz (price/warranty/amenities. So far smooth diving and no complaints other than gas mileage could be better but since this is my 1st suv, I expected this to change. I enjoy all the luxury items at a great price that was better than the CX-9, Highlander, and Pilot. I would highly recommend this vehicle. I like having a nice quiet comfortable ride on long trips and this car pampers you, and yes as it has been compared to the Lexus 350 it is much less expensive and still has that luxury feel!!

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  Short Drivers Only - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Stormking - February 16 - 3:43 pm

  This SUV was on my list when I bought it, but the $5200 off list convinced me. But within a week of driving, I found it was not meant for someone over six feet tall (Im 6-2). Its smaller brethren, the Santa Fe and Tucson, have significantly more leg room. I can not drive this for any length of time at all, and am looking to replace it with something more driver friendly. A good vehicle otherwise, but what the hey . . . .

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  Squeaks & Rattles - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By RayB - December 23 - 10:40 pm

  I bought the VeraCruz (instead of a Lexus) because of all the great revues that I had read and because of all of the nice features for the price. However, Ive had a terrible time with squeaks and rattles. (Headliner and the overhead vents, door pillars, doors, back seats, etc) The dealer told me that the noises are normal because of all the plastic parts and there was nothing that they could do. In other words, they didnt want to spend a lot of time on it. I dont know if this is just poor engineering or poor build quality, but this is unacceptable in a $35K vehicle. Make sure that the radio has a lot of volume, youll need it.

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  FABULOUS!!! - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Italnskyboy - October 22 - 1:30 am

  OK, So I wanted something nice, good looking, a little spicy and wouldnt be embarassed to bring to a 5 star restaurant. Kinda like my search for a new boyfriend. Anyway, the VERACRUZ is the one to beat! I got the SE with the Premium Package, and by package I mean options... I love the inside and out! I also needed to pull a boat and it does with ease, not a tire squeek at the ramp. (boat is 2800lbs.) The ride is very smooth and quiet. I do mostly highway driving and get 18mpg. Although I do about 80, to get the advertised 26mpg, you have to do like 65-70, not! I have places to be and people to see. Overall, awesome vehicle, worth the look!