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7-seater SUV has become an alternative for those who need space without spending much, combining a 260 hp V6 engine, automatic transmission, and the size of a large utility vehicle for less than R$ 80,000: meet the 2012 Hyundai Veracruz.

Written by Valdemar Medeiros
Published on 16/06/2026 at 17:42
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Hyundai Veracruz 2012 offers 7 seats, 260 hp V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, and ample interior space for the price of a compact SUV.

In a market where many compact SUVs already cost more than R$ 120,000 when new, some large utility vehicles from the past have started to attract attention for the space and amount of equipment offered. One of the most curious examples is the Hyundai Veracruz 2012, a seven-seater SUV that once occupied the top of the South Korean brand’s lineup and today can be found for values close to those of modern compacts.

Launched to compete with larger family utilities, the Veracruz bet on an increasingly rare formula: naturally aspirated V6 engine, cabin for seven occupants, large SUV size, and focus on comfort for long trips. According to Hyundai, the model uses a 3.8 V6 DOHC engine with 260 hp, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode.

260 hp V6 engine places the Veracruz on a different level from current compact SUVs

The main highlight of the Veracruz is under the hood. According to Hyundai and international technical bases from Edmunds, the SUV uses a 3.8-liter V6 engine capable of delivering 260 hp at 6,000 rpm and 257 lb-ft of torque (approximately 34.8 kgfm) at 4,500 rpm. The set works with a six-speed automatic transmission equipped with a manual shift system.

Even more than a decade after its launch, the numbers continue to impress. In terms of power, the Veracruz surpasses several turbocharged compact SUVs currently sold in Brazil, offering a driving experience more focused on comfort and smoothness than sportiness.

Hyundai’s proposal was clear: to create a family vehicle capable of transporting passengers and luggage effortlessly, especially on road trips.

Seven seats make the Veracruz a rare alternative in the used market

While many modern SUVs offer only five seats, the Veracruz was developed to transport larger families.

According to Hyundai, all Veracruz models feature seven seats, including a foldable third row of seats. The configuration allowed the vehicle to be quickly transformed between a family utility and a cargo transporter.

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This is one of the factors that help keep the model relevant in the used car market. Finding a seven-seater SUV at prices close to those of the Veracruz has become increasingly difficult in recent years.

For those who need to transport more people regularly, the proposal continues to make sense even after more than a decade of use.

Generous dimensions help explain the internal comfort

The Veracruz was developed as a large-sized SUV. According to the model’s technical data, the utility vehicle has 4,840 mm in length, 2,805 mm in wheelbase, approximately 1,940 mm in width, and about 1,750 mm in height.

These measurements place the model above many current medium SUVs, especially when it comes to space for the occupants of the second and third rows.

The result is a cabin geared towards long trips, focusing on comfort for all passengers and not just those in the front seats.

Trunk can exceed 1,100 liters depending on the configuration

Besides the capacity for seven people, the Veracruz also draws attention for the available luggage space.

According to international technical bases, the rear compartment can reach about 1,133 liters of capacity, depending on the seat configuration. Some technical catalogs indicate a maximum volume of over 2,400 liters with the seats folded down.

In practice, this places the model at a level far above most compact SUVs currently marketed.

This feature made the Veracruz an extremely versatile vehicle for family trips, equipment transport, and long-distance travel.

Equipment reinforced Hyundai’s top-of-the-line position

When it was launched, the Veracruz represented the most sophisticated offering in Hyundai’s lineup. According to Hyundai News materials, the model offered items such as electronic stability control (ESC), brake assist system, automatic transmission with manual SHIFTRONIC function, and various comfort-oriented equipment.

Hyundai Veracruz 2012 offers 7 seats, 260 hp V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, and ample interior space for the price of a compact SUV.
Hyundai Veracruz 2012 offers 7 seats, 260 hp V6 engine – Disclosure

In the more complete versions, it was also possible to find leather seats, sunroof, premium sound system, heated and ventilated seats, and convenience features uncommon in many SUVs of the time.

Even analyzed by current standards, the package remains competitive for a used vehicle in its price range.

Current price brings Veracruz closer to much smaller vehicles

The aspect that currently draws the most attention is the relationship between size and market value. While new compact SUVs often exceed R$ 120,000, the Veracruz appears in the used market for significantly lower values, even offering a V6 engine, seven seats, and large SUV dimensions.

This creates an unusual situation: a vehicle that was positioned as top of the line starts competing with much smaller, less powerful models with lower transport capacity.

Technical specifications of the Hyundai Veracruz 2012

ItemInformation
ModelHyundai Veracruz 2012
Engine3.8 V6 DOHC 24V
Displacement3,778 cm³
Power260 hp at 6,000 rpm
Torque34.8 kgfm
Transmission6-speed automatic
Seats7
Length4,840 mm
Wheelbase2,805 mm
WidthApproximately 1,940 mm
HeightApproximately 1,750 mm
TrunkUp to 1,133 liters
Drive4×4 or front, depending on the version

The Hyundai Veracruz 2012 represents an increasingly rare reality in the automotive industry. The model combines a 260 hp V6 engine, capacity for seven occupants, six-speed automatic transmission, and large SUV dimensions, features that usually require much larger investments in new vehicles.

For those who prioritize space, comfort, and transport capacity over current downsizing trends, the Veracruz remains one of the most interesting alternatives in the used market.

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Valdemar Medeiros

Graduated in Journalism and Marketing, he is the author of over 20,000 articles that have reached millions of readers in Brazil and abroad. He has written for brands and media outlets such as 99, Natura, O Boticário, CPG – Click Petróleo e Gás, Agência Raccon, among others. A specialist in the Automotive Industry, Technology, Careers (employability and courses), Economy, and other topics. For contact and editorial suggestions: valdemarmedeiros4@gmail.com. We do not accept resumes!

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