Acceleration

2WD GLS	AWD Limited	Class Average
5	5	5.5

A bit slow from a stop, but Veracruz has acceptable power once underway. The transmission is occasionally slow to downshift for passing and merging, but its manual shift gate helps. There is no noticeable difference in acceleration between 2WD and AWD models.

Fuel Economy

2WD GLS	AWD Limited	Class Average
4	4	3.6

Disappointing, even for vehicle this size. In Consumer Guide testing, a 2WD model averaged 15.5 mpg in mostly city driving. Our extended-use AWD Limited is averaging just 16 mpg in city/highway driving over its first 7423 miles. Other AWD models averaged 19.7 mpg in mostly highway driving. Veracruz uses regular-grade gas.

Ride Quality

2WD GLS	AWD Limited	Class Average
6	6	5.5

Comfortable and carlike ride over most road surfaces, but there are a few unwanted body motions over washboard and cracked pavement. There is little difference in ride quality between a GLS with its 17-inch tires and the Limited with 18s. Some testers believe the Limited is not as composed over bumps and cracks as top-of-the-class rivals, and is, in fact, harsh over some bumps.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2WD GLS	AWD Limited	Class Average
4	4	4.4

Veracruz's suspension tuning favors ride quality over sharp handling response. Body lean is apparent even during moderate cornering, and the steering lacks road feel. Still, Veracruz never feels unstable, even on slick roads. Brakes have adequate stopping control and pedal feel.

Quietness

2WD GLS	AWD Limited	Class Average
7	7	5.4

Rivals many premium SUVs for hushed travel. Engine makes a classy growl while accelerating but is nearly silent while cruising. Some wind rush and coarse-surface tire thrum are noticed but are hardly intrusive.

Controls

2WD GLS	AWD Limited	Class Average
8	8	6.3

Easy-to-read gauges and large, handy controls have classy blue backlighting at night. A navigation system is available on Limited.

Details

2WD GLS	AWD Limited	Class Average
8	8	5.4

Ample use of textured, soft-touch materials creates a very pleasing interior ambience.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2WD GLS	AWD Limited	Class Average
6	7	7.1

There is good headroom, but inadequate rearward seat travel will cramp tall occupants. A tilt and telescopic steering column is standard on all models, but it's power operated on Limited. Limited also includes power-adjustable pedals, allowing for the fine tuning of a comfortable driving position. The seats could use slightly more lateral support but remain comfortable on long trips. Visibility is a bit pinched to rear corners but is fine otherwise.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2WD GLS	AWD Limited	Class Average
6	6	6.1

The 2nd-row seats slide and recline, providing good headroom, legroom, and knee space even with front seats fully aft. Access to the 3rd row requires some twisting, but adults fit if the 2nd-row seat isn't all the way back. Otherwise, the 3rd row is best left to kids.

Cargo Room

2WD GLS	AWD Limited	Class Average
9	9	8.6

Grocery bag room behind 3rd-row seat, but it folds flat in one motion to create a larger cargo hold. Second-row seat also folds easily but isn't quite flush with the floor. Interior storage includes a center console compartment, two large console cupholders, two smaller bins, and door map pockets.

Value within Class

2WD GLS	AWD Limited	Class Average
7	7	5.8

Veracruz shines for its refined powertrain, hushed cabin, and upscale interior decor. It trails similarly sized rivals for handling response and fuel economy. Our Recommended nod goes to the competitively priced GLS and SE models. Limited versions can approach $40,000--more than some shoppers may be willing to pay for a Hyundai.

Total Score

2WD GLS	AWD Limited	Class Average
70	71	63.7

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		53
Average Score		63
High Score		76