First look: Latest Hyundai cruises into public perception

ONCE again leaked images – and a video in this case – of a new car have "unofficially" circulated around the world.

The car in question is Hyundai's new Veracruz luxury off-roader, which is based on the Genus concept car shown at the Geneva motor show earlier this year.

Slightly bigger than a Santa Fe, the stylish newcomer is expected to be added to the local Hyundai lineup by 2009, possibly under a new luxury brand similar to Lexus.

Codenamed EN, the Veracruz was to be officially launched late this week in the northern hemisphere but leaked images, brochures and a video have been circulated 24-hours ahead of the reveal.

The Veracruz is said to have more luggage volume than the Mercedes-Benz GL as well as offer a car-like ride and all-wheel drive.

Veracruz will also feature Hyundai's trademarked "Hideaway" third-row seat as standard, a simple-to-use 50/50 split fold-into-the-floor seat, offering flexibility for up to seven passengers.

Apart from the seven-seater capacity the car will have electronic stability control, brake assist, standard front, side and curtain airbags for all three rows of seats.

Although specifications are limited the Veracruz is expected to have an 180kW 3.8-litre V6 mated to a six-speed sequential shift automatic transmission.

A new 4.6-litre DOHC 32-valve V8, first revealed in Hyundai's Neos-3 Tokyo show car, is also on the cards.

According to the Hyundai information "Veracruz will offer an unprecedented combination of styling, safety, comfort and convenience".

It will be aimed at the Nissan Murano, Mazda CX-7, Subaru B9 Tribeca and Lexus RX350.