With MSRPs beginning at $27,145, the 2009 Hyundai Veracruz is a sport utility crossover vehicle that comfortably seats up to seven passengers. It is available in four trims: the GLS front wheel drive, the GLS all-wheel drive, the Limited front wheel drive and the Limited all-wheel drive. Very few changes have been made as it is a carryover from the 2008 model year.

The standard engine for the Veracruz is a 3.8L 260hp V6 and it is mated to a six-speed automatic overdrive transmission. The two combine forces to deliver 16/23 mpg city/highway. Competition including the Toyota Highlander, the Subaru Tribeca and the Honda Pilot are met head-on on all levels. The 2009 Veracruz is the first crossover from Hyundai - and a very impressive one at that.

It's a clean, well-balanced and sleek-profiled vehicle that is manufactured with great care from the South Korean automaker. Both the interior and the exterior are meticulously crafted, close-gapped and made from excellent-quality materials. Gauges are clustered nicely and feature a blue-hued night display. The third row of seating is easy to access and even the most basic Veracruz trim is loaded with standard features for comfort and luxury.

The 2009 Veracruz from Hyundai is also very fun to drive. It's responsive and easily managed. It's also packed with standard safety features including six air bags, antilock braking, brake assist, electronic stability control, active head restraints, electronic brake force distribution and more. Optional features provide something for everybody including a wireless entertainment system for the back row of seating and an all-new navigational system.

The Veracruz also adds in innovative features that much of its competition lacks such as an optional powered tailgate and convenient power outlets in the cabin. In fact, many of the features in the Ultimate Package from 2008 are now standard features. Four-wheel independent suspension and the longest wheelbase in its class make the ride quality smooth and quiet. Gross vehicular weight for the GLS trims is 5732 pounds while the limited trims weigh in at 5908 pounds.

Dimensions for the 2009 Hyundai Veracruz are 190.6 x 76.6 x 68.9 inches in length, width and height respectively. The wheelbase measures 110.4 inches and the vehicle sits 8.1 inches above the ground. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 pounds. A 20.6 gallon capacity fuel tank will enable you to travel over 400 miles on the highways without needing to refuel.

2009 Hyundai Veracruz is one excellent option in modern sport utility crossover vehicles. It's loaded with standard features, very well designed and manufactured, exciting and reliable to drive - and good looking too. Definitely worth your consideration, the Veracruz is sure to please you when you give it a test drive.