FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 12/19/2008 The affordable 2009 Hyundai Elantra, with unsurpassed standard safety in the compact segment, was named “Best Compact Car for the Money” by U.S. News and World Report. The “Best Car for the Money” awards are designed to help customers find the best car values at affordable prices without sacrificing quality and design.

“The case of the Hyundai Elantra, the ‘Best Compact Car for the Money,’ proves what many have been saying for years: Honda and Toyota should watch their backs because Hyundai is making not just economical cars, but very good ones,” said Jamie Page Deaton, editor, U.S. News and World Report.

The “Best Car for the Money” awards are based on data from U.S. News and World Report’s online automotive rankings evaluated with the opinions of the automotive press and IntelliChoice that measures the value of a vehicle after five-year ownership and maintenance costs. Overall appeal, quality, safety, initial pricing and the five-year total cost of ownership are the major categories for choosing winners.

“We’re honored to be recognized by U.S. News and World Report as the ‘Best Compact Car for the Money'” said Scott Margason, National Manager, Product Development, Hyundai Motor America. “2009 Elantra is equipped with six standard airbags and extras like standard audio auxiliary input jack — all at an affordable price point any customer will appreciate. We are pleased to see Elantra being recognized for its continued quality and value.”

HYNNDAI 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.