Category Archives: Press Release

Hyundai Entourage Wins AutoPacific 2008 Ideal Vehicle Award

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 07/10/2008 Automotive research and consulting firm AutoPacific announced that the Hyundai Entourage won the 2008 Ideal Vehicle Award with a “Best-in-Class” rank in the Minivan Segment. The victory marks the second consecutive top performance for Entourage in this competitive study.

AutoPacific’s third annual Ideal Vehicle Awards (IVA) ranked auto manufacturers for how closely their 2008 model-year cars or trucks came to matching owners’ expectations and criteria. The vehicles that customers said they would change the least were considered the most “ideal.”

“Earning a five-star safety rating, owners gave the Entourage kudos for its safety features,” said George Peterson, president, AutoPacific. “Owners complimented the exterior styling including wheels and tires, and gave the Entourage high ratings for passenger room, seat firmness and interior lighting.”

To determine the winners, AutoPacific asked owners to rate their new car or truck on how close it came to “ideal” in the following areas: exterior size; passenger roominess; cargo space; driver’s seat comfort; driver’s seat visibility; interior technology; power; ease of getting in and out; interior storage compartments; and tires and wheels.

“We are pleased to accept the Ideal Vehicle Award for the Entourage for the second year in a row,” said Brandon Ramirez, manager, Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “With its superior standard safety features, quality interior convenience features and an impressive exterior design, the Entourage is truly a great deal for value-conscious families.”

The 2008 Hyundai Entourage uses a powerful 3.8-liter V6 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission – all backed by Hyundai’s 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty. It includes standard safety features like electronic stability control (ESC), six air bags, active front seat head restraints, which have earned the Entourage a top five-star crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) and a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) – the best rating ever for a minivan. The IVA ratings reflect input from buyers of new vehicles purchased from September 2007 through December 2007. Over 33,500 respondents provided input for these awards.

AUTOPACIFIC

AutoPacific is a future-oriented automotive marketing and product-consulting firm. Every year it publishes a wide variety of syndicated studies for the automotive industry. The firm also conducts extensive proprietary research and consulting for auto manufacturers, distributors, marketers and suppliers worldwide. Additional information can be found at www.autopacific.com.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif. is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai cars and sport utility vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced by more than 790 Hyundai dealerships nationwide.

2009 Azera Packs More Perks Into Premium Sedan Segment

Leave a reply

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Hyundai Azera’s long list of features has been expanded and upgraded once again for the 2009 model year, adding to its outstanding reputation for luxury and value in the premium sedan segment. Updates to the 2009 Azera include improved steering and suspension for better ride and handling on all models, new blue interior lighting, chrome interior accents, more distinctive chrome grille, redesigned alloy wheels and first-ever standard iPod®/USB and auxiliary inputs. Mid-year model changes carried over into the 2009 Azera include an LG in-dash navigation system. This more competitive Azera features no price increase for the GLS or Limited base models.

NEW EQUIPMENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2009
* Redesigned 17-inch alloy wheels
* More distinctive chrome grille
* Signature blue interior lighting
* Electroluminescent cluster display standard on GLS
* Chrome interior accents
* Dark brown woodgrain accents
* Ion-plated metalgrain accents
* More contrasting interior trim panels
* Brown interior color choice
* Audio head unit with larger display screen
* Standard iPod®/USB auxiliary inputs
* New exterior color options – Ivory Pearl, Black Onyx Pearl, Mystic Blue Pearl, Crimson Red Pearl, Smoky Gray Pearl, Silver Frost Metallic, Silk Beige Metallic

More and more customers are discovering how well Azera stacks up against the competition. Enhanced design and convenience features, together with comprehensive standard active and passive safety technology packages, make the 2009 Azera a strong competitor to vehicles like the Lexus ES350, Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima and Buick Lucerne. Spacious and luxurious, the Azera even features more interior volume than expensive luxury sedans such as the Mercedes Benz E-Class and BMW 7-Series. There’s no question that Azera is one of the smartest premium large-sedan choices available in the American market today.

STRIKING FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Azera’s proportions are elegant, purposeful and aerodynamically efficient, reducing wind noise while adding maximum stability on the highway. Inside, its spacious cabin provides not only roomy comfort, but a luxurious look and attention to detail that makes both driver and passengers alike feel that they are riding in a much more expensive sedan.

SAFETY FEATURES

Maintaining Hyundai’s emphasis on class-leading safety technology, the 2009 Azera boasts impressive active and passive safety features to protect its occupants in the event of a collision, earning the vehicle the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) top crash test ratings for frontal offset impacts. The Azera continues to set standards by making key life-saving active safety technology standard, such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with a Traction Control System (TCS).

Also standard are independent double-wishbone front- and multi-link rear suspension, large four-wheel disc brakes and an Antilock Braking System (ABS) that includes Brake Assist, which provides maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), which automatically adjusts the amount of force applied to each of a vehicle’s brakes for optimal performance under poor road conditions, speeding, loading and other potentially hazardous situations.

Additionally, Azera offers impressive passive safety features including eight standard airbags, active front head restraints to help prevent whiplash, a Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system for children’s seats and three-point seatbelts for all positions while shingle-style rear-seat head restraints provide drivers with improved visibility. Security is further advanced with an anti-theft engine immobilizer and remote keyless entry with alarm.

ACCOMMODATING INTERIOR

The 2009 Azera offers luxurious appointments and spaciousness that rivals the finest premium competitor brands. It offers a roomy cabin, with nearly 44 inches of legroom up front and more than 38 inches of legroom for rear-seat passengers. Hyundai engineers have created efficient packaging to maximize interior volume, with the 2009 Azera offering more interior volume (123.5 cu.-ft.) than the Toyota Avalon, Mercedes Benz E-Class sedans and the BMW 7-Series.

Special attention has been paid to other interior details, such as the enhanced electroluminescent cluster display and steering wheel audio control functions. The new blue backlighting for interior gauges, switches and buttons along with ion-plated accents highlight the vehicle’s modern appearance. Other unexpected luxury appointments include rain-sensing wipers, power adjustable foot pedals and power folding side mirrors with turn signal indicators on the Limited version.

The Azera comes standard with dual front automatic climate controls, electrochromic auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink®, power seats for driver and front passenger, as well as woodgrain and new metalgrain interior accents. More contrast has also been added to the interior trim panels, and for the first time ever, a brown interior color choice is available.

An AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system that includes a four-channel, 172-watt internal amplifier and six speakers comes standard in the Azera GLS. Audiophiles with even more demanding tastes will be impressed by the available Infinity audio system that includes a seven-channel, 315-watt amplifier with an in-dash six-disc CD changer and 10 speakers, standard in Limited trim levels.

Music lovers will also welcome the 2009 Azera’s inclusion of standard auxiliary input jacks (3.5 mm mini-jack and USB input) to accommodate and charge audio devices such as iPods®. When an iPod or flash drive is connected through the USB port, which is located in the center storage compartment, not only does it play music through the vehicle’s speakers, but it also charges the iPod and allows the driver to access tracks with the steering wheel audio controls. This system also allows both driver and passengers to easily view song/artist/title information and control the music from the audio head unit rather than just the iPod itself.

LG NAVIGATION

LG, the South Korean-based international manufacturer of consumer electronics has developed an exclusive navigation system for the Hyundai Azera, Santa Fe and Veracruz models. Using touch screen functions, the navigation system comes equipped with a premium 605-watt Infinity Logic 7® surround sound system with 12 speakers, 11-channel digital amplifier and AM/FM/XM Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 reception capability which replaces the six-disc CD changer and auxiliary input jacks. It also includes mapping software for the continental United States and has available POI’s (Points of Interest) for entertainment, shopping and dining. Route guidance is provided by audio and visual prompts.

POWER AND PERFORMANCE

The Azera GLS is equipped with a 3.3-liter, DOHC V6 engine that produces 234-horsepower and 226 lbs.-ft. of torque. As the first member of Hyundai’s “Lambda” engine family, this engine has all-aluminum construction, four valves per cylinder and Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT), all for a broad power spread. It also features a Variable Intake System (VIS) that further broadens its power curve to improve the vehicle’s off-the-line acceleration and passing performance. EPA fuel economy estimates for the Azera GLS are 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway.

The Azera Limited delivers a powerful performance, due to its clean and efficient all-aluminum 3.8-liter, DOHC V6 engine, which delivers 263-horsepower and 257 lbs.-ft. of torque. To maximize the power spread, this engine also uses CVVT and a Variable Intake System (VIS) to help cylinders breathe efficiently at both low and high rpms. The Azera offers more standard horsepower than the Buick LaCrosse and even the BMW 528i, yet still remains environmentally friendly with an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) certification rating. EPA mileage figures for the Azera Limited are 17 mpg city / 26 mpg highway.

Both V6 engines are matched with Hyundai’s five-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® manual control. This transmission offers smooth shifts and a wide ratio spread that ideally suits the engine’s characteristics.

COMFORTABLE AND CONTROLLED SUSPENSION

Hyundai engineers benchmarked the best cars in the category before designing the Azera’s double-wishbone front and multi-link rear four-wheel independent suspension system. By using high-tensile steel in critical unibody areas, the Azera features increased stiffness and rigidity, which ensures formidable resistance to flexing, enhanced ride and handling tuning, while at the same time lowering interior noise levels. Attached to the Azera’s rigid structure is improved suspension and steering hardware to keep the vehicle even flatter through turns and more compliant over bumps. The enhanced suspension features four revalved twin-tube, gas-charged dampers, softer bushings and a quicker steering rack. The Azera also has front and rear stabilizer bars and rides on 17-inch wheels and 235/55VR17 tires.

TWO ENHANCED, WELL-EQUIPPED MODELS

From the well-equipped GLS, to the downright luxurious Limited, the 2009 Azera lineup addresses the needs and desires of premium sedan customers with a highly competitive mix of features and benefits. Each model delivers a level of standard equipment that is a cut above competing models.

AZERA GLS

The GLS now includes a more impressive range of standard features that give it a competitive edge, including a powerful and efficient 3.3-liter, DOHC V6 engine with 234-horsepower, a smooth-shifting, five-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual control, standard ESC with TCS, eight airbags, active front head restraints, electroluminescent gauge cluster and a six-speaker AM/FM/XM/CD audio system with iPod®/USB and auxiliary inputs. The vehicle achieves 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway fuel economy ratings.

Further enhancing the GLS’s first-class appearance are new 17-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels and 235/55VR17 tires. Upscale features include LED tail and brake lights, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with HomeLink®, power seats for both driver and front passenger, dual front automatic climate controls and automatic headlight control.

AZERA GLS with PREMIUM PACKAGE

The Azera with Premium Package adds leather seating surfaces, heated front seats and a power sunroof to an already-loaded standard equipment package.

AZERA LIMITED

A truly impressive array of standard features and amenities define the prestigious Azera Limited. Additional standard features on the Limited include leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, power glass sunroof with tilt and slide, power folding side mirrors with turn signal indicators, power rear sunshade and a powerful 315-watt Infinity AM/FM/XM/MP3 audio system with an in-dash six-disc CD changer. The Limited now adds new hyper silver alloy wheels and iPod® /USB and auxiliary inputs.

AZERA LIMITED with ULTIMATE PACKAGE

The Ultimate Package defines Hyundai’s flagship Azera, offering a 605-watt Infinity Logic 7® Surround Sound AM/FM/XM/MP3 audio system with an in-dash six-disc CD changer, 12 speakers (including subwoofer and external amplifier), and iPod®/USB and auxiliary inputs. The Ultimate Package also offers, power adjustable tilt and telescopic steering wheel, power adjustable pedals, integrated memory system (power driver seat, exterior mirrors, and power tilt and telescopic steering wheel), woodgrain steering wheel and door pulls, and rain-sensing wipers.

AZERA LIMTED with ULTIMATE NAVIGATION PACKAGE

The Ultimate Navigation Package includes all of the Ultimate Package items plus the LG navigation system, which replaces the six-disc CD changer and auxiliary input jacks.

WARRANTY

The Azera, like all 2009 models, is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America’s Best Warranty. Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, five-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Azera buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit), a service that includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of this coverage.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced by almost 800 Hyundai dealerships nationwide.

Hyundai Concept Genesis Coupe Wins North American Production Preview Concept Vehicle of the Year

Leave a reply

DEARBORN, Mich., June 24, 2008 – Hyundai received the 2008 “Production Preview Vehicle of the Year” award for its Concept Genesis Coupe at the seventh annual North American Concept Vehicle of the Year Awards today. Concept Genesis Coupe closely resembles the production model which will join Hyundai’s lineup in the spring of 2009. The awards, organized by the South East Automotive Media Organization (SEAMO), recognize those vehicles most likely to shape the future of the automobile industry. Winners were honored in a ceremony at the Automotive Hall of Fame.

According to juror Kevin Kelly of Automotive Design & Production, the Concept Genesis Coupe is “sporty, aggressive and modern – not words you commonly associate with Hyundai design, with the exception of this car. The Concept Genesis Coupe doesn’t try to be a muscle car in the vein of the American concept, it busts through those doors to create something that’s a combination of sport and a bit of luxury that will still appeal to those who want power.”

“It’s rewarding that SEAMO recognized how closely Concept Genesis Coupe foreshadowed the production model’s breakthrough design,” said Joel Piaskowski, chief designer, Hyundai Design, North American Design Center. “Our design objective for the concept was to create a ‘Tuner’ version of the production car. This allowed us to exaggerate the front and rear fascia designs as well as introduce more aftermarket design details in keeping with a tuner image.”

Some of these items include the carbon fiber hood, roof panels and lower valence panels to the larger, more aggressive front air intake and dual exhaust ports in the rear.

“The production Genesis Coupe will be another excellent example of Hyundai’s commitment to outstanding quality, value, safety and forward-looking design” Piaskowski added.

A jury of more than two dozen professional automotive journalists from throughout North America selected the concept award winners from the 40 concept vehicles and 12 production preview vehicles that made a North American debut during the 2008 auto show season. The Concept Award panel is assembled by peer selection, and the jurors do not pay or get paid to participate.

The “Production Preview” category is for those vehicles based on a model that has already been announced or planned for production. As a “reality check” between the design and production stages of development, production preview concepts continue to grow in importance.

The Hyundai Genesis Coupe, which debuted at the 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show, is a new benchmark for affordable 300-horsepower sports coupes. The Genesis Coupe is a purpose-built rear-wheel drive sports coupe featuring two performance-focused engines – a 212-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a range-topping all-aluminum 306-horsepower, DOHC 3.8-liter V6 engine.

Hyundai Veracruz Wins 2008 AutoPacific Vehicle Satisfaction Award

Leave a reply

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CALIF., 05/29/2008 The 2008 Hyundai Veracruz ranked above the competition in the Large Crossover Sport Utility Vehicle category in AutoPacific’s 2008 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards (VSA). AutoPacific’s VSA, based on owner survey results, is an industry benchmark for objectively measuring how satisfied owners are with their new car or light truck.

“Today there are more nameplates and fewer buyers than a decade ago and the 2008 calendar year is the most challenging year for the American auto industry since the mid-1990s,” said George Peterson, president, AutoPacific, Inc. “This extremely competitive situation means that automakers need to use any advantage they have to get their vehicles considered and purchased.”

“We are pleased and honored to have been recognized with such an influential industry award,” said Scott Margason, national manager of Product Development at Hyundai Motor America. “Veracruz is an exceptionally well-equipped vehicle, boasting the latest safety technologies like Electronic Stability Control, convenience features like a proximity key, and a quiet, comfortable ride. Veracruz is a prime example of Hyundai’s commitment to achieving maximum customer satisfaction.”

AutoPacific’s Vehicle Satisfaction Awards are driven by data collected from more than 34,000 buyers and lessees of new vehicles acquired during September through December 2007. Buyers and lessees rate 46 attributes related to a vehicle’s operation, comfort, safety and overall purchase experience. The awards recognize vehicles in 28 different categories. A complete description of scoring methodology and a list of all winners can be found at www.autopacific.com.

Hyundai Santa Fe Tops Strategic Vision 2008 Total Quality Index in Small SUV Category

Leave a reply

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 05/28/2008 The 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe was named Best-in-Segment, topping the small SUV category in Strategic Vision’s 2008 Total Quality Index™ (TQI). The Total Quality Index measures total vehicle satisfaction among new car owners. Santa Fe earned the honor for the second consecutive year, a significant accomplishment in one of the most competitive automotive segments annually.

“Hyundai’s continued success with the Santa Fe is not surprising given its current products and press, as well as its leadership team who is looking strategically to the future with new designs from styling to powertrain,” reports Dr. Darrel Edwards, founder and CEO of San Diego-based Strategic Vision.

The Hyundai Santa Fe beat out competitors such as the Toyota FJ Cruiser and Jeep Wrangler four-door for the top spot in the category.

“The Strategic Vision Total Quality Index recognizes Santa Fe’s tremendous quality and terrific consumer appeal,” said Scott Margason, national manager of Product Development at Hyundai Motor America. “In addition to great design, quality, safety and value, Hyundai also offers outstanding fuel economy, ranking in the top three among all automakers in Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.”

The Total Quality Index was calculated from the responses of 20,655 vehicle buyers who bought 2008 models in September, October and November of 2007. Consumers were asked an array of questions about their ownership experience, including buying, owning and driving their new vehicles. The Index 2008 results were based on ratings of new vehicle owners in 19 product categories. Strategic Vision has presented the Total Quality Index annually since 1995.

Hyundai Sonata Wins Award For Interior Design

Leave a reply

DETROIT, 06/04/2008 The 2009 Hyundai Sonata was named an “Interior of the Year” award winner in the category of “Best Redesign” at the annual “Automotive Interior of the Year Awards” conducted by Ward’s Auto World magazine.

“This award is particularly gratifying for our team, who started with a world-class car, listened to customer feedback telling us they wanted an improved interior, and went to work to make the 2009 Hyundai Sonata stand up and stand out against every other car in its class,” said Dan Vivian, Hyundai Motor America’s director of Design Engineering.

The 2009 Hyundai Sonata redesign was led by the team at Hyundai’s America Technical Center Inc. (HATCI) in Superior Township, Mich. HATCI’s role is to design, develop and test Hyundai products sold in North America. The 2009 Sonata was the first Hyundai product program led by the team in North America. The Sonata is built at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, near Montgomery.

NEW, WELL-CRAFTED INTERIOR STILL A “CLASS ABOVE”

The focus of the redesign of the 2009 Sonata was on the interior where Hyundai’s designers re-crafted the cabin area to create an upscale ambiance for the driver and passengers. Eyes are drawn to clean and sophisticated flow-through center console and instrument panel design, which borrows design cues and rich materials from the premium Hyundai Veracruz.

“We were inspired by the beautiful forms of the interior in the Veracruz and challenged to deliver comparable design execution in the mainstream Sonata,” said Chris Zarlenga, who heads Hyundai’s design studio in Michigan. “Great design does not have to cost a great deal of money to the company or the customer. This new Sonata proves that point.”

Sonata is classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a Large Car, truly a “class above” its competitors, including Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion and Chevrolet Malibu (all are categorized as mid-size cars). Even in trunk room, Sonata shines. Sonata’s 16.3 cubic feet of trunk space give it an 8 percent advantage over the Toyota Camry, and a 16 percent advantage over Honda Accord.

Music lovers will welcome the 2009 Sonata’s inclusion of standard auxiliary input jacks (3.5 mm mini-jack and USB input) to accommodate and charge audio devices such as iPods®. When an iPod or flash drive is connected through the USB port, which is located in the center storage compartment, not only does it play music through the vehicle’s six-speaker audio system, but it charges the device and allows the driver to access tracks with the steering wheel audio controls. This system also allows both driver and passengers to easily view song/artist/title information and control the music from the audio head unit rather than only the iPod itself.

Among the other refinements are the addition of dual-zone climate controls for the driver and front-seat passenger, and two-stage front seat warmers. A new factory-installed touch screen navigation system with a state-of-the-art voice recognition interface is now available as well. This interface allows the driver to select a destination, and change audio selections, by voice command without taking hands off the wheel or eyes off the road.

Hyundai engineers also listened to customer feedback on seat comfort and were able to redesign the front seat angles and cushion length to improve comfort.

More contrast has been added to the Camel and Gray interiors, and for the first time ever, Cocoa Brown is available. The front cupholders are also upgraded for more capacity and holding power. Hyundai’s signature blue backlighting for interior gauges, switches and buttons highlights the vehicle’s modern interior design.

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 750 dealerships nationwide.

Hyundai Announces All-New Flagship Genesis Sedan Pricing

Leave a reply

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CALIF., 05/28/2008 Hyundai Motor America has announced prices for its new flagship, the all-new Genesis sports sedan, starting at $33,000 for a well-equipped 290-horsepower V6 and $38,000 for the 375-horsepower V8 model.

“When we first showed the production Genesis earlier this year, we committed to deliver the interior package of flagship European luxury sedans, world-class driving dynamics, and pricing comparable to entry-level premium brand vehicles,” said John Krafcik, vice president, product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America “Today, we’re delivering on a key part of that commitment, with a very well-equipped Genesis sedan priced below the most basic Infiniti G35 or BMW 3-Series.”

While Genesis will compete for customers with cars like Lexus ES, Chrysler 300 and Cadillac CTS, Genesis’ performance capabilities and luxury features are comparable to sedans costing tens of thousands of dollars more. With base prices of $33,000 for a well-equipped 3.8-liter V6, and $38,000 for a 4.6-liter V8, Genesis makes a premium driving experience accessible to a wide range of customers. Genesis goes on sale at Hyundai dealerships in July, delivering the kind of value equation American car buyers have come to expect from Hyundai.

2009 Genesis Manufacturers Suggested Retail Pricing:

Model	Engine	Package	Transmission	MSRP
Genesis 3.8	3.8L V6	Standard Equipment	Aisin Six-Speed A/T	$33,000
Genesis 4.6	4.6L V8	Standard Equipment	ZF Six-Speed A/T	$38,000

$750 freight charge included

Genesis is built on Hyundai’s all-new, performance-driven rear-wheel-drive architecture, with an advanced five-link suspension at all four corners. It offers two powertrains, the 290-horsepower Lambda 3.8-liter V6 engine mated to an Aisin six-speed automatic transmission, and Hyundai’s all-new Tau 4.6-liter V8 engine mated to a ZF six-speed automatic transmission. Both deliver outstanding fuel economy. The Tau produces 375 horsepower using premium fuel and 368 horsepower using regular unleaded, leading all competitors in specific output (horsepower per liter), while also outperforming all V8 performance sedans with a projected fuel economy estimate of 17 city/25 highway. Genesis 3.8 achieves EPA fuel economy estimates of 18 city/27 highway, which outperforms the V6 engines in many smaller, mid-size cars (e.g., Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion) on the highway. With technology rivaling more expensive luxury sedans, Genesis showcases features such as XM NavTraffic, Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFLS), Lexicon® audio systems and electronic active head restraints.

Genesis 3.8 – Standard Equipment

All Genesis 3.8 models come very well-equipped, including a 3.8-liter DOHC V6 engine, Aisin six-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic™, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with traction control, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and 17-inch alloy wheels with P225/55R17 tires. Additional standard equipment includes advanced front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side airbags, roof-mounted side curtain airbags, electronic front head restraints, fog lamps, automatic headlights, dual power heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators, leather seating surfaces with heated front seats, power seats, cruise control, Hyundai’s signature white and blue interior lighting with electroluminescent cluster, proximity entry with electric push button start, leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel with audio controls, dual front fully automatic HVAC, electrochromic auto-dimming interior rearview mirror with Homelink and compass, AM/FM/CD/MP3/XM (3-month subscription) with iPod/USB and auxiliary input jacks, Bluetooth and floor mats.

Genesis 4.6 – Standard Equipment

The Genesis 4.6 builds on the standard equipment found on the Genesis 3.8, adding a 4.6-liter DOHC V8, ZF six-speed automatic transmission, unique 18-inch hyper-silver alloy wheels with P235/50R18-inch tires, chrome lower bodyside moldings, ultra-premium leather seating surfaces, leather-wrapped dash and door trim inserts, power glass sunroof with tilt and slide, power tilt and telescopic steering column, integrated memory system, Lexicon 15-speaker surround sound audio system, six-disc CD changer, illuminated scuff plates, wood-trimmed leather steering wheel, electrochromic auto-dimming interior rearview mirror with Homelink and compass, power rear sunshade and rain-sensing wipers with auto defogger windshield.

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif. is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced by more than 790 Hyundai dealerships nationwide.

Hyundai Santa Fe and Entourage Named Best Cars for Retirees by Forbes.com

Leave a reply

Vehicles Help Mature Drivers Be Independent and Stay Behind the Wheel Longer

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 05/06/2008 — Hyundai Santa Fe and the Entourage were recognized by Forbes.com (www.Forbes.com) as two of the “Best Cars for Retirees” based on features that help mature drivers stay behind the wheel longer.

In order to determine the list of “Best Cars for Retirees” Forbes.com factored in NHTSA and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash-test ratings, AAA’s suggestions from “Smart Features for Mature Drivers” guide and additional features that appeal to mature drivers.

According to Forbes.com, “The Hyundai Santa Fe was chosen specifically for its driver lumbar support to help ease back discomfort, and Hyundai Entourage was chosen based on its power-adjustable foot pedals that help drivers remain a safe distance from steering wheel-mounted airbags.”

“Santa Fe and Entourage are great examples of Hyundai’s continued commitment to providing affordable vehicles with standard life-saving technologies and convenience features,” said Mike Nino, manager, Product Development, Hyundai Motor America. “These vehicles combine the safety and comfort drivers are looking for with sophistication and style.”

The Entourage and Santa Fe come standard with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), one of the industry’s most effective life-saving technologies, six standard airbags, including side air curtains for all three rows of available seating and four-channel Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), which automatically equalizes the braking force to the front and rear axles, based on the vehicle loading conditions. Both vehicles come standard with active front-seat head restraints which help prevent whiplash in the case of an accident.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Microsoft and Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group to Develop Next Generation of In-Car Infotainment

Leave a reply

New partnership will globalize innovative in-car infotainment.

SEOUL, South Korea – May 6, 2008 – Today, Microsoft Corp. and Hyundai–Kia Automotive Group (HKAG) entered into a long-term agreement to co-develop the next generation of in-car infotainment systems. Bill Gates, chairman of Microsoft, and Mongku Chung, chairman of HKAG, were present as Martin Thall, general manager of Microsoft’s Automotive Business Unit, and Hyun Soon Lee, president and chief technology officer of HKAG, signed the agreement in Seoul.

Together, Microsoft and HKAG will deliver new and innovative solutions based on the Microsoft Auto software platform, bringing the future of in-car technology to Hyundai–Kia drivers worldwide.

“These new systems will redefine consumer experiences in the car,” Thall said. “Since the spring of 2006, HKAG and Microsoft have been sharing their vision for the future of in-car technology. We’re now aligned to develop the next generation of in-car infotainment systems.”

“We are pleased to partner with Microsoft to deliver high-performance infotainment solutions to our customers,” Lee said. “The advanced capabilities, flexibility and low price point make the Microsoft Auto software platform an attractive solution for us.”

The first product, a next-generation infotainment system that provides voice-controlled connectivity between mobile devices, will be introduced in the North American market in 2010. It will further apply to Asian and European markets, and expand into multimedia and navigation devices. These easy-to-use infotainment systems will allow consumers to enjoy music in various digital formats.

The next-generation infotainment systems are comparable to mini-PCs. Even after product launch, new functions can be added or upgraded in the form of software program updates, an innovation to existing in-car multimedia technology.

The Hyundai–Kia Automotive Group’s adoption of the Microsoft Auto software platform increases Microsoft’s presence in the Asian car market and enhances the global automotive business. The engineering and marketing teams of Microsoft’s Automotive Business Unit in Redmond, Wash., will be working directly with counterparts at HKAG in Seoul to support this goal. Microsoft Auto-powered systems are currently available in Fiat Auto Group vehicles in Europe and South America and Ford Motor Co. vehicles in North America.

In a related announcement, Microsoft and Hyundai–Kia, along with the Institute for Information Technology Advancement (IITA), signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to co-establish an automotive IT innovation center with the goal of promoting innovation and opportunities for Korean software and device vendors in the global market.

Microsoft Automotive Business Unit

The Microsoft Automotive Business Unit is a dedicated partner to the auto industry, providing innovative technologies and flexible software platforms to help deliver simple, more reliable and cost-effective in-car infotainment systems. Developed closely with automakers and automotive suppliers, the award-winning Microsoft Auto and Windows Automotive software platforms connect drivers with a wide range of devices, services and technology while on the go, including hands-free communication, mobile device integration, customized navigation and high-fidelity digital entertainment. More information can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsautomotive/default.mspx.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

Hyundai Motor America Breaks March Record Set in 2007

Leave a reply

Hyundai Motor America Breaks March Record Set In 2007

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 04/01/2008 Hyundai Motor America today announced record sales of 42,796 for the month of March, a two percent increase over the same record-setting period last year.

“We are very encouraged by our March results, especially considering the challenging market we are in,” said Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai Motor America’s vice president of national sales. “Our redesigned Sonata posted a solid seven percent increase over a year ago, while Accent, Elantra and Azera all saw double-digit growth compared with March of last year. We are cautiously optimistic and feel our brand is very well positioned to respond to the emerging spring selling season.”

All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai Advantage, America’s Best Warranty. Hyundai buyers are protected by a 10-year/100,000-mile power train warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty and 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance protection.

CARLINE	MAR 2008	MAR 2007	CY2008	CY2007
ACCENT	3,938	3,427	10,214	8,272
SONATA	11,306	10,584	24,431	29,997
ELANTRA	11,505	10,343	23,870	22,832
TIBURON	829	1,247	2,071	2,903
SANTA FE	7,972	8,470	17,691	21,239
AZERA	2,922	2,395	5,706	5,864
TUCSON	2,427	3,982	6,013	9,694
ENTOURAGE	627	1,358	1,542	3,226
VERACRUZ	1,270	178	3,800	178
TOTAL	42,796	41,984	95,338	104,205