Hyundai set the Lexus RX 350 as the benchmark for refinement and quality, but in terms of direct competitors, the Veracruz has two very well-known, hot-selling crossovers in its sites – the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander. As it enters the fray as a 2007 model, the Veracruz has been matched up against the current Highlander, though realistically Hyundai’s new crossover will be going head-to-head with the bigger and brawnier Toyota when it hits the streets later this year. Other competitors include the Ford Freestyle, Mazda CX-9, and Subaru B9 Tribeca. Stretching the criteria brings the Ford Edge and Saturn Outlook/GMC Acadia into the mix.

Photograph courtesy Toyota