Editors' Notes


2008 Hyundai Veracruz
The 2008 Hyundai Veracruz spent a year in Consumer Guide's extended-use test fleet.

Ed Piotrowski: For powertrain refinement, quietness, and interior ambiance, one could easily argue that Veracruz is superior to the Lexus RX. For all its strengths, though, the Hyundai’s asking price is its Achilles' heel. It’s certainly a bargain compared to the RX. Against the GMC Acadia or Mazda CX-9, vehicles against which it’s more likely to be cross-shopped, however, Veracruz is a less compelling value due to its subpar ride control and fuel economy.

Jennifer Geiger: My passengers were pleasantly surprised with Veracruz's level of refinement and comfort. Veracruz's affordability and high features-per-dollar factor also added greatly to its appeal. Our thirsty tester needs to work on its fuel consumption, however.

John Biel: The interior quiet, cargo and incidental storage space, and ride are all to the good on the Veracruz. All the better is the fact that it doesn't require spending for the costliest model to enjoy these benefits. To the not-so-good is the fact that some of CG editors' early rides in this long-term test vehicle have produced unimpressive mpg figures. Fuel mileage will bear watching as this Veracruz "loosens up" while in our hands.

Rick Cotta: Our loaded Limited stickers for upwards of $38,000, and that doesn't include a navigation system. Compared to many other midsize SUVs, that's a bunch. But with its refined powertrain and lavish interior appointments, the Veracruz crosses the border into premium territory, at which point its price tag looks like a bargain.

Tom Appel: The hype is well founded. Hyundai has built a road-going Lexus knock-off that undercuts the original by thousands of dollars. What's the catch? A little chassis sophistication and not much else. $38,000 is a lot of money for a Hyundai, but it's a bargain for a well-equipped RX350.