2008 Hyundai Veracruz

Hyundai's getting serious now. With Lexus RX350-like aspirations, the 2008 Hyundai Veracruz crossover arrives, blending Hyundai highlights, such as abundant safety features, 5-star crash ratings, a long-term warranty, and affordability, with more upscale comfort and styling associated with higher-end brand names. Longer than its closest competitors, the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, the seven-seat 2008 Veracruz adds an optional navigation system this year, power-adjustable pedals, memory settings for the driver's seat and mirrors, and rain-sensing wipers, but otherwise remains unchanged.

Not only the largest Hyundai on the market, the 2008 Veracruz is the largest crossover in its class. Built on an extended Santa Fe platform, the three trim levels (SE, GLS, and  Limited) come in either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, with a 3.8-liter, 260-hp V6 under the hood. The 6-speed auto transmission with manual mode is a first for Hyundai and helps smooth out the ride. The 2008 Veracruz keeps families in mind, with excellent safety ratings. Standard safety features include ABS brakes, traction and stability control, automatic headlights, a tire monitor, and dual front airbags and side curtain bags for all three rows. Rear parking sensors can be added.

Upscale touches are found inside and out. A curvy, sleek exterior features chrome highlights, alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler. Inside, the quiet cabin covers surfaces in soft material, with low-glare material used on the dash. Base models start with full power features, a CD/MP3 player, cruise control, rear climate control, and a family-oriented console cooler for beverages. As you move up, a sunroof, leather upholstery, memory settings, and a power liftgate get added. The second row slides forward for decent third-row access. The third row offers the Hyundai Hideaway - not an after-hours lounge, but a convenient fold-flat feature to expand cargo space. Rear legroom in both rows surpasses the Santa Fe's, though cargo room with all seats up is smaller.

Overall, test drives have shown agile handling, a powerful engine, and a quiet ride in the 2008 Veracruz. With Hyundai's warranty and a decent 17/26 mpg city/highway estimate, the Veracruz seems to offer the best of both worlds - luxury trappings that won't break your bank.