
Though Hyundai benchmarked the Lexus RX 350 in designing the Veracruz, its real rivals are a little less ambitious.
The Toyota Highlander was redesigned last year, gaining a more fuel-efficient four-cylinder option; compared to the Veracruz, the Highlander has a more spacious interior and drives a bit better, though some might think the Toyota’s styling to be more anonymous.
The Honda Pilot has truly different styling that’s boxy and angular; the strategy translates to a roomy interior and a likable vehicle, if you can get past the garish grille.
Finally, those who want a friskier-feeling vehicle will want to take the Mazda CX-9 for a drive; this three-row vehicle drives like a smaller one, though its cabin doesn’t look or feel truly luxurious in a conservative sense.
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Quick Specs | ||||
The 2011 Hyundai Veracruz is spacious and comfortable, though not as sporty or stylistically evolved as the newest competition. |
The 2011 Chevrolet Traverse isn’t fun to drive, but it’s one of the best large crossover wagons for transporting the family comfortably and safely. |
If you can get past the garish grille and overwrought look, the 2011 Honda Pilot is a fine family vehicle, with minivan-like interior space and decent performance. |
The 2011 Mazda CX-9 can carry seven in comfort, but it loves curves more than almost any other roomy crossover. |
The very family-friendly Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid impress us with their space and versatility, but show no sign of enthusiasm. |
MSRP From | ||||
$28,345 | $29,370 | $28,320 | $29,135 | $28,090 |
Gas Mileage | ||||
16 MPG City / 22 MPG Hwy | 16 MPG City / 24 MPG Hwy | 16 MPG City / 23 MPG Hwy | 16 MPG City / 24 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy |
Engine | ||||
Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Gas I4 |
EPA Class | ||||
2WD Sport Utililty | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicle | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicle | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility Vehicle |
Style Name | ||||
FWD 4-Door GLS | FWD 4-Door LS | 2WD 4-Door LX | FWD 4-Door Sport | FWD 4-Door L4 Base (Natl) |
Drivetrain | ||||
Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | ||||
7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 |
Passenger Doors | ||||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Body Style | ||||
4 Door Sport Utility | 4 Door | 4 Door Sport Utility | 4 Door Sport Utility Vehicle | 4 Door |
Transmission | ||||
Automatic w/OD | Automatic | Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Automatic |
Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
2011 Hyundai Veracruz vs. 2011 Chevrolet Traverse | 2011 Hyundai Veracruz vs. 2011 Honda Pilot | 2011 Hyundai Veracruz vs. 2011 Mazda CX-9 | 2011 Hyundai Veracruz vs. 2011 Toyota Highlander |