The all-new midsize Veracruz crossover has a snazzy look, but there’s a lot more to notice and like about this crossover vehicle that is offered in three trim levels (GLS, SE, and Limited). The top-of-the-line Limited Veracruz means standard staples like leather seats, heated front seats, a 315-watt Infinity audio system with CD changer, power tilt and slide glass sunroof, windshield de-icer, and a backup warning system. The three seating row vehicle does well for front row occupants, but it’s not horrible for third row riders. For example, front headroom is 40.3 inches (versus 36.1 inches for third row) while front legroom is 42.6 inches (versus 31.5 inches for third row). With third row folded flat, there’s 40 cubic feet of cargo space. But there’s only 6.5 cubic feet of space when third row is upright.

Veracruz in all-wheel-drive weighs in at 4,431 pounds. The vehicle gets power from a 3.8-liter V6 engine (producing 260 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 257 pounds-feet of torque at 4500 rpm). Engine is matched to a 6-speed automatic transmission with shiftronic. Veracruz has a 110.4-inch wheelbase and a 36.7-foot curb-to-curb turning diameter. All trim levels of the Veracruz include traction control and electronic stability control as well as six airbags. To keep the noise intrusions to a minimum, the vehicle’s attributes include using acoustic damping sheets on the doors, a steel plate below the engine, and four layers of carpet padding. The per gallon mileage estimates are 17 city/24 highway. MSRP is $34,695.