Hyundai today announced the ninth vehicle to join its 2007 model year lineup will be a crossover called ‘Veracruz.’ The moniker comes from, the coastal Mexican state by the same name. Earlier this year, NHTSA documents suggested the automaker might use the name. Previously, the name was thought to be “Hyundai Mesa.” The midsize crossover will be larger than the Honda Pilot and have more cargo volume than the full-size Mercedes-Benz GL, according to the automaker. Veracruz will also feature as standard equipment the Hyundai Hideaway third-row seat, a simple-to-use 50/50 split fold-into-the-floor seat, offering flexibility for up to seven passengers.
Equipped with a standard 3.8-liter V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission, Veracruz will offer an “unprecedented combination of styling, safety, comfort and convenience” including available all-wheel drive, standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), standard side-airbags, as well as side-curtain airbags for all three rows of passengers.
Veracruz will compete primarily with upper midsize crossovers including Honda Pilot , Nissan Murano , Subaru B9 Tribeca and Lexus RX350.
