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 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.