2007 Hyundai Veracruz Fullsize SUV announced

Hyundai continued its assault on the North American Auto market today, when it unveiled the all-new Hyundai Veracruz at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The vehicle is Hyundai’s first full sized SUV, or crossover (CUV) as they have termed it, with seating for 7 passengers and according to Hyundai, more interior room than a Mercedes GL. The vehicle has an overall length of 4840 mm (190.6 in.) and a wheelbase of 2805 mm (110.4 in).

The styling clear reflects the corporate styling efforts of the California Design Studio, and shows some similarities with the redesigned Santa Fe introduced in 2006. The overall appearance effectively masks the vehicles size while still providing a solid and muscular look.

Power for the Veracruz is provided by the 260 HP 3.8L V6 used in other Hyundai models and mated to a 6 speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual control.

The vehicle comes with 6 standard airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with traction control, antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and Active headrests. Hyundai made mention of the fact that over 70% of their vehicles were now equipped with ESC as standard equipment.

At the vehicle premiere, Hyundai made available for interviews several families who were involved in unbranded testing of the vehicle prior to its unveiling. Participants in the focus group assumed the vehicle was produced by one of the perceived market leaders in this segment.

Pricing has not yet been announced.