Hyundai has unveiled the Veracruz, a medium/full size luxury SUV for the US market. Veracruz is the first step in Hyundai's ambitious plan of entering the luxury segment, much as Japanese manufacturers did more than a decade ago. The success of Veracruz in the North American market will be vital not only financially, but also for Hyundai's brand image, as the Korean auto maker is planning to have a full range of luxury vehicles by the end of this decade.

With 'Sexy & Sleek' as the main styling theme, the overall styling of Veracruz displays flowing and voluptuous surfacing, hinting strongly that Hyundai is moving away from the ill-fated geometric 'Audi' image of the NF Sonata, their flagship sedan released two years ago, and is willing to find and establish its own identity for the future. The overall form is well resolved with flowing volumes balanced by sharpness in the DLO, front/rear lamps and other details.

Powered by a 240hp, 3.8litre V6 engine, Veracruz is positioned to compete against premium Japanese SUVs such as the Nissan Murano, Honda Pilot, Subaru R9 Tribeca and the Lexus RX350. Veracruz will be released for the US market in December.

Source: cardesignnews