2008 Hyundai Veracruz in Port Arthur, TX - $3,495

Stylishly Hyundai and elegantly functional, the Korean automaker kicks it up a notch with the Veracruz crossover. This is no budget model – displaying a richness of concept inside and out in the Honda/Lexus/ Toyota mold. Breaking new ground in the premium crossover segment, the Veracruz uniquely blends substance with style.

Offered in GLS and Limited trim levels and available in front or all-wheel drive, the Veracruz is powered by a sophisticated 3.8L V6 engine. Torque is communicated to the street through an Aisin six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual control.

Hyundai engineers benchmarked the best crossovers in the world before designing the Veracruz's unibody and control hardware. The result became a rigid chassis and suspension geometry that were specifically designed to deliver a supple, confident ride and help isolate the passenger cabin from road imperfections. The four-wheel independent suspension system is governed by MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link configuration at the rear.

Upfront, reverse L-shaped lower control arms and high caster angles provide superior steering feel and excellent straight-line stability. Large subframe bushings improve the ride and isolate unwanted noise, vibration and harshness. All four wheels are controlled by coil springs, fade-resistant, gas-charged dampers and front and rear stabilizer bars.

Inside the rich, sophisticated cabin, the driver enjoys a commanding outward view. The occupants are coddled in an interior that was inspired by the finest boutique hotels. The standard list of creature comforts is extensive.

Seating for seven adults is made possible thanks to the standard Hyundai Hideaway third-row seat. Access to the third row is just a step away with the flip of a lever to slide the second row forward. Both second and third row passengers enjoy a new level of comfort, thanks to B pillar-mounted adjustable vents, rear HVAC controls and roof-mounted vents.

To isolate outside noise, Hyundai applied acoustic dampening sheets to the doors and unibody, a steel plate beneath the engine and four layers of carpet padding. Engine noise is reduced through electronically controlled engine mounts, a multi-curvature dash, custom hood insulation and a pillow tripod joint which lessens vibrations from the driveshaft at idle.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 110.4; overall length: 190.6; width: 76.6; height: 71.1

All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 3.8L V6 - 260 hp at 6,000 rpm and 257 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm

Transmission: six-speed automatic with SHIFTRONIC manual control

EPA Fuel Economy: 17 city/22 hwy. (FWD); 16 city/21 hwy. (AWD)

Cargo capacity: 86.8 cubic feet

Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake distribution, traction control, electronic stability control, remote keyless entry, backup warning system, fog lights, automatic headlamps, and side-impact door beams. Limited adds HomeLink garage door opener and engine immobilizer.

Optional safety features includes navigation system, Bluetooth hands free phone system, and first aid kit.

Warranty

Basic: 5-year/60,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper

Powertrain: 10-year/100,000 mile

Corrosion: 7-year/unlimited

Roadside Assistance: 5-year/unlimited 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2011 Hyundai Veracruz crossover starts from $28,145 for the GLS and $34,195 for the Limited. Destination charges add $795.