2009 Hyundai Veracruz: Functional SUV offers upscale style

Cars

By Ken Chester Jr., Motor News Media Corporation

Last update: October 15, 2009 - 3:01 PM

Stylish and functional, the Veracruz SUV from Hyundai is no budget model - displaying a richness of concept inside and out in the Honda/Lexus/Toyota mold. Breaking new ground in the SUV crossover segment, the Vera Cruz uniquely blends substance with style.

The 2009 Hyundai Veracruz targets the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, while offering the kind of upscale amenities and premium craftsmanship found in the Lexus RX350 and Mercedes-Benz ML.

The Veracruz is available in two trim levels, GLS and Limited.

Upgrades and enhancements for 2009 include: standard USB/MP3 auxiliary inputs; new Preferred and Premium Packages for the GLS model; available black leather interior (Limited) and available monochromatic Black Diamond exterior packaged with chrome-clad wheels.

Offered in front- or all-wheel drive, the Veracruz is powered by the same sophisticated 3.8L V-6 engine used in the well-equipped Azera sedan. The engine connects to a six-speed automatic transmission with Shifttronic manual control.

Hyundai engineers benchmarked the best crossovers in the world before designing the Veracruz's unibody and control hardware. The result became a rigid chassis and suspension geometry that were specifically designed to deliver a supple, confident ride and help isolate the passenger cabin from road imperfections. The four-wheel independent suspension system is governed by MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link configuration at the rear.

Inside the rich, sophisticated cabin, the driver enjoys a commanding outward view. The occupants are coddled in an interior that was reportedly inspired by the finest boutique hotels. The standard list of creature comforts is so extensive I don't have room to include everything here.

Seating for seven adults is made possible thanks to the standard Hyundai Hideaway third-row seat. Access to the third row is just a step away with the flip of a lever to slide the second row forward. Both second and third row passengers enjoy a new level of comfort, thanks to B pillar-mounted adjustable vents, rear HVAC controls and roof-mounted vents.

To isolate outside noise, Hyundai applies acoustic dampening sheets to the doors and unibody, a steel plate beneath the engine and four layers of carpet padding. Engine noise is reduced through electronically controlled engine mounts, a multi-curvature dash, custom hood insulation and a pillow tripod joint which lessens vibrations from the driveshaft at idle.

Safety features abound: Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability control, traction control, remote keyless entry, tire pressure monitoring system. The Limited adds an engine immobilizer, front fog lights, automatic headlights, backup warning system, rain-sensing front windshield and HomeLink universal garage door opener.

Optional safety features include a navigation system.

EPA fuel economy:

City: 16, Highway: 22

Base Price Range:

$27,145 to $35,995

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