Comparison Test Countdown: #2 2008 Hyundai Veracruz SE
Here's a surprise for you. The crossover that was thrown into this quasi-comparison test because it just happened to be sitting in our garage finishes second. The 2008 Hyundai Veracruz was the "recommended" pick of two editors, and the only vehicle not named CX-9 to receive a personal pick. Although the biggest Hyundai offered the smallest amount of interior and cargo space, it's high quality and well-rounded nature catapulted it to the top.
Read the complete 2008 Hyundai Veracruz Review
After the CX-9, the Veracruz was deemed the most enjoyable to drive. Lickity-quick steering had a lot to do with this, although it was criticized for not offering a lot of feel. Still, the Hyundai's suspension struck the best balance between ride comfort and handling, while the crossover's relatively small size (at least compared to the others) made it feel less cumbersome. The 3.8-liter V6 produced midpack acceleration (0-to-60 in 8.3 seconds) and a broad spread of power, although fuel economy was at the lower end of the group at 15 mpg city, 22 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined.
The Hyundai had the nicest interior materials of the assembled crossovers, with fit and finish to match. There were soft touch surfaces everywhere and despite have the lowest price, the Veracruz felt like the most expensive. That counted for a lot. While the Veracruz didn't have the navigation system and automatic climate control of the other vehicles (they are optional on the Limited trim), it did prove that simplicity also counts for something -- the Hyundai's climate and audio systems were deemed by most to be easiest to use. "Idiot-proof" was how one editor put it.
The driving position wasn't as popular, however, with taller drivers uncomfortably pushed up toward the roof. We also found it difficult to telescope the steering column, but even when we figured it out, taller drivers struggled to find a natural position. Seat comfort was ranked toward the bottom of the pack with a short seat bottom up front. Interior storage also left cubbies to be desired.
If there's one aspect that keeps the Hyundai Veracruz from the top spot was its size. It has the most cramped third row seat in the group, with our token 6-foot-3 editor noting he hadn't seen his knees that close up before. Space behind the back row was also the worst, with only 8.3 cubic feet available. Therefore, if people carrying is a necessity, the Veracruz just isn't the crossover for you. If, however, you foresee needing seats 6 and 7 only occasionally for the neighbors' kids, the Hyundai makes a lot of sense.
Had our Hyundai Veracruz been equipped equally to the CX-9, Pilot and Highlander, it would have been about $38,600. Plus, since you can't have navigation and rear seat entertainment systems together (you must choose either or) we can't say that Hyundai offers much of its typical value proposition. But given its refined and well-rounded driving experience that manages to blend comfort and responsiveness, along with a truly high-class and user-friendly cabin, the Hyundai is worth the money you pay for it -- and its second-place upset finish.
Pick Score: 16
Recommended Score: 19
Weighted Total Score (40/60%): 35.6
Each editor ranked each crossover from first to last for what they would personally buy (picks) and what they suggest the average consumer buy (recommended). First place was awarded five points, last place got one.
- Posted by
- James Riswick July 11, 2008, 9:25 AM
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- Car Buying
I really like this series. However, scheduling needs a bit of work. 5 contenders, 5 work days in the week. Would've been nice to run it Monday through Friday instead of having to wait over the weekend for #1 (unless you intend to publish on Saturday).
The Veracruz tops out at $37,500, you can only have overhead DVD or Navi, not both, so that's the most expensive Veracruz.
Thanks for the catch, I've updated accordingly and informed our data/spec department of the issue in our Veracruz Limited pricing feature.
As for scheduling, you can see the CX-9 is up today. And yes, we probably should've started Monday. But I'm glad you like it.
In SUV/CUV test, there are always complaints about 3rd row seats being too small for 6-footers. My questionis: is that not the whole point? I remember that on a discussion on one of these blags sometime ago, most people said they need the 3rd row because of carpooling school kids. I don't think they're meant for adults at all. The only vehicles where thrid rows would/should be expected to be confortable for adults are minivans, vans and full-size SUVs.
Just a thought......