Hyundai Veracruz: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Hyundai Veracruz is a three-row, seven-seat crossover SUV sold in the U.S. from 2007 through 2012. It is known for smooth V6 power, a quiet and comfortable cabin, and near-luxury touches without luxury-brand positioning.
The Veracruz focused on family comfort rather than rugged looks or heavy-duty ability. Across its single generation, it kept the same basic formula: three rows, a smooth 3.8-liter V6, a six-speed automatic, and an upscale interior feel. Yearly updates were generally modest, so its identity stayed consistent through its final U.S. model year.
Strengths
- Its quiet, comfortable cabin gives it a more relaxed feel than many truck-shaped SUVs of its era.
- The smooth 3.8-liter V6 and six-speed automatic remained central to the Veracruz throughout its run.
- Standard seating for seven makes it practical for families that regularly use three rows.
- Its upscale interior feel and strong comfort equipment deliver a near-luxury experience without luxury-brand positioning.
- Cargo capacity was rated at 86.8 cubic feet in 2012, giving it useful room when passenger space was not the priority.
Who it's for
The Veracruz suits used-SUV shoppers who need seating for seven and care more about a calm, comfortable ride than rugged capability. It makes the most sense for families seeking an upscale cabin and useful space without moving to a luxury brand.
Hyundai Veracruz lineup
In later model years, the lineup centered on GLS and Limited. Pick the GLS for the core Veracruz experience: seven seats, V6 power, and family-focused comfort in the simpler trim. Step up to the Limited when added comfort equipment and a more upscale cabin matter more. The Limited’s premium role became especially clear by 2012, when heated second-row seats were standard.
Hyundai Veracruz generations
From 2009 to 2012, the Veracruz spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation arrived for 2007.
1st Generation (2007–2012)
The Veracruz's only U.S. generation is a seven-seat crossover with a 3.8-liter V6, a six-speed automatic, and front- or all-wheel drive. Its final years brought equipment updates and a small front-end change, not a full redesign.
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2012
A new grille lightly updated the front end, and the Limited gained standard heated second-row seats.
2011
The lineup carried over with only minor package revisions.
2010
The GLS gained more standard equipment, while navigation and premium audio expanded to that trim.
2009Trim changes
The middle trim left the lineup, simplifying it to GLS and Limited. iPod/USB and auxiliary audio inputs became standard across the lineup.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Hyundai Veracruz.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of vehicle is the Hyundai Veracruz?
The Hyundai Veracruz is a comfort-focused three-row crossover SUV. It seats seven and combines a smooth V6 with a quiet, upscale-feeling cabin, aiming more at family comfort than rugged or heavy-duty use.
Does the Hyundai Veracruz have three rows of seats?
Yes. Every Veracruz has three-row seating for seven people, and the third row folds flat when cargo room matters more than passenger space.
Is the Hyundai Veracruz a hybrid?
No. The Veracruz uses a gasoline-powered 3.8-liter V6 with a six-speed automatic transmission. No hybrid powertrain is part of the model history covered here.
Does the Hyundai Veracruz have AWD?
Some Veracruz models have AWD, while others use front-wheel drive. The underlying 3.8-liter V6 and six-speed automatic remain the same, so check the individual used vehicle rather than relying on its trim name.
How much can the Hyundai Veracruz tow?
The 2012 Veracruz has a maximum towing rating of 3,500 pounds. That suits modest trailers, but the Veracruz is primarily a comfort-oriented family crossover rather than a heavy-duty tow vehicle.
Who is the Hyundai Veracruz a good fit for?
The Veracruz fits families who want seven seats, rear-passenger comfort, smooth V6 power, and a more upscale cabin feel without moving to a luxury-brand SUV. It favors quiet everyday driving over rugged capability.
How many generations of the Hyundai Veracruz were sold?
The U.S. Veracruz had one generation, covering 2007 through 2012. Its final model year received only a small front-end update, not a full redesign.