Affordable Luxury Available in the new 2010 Hyundai Veracruz
Hyundai has long been known as a value-oriented car company that offers a lot of car for not a lot of money. The new 2010 Hyundai Veracruz continues this legacy. Compared to other mid-size SUVs, the Veracruz is hard to beat for its overall value, high level of luxury and low sticker price. Review specs, features and mpgs for the new 2010 Hyundai Veracruz to determine if it has what it takes to win your affection over class leaders.New 2010 Hyundai Veracruz Styling
In terms of exterior styling, the Hyundai Veracruz has a lot in common with the Lexus RX 350. While not as upscale and endearing as this true luxury SUV, the Veracruz does manage to charm with aggressive styling and swooped, sloping edges. Competitively priced models such as the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander tend to have a boxier appearance, which may or may not appeal to you.
Inside, the Veracruz truly impresses with a fit and finish that belies the low price tag. Solid materials are used throughout, and a whisper quiet cabin helps magnify the upscale feel. The base GLS model comes loaded with an impressive amount of standard features. Such accouterments as cruise control, automatic headlights, rear parking sensors, heated seats, air conditioning with rear climate controls, 6-speaker stereo, CD player, satellite radio and auxiliary input all can be had for well under $30,000.
The Veracruz seats a maximum of seven. First- and second row-seats are likely to please even on long rides. However, the third-row seat is a bit on the cramped side and should be reserved for the kiddoes only. For more room in a 7-passenger model, consider the Chevrolet Traverse or Ford Flex.
New 2010 Hyundai Veracruz Performance
The Hyundai Veracruz offers good day-to-day driving performance. However, those looking for a little gallop may be a bit disappointed by this chariot. While by no means a sport SUV, the Veracruz's base 3.8-liter V-6 proves a good family-friendly power plant with a total of 260 horsepower. As such, if you're only concerned about a reliable car that can confidently escort you to work and school, then the Veracruz delivers.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Veracruz slots in the bottom half of the mid-size SUV market. However, compare the model strictly to vehicles that offer three rows of seating, and you'll find it fairly competitive. Base two-wheel drive models offer an estimated 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, Opt for all-wheel drive, and you can expect 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
New 2010 Hyundai Veracruz Safety
Hyundai's upscale mid-size SUV performs ably in the category of safety. Standard features include anti-lock brakes, brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution, stability control, traction control and six airbags (including side bags that extend all the way to the third-row of seating). In crash tests performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Veracruz earned top marks in frontal offset, side impact and rear crash protection (earning a best-possible rating of "Good").
New 2010 Hyundai Veracruz Pricing
Starting at $28,145, the Hyundai Veracruz is a tremendous value. While mid-size SUVs like the Ford Edge and Toyota Highlander can be had for less, the Veracruz offers more starting features and a longer warranty package. If you're looking to maximize mileage while still packing in seven passengers, then you'll want to take a look at the Chevrolet Traverse. For a similar focus on upscale appeal, you'll have to step up to the Buick Enclave or an upper-tier Toyota Highlander model.