I'd like to see
- the amount of cargo space available with the 3rd row up
- usability of the 3rd row
- engine capability with people & stuff on board
- NVH level
- effect of not having a backup camera
here is a snapshot of how much cargo the trunk will fit with the third row up:
http://instagram.com/p/eLT-ZugHGy/#even with all that baggage (though granted it was only with 2 adults and 2 small kids in addition to that), there was no shortage of pickup and I had no problem jumping ahead of traffic. I'll try to round up six adults for a max payload test...
The third row will definitely get tested.
Visibility isn't great because of the pillars, so i just spend extra time scanning the rear side windows. I've now gotten used to the large size without a backup camera, but i agree that if the Honda CR-V can put it in as base equipment on their CR-V, Hyundai should have it with this upgraded 35K model.
NVH is okay, but I only usually register this in a car if it's really bad - i tend to have the radio (free XM for three months!) on all the time, so it covers for a lot of noise. I'll make a note to check that out and report back.
as to the towing test, if someone has a trailer/camper in the 3000-4000 lb range, i can get a tow-hitch equipped version of this truck to test the towing... Volunteers?