Hyundai Veracruz 2008

By René Gervais

On the way to the top!

It’s a well known fact; Hyandai has made a giant leap during the last several years by offering modern looking models in keeping with customers’ever rising expectations. A manufacturer, however, must not only follow the competition but strive to surpass it, especially if it hopes to compete with the biggest makers in the world. In this case, the Korean builder takes aim at nothing less than the Lexus RX. You will appreciate the effort involved and, at the risk of letting the cat out of the bag, I’ll say outright that Hyandai is in a perilous position.

Likes

• the overall quality of the product;
• the cargo space;
• the generous factory package;
• the vehicle’s studied look;
• the good soundproofing;

Dislikes

• the stiff price tag;
• the steering’s lack of feel;
• the comfort of the seats;
• the occasionally hesitant transmission

What a cabin!

At first glance, I was struck by the obvious effort involved in the conception of this vehicle. No compromises were made in the interior; the materials used and the controls are of the highest order. I really believe that the best connoisseurs would mistake it for a more prestigious name. The Veracruz truly is a hand of steel in a velvet glove because underneath all the luxury lies real sturdiness. In fact, the only apparent problem seems to be the front seating support. Although not uncomfortable, the seats could be improved. The Veracruz has room for seven passengers or a host of stuff if you fold the rear seats. The amount of cargo space is truly impressive.