The Veracruz is Hyundai?s largest SUV: a 7-seater,available in front- or all-wheel drive (FWD or AWD). Hyundai touts the Veracruz as a lower-cost alternative to the Lexus RX 350. The 2009 model is mainly a carryover from the previous year,with a couple of new colors and revised option packages.

The 2009 Hyundai Veracruz is available in two trim levels: GLS and Limited. The Veracruz GLS includes 17-inch wheels,cruise control,air conditioning with rear climate controls and vents,6-speaker sound system with satellite radio and CD player,and power accessories. The GLS Preferred package of options includes a sunroof,rear parking assist,fog lights,heated front seats,and more power features. The Premium package,which adds to the Preferred package,includes 18-inch wheels,leather seating,and a power liftgate. The Veracruz Limited trim incorporates the Preferred and Premium options and adds an upgraded sound system,dual-zone automatic climate control,keyless entry and ignition,and even more power accessories. With the Limited trim,an optional package includes a navigation system,rear-seat entertainment system,and 10-speaker Infinity surround sound. With all seats up,the Veracruz provides 13.4 cubic feet of cargo space,according to Hyundai. With rear seats folded flat to the floor,cargo space totals 86.8 cubic feet.

The 2009 Hyundai Veracruz?s standard power plant is a 260-horsepower,3.8-liter V-6 engine that delivers 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway with FWD,or 15/22 with optional AWD,according to the EPA. A 6-speed automatic transmission is standard on all Veracruz models.

Standard safety features on the 2009 Hyundai Veracruz include anti-lock disc brakes,stability control,traction control,front side air bags,side curtain air bags,and active front head restraints. In government crash tests,the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the Veracruz 5 (out of 5) stars for frontal- and side-impact occupant protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Veracruz highest-possible ?Good? ratings in frontal-offset and side-impact crash tests.

Starting MSRP for the 2009 Hyundai Veracruz is $27,145.