Hyundai Veracruz raises the CUV bar

The seven-passenger Hyundai Veracruz raised the bar in the premium, midsize crossover segment.

Veracruz is available in two trim levels, GLS and Limited. The GLS now comes standard with features that previously were options, including power driver seat, roof rack side rails, backup warning system, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, fog lights, automatic headlights and temperature-controlled storage. Owing to cold-weather consumer demand, GLS models equipped with all-wheel drive also now include heated front seats as standard equipment.

New for 2010:

• The GLS model adds standard features previously optional.

• The GLS is now available with LG navigation system and Infinity Logic 7 audio system (delayed availability).

• Six new colors, including Black Noir Pearl, Blue Titanium Mist, Sahara Bronze, Driftwood Metallic, Ultra Silver and Carbon Steel Mist

Featuring a unique blend of substance, luxury and style, the 2010 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 demonstrates Hyundai’s product expansion and global design evolution through its continued use of organic forms to create a refined and luxurious exterior appearance. Fluid lines, which combine with integrated headlights and taillights, help create a unified aesthetic for the vehicle.

Upfront, the sculpted bumper creates the appearance of additional height. Three-tiered headlights complement the design. The grille combines a flat-lined upper chrome bezel and a curved lower bezel. Distinctive character lines and a fast profile enhance the stylish, yet functional imagery of the vehicle. Adding to its appearance is the Veracruz’s seductive beltline, which ascends from the wraparound headlights, around the tapering body, then down to the prominent taillights. Chrome trim is strategically applied to highlight some of Veracruz’s design features, but also works to create an elegant, luxurious presence for the vehicle. The prominent wheel arches house 17-inch alloy wheels on the GLS or 18-inch alloy wheels on the Limited.

Smooth and solid in its stance, the Veracruz even impresses as it departs. The integrated rear fascia has a sculpted section that blends seamlessly into the sides of the taillights. The taillights angle toward the character line highlighting the rounded back glass and dual exhaust tips. A rear spoiler enhances the Veracruz’s sporty profile.

Inside, passengers are coddled in a rich, sophisticated environment inspired by boutique hotels. The result is an interior that could be found in the finest luxury sedans, thanks to intelligent ergonomic engineering, intuitive design, and superior craftsmanship by Hyundai designers and engineers. Hyundai has crafted a winner, combining space with elegance and including conveniences that exceed expectations.

Every major component of Veracruz has been designed to reduce cabin noise below that of the whisper-quiet Lexus RX350. To isolate outside noise, Hyundai applies acoustic damping sheets to the doors and unibody, a steel plate beneath the engine and four layers of carpet padding. Engine noise is reduced through an electronically controlled engine mount, a multi-curvature dash, custom hood insulation and a pillow tripod joint, which lessens vibrations from the driveshaft at idle.

Seating for seven adults is made possible because of Hyundai’s standard Hideaway third-row seat. Access to the third row is simple with the flip of a lever to slide the second row forward. Additionally, a well-thought-out design means cargo space is abundant in the Veracruz. Although 9.7 inches shorter than the Mercedes Benz GL, the Veracruz still has more cargo volume.

Available dual-zone climate controls for driver and front-seat passenger further enhance the Veracruz’s luxury credentials. Second- and third-row passengers enjoy a new level of comfort, owing to B-pillar-mounted adjustable vents, rear HVAC controls and roof-mounted vents.

Brushed metal accents and blue backlighting for all interior gauges, switches and buttons highlight the modern, integrated interior design. Even the front cupholders are accented with blue light to aid nighttime driving, while soft blue lighting in the overhead console provides subdued mood lighting. Hyundai’s focused attention to detail can be seen throughout the interior: The console bins and the glovebox are lined with soft flocking material. Powerpoint caps, seatbelt buckles and cupholder inserts are color-keyed for design harmony. Soft-touch, high-quality materials, low-gloss surfaces and zero-tolerance fits are used throughout the interior.

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