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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  Good Car for less money - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By mike - July 16 - 4:26 am

  Seems like a good vehicle. We have driven just a few 100 miles, but so far so good. Decent mileage, very good comfort, attractive looks.

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  Like my Ride! - 2011 Hyundai Veracruz
  By cgarver1 - June 27 - 1:03 pm

  The Veracruz is a very nice car. There is some wind noise at highway speeds, but its not to the point of being annoying. Just turn up the radio. Theres lots of room inside and the interior is well appointed. Ive had my 2011 for about 6 months and have had no mechanical gliches at all. I bought it late in the model year, so got a great price from Garber Hyundai in Saginaw, MI.

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  glad I purchased - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By R Davis - May 25 - 12:20 pm

  I have had my Veracruz for about six months now. It was my plan to a buy a Toyota, as I have owned two and knowing the quality of the car. This car is the equal to the Toyota and a bit better because of the warranty. Buy this car, you will not be disappointed, and rest assured with the warranty. This car averages about twenty miles to the gallon. I am satisfied as this car is a mid-size and carries up too eight people. Again buy a Hyundai save the difference in cost and has a better warranty. So far my car is perfect.

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  Excellent All-Around Vehicle - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By RTM - April 20 - 1:26 am

  Purchased Veracruz LTD AWD in February 2009. The vehicle handles exceptionally smooth, is well equipped with many standard features and is a complete joy to drive. The sound system is decent and came equipped with the DVD package. A surprising feature NOT included is a jack for an Ipod. Gas mileage hovers around 20 mpg. Not great but comparable to other vehicles in its class. I would recommend Hyundai as a vehicle brand for people to seriously consider. With the amount of rebates on this particular vehicle, the strength of its warranty and the assurance plan in place, you cannot go wrong.

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  A Hyundai Believer! - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By indianadrive - April 3 - 7:24 pm

  Love our Veracruz! We bought our 07 Veracruz limited used in 08 with 2k miles. We now have 113k miles and still love the comfort, drive, and mileage (22mpg combined). Other than a couple recall notices early in our ownership, the only problem we have had was a head gasket line leak, which allowed oil into the alternator, leaving us stranded. Since that problem was resolved, our Veracruz has been trouble free again, with only normal maintenance. It is still very comfortable for long trips and still has a quiet cabin. When it is time to purchase another vehicle, we will most likely buy Hyundai again, as we have been pleased with the quality and value compared to competitors.

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  Happy as Heck - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By VERACRUISIN - March 11 - 5:36 pm

  So far, excellent! Runs and shifts extremely smooth, cabin is quiet, everything looks great. Thought I would never own a Hyundai, and here I am, happy as heck. Editors review doesnt like the looks, but everyone second looks the VC, and asks what it is, and they love it. Dash works great, and the blue lighting is easy on the eyes. Have the VC only 2 weeks now, and I have no regrets at all. Compared to my 2004 GP GTP, gas mileage is great!!

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  Never Again - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Never Again - February 24 - 3:50 pm

  The transmission is terrible with unwanted clunking, metallic downshifts at stoplights. Several bulletins issued by factory which did nothing. This vehicle is an absolute piece of junk!

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  Better than I expected - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By John - February 20 - 10:36 pm

  So far this has been a great vehicle. We replaced a 2002 Toyota Highlander with the Veracruz. The Hyundai is quieter, gets better gas mileage, and has more room. My wife liked the style better than the new Highlander. After 5000 miles, we have had no problems at all. The quality of the sound system is as good as the JBL we had in the Toyota. The quality of the paint and interior materials is better than I expected from Hyundai. So far, neither show any wear at all. The ride quality is very good for a crossover vehicle and the road and wind noise is almost nonexistent. I would not hesitate to recommend this vehicle to a friend. The third seat is actually usable too. Thats a plus.

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  1 Year Down and Loving it - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Augie - February 11 - 5:03 pm

  Today completes my first year of ownership. After nearly 16,000 miles I like it more every day. First thing I added was a trailer hitch. I towed my boat over the Cascade Mountains this past June with no issues and regular lowland towing is a breeze. Plenty of power, torque, and the suspension is satisfactory for towing. This vehicle is stout but still drives like a car. The ride is smooth and quiet and the handling is too. I recently did some dirt road driving on logging roads in Oregon and I hardly noticed the lack of pavement. It handles seven normal sized adult passengers comfortably or just me and all my gear with room to spare.

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  Not worth the Five stars I gave it in 2010 - 2010 Hyundai Veracruz
  By anniebanana2 - February 6 - 5:20 am

  Just read my 1st review of this car which was written shortly after my purchase. NOW: I will never buy a Hyundai again. So many problems and the "warranty" is a crock. The dashboard squeaks (nails on chalkboard squeak) during operation, took it to the local dealer 5 times to fix with no luck. I took it to a dealer 30 minutes away, and though they have reduced the sound, it still occurs when the fan is running cool air. The cruise control resume button only works intermittently. The techs asked me if I pushed the button properly. Seriously?? The dome light panel failed and was replaced. There is now a popping occurring in the front right tire. They say it all checks out fine. Surprise!