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 Fun to Drive - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Wayne Edwards - March 2 - 6:56 pm

  I have been a Hyundai fan for years. I am now on my fourth. The Veracruz drives better than my dads cadillac escalade, also gets better gas mileage. If you have not driven a Hyundai beware you will fall in love with particular vehicle. Loaded and comfortable and has a quiet drive.

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  Buy one - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Mausguy - March 2 - 6:50 pm

  I love my Cruz. Quality from front to back. They added little items like reading light, rear armrest with storage and more, make this car a joy. I smile as I get in to drive it. With the rebate of $4K you cannot go wrong. Watch out Toyota and Honda, theres a gunslinger in town

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  Former Lexus Owner - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Ex Lexus - February 18 - 1:13 am

  I must admit I was nervous buying a Hyundai. The Motor Trend report was what caused me to take a look at Hyundai. I must admit that I lost sleep, and almost canceled the order twice. Now that I took delivery, am I glad I did not cancel. GREAT ride. I have driven it 1100 miles and it has been like a mobile library. Quiet. The 6 speed trans is trend setting and super smooth. I love all the toys and features. The sound system is second to none. It is a car that shows innovation, creativity, caring assembly great styling. Keyless entry is one of those things you wonder how you got along without. The same for the auto lift gate. Hyundai has a winner. Someone said "Car of the Year." Just wait.

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  Nice car but lots of problems - 2010 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Chris in Jersey - February 13 - 10:00 am

  We purchased this vehicle based on its features per dollar and it does excel in this area. It is quiet, comfortable, has a nice interior and is roomy. It could be a little more sporty and the stereo sounds like the 8 track from my 77 Caprice Estate Wagon but other than that we are happy with the performance. The problems are with the reliability. Had to replace the stereo(dealer did not return cds), a taillight, license plate light, brakes, "ESC off" control light is on constantly, resume bottom on cruise control does not work, key fob stopped working and the transmission stopped and stranded my family on the highway. This would make me think twice before purchasing a Hyundai again.

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  50K Miles and still love my car - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By astralsqual - February 5 - 8:45 pm

  Shortly prior to buying this car, I was doing a significant amount of traveling for work and so was renting a lot of cars. I had always been a honda fan, but was really dissapointed with the Accord. It just wasnt comfortable to drive. Then I had a Mazda, VW, Suzuki, and more, but I was most impressed with the Elantra. It had a great set up and was easy to drive. I went down to the dealership to look at Elantras and then I saw the Veracruz. I took a test drive and was blown away - So comfortable, nice set up of the control panel, just a really great vehicle to drive. I cant say enough great things about this car. Third row seat is just wonderful to have for carpooling with kids.

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  GLS with Premium Package - 2009 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Mike C - January 31 - 1:56 pm

  Purchased the GLS with Premium package vs. the Limited package due to price differential. The GLS with premium only sacrifices a couple of options. We did not want the NAV package since portable units suffice well. The car rides and handles well and is very comfortable and meets all of our expectations. The only problem encountered was the road tires were overinflated 48 vs. 30 recommended and the spare was underinflated 30 vs. 60psi recommended. The prep should have caught these items. We have taken two trips of over 300 miles and are well satisfied with the driving experience.

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  Regret - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Ricardo - January 29 - 12:30 pm

  I traded in my Santa Fe for this because Hyundai gave me the highest trade in value. The exterior was so so. The interior was great. Soft touch material. Good looking leather. It drove quiet. Infinity radio is not that impressive but ok. However, within a month, the leather starts to fade. It starts to pick up road noise. Some rattle starts to show up here and there. Most serious problem was the transmission. I heard a lot of good things about the Aisian transmission. However, my transmission has problem shifting from 3rd to 4th gear, rumbling a lot. It went back to the dealership. They told me that there was nothing wrong. They also broke their promise about loaner car. Regret

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  Tremendous Value in the Ltd model - 2007 Hyundai Veracruz
  By JHARLEY - December 8 - 11:53 pm

  Needed a replacement for an Expedition eating me alive in fuel bills. Veracruz fit the bill. Build quality is extremely good (near Luxus) and it rides well. Some say the ride is too soft but in a vehicle like this its a good thing. I have driven it for 2100 miles (in 3 wks) & it runs great. Long 6 hr drives cause little fatigue. It delivers 22.5 mpg on highway and around 17.5 local driving. Handling is good (but no sport car) and the engine is responsive. The best part of the drive train is the 6 spd trans. Its smooth as silk. No joke, as in the TV commercial, my friend entered a nearby Lexus RX 350 thinking it my car. That said, the $31k I paid was money well spent. I am happy.

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  Perfect - 2011 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Obi_wan - November 19 - 10:00 am

  This is my third SUV. Ive owned the Toyota 4Runner and Sequoia. Im much happier with the Veracruz! I just made a trip to Oklahoma City from St Louis. I averaged 22.5 mpg. A lot better than the Sequoias average 15 mpg! The ride is smooth and quiet. My friend came along and brought a mobility scooter. It fit in the back perfect, plus left enough room for luggage. It took awhile for the car to cool down in the 95 degree heat of Ok City, but the a/c is very good. I cant make up anyones mind about a Korean automobile, but Im very happy with the Veracruz. Best of luck to any of you considering an SUV.

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  Love it!! - 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
  By Dave in AZ - November 8 - 12:43 am

  Ive had the Veracruz for five weeks. I got it for $10k under sticker and boy, is it great. Build is great, road noise is minimal and it performs really well. My only complaint is the sound system could be a little better. I recommend the Veracruz highly.