Monthly Archives: March 2007

Hyundai Prices All-New Veracruz Premium Crossover $11,000 Below Lexus RX350

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., March 8 — Hyundai Motor America has announced pricing for the all-new premium crossover, the 2007 Hyundai Veracruz. Hyundai has once again made luxury and performance attainable in previously unthinkable ways with a base price more than $11,000 lower than the Lexus RX350. Veracruz’s designers recognized that the needs and desires of traditional SUV buyers weren’t being met and focused on meeting those needs in an elegant and ingenious way. The result is a spacious crossover that delivers refined style, a supple ride and first-rate performance at previously unavailable prices.

The all-new Veracruz is available in three trim levels: GLS, SE and Limited. All models include standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a powerful, fuel-efficient 3.8-liter V6 engine, Hyundai’s first six-speed automatic transmission, seating for seven, upscale amenities and more cargo volume than the full-size Mercedes-Benz GL.

2007 Hyundai Veracruz Manufacturers Suggested Retail Pricing:

Model	Engine	Transmission	Driveline	Suggested Retail
Veracruz GLS	3.8L V6	6-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC®	FWD	$26,995
Veracruz GLS	3.8L V6	6-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC®	AWD	$28,695
Veracruz SE	3.8L V6	6-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC®	FWD	$28,695
Veracruz SE	3.8L V6	6-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC®	AAW	$30,395
Veracruz Limited	3.8L V6	6-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC®	FWD	$32,995
Veracruz Limited	3.8L V6	6-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC®	AWD	$34,695

$690 freight charge included

BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL

The Veracruz continues Hyundai’s product expansion and global design evolution through the continued use of fluid and organic forms to create a refined and luxurious exterior appearance.

Up front, the sculpted bumper creates the appearance of additional height. Three-tiered headlights complement the design. The grille combines a flat-lined upper chrome bezel and a curved lower bezel which houses the Hyundai flying-H logo. Distinctive character lines and a fast profile enhance the stylish yet functional imagery. The vehicle’s seductive beltline ascends from the wraparound headlights and follows the tapering greenhouse to include the prominent taillights. Chrome trim is strategically applied to highlight some of its design features while giving Veracruz an elegant, luxurious presence. The prominent wheel arches house 17- or 18-inch wheels and tires.

Smooth and solid in its stance, the Veracruz even impresses as it departs. The integrated rear fascia has a sculpted section that blends seamlessly into the sides of the taillights. The taillights decisively angle towards the character line highlighting the rounded back glass.

INTELLIGENT INTERIOR

Inside, passengers are coddled in a rich, sophisticated environment that was inspired by boutique hotels. The result is an interior that could be found in the finest luxury crossovers thanks to Hyundai’s intelligent ergonomic engineering, intuitive design, and superior craftsmanship. Hyundai has combined space with elegance including conveniences that exceed expectations. For example, although the Veracruz is 9.7 inches shorter than the Mercedes Benz GL, it has more cargo volume.

Every major component of Veracruz has been designed to reduce cabin noise below the whisper-quiet Lexus RX350. To isolate outside noise, Hyundai applies acoustic dampening sheets to the doors and unibody, a steel plate beneath the engine and four layers of carpet padding. Engine noise is reduced through electronically controlled engine mounts, a multi-curvature dash, custom hood insulation and a pillow tripod joint which lessens vibrations from the driveshaft at idle.

Seating for seven adults is made possible thanks to the standard Hyundai Hideaway™ third-row seat. Access to the third row is just a step away with the flip of a lever to slide the second row forward. Available dual-zone climate controls for driver and front-seat passenger further enhance the Veracruz’s luxury credentials.

Brushed metal accents and blue backlighting for all interior gauges, switches and buttons highlight the modern, integrated interior design. Even the front cupholders are ringed with blue light to aid nighttime driving, while a soft blue spotlight in the overhead console provides subdued task lighting. Hyundai’s focused attention to detail can be seen throughout the interior — console bins and the glovebox are lined with soft flocking material. Soft-touch, high-quality materials, low-gloss surfaces and zero-tolerance net-fits are used throughout the interior.

VERACRUZ GLS

Veracruz GLS comes well-equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine, six-speed automatic transmission, ESC with traction control, ABS with Brake Assist and EBD, rear spoiler, 17-inch alloy wheels and seating for seven. Also standard is an AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system (including three months of complementary XM service), air conditioning with separate rear HVAC controls, steering wheel audio/cruise controls, heated power side mirrors with puddle lights and side turn signal repeaters, front solar glass and rear privacy glass, remote keyless entry, and power windows and door locks. Inside are active front head restraints, dual front airbags, front seat side-impact airbags plus side-curtain airbags protecting all three rows. Other useful features include a tire pressure monitoring system, a trip computer and a tilt and telescoping steering wheel. The Hyundai Hideaway third-row seat folds flat into the floor and is split 50/50, and the second- and third-row seats include their own roof-mounted vents. The optional Premium Package adds a power tilt/slide glass sunroof, power driver seat, heated front seats, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and backup warning system.

VERACRUZ SE — A SPORTIER FLAVOR OF VERACRUZ

The SE features the GLS equipment plus standard 18-inch alloy wheels, power driver seat, electrochromic auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass and HomeLink®, and front fog lights. A streamlined roof rack, center storage console with Cool Box functionality, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, automatic headlights and leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob are also standard equipment. An optional Premium & Leather Package adds a power tilt/slide glass sunroof, leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, a 315-watt Infinity™ audio system with CD changer and backup warning system. The available Entertainment Package (requires Premium and LeatherPackage) features a rear-seat entertainment system with an eight-inch LCD monitor, 605-watt Infinity AM/FM/XM/CD-changer/MP3 audio system with Logic 7 surround sound, 115-volt power outlet and conversation mirror.

VERACRUZ LIMITED — PREMIUM FEATURES, OUTSTANDING VALUE

Veracruz Limited comes standard with all of the equipment found standard on the SE and adds leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, power front passenger seat, automatic temperature control, a 315-watt Infinity™ audio system with CD changer, power tilt & slide glass sunroof, power tailgate, chrome door handles, metal door sill scuff plates,conversation mirror, windshield wiper deicer and backup warning system. For even greater luxury, the available Ultimate Package includes power-adjustable pedals, integrated memory system, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, blue backlit sill scuff plates, 605-watt Infinity AM/FM/XM/CD-changer/MP3 audio system with Logic 7 surround sound, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with an eight-inch LCD monitor, 115-volt power outlet, proximity key and rain sensing wipers.

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 750 Hyundai dealerships nationwide.

Driving Down the Road

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DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD

2007 Hyundai Elantra SE

In cars, “small and inexpensive” once was a euphemistic way of saying “tiny, uncomfortable, and shoddy”, especially if the car referred to was Korean. Those days are long past, as a drive in Hyundai’s new-for-2007 Elantra will make clear.

The new-generation Elantra is still small on the outside, but inside it rivals some larger and more expensive cars for space. It’s now roomy enough inside to be classified as “midsize” by the EPA. As before, power is from Hyundai’s 2.0-liter twincam four-cylinder, with 138 horsepower (or 132 in SULEV tune for California emissions states), matched to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. But increased width and height, and a longer wheelbase mean additional interior space. Despite that longer wheelbase, overall length has decreased slightly, making it even easier to get into tight parking spaces.

Three Elantra trim levels are available, and all are well-equipped and offer good value. Even the entry-level GLS has six airbags, antilock four-wheel disc brakes, and power windows. The volume-leader SE adds air conditioning, a 172-watt audio system, power doorlocks and heated mirrors, remote keyless entry, 16-inch alloy wheels with H-rated tires, and a variety of interior and exterior upgrades that mean the only major option is a power sunroof. The Limited adds leather upholstery and an available upmarket stereo for a luxury touch on a budget.

A week spent with a new Elantra SE showed it to be a pleasant and comfortable car. It had a degree of refinement would do justice to a car costing $10,000 over its $16,000 price level, and it was enjoyable to drive thanks to the good suspension setup and smooth shifting of the standard five-speed manual gearbox. The Elantra faces tough competition, and compares very well with the best-known cars in the compact class.

APPEARANCE: The adjective “boxy” will not be used to describe the new Elantra. It’s rounded, flowing lines are almost coupe-like, and only the basic grille shape carries over from the previous version. Although not immediately noticeable, it’s a couple of inches wider and taller than the old model. Bright, complex headlights give the front end an upscale touch, while on the sides the rising line of the bottom of the windows is complemented by a flowing beltline that recalls Hyundai’s Tiburon sports coupe. The large passenger cabin, with its well-raked windshield and rear window, and a short, high rear deck help give this front-wheel drive sedan sporty long-hood / short-deck proportions.

COMFORT: In style and color use, the Elantra SE emulates the best Japanese luxury makers. It’s by no means a luxury car, but that does set the tone for the Elantra experience. The standard equipment level is high, and fit and finish very good. In the SE, the upholstery and most trim is synthetic, although leather is standard fare in the Limited. All models have a tilt steering wheel; in the SE and Limited it also telescopes for optimum driver comfort, and has a leather-covered rim. All models have power windows, and the SE and Limited get power mirrors and door locks and cruise control as well. Instrumentation is complete, with good design and visibility. “Cramped” does not apply to the Elantra’s accommodations. The manually-adjustable front seats offer a high level of comfort, and the driver’s seat is adjustable for cushion height in all models. With two NBA first-round draft picks in front the rear seat might be a little tight, but other than that unlikely scenario rear-seat passengers will be delighted. Well, at least the outboard two – and that’s no different from any contemporary sedan smaller than a Town Car. Three children should be fine. There are a number of useful storage spaces in the cabin, including on the top of the dash. The trunk is reasonably large, and the rear seat can fold with a 60/40 split if necessary.

SAFETY: Six airbags – dual front, front seat-mounted side bags, and side curtains, are standard in all Elantra models, as are active front head restraints, five mph bumpers, and safety cage and crumple zone construction. Active safety is addressed by good suspension design and tuning and, most unusual in the compact class, four-wheel disc brakes with standard antilock and electronic brake force distribution.

RIDE AND HANDLING: A new unibody structure with a significant increase in rigidity and a longer wheelbase works with a supple but not overly-soft fully-independent MacPherson strut front, multilink rear suspension to provide a comfortable ride. The electric motor-assisted power steering is light, but not too light, and the four-wheel antilock disc brakes ensure good stopping power. The result is a pleasantly European feel to the car. It’s not “sports” in its setup, but more “touring”. And that’s perfect for its mission. Interior noise levels are low at normal speeds, further improving driver and passenger comfort.

PERFORMANCE: Dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder, continuously-variable cam phasing (here, on the intake cam), and fuel injection used to be the province of high-performance automobiles. Now such attributes have filtered down to everyman cars, and the Elantra benefits not only with a wide spread of useful power but low emissions as well. In 45-state tune, the Elantra’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine makes 138 horsepower at 6000 rpm, with 136 lb-ft of torque at 4600 rpm, and receives a ULEV emissions rating. For California emissions states (CA, NY, MA, VT, ME) a retuning reduces output slightly, to 132 hp and 133 lb-ft, and improves the rating to SULEV. It’s projected to earn a PZEV (partial zero emissions vehicle) rating in California. Real-world differences between the two should be minimal. My test car had energetic performance, with good acceleration and reasonable 30 mpg fuel economy. The standard five-speed manual transmission adds to the enjoyment factor, with good shift linkage. Keep it up around the torque peak for maximum acceleration. A four-speed automatic is offered, and will probably be more popular.

CONCLUSIONS: The 2007 Hyundai Elantra SE is a comfortable, entertaining, and honest car that’s small on the outside and not so small inside.

SPECIFICATIONS
2007 Hyundai Elantra SE

Base Price	$15,695
Price As Tested	$16,380
Engine Type	16-valve dual overhead cam inline 4-cylinder with continuously variable valve timing
Engine Size	2.0 liters / 121 cu. in.
Horsepower	138 @ 6000 rmp (132 SULEV)
Torque (lb-ft)	136 @ 4600 rmp (133 SULEV)
Transmission	5-speed manual
Wheelbase / Length	104.3 in. / 177.4 in.
Curb Weight	2,750 lbs.
Pounds Per Horsepower	20.0 (20.8)
Fuel Capacity	14.0 gal.
Fuel Requirement	89 octane unleaded regular gasoline
Fuel Requirement	89 octane unleaded regular gasoline
Tires	P205/55 HR16 Hankook Optima H426
Brakes, front/rear	vented disc / solid disc, ABS and EBD standard
Suspensions, front/rear	independent MacPherson strut / independent multilink
Drivetrain	front engine, front-wheel drive

PERFORMANCE

EPA Fuel Economy – miles per gallon
ciy / highway / observed	28 / 26 / 30
0 – 60 mph	8.0 sec

OPTIONS AND CHARGES

Carpeted floor mats	$85
Destination charge	$600

by CAREY RUSS The Auto Channel

Hyundai Nabs Safety, Roominess, Power and Warranty

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Hyundai nabs safety, roominess, power and warranty

The 2007 Accent SE 3- Door delivers safety equipment, gas efficiency, comfort and power that is surprising for such an economical, sub-compact car. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, there’s a 45% reduction in fatalities from side-impact collisions, when vehicles are equipped with the combination of side-impact airbags and head- protecting side curtain airbags. And the Hyundai Accent is right on the mark when it comes to safety. This Korean gem offers dual front airbags, front seat mounted side impact airbags and roof mounted side curtain airbags.

Moreover, the available remote keyless entry system with alarm and panic button also offers great peace of mind. One feature of the keyless entry system that I found impressive is that if you unlock the doors using the remote, and do not open the doors for thirty seconds, the system automatically relocks the car. This would prove to be a great security feature if you unintentionally press the door unlock button.

Furthermore, giving the driver 32 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, the Accent is easy even on the tightest fuel budget. This efficient Multi-Port Fuel Injected little baby will go a long way between fill-ups with an 11.9 gallon fuel tank.

Also, I was pleasantly surprised the leg room in such a small car. And believe me there is plenty of that room for a Texas sized man. Going with the tradition of space, the back seat has enough room for small children.

Moreover, music lovers, this car has your tune with 6 speaker sound system. The 6 CD- changer makes the weakest recordings sound great.

The engine when put to test proved to be a kicker with a 1.6 liter, 16 valve 4 cylinder engine – delivers plenty of power for a car in its class. While the 2007 Accent may not win any trophies at the drag strip, it will do 0 – 60 in just over 9 seconds, which means you have the power to get into traffic safely even in the busiest of cities.

Averagely priced $15,000 for a fully loaded sub-compact on the market, Hyundai definitely delivers a lot of quality for the price.

by Chester Roberts East Texas Review

The Car Book 2007 Honors Six Hyundai Models With "Best Bets" Selections

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The Car Book 2007 Honors Six Hyundai Models With “Best Bets” Selections

Hyundai’s Accent, Elantra, Santa Fe, Sonata, Tucson and Entourage Recognized for Meeting the Safety and Performance Needs of the American Buyer

March 6, 2007 — Fountain Valley, Calif. — Hyundai, with the freshest line up in the auto industry, earned “Best Bet” distinction for more than half its vehicles in The Car Book 2007. Six Hyundai models – the Accent, Elantra, Santa Fe, Sonata, Tucson and Entourage – earned the title “Best Bet” from author Jack Gillis and the Center for Auto Safety. For 27 years, The Car Book has selected vehicles for this distinction based on how well they respond to the safety and performance needs of today’s consumer.

“Hyundai has completely revamped its model line up with a focus on American consumers’ desire for safety and performance,” said John Krafcik, vice president of product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. “The six models selected are examples of our dedication to providing consumers with unsurpassed standard safety equipment and great performance in a well-designed package.”

The Car Book has analyzed new vehicles each year for the past 27 years to identify vehicles that have made a significant contribution to bettering the market. “Best Bets” ratings designate The Car Book’s highest-rated cars in each of the size categories. Ratings are based on expected performance in ten important categories: crash tests, safety features, fuel economy, rollover, overall maintenance and repair costs, warranties, insurance costs and complaints, with the heaviest emphasis on safety.

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 755 dealerships nationwide.

Hyundai Launches NADA-24 Survey To Help Dealers Win Customer Loyalty

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Hyundai Launches NADA-24 Survey To Help Dealers Win Customer Loyalty

Fountain Valley, Calif., 03/05/2007 Hyundai Motor America launched a new customer survey initiative today called Hyundai Voice of the Customer to help dealers improve customer loyalty and retention. Using a customized version of NADA-24, a customer survey program for automobile dealerships, Hyundai will now be able to deliver nearly instant feedback on the customer experience to its dealers, allowing dealership staff to immediately identify potential customer service issues, address concerns quickly and ultimately cultivate a more loyal, satisfied customer base.

Hyundai customers purchasing or servicing vehicles through any of the 750 Hyundai dealerships across the U.S. will be contacted via telephone regarding their likelihood of recommending the dealership to friends and family. Feedback will be recorded and made available to dealers via text and voice file within hours of the completed call.

While endorsement from a customer is one of the strongest predictors of loyalty, a negative experience can often be mitigated with immediate follow up. With traditional paper survey methods, turnaround time can be 30 days or longer, often well after the customer has already communicated his or her frustrations with friends and family. With more timely feedback, dealerships have an opportunity to address customer issues quickly and directly, potentially increasing customer satisfaction and earning higher customer loyalty.

“It’s important that we’re providing the best possible support for our dealers, combined with the best possible service to our customers,” said Steve Wilhite, Hyundai Motor America’s chief operating officer. “We will use the Hyundai Voice of the Customer, a customized version of the NADA-24, to provide quick feedback to our dealers. This information is critical to resolve customer issues when necessary, and to assist our dealers in improving their daily business processes. Our goals are to rapidly improve dealer loyalty and to encourage customers to recommend our dealers to their friends, family, and associates.”

About NADA

The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) was founded in 1917 and represents 20,000 new car and truck dealers, with more than 43,000 franchises nationwide, both domestic and international. For more information on NADA visit www.nada.org.

About Synovate

Synovate, the market research arm of Aegis Group plc, generates consumer insights that drive competitive marketing solutions. The network provides clients with cohesive global support and a comprehensive suite of research solutions. Synovate employs over 5,500 staff in 108 cities across more than 50 countries. For more information on Synovate visit www.synovate.com

Hyundai Motor America

Hyundai Wins Kiplinger’s "Best Of 2007 Cars" Awards

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Hyundai Wins Kiplinger’s “Best Of 2007 Cars” Awards

2007 Sonata And Azera Receive “Best In Class”

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 03/05/2007 Kiplinger’s Personal Finance named the Hyundai Sonata GLS and Azera Limited “Best in Class” in the annual buyer’s guide “Best of 2007 Cars” awards.

Kiplinger’s Personal Finance editors and analysts evaluated nearly 500 new models and selected winners in nine price categories from small economy cars to crossovers, large SUVs and luxury sedans. They also assessed sticker and dealer prices, projected resale values and fuel costs.

The Azera Limited beat the Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima for “Best in Class” in the $25,000 – $30,000 sedan category, which included a cross-section of midsize and large sedans with premium features. According to Kiplinger’s editors’, “Entry-luxe features, such as heated leather seats, dual climate controls, power rear sunshade and 17-inch wheels, are standard, at a value price. With the $2,500 Ultimate package, you also get a moonroof, ten-speaker Infinity audio system and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The comprehensive warranty is five years/60,000 miles.” Azera also offers standard safety technologies including Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and side and curtain airbags.

The Sonata GLS won “Best in Class” in the under $20,000 sedan category. Kiplinger’s editors stated, “A full array of standard safety features plus 16 cubic feet of cargo room push the Sonata to the head of its pack. With 162 horsepower, this fuel-thrifty four cylinder is no slouch. Speaking of slouching, long-legged drivers and passengers rejoice – no car in this class matches the Sonata’s 44 inches of front legroom and 37 inches in the rear.”

“The Azera and Sonata are both excellent examples of Hyundai’s commitment to outstanding quality, standard life-saving safety technologies and unbeatable value,” said John Krafcik, vice president of Strategic Planning and Product Development, Hyundai Motor America. “It’s rewarding that Kiplinger’s recognized both sedans for their segment leadership.”

Hyundai Motor America

Kiplinger’s Personal Finance

Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine provides down-to-earth advice on managing your money and achieving financial security. Readers get trustworthy information and practical guidance on saving, investing, planning for retirement, paying for college, buying an automobile, home and other major purchases.

Hyundai Sets Record February With 34,500 Sales

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Hyundai Sets Record February With 34,500 Sales

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 03/01/2007 Hyundai Motor America today reported its best February ever with sales of 34,500 vehicles. Sales doubled for the all-new 2007 Santa Fe year-over-year.

"We are pleased to see a strong February given today's challenging sales conditions across the country," said Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai's vice president of National Sales. "We expect to finish off the first quarter in March with another strong sales month on the strength of outstanding lease and finance options on Sonata and Santa Fe."

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 powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, and a 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty and 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance protection.

Following is the sales breakdown for February 2007:

CARLINE	FEB/2007	FEB/2006	CY2007	CY2006
ACCENT	2,408	1,231	4,845	2,584
SONATA	12,137	13,741	19,413	25,384
ELANTRA	6,128	8,340	12,489	16,120
TIBURON	879	1,097	1,656	2,116
SANTA FE	7,134	3,408	12,769	6,394
XG350/AZERA	1,784	2,052	3,469	3,859
TUCSON	2,943	4,145	5,712	7,765
ENTOURAGE	1,087	N/A	1,868	N/A
TOTAL	34,500	34,014	62,221	64,222