Hyundai has been busy lately building up its lineup. Although mostly known for small, economic cars, Hyundai has been slowly but surely moving more and more upscale and competing in new segments. Among the vehicles that mark new territory for Hyundai is the new Hyundai Veracruz, the Korean automaker’s first seven passenger midsize SUV. The Veracruz is also one of the company’s most luxurious vehicles to date.

The new Hyundai Veracruz is powered by a 3.8 liter V6 engine and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, with offers the option of shifting on your own. The Veracruz offers front wheel drive standard, but also has the option of an all-wheel drive system that sends power to the rear wheels automatically when any wheel slip is detected, which is an attractive feature among Boston Hyundai dealers as safety is often the reason for considering a Hyundai. The system can also be engaged manually thanks to button on the dash that will immediately send power to the rear.

Although third seating is currently offered with Hyundai’s smaller Santa Fe, the Veracruz has third row seating as a standard feature. The space is tight in this third row, but it certainly is a feature that should now be standard in this segment. The front seats and even second row of seating both offer plenty of room however, say drivers at Hyundai dealers Chicago, with plenty of space easily enabling passengers to enter and exit the vehicle with ease.

Inside the Hyundai Veracruz is perhaps where the vehicle truly shines. Facing the driver is a clean, organized dash and center console, featuring attractive blue backlighting. Cloth is standard and two types of leather are offered, including a reddish brown Premium Saddle Leather option. Hyundai Chicago dealers claim the new Veracruz is surprisingly luxurious, and they certainly seem to be accurate. Among the plethora of features include heated seats, dual zone climate control, sunroof, and puddle lights. The audio system includes an in-dash six disc player, and a rear DVD entertainment system is also available.

Potential mid-size SUV buyers should put the Veracruz on their list. It offers tons of space, room for the entire family, and even a well-appointed interior. The Veracruz also offers strong crash test ratings, making it one of the safest vehicles in its class.

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