Category Archives: Press Release

Hyundai Improves in J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Vehicle Dependability Study

Hyundai Has Fewer Problems Than Industry Average

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 03/19/2009 Hyundai increased its lead over the industry average in the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Vehicle Dependability Study(SM) (VDS) released today. Hyundai ranked No. 13 among nameplates in the long-term quality study, four rank positions better than industry average. The Hyundai overall score was 161 problems per 100 vehicles, nine problems better than the industry average of 170. In the 2008 Vehicle Dependability Study(SM), Hyundai was three rank positions and six problems better than the industry average. The Elantra sedan had the highest levels of dependability in the Hyundai lineup.

“Customers deserve and expect the highest levels of quality when they purchase a vehicle, and expect it will remain reliable over its lifetime,” said Barry Ratzlaff, Hyundai Motor America Director of Product Quality. “Our improvements in overall dependability demonstrate our efforts to build on the foundation of our 10 year, 100,000-mile warranty. Throughout the enterprise, from our suppliers through our dealers, we continue to aggressively strive and innovate for Hyundai vehicles to be in the top tier for vehicle quality and reliability.”

J.D. Power and Associates changed methodology for the 2009 VDS, so results from past years are not directly comparable. The highly regarded study measures problems experienced by original owners and lessees of three-year-old (2006 model year) vehicles. The study is based on the responses of more than 46,000 owners of new vehicles bought between September 2005 and February 2006. The 2009 VDS measures problem symptoms in categories such as vehicle exterior, driving experience, features/controls/displays, audio/entertainment/navigation, seats, HVAC, interior, engine and transmission. The VDS is one of three J.D. Power and Associates quality studies, along with the Initial Quality Study (IQS) that measures quality after 90 days of ownership, and the Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) study that measures customer perceptions on the design, content, layout and performance of their new vehicles.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 790 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai Advantage, America’s Best Warranty. In addition, the Hyundai Assurance Program is now offered on all new vehicles leased or purchased from a certified Hyundai dealer. The program is available to any consumer, regardless of age, health, employment record or financed amount of the vehicle. The program is complimentary for the first 12 months.

Motor Trend Names Genesis and Sonata Two of America’s Top 40 New Cars

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Hyundai’s New Flagship Genesis Sedan and Refreshed Sonata Recognized as Best Cars to Buy in 2009

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 03/06/2009 Both the 2009 “North American Car of the Year” Hyundai Genesis sedan and 2009 Sonata were recognized among “America’s Top 40 New Cars” by Motor Trend in the April 2009 issue on sale now and online at www.motortrend.com. In addition, the all-new 2010 Genesis Coupe, which is just now reaching U.S. dealerships, was listed along side other highly anticipated arrivals such as the new Chevrolet Camaro and Toyota Prius on the “Five Worth Waiting For” list.

Motor Trend editors evaluated more than 247 vehicles currently on the market to help readers identify the best 40 cars to buy in a variety of categories. The Sonata SE was called a “standout among standouts” in the family car category, which also recognized popular models such as Honda Accord EX and Toyota Camry SE V-6.

The Genesis 4.6 was selected a top new pick in the premium sedan category for offering levels of performance, design and comfort for a price much less than Mercedes, BMW and Lexus. The editors wrote: “Few believed Hyundai could pull off the same trick Lexus did 20 years ago by creating a world-class luxury sedan, much less being able to sell it for a lot less than the standard bearers from Germany. Yeah, well, guess what. The Genesis is a player and fits neatly in between most mid- and full-size offerings.” Others recognized in this category included the BMW 335i and Mercedes-Benz S550.

“It’s an honor to be included in such a distinguished group of cars selected by some of the foremost automotive experts in the country,” said Scott Margason, director, Product & Strategic Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “To have two Hyundai models make Motor Trend’s list of cars to buy this year validates our hard work to create vehicles that can compete with the best-of-the-best in the auto industry.”

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

2009 Hyundai Genesis Named Top Safety Pick by IIHS

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FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 02/26/2009 The “2009 North American Car of the Year” Hyundai Genesis sedan bolstered its resume with a “TOP SAFETY PICK” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Hyundai’s all-new flagship earned a “good” overall evaluation in side impact, frontal offset and rear crash tests, the highest ranking awarded by the Institute.

Maintaining Hyundai’s emphasis on delivering leading safety technology, Genesis boasts world-class active and passive safety features to help both prevent accidents and maximize the wellbeing of its occupants in the event of a collision. The Genesis continues the Hyundai tradition of standardizing key life-saving safety technology, and includes standard features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), eight airbags and electronic active head restraints.

“Hyundai is committed to standardizing the most effective life-saving technologies and Genesis sedan is no exception,” said Michael Deitz, product planning manager for the Hyundai Genesis sedan. “From the debut of Hyundai’s first electronic active head restraint system which helps prevent whiplash, to standard Electronic Stability Control, the most effective new safety technology since the seatbelt, Genesis was designed with safety in mind.”

To qualify for a Top Safety Pick, a vehicle must earn the highest rating of “good” in the Institute’s front, side, and rear tests and be equipped with ESC. Criteria to win are tough because the award is intended to drive continued safety improvements such as top crash test ratings and the rapid addition of ESC, which is standard on the Genesis. TOP SAFETY PICK status is applicable for all 2009 Genesis models built after November 2008.

“Recognizing vehicles at the head of the class for safety helps consumers distinguish the best overall choices without having to sort through multiple test results,” says Institute president Adrian Lund.

According to IIHS, 51 percent of driver deaths in recent model cars occurred in side impacts so the Institute’s side impact test is severe. The Genesis performed well in side-impact tests and earned a “good” overall evaluation. The report notes that both driver’s and passengers’ head and neck are protected against “being hit by any hard structures,” reducing the chance of serious injury.

In the Institute’s 40 mph offset test, 40 percent of the total width of each vehicle strikes a barrier on the driver’s side, mirroring the forces involved in a frontal offset crash between two vehicles. Genesis again scored “good” in the overall evaluation. The report notes that, “Measures taken from the dummy indicate a low risk of any significant injuries in a crash of this severity.”

All new Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai Advantage, America’s Best Warranty. In addition, the Hyundai Assurance Program is now offered on all new Hyundais leased or purchased at a participating Hyundai dealership. Hyundai Assurance allows consumers to walk away from a financing obligation when certain adverse life events occur, providing protection from financial shortfalls that arise from vehicle depreciation (negative equity) up to $7,500. For a limited time, Hyundai is also offering Hyundai Assurance Plus, adding 90 days of payment relief to the existing protection plan. Hyundai Assurance Plus is part of Hyundai’s Spring Sales Event, which runs until April 30, 2009. Hyundai Assurance and Hyundai Assurance Plus are complimentary for the first 12 months of the financing or lease date for vehicles financed through any lender or financing source. The programs supplement all existing consumer incentives, and are available to any consumer, regardless of age, health, employment history or financed amount of the vehicle. Visit www.HyundaiUSA.com for details.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Gary Rome of Gary Rome Hyundai in Holyoke Named Chair For The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night Walk

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Encourages The Community to Help a Good Cause

February 19, 2009 – The Massachusetts Chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society recently named Gary Rome of Gary Rome Hyundai in Holyoke chair of its 2009 Northampton Light The Night® Walk, the LLS annual fundraising event held each fall to raise money for cancer research and patient services.

LLS holds walks each fall in approximately 230 communities across the United States and Canada. Participants at the walks carry illuminated balloons – white for survivors, red for supporters, and gold for those walking “in memory” – to honor and commemorate lives touched by blood cancer. This year’s Northampton Light The Night Walk will take place on Sunday, September 13, 2009 at Look Memorial Park in Northampton, MA.

“Light The Night is a great way to build a spirit of caring and cooperation among employees as they help others,” said Gary Rome “I am honored to serve as the chair and I look forward to encouraging commitment from local businesses and members of the community.”

Mr. Rome and his staff at Gary Rome Hyundai in Holyoke participated in the 2008 Northampton Light The Night event. The car dealership formed a team, captained by Cliff Dexheimer, General Sales Manager for the retail location, and raised over $5,000 for LLS. The team also brought along their Hyundai Hope on Wheels Santa Fe vehicle. In 1998, Hyundai Motorcars of America founded their own independent nonprofit called Hyundai Hope on Wheels, an organization dedicated to funding research of childhood cancers. In Northampton this past fall, Mr. Rome’s Hope on Wheels vehicle was ceremoniously decorated with handprints of local childhood cancer survivors in celebration of their strength, courage and perseverance. In addition to serving as Walk Chair in 2009, Mr. Rome will once again be bringing the Hope on Wheels vehicle to the event.

The funds raised through corporate and individual contributions help to find cures and better therapies for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and to provide information, education and support for patients and their families.

“Light The Night Walk gives hope to patients and their families and lets them know they are not alone in their battle against cancer,” said Sharon Klein, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Chapter.

To find out more about forming a team or participating in a Light The Night walk, contact the Massachusetts Chapter’s Light The Night Staff at 508-810-1342 or online at www.lightthenight.org/ma.

About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society ® (LLS) is the world’s largest voluntary health agency dedicated to blood cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world and provides free information and support services.

Founded in 1949 and headquartered in White Plains, NY, LLS has chapters throughout the United States and Canada. To learn more, visit www.LLS.org or contact the Information Resource Center at (800) 955-4572, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. www.lls.org.

Three Hyundai Models Named Best Car Buys for 2009

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Genesis, Accent and Tucson Earn High Marks for Affordability, Safety and Fuel Efficiency in the NADAguides.com Annual List of “Best Car Buys”

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 02/13/2009 Three Hyundai models were named “Best Car Buys” for 2009 by NADAguides.com in four respective categories — Hyundai Genesis, Top Luxury Cars (under $35,000); Hyundai Accent, Top Sub-Compacts (under $15,000); and Hyundai Tucson, Top Crossovers (under $21,000). The NADAguides.com “Best Buys” list is one of the most highly respected awards provided to automakers.

“With the struggling economy, car buyers are facing tougher decisions when considering their next vehicle purchase. The NADAguides.com annual ‘Best Buys’ list provides consumers with unbiased and research-driven information,” said Michael Caudill, spokesperson, NADAguides.com. “Hyundai is making the car buying process easier than ever by offering the biggest bang for the buck in a variety of segments, whether it be the fuel efficient Accent, Genesis luxury sedan or functional Tucson crossover.”

NADAguides.com is the leading provider of pricing information and market research for cars, classics, RVs, motorcycles and boats. The “Best Car Buys” list is based on criteria identified by NADAguides.com Market Data Analysts (MDAs) as most important to consumers — affordability, fuel efficiency, warranty coverage, safety and depreciation.

“We are honored to be recognized as the auto industry’s most affordably priced, fuel efficient and highest safety rated vehicles in the business,” said Dave Zuchowski, vice president, National Sales, Hyundai Motor America. “This award is a true testament of Hyundai’s commitment to provide consumers with high-quality vehicles that suit their needs and budget, especially in today’s turbulent economy.”

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 780 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai Advantage, America’s Best Warranty. In addition, the Hyundai Assurance Program is now offered on all new vehicles leased or purchased from a certified Hyundai dealer. The program is available to any consumer, regardless of age, health, employment record or financed amount of the vehicle. The program is complimentary for the first 12 months.

NADAGUIDES.COM

NADA Appraisal Guides is the world’s largest publisher of vehicle pricing and specification information for new and used cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs, as well as van conversions, limousines, classic and collectible cars, boats, RVs, motorcycles, snowmobiles, personal watercraft and manufactured housing. The company’s consumer website, NADAguides.com (www.NADAguides.com), offers a variety of new and used vehicle services in addition to valuation information. Throughout its 75-year history, NADA Appraisal Guides has earned the reputation as the recognized authority for vehicle valuations. Its website, NADAguides.com, is the most comprehensive vehicle information resource on the Internet today.

HYUNDAI ANNOUNCES 2010 GENESIS COUPE PRICING

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Hyundai Motor America announced pricing for the new Genesis Coupe, starting at $22,000 for a well-equipped 210-horsepower, 2.0-liter, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine 2.0T model and $25,000 for the 306-horsepower, 3.8-liter, V6 engine model. Genesis Coupe will begin arriving at Hyundai dealerships later in the month.

“Genesis sedan set a new benchmark for the premium sedan segment and we think Genesis Coupe will do the same in the sport coupe arena,” said John Krafcik, Hyundai Motor America president and chief executive officer. “From our 30-mpg 2.0T with its low-pressure, intercooled, four-cylinder turbo, to the 3.8-liter Track model with 306 horsepower and Brembo® braking system, Genesis Coupe offers a wide range of powertrain and performance choices for driving enthusiasts of all stripes.”

2010 Genesis Coupe Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Pricing

Model	Engine	Package	Transmission	MSRP
Genesis Coupe 2.0T	2.0-liter turbo 4-cyl.		Six-Speed Manual	$22,000
Genesis Coupe 2.0T	2.0-liter turbo 4-cyl.		Five-Speed A/T SHIFTRONIC®	$23,250
Genesis Coupe 2.0T	2.0-liter turbo 4-cyl.	Premium	Six-Speed Manual	$24,250
Genesis Coupe 2.0T	2.0-liter turbo 4-cyl.	Premium	Five-Speed A/T SHIFTRONIC®	$25,500
Genesis Coupe 2.0T	2.0-liter turbo 4-cyl.	Track	Six-Speed Manual	$26,750
Genesis Coupe 2.0T	2.0-liter turbo 4-cyl.	R-Spec *	Six-Speed Manual	$23,750
Genesis Coupe 3.8	3.8-liter V6		Six-Speed Manual	$25,000
Genesis Coupe 3.8	3.8-liter V6		ZF Six-Speed A/T SHIFTRONIC®	$26,500
Genesis Coupe 3.8	3.8-liter V6	Grand Touring	Six-Speed Manual	$27,500
Genesis Coupe 3.8	3.8-liter V6	Grand Touring	ZF Six-Speed A/T SHIFTRONIC®	$29,000
Genesis Coupe 3.8	3.8-liter V6	Track	Six-Speed Manual	$29,500
Genesis Coupe 3.8	3.8-liter V6	Track	ZF Six-Speed A/T SHIFTRONIC®	$31,000

Note: Add $750 freight charge
* Denotes mid-model year availability

GENESIS COUPE 2.0T: A MORE EFFICIENT TAKE ON THE REAR-WHEEL DRIVE SPORT COUPE

Standard equipment includes:
– 2.0-liter, low-pressure, turbocharged, intercooled 4-cylinder engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering 210 hp, 223 lb.-ft. of torque (at just 2,000 rpm), an estimated 30 mpg EPA highway rating and a top speed of 137 mph
– M6VR1 6-speed manual transmission (Optional: A5SR1 5-speed electronic automatic transmission with lockup torque converter and steering wheel-mounted paddle-shift Shiftronic® controls)
– 18-inch Euroflange alloy wheels with staggered Bridgestone Potenza RE92A tires (225/45VR18 front, 245/45VR18 rear)
– Electronic Stability Control with Traction control, ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist
– 12.6-inch ventilated front rotors with 60mm single piston floating caliper
– 12.4-inch solid rear rotors with 43mm single piston floating caliper
– Sport-tuned MacPherson strut dual-link front suspension and five-link rear independent suspension, 24mm front stabilizer bar, 19mm rear stabilizer bar
– Front strut brace
– Quick-ratio hydraulic steering (2.7 turns lock-to-lock)
– Tire Pressure Monitoring System
– Front, side, side air curtain air bags
– Active front head restraints
– Driver’s lumbar support
– Black-out front lower fascia
– Air conditioning
– Satin silver and chrome interior accents
– Remote keyless entry system with alarm
– Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
– Power windows (one-touch up and down), door locks and mirrors
– AM/FM/XM/MP3/CD audio system with six speakers
– iPod/ USB Aux jack connectivity
– Steering wheel audio controls
– Cruise control
– Trip computer
– Projector beam headlamps with auto light control
– Bluetooth® hands-free connectivity with steering wheel controls

The 2.0T Premium model adds or substitutes:
– Power driver’s seat
– 360-watt AM/FM/XM/MP3/CD-changer Infinity® premium audio system with 10 speakers including DVC subwoofer, eight-channel external amplifier, and diversity antenna
– Proximity Key with push-button start
– Auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink® and compass
– Power tilt and slide sunroof
– Navigation system (mid-model year availability, pricing TBA)

The factory-tuned 2.0T Track model builds from the 2.0T Premium, adding/substituting:
– 19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy wheels with staggered high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (225/40YR19 front, 245/40YR19 rear)
– Unique Brembo® braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
– Unique track-tuned suspension, higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, front strut brace
– Torsen-type limited-slip differential
– Black leather bolster seats with high-friction red cloth insert
– Aluminum pedals
– Aero wipers
– Rear spoiler
– Xenon HID (High Intensity Discharge) headlights
– Fog lamps
– Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)
– Navigation system (mid-model year availability, pricing TBA)
– Note: Automatic transmission not available with 2.0T Track

Later in the model year, a tuner-focused performance model, R-Spec, will arrive at Hyundai dealerships. Genesis Coupe R-Spec is the ultimate upgradeable, affordable, turbocharged rear-wheel drive performance platform. R-Spec equipment includes:
– 2.0-liter low-pressure turbocharged intercooled four-cylinder engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering 210 hp, an estimated 30 mpg EPA highway rating and a top speed of 137 mph
– 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission
– Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control, ABS, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist
– 19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy wheels with staggered-width high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (225/40YR19 front, 245/40YR19 rear)
– Brembo® braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
– Track-tuned suspension (higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, front strut brace)
– Torsen-type limited-slip differential
– Quick-ratio hydraulic steering (2.7 turns lock-to-lock)
– Tire Pressure Monitoring System
– Front, side, side air curtain air bags
– Active front head restraints
– Driver’s lumbar support
– Air conditioning
– Remote keyless entry with alarm
– Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
– Power windows (one-touch up and down), door locks and mirrors
– AM/FM/XM/MP3/CD audio system with six speakers
– iPod/ USB/Aux jack connectivity
– Projector beam headlamps
– Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)
– Note: Automatic transmission not available with R-Spec

GENESIS 3.8: 306 HORSEPOWER AND STANDARD LEATHER INTERIOR – A NEW BENCHMARK FOR PERFORMANCE AND REFINEMENT IN ITS CLASS

Standard equipment includes 2.0T equipment, and adds or substitutes:
– 3.8-liter DOHC V6 engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering 306 hp and a top speed of 149 mph
– M6VR2 6-speed manual transmission (Optional: ZF 6HP19 6-speed electronic automatic with lockup torque converter and steering wheel-mounted paddle-shift Shiftronic® controls)
– Black leather seating surfaces
– Fully automatic temperature control
– Premium door sill plates
– Chrome front fascia accents
– Fog lights

In addition to 3.8 equipment, the 3.8 Grand Touring adds or substitutes:
– Unique brown leather seat interior environment
– Power driver’s seat
– Heated driver and passenger seat
– 360-watt AM/FM/XM/MP3/CD-changer Infinity® premium audio system with 10 speakers including DVC subwoofer, eight-channel external amplifier, and diversity antenna
– Proximity key with push-button start
– Xenon HID (High Intensity Discharge) headlamps
– Auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink® and compass
– Heated mirrors with outside turn signal indicators
– Backup warning system
– Power tilt and slide sunroof
– Navigation system (mid-model year availability, pricing TBA)

The factory-tuned 3.8 Track model deletes the backup warning system and chrome front fascia accents from the Grand Touring model, and adds or substitutes:
– Black leather seating surfaces
– 19-inch gunmetal finish alloy wheels with staggered high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (225/40YR19 front, 245/40YR19 rear)
– Brembo® braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
– Unique track-tuned suspension, higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, strut brace
– Torsen-type limited-slip differential
– Aluminum pedals
– Aero wipers
– Rear spoiler
– Black-out front lower fascia
– Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)

Genesis Coupe will be available in nine exterior colors:
– Karussell White
– Bathurst Black
– Silverstone
– Nordschleife Gray
– Acqua Minerale Blue
– Tsukuba Red
– Mirabeau Blue
– Lime Rock Green
– Interlagos Yellow

Genesis Coupe features four different interior themes:
– Black environment, premium black cloth seats (2.0T, 2.0T Premium, R-Spec)
– Black environment, black leather-bolstered seats with high-friction red cloth insert (2.0T Track)
– Black environment, black leather seats (3.8, 3.8 Track)
– Black environment, saddle brown leather seats (3.8 Grand Touring)

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Sonata Recognized on Greener Choices 2009 List

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2009 Sonata recognized as an environmentally friendly vehicle by the America Council for an Energy Efficient Economy

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 02/05/2009 The 2009 Hyundai Sonata was recognized by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) on its annual “Greener Choices 2009” list for the fourth consecutive year. The Sonata will be featured in the ACEEE’s Green Book® Online, an annual consumers’ guide to environmentally-friendly cars and trucks.

“To be recognized for the fourth year in a row as a leader in fuel efficiency only reinforces Hyundai commitment to the environment and sustainability,” said Michael Deitz, manager, Product Development, Hyundai Motor America. “The refreshed, fuel-efficient Sonata brings consumers industry leading safety features and an award-winning interior at a price they can afford.”

The list is restricted to widely available gasoline-powered cars and light trucks with automatic transmissions, thus highlighting the widespread availability of environmentally friendly vehicle choices in many segments of the market.

The 2009 Sonata debuts Hyundai’s second-generation Theta four-cylinder engine. The Theta II 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine delivers more horsepower and quicker acceleration, while also improving fuel economy. In fact, the Sonata I4 is now more fuel-efficient than both Camry and Accord four-cylinder engines, delivering an impressive 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway fuel economy rating. The Sonata combines refined design, proven dependability, spirited performance and an extensive list of standard features to increase its appeal to a broader range of customers.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 780 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai Advantage, America’s Best Warranty. In addition, the Hyundai Assurance Program is now offered on all new vehicles leased or purchased from a certified Hyundai dealer. The program is available to any consumer, regardless of age, health, employment record or financed amount of the vehicle. The program is complimentary for the first 12 months, and full-term upgrades are available.

ACEEE’s GREEN BOOK® ONLINE

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advancing energy efficiency as a means of promoting both economic prosperity, environmental protection, and energy security.

Hyundai Genesis Named 2009 Cars.com New Car of the Year

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WASHINGTON, D.C., 02/04/2009 As an encore to its 2009 North American Car of the Year honor, the all-new Hyundai Genesis took home the Cars.com New Car of the Year award, announced at the Washington, D.C. Auto Show. Hyundai’s new flagship Genesis sedan sets a new benchmark in the premium car category. Offering incredible value in these tough economic times, Genesis includes performance and luxury features typically found on vehicles costing thousands of dollars more.

“The Cars.com New Car of the Year honor validates the Genesis as a game-changing entrant in the luxury market,” said Michael Deitz, product development manager for the Genesis sedan. “Genesis offers a tremendous combination of performance, fuel economy, safety and technology features, and we’re thrilled that the Cars.com editorial team took all of this into account when making its decision.”

To choose the Cars.com New Car of the Year, the site’s expert reviewers drove and tested all the newly introduced and redesigned models for 2009. From that pool of about 60 cars, they chose their favorites based on features, driving quality, mileage and overall value.

“The 2009 Hyundai Genesis rivals the feeling of extravagance found in many full-size luxury vehicles,” said Patrick Olsen, editor-in-chief at Cars.com. “Our editors chose the Genesis for Cars.com’s 2009 New Car of the Year because we drove it — pondered the window sticker again — and our collective reaction was, ‘Wow.'”

In addition to great features, Hyundai’s generous 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty, numerous standard features, good reliability and affordable price made the Genesis a clear winner for Cars.com’s editors. Other notable features include a quiet and luxurious cabin, V-6 and V-8 engines that are more powerful and efficient than many in competing models, and a smooth, responsive six-speed automatic transmission.

The Hyundai Genesis beat finalists from other top automakers including the 2009 Audi A4, 2009 Honda Fit, 2009 Mazda6, 2009 Nissan Murano and 2009 Subaru Forester.

All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai Advantage, America’s Best Warranty. In addition, the Hyundai Assurance Program is now offered on all new vehicles leased or purchased from a certified Hyundai dealer. The program is available to any consumer, regardless of age, health, employment record or financed amount of the vehicle. The program is complimentary for the first 12 months from the purchase or lease date.

About Cars.com

Cars.com is the leading destination for online car shoppers, offering credible, easy-to-understand information from consumers and experts to help buyers formulate opinions on what to buy, where to buy and how much to pay for a car. With comprehensive pricing information, side-by-side comparison tools, photo galleries, videos, unbiased editorial content and a large selection of new- and used-car inventory, Cars.com puts millions of car buyers in control of their shopping process with the information they need to make confident buying decisions.

Launched in June 1998, Cars.com is a division of Classified Ventures, LLC, which is owned by leading media companies, including Belo (NYSE: BLC), Gannett Co., Inc. (NYSE: GCI), The McClatchy Company (NYSE: MNI), Tribune Company and The Washington Post Company (NYSE: WPO).

About Hyundai

Four Hyundai Models Honored with Best Bet Awards from the Car Book 2009

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Hyundai’s Genesis, Accent, Entourage and Tucson Recognized for Exceeding the Safety and Performance Needs of the American Buyer

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 02/04/2009 Hyundai continues to collect awards for its model lineup adding “BEST BETS” distinction for four of its vehicles in The Car Book 2009. Genesis, Accent, Entourage and Tucson all earned the distinction of “BEST BETS” from author Jack Gillis and the Center for Auto Safety, the nation’s leading auto safety advocacy group. For 29 years, The Car Book has selected vehicles for this honor based on how well they respond to the safety and performance needs of today’s consumer.

“Hyundai has made a significant contribution to improving the market choices for the American car buyer, demonstrated by the four cars chosen as ‘BEST BETS’ for 2009,” said Jack Gillis, author, The Car Book. “During these most challenging times for the auto industry, the fact that Hyundai vehicles have the quality and features most important to today’s car buyer is a testament to their desire to meet customer needs.”

The Car Book analyzes new vehicles each year to identify those making a significant contribution to improving the market. “BEST BETS” ratings designate The Car Book’s highest-rated cars in each of the size categories. Ratings are based on nine important categories: crash tests, safety features, rollover, preventative maintenance, repair costs, warranty, fuel economy, complaints and insurance costs, with the heaviest emphasis on safety.

“Having four cars named as ‘BEST BETS’ by The Car Book is a testament to the hard work and dedication that goes into all the vehicles in the Hyundai lineup,” said Scott Margason, national manager of Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “We are extremely proud to receive these awards and look forward to continuing to develop vehicles that exceed the expectations of all our customers in safety, quality and performance.”

The winning Hyundai models received “BEST BETS” selection in each of the following categories:
Subcompact: Accent
Intermediate: Genesis
Small Sports Utility: Tucson
Minivan: Entourage

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Expands HD Radio™ Presence; Drivers to Experience Ultimate In-Vehicle Audio Entertainment

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FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 01/28/2009 Hyundai Motor America announced today that it is extending its commitment to offering factory-installed digital HD Radio technology beyond the Genesis by launching the technology on additional vehicles in the 2011 model year. The HD Radio system allows drivers to receive digital transmissions from local radio stations with crystal-clear sound quality. HD Radio technology also allows radio stations to broadcast alternative programming on the same frequency, and this programming can be received with Hyundai’s HD Radio receiver.

Today, HD Radio technology is factory-installed standard on Hyundai Genesis models equipped with navigation systems. For the 2010 model year, Hyundai will expand the availability of HD Radio on Genesis to select models without the navigation feature. And the 2011 Hyundai lineup will feature additional models with available HD Radio technology.

“HD Radio technology is another example of how Hyundai enhances the in-vehicle experience for our customers,” said Scott Margason, national manager, Product Development, Hyundai Motor America. “With our state-of-the-art audio systems, Hyundai is quickly becoming an in-vehicle entertainment leader.”

Developed by iBiquity Digital Corporation and supported by the leaders of the broadcasting, consumer electronics, retail and automotive industries, HD Radio technology is available to more than 84 percent of Americans. More than 1,800 HD Radio stations are already on the air plus over 900 new multicast FM channels. HD Radio broadcasts offer listeners the quality, choice and interactivity that consumers have come to expect from digital technologies, including:
– HD2/HD3 multicast channels, which dramatically expand the amount and diversity of radio content by allowing multiple channels of programming to be broadcast over a single FM frequency.
– Data services, such as text information (e.g., artist names and song titles).
– Static-free, crystal-clear reception on both AM and FM.
– No subscription fee.

HD Radio technology, along with a state-of-the-art Lexicon audio system, debuted with Hyundai in July 2008, when the all-new Genesis sedan reached dealerships across the country. Hyundai aims to shatter premium automobile paradigms with the introduction of this new flagship vehicle, which was named 2009 North American Car of the Year. With capabilities and features comparable to the world’s leading premium sports sedans, Genesis is offered at a starting price of $33,000, offering first-class quality and style at a more affordable price point.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA