2013 Hyundai Elantra coupe receives high marks

Although many people aren't enamored with coupe-style vehicles, the Hyundai Elantra could be one the exceptions.

What's the reason? This coupe actually provides a fairly comfortable backseat, which is extremely difficult to find. And the Elantra coupe has other enviable qualities that make it immediately a solid choice in its class.

However, note that the Elantra is like every other coupe that's probably ever been made: -- getting in and out of this two-door vehicle is a pain in the butt.

2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe

Performance: 1.8-liter, four-cylinder, 148 horsepower

Mileage estimate: 27-37 mpg

Price: $17,445 to $20,745

Warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles; drivetrain 10 years/100,000 miles; corrosion 7 years/unlimited; roadside assistance 5 years/unlimited

The coupe is one of two new Elantra offerings for 2013. The other one is the Elantra GT, which replaces the Elantra Touring in Hyundai's compact-car lineup.

Both the coupe and GT are engaging vehicles that should be appealing to youthful car buyers that are seeking a sporty compact.

Ironically, while Hyundai was adding a new coupe with two trim models, both Chevrolet and Ford recently dropped coupe body styles from their compact lineups.

Three years ago, Hyundai took a bold step forward by altering the Elantra exterior design, making it a standout among its mostly stoic competitors who lacked style.

While Hyundai didn't design the coupe much differently than the Elantrasedan, there are some differences. The coupe's fog lights are more angular and it comes with a black bumper. The coupe does resemble the sedan in appearance with its arching roofline and grille style.

The Elantra coupe has an appealing look and several other strong attributes as well. The coupe starts at a reasonable price ($17,445), gets great gas mileage (27-37 mpg), features a sizable trunk, admirable handling, and has that great Hyundai drivetrain warranty - 10 years/100,000 miles.

Some car buyers might be turned off by the coupe's lone engine, a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder that delivers 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque. The coupe has a smooth six-speed manual transmission that comes standard. It has good passing power and offers a fun factor for a small, commuter vehicle.

Some experts feel the Elantra coupe's performance is similar to the Honda Civic.

The coupe can stack up fairly well against its competitors in driving impressions as well. The Elantra has a nimble feel and is very responsive in the turning department. It absorbs the bumps well for a compact car and another plus is the strong braking.

Besides a comfortable interior, other positives include smart center stack, easy-to-read gauges, and the dashboard is soft-touch material. The trunk is surprisingly large at 14.8 cubic feet.

The 2013 Elantra Coupe is a well-rounded compact vehicle that will be a welcome edition to the Hyundai lineup. It compares favorably to the Honda Civic and other top rivals like the Scion tC, Kia Forte and the Volkswagen Beetle.

source: http://www.rocklintoday.com/news/templates/community_news.asp?articleid=11204&zoneid=4

2013 Hyundai Equus Gets A Refresh

   Sunday, December 9, 2012 7:52 by     

Arman Barari

Hyundai revealed a revised version of the Equus luxury saloon in South Korea, featuring subtle styling changes and interior upgrades, but no change in powertrains. Hyundai Equus sits at the top of range above the Grandeur and the Genesis, and it is currently the most luxurious car Hyundai makes.

With the current generation Grandeur doing well in the market and all-new Genesis in the works, Hyundai decided the Equus only needs a slight refresh rather than a full facelift. So it gets revised LED head and taillights, a sightly different grille, and new wheels. That’s it.

Inside the cabin the steering wheel design is updated, and you get more leather now with double stitching. The digital instrument panel is tweaked, and so is the infotainment system. More significant changes include the addition of an analog clock and options like Blind Spot Detection and Heads Up Display.

The Equus still comes with Hyundai’s familiar engines, including the 3.6 liter GDi V6 and the 5.0 liter Tau V8. The revised Equus will reach global markets in 2013.

Falcons Announce Details of Gary Rome Auto Group Night

November 20, 2012 -American Hockey League (AHL) Springfield Falcons

Springfield, Mass. - The Springfield Falcons, AHL affiliate of the NHL's Columbus Blue Jackets, announced details of Gary Rome Auto Group Night, which will take place when the club hosts the Manchester Monarchs on Saturday, Dec. 1 at 7:00 p.m. at the MassMutual Center.

The game will begin with a ceremonial puck drop by Gary Rome, owner of Gary Rome Auto Group and one of the Falcons' valued corporate partners, along with his dog Jack. The first 3,000 fans into the building that night will receive a postcard with details about a Gary Rome Auto Group Facebook promotion, which includes a grand prize of dinner for two at Picks Restaurant, an overnight stay at the Sheraton Monarch Place, and tickets to a Falcons game. Visit GoToGary.com for details on Gary Rome Hyundaiin Holyoke, Mass. and Gary Rome Kia in Enfield, Conn.

As part of the evening, fans are encouraged to bring a toy to donate to Toys for Tots, a program run by the United States Marine Corps which distributes toys to children whose parents cannot afford to buy them gifts for Christmas. The Toys for Tots bins will be located next to the Pride table in the concourse under section 29 and will be manned by on-site Marines. As an incentive to support this program, any fan who brings a toy for donation will receive a free ticket voucher for the Falcons' home game on Saturday, Dec. 15 when Springfield welcomes St. John's to the MassMutual Center at 7:30 p.m. (one voucher per person).

Fans will be invited to participate in a holiday sing-a-long during the intermissions. Santa Claus will also be venturing down from the North Pole to meet and greet Falcons fans and hang out with his friend Screech.

Single-game tickets to see the Falcons in 2012-2013 can be purchased at the MassMutual Center Box Office from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. through game time on Saturday home dates, and starting four hours prior to Sunday home contests. Fans can also purchase tickets by logging onto Ticketmaster.com. For information about discounted group packages to Falcons home games, call (413) 739-GOAL (4625).

GARY ROME AUTO GROUP’S SCHOOL FUNDRAISER CHALLENGE

Holyoke, Monday, November 12, 2012: Gary Rome Auto Group has embarked on an exciting new project. Gary Rome will assist teachers in earning supplies needed for their classrooms, but are unable to fund the project. He will use his many media outlets to help spread the word about each project in order to bring in more donations.

“Children are the future generation of leaders, so we want to invest in them; says Gary Rome, owner of Gary Rome Hyundai and Kia. We are excited to be contributing to the children within our community. I hope we can all come together and help students and teachers acquire supplies for their projects”.

The program will allow teachers to post their classroom project on reputable website such as donorschoose.org and receive donations for it. Teachers can post their chosen project on any of the three websites (http://www.donorschoose.org; http://www.adoptaclassroom.org/: or http://www.gofundme.com/). In addition, teachers may choose to post projects on any other legitimate websites. The superintendent for each city will choose the top 30 projects. Gary Rome will then use his many media outlets to get the word out and match up to $200 worth of donations.

For more information about the program, please contact Telesha Williams at (413)530-3286 or telesha_williams@yahoo.com. Also, you may contact Tim Ferreira at parts@garyromehyundai.com.

2011 Hyundai Tucson GLS: Quick DriveBy Anne Proffit

 Anne Proffit

All images by Anne Proffit

Hyundai's smaller crossover, the handsome Tucson was redesigned in 2010 and needed few if any upgrades for the 2011 sales season.  Based on a unibody design, the Tucson is very car-like in its responses and very easy to drive and enjoy.

After spending a week with a 2011 Hyundai Tucson GLS PZEV FWD, just one down from the top-of-the-line Limited model, I have to say that, overall, I do like this machine for its value, its affordability and, as is the case with most Hyundai products these days, its overall quality. 

The PZEV nomenclature designates a vehicle that has partially zero emissions controls and, as an added feature on this Tucson, the mileage is superb for a machine weighing 3203 pounds - it's rated at 22/31 mpg using regular unleaded.  I was shocked to find my second tank, consumed in rather spirited driving, amounted to an average of 33 mpg from the 14.5-gallon tank!  Not bad, eh?

The 2011 Hyundai Tucson GLS is powered by a 170-horsepower (at 6000 rpm) in-line 2.4-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine; it makes 163 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm and redline is 6250 rpm, enabling the Tucson to loaf at 2200 rpm at 70 mph.  Shifted by a six-speed automatic transmission with manual capabilities, the Tucson is smooth and capable, albeit not a champ at stoplight derbies.

MacPherson struts at the front and multi-link rear suspension includes dual stabilizer bars; while the ride is on the firm side, with the short wheelbase Tucson it's all doable.  Four-wheel disc brakes have electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, as well as downhill brake control and hill-start assist. 

Hyundai fits traction and electronic stability controls for the Tucson GLS.  Motor-driven power steering has a wee bit of numbness on-center that's unnoticeable after a few days.  Turning circle is a nice 34.7 feet. Twinned five-spoke alloy rims sit on Kumho 225/60R17 tires.  They are quiet and compliant.

This is a compact SUV/crossover at 173.2 inches length, 71.7 inches width, 66.3 inches height, riding on a 103.9-inch wheelbase.  Ground clearance on this front-wheel-drive model is 6.7 inches

With a starting price of $22,640 including destination, the Chai Bronze/black cloth Tucson driven here has two options.  The navigation package includes a central navigation system with 6.5-inch touch screen, rearview camera, premium CD-based, satellite-radio-equipped audio with external amp and subwoofer and automatic headlights for $2000 and carpeted floor mats for $180, bringing the total to a value-filled $24,740.

There are double 12-volt plugs at the base of the central stack, along with auxiliary, iPod and USB plug-ins and cables.  There's a grippy floor to this area and open buttresses so we can reach in from the side.  The driver's window is one-touch only; all others must be operated with finger firmly on-switch.  The grippy leather steering wheel has audio controls on the left, the excellent cruise system on the right, while the phone operations on the lower left and right of the steering wheel.

Source: thecarconnection.com

Report: All-wheel-drive for Hyundai Genesis, Equus years away

May 16, 2011  

By Fred Meier, USA TODAY

Updated 2011-05-16 3:15 PM

By STAN HONDA, AFP/Getty Images

If you've been hot for a Hyundai Genesis, but holding off until the big rear driver is offered with the much-discussed all-wheel-drive option, looks like you might want to rethink the whole thing.

According to information ferreted out by Car and Driver in this report, the Genesis won't get AWD with the expected refresh for 2012. The report says AWD may wait until the next generation of the luxury sedan -- not due till 2014. That likely means the Genesis coupe and the upmarket and larger Equus also with go without for a few years, too.

Whether your interest is in performance or bad-weather traction, AWD would be worthy option for these cars:

And Hyundai CEO John Krafcik has been saying the Genesis and Equus would get AWD down the road -- we just didn't think he meant that far.

Hyundai will not offer all-wheel drive for its Genesis luxury sedan until the second generation of the car arrives for the 2014 model year. Krafcik indicated to C&D earlier that the Genesis line and Equus, would offer all-wheel drive. Since it was not included in the 2012 refresh for the Genesis sedan, it appears they'll all wait for their next-generation platform.

The Genesis sedan has been a winner for Hyundai in a higher market than the brand's previously been in, with solid sales and a lot of buyers new to a Hyundai showroom. AWD should make help gain sales in the snowbelt, though it will face in-house competition from a redone Azera -- we expect in the sexy, swoopy new Hyundai look -- due next winter. Krafcik has told Drive On that the front-drive Azera continues to attract a loyal buyer following, particularly in snowy markets.

Although they didn't announce AWD for the refreshed 2012 Genesis, Hyundai did reveal some interesting upgrades, including direct injection for the V-6 that increases horsepower to 333, a revised suspension set-up for the mainstream models, refreshed styling tweaks, and an 8-speed transmission for all models, including the new performance R-Spec sedan (there already is an R-Spec coupe). The highlight of the R-Spec sedan is its own new 5.0-liter, 429-hp. V-8. It also gets performance-tuned transmission and suspension and steering calibrations.

Source: USA Today

For the Person Who Wants Everything

By Allyson Harwood | Photos By Motor Trend Staff | July, 2011

  

Vehicle specs (Base Model)

Engine2.4L L4

Power176 hp / 168 lb-ft

TransmissionManual

MSRP$19,995

Seats5 adults

MPG23 City / 31 Hwy

Consumer Reviews

At the Hyundai Tucson's price range, value is the factor that is most critical to a crossover's success. There are so many crossovers with a price tag of $25,000-$30,000 that what differentiates one from the rest of the pack is the features. And the Hyundai Tucson has tons of 'em. Our topline Limited AWD comes with enough goodies that one staffer, having not driven the Tucson for a while, logged, "When it comes to the cabin, this Tucson has everything! Heated seats, Bluetooth audio, power everything, satellite radio, nav system, rearview camera, huge sunroof. I kept finding myself thinking, 'Oh, yeah-it has that, too.'" The steering-wheel-mounted controls also received kudos; they're well-placed on the wheel, and the layout is nicely uncluttered. As digital integration director Mike Floyd noted, "This is a really nicely designed set of controls that have proven simple and effective and rest roughly at the 9 and 3 positions, making it easy for thumbs to reach and operate." But that isn't the whole story. While it has plenty of features, when it comes to attention to detail, the Tucson leaves some editors wanting.

There are complaints of road noise at freeway speeds, steering that's too lifeless, some poorly placed controls, and structural creaks when the Hyundai goes over speed bumps or enters driveways. There is definitely room for improvement, which is why we had mixed feelings about this long-termer. As copy editor Zach Gale explains, "This Tucson is impressive, considering the vehicle it replaces, but solid design carries this small SUV only so far." And considering how far this crossover has come in just two generations, we expect Hyundai will get the bugs out for the next one.

But that isn't the whole story. While it has plenty of features, when it comes to attention to detail, the Tucson leaves some editors wanting. There are complaints of road noise at freeway speeds, steering that's too lifeless, some poorly placed controls, and structural creaks when the Hyundai goes over speed bumps or enters driveways. There is definitely room for improvement, which is why we had mixed feelings about this long-termer. As copy editor Zach Gale explains, "This Tucson is impressive, considering the vehicle it replaces, but solid design carries this small SUV only so far." And considering how far this crossover has come in just two generations, we expect Hyundai will get the bugs out for the next one.

Gary and his Dad Jerry know how to treat you like family

2012 Hyundai Azera Review

Denis Flierl | Sep 28, 2012 |

The 2012 Hyundai Azera is all-new and this is the second generation of Hyundai’s flagship luxury sedan. Hyundai unveiled the new large sedan at the Los Angeles Auto Show last year. The Azera is the fifth vehicle in the lineup to adopt what the company calls their Fluidic Sculpture design language. The exterior of the new sedan is longer and lower than the previous generation. The big sedan also got lighter and weighs in at 3,605 pounds.

This flagship sedan from Hyundai also features a more powerful Lambda II 3.3-liter Gas Direct Injection (GDI) engine for the 2012 model year. The new engine develops 293 horsepower and has a best-in-class 23 mpg combined fuel mileage. The 2012 Azera is one of seven vehicles in Hyundai’s lineup to be revamped and picking the car you want is made simple. The Azera offers one trim level, one powertrain, one price and only one option is available.

Luxury abounds inside

Inside, the luxury sedan is comfortable and roomy. Azera has best-in-class front head and leg room. The standard leather seats are supportive and comes with 10-way power driver’s seat and 8-way power front passenger seat both of which includes a height adjustment. This 2012 Azera tester came with the Technology Package that includes an extendable section on the driver’s seat for thigh support, and the front seats are ventilated for maximum comfort. Fans in the front seat back and bottom cushions circulate air through the perforated leather seats.

The cabin of the new Azera also gets dual-zone automatic climate control to keep all the occupants comfortable. The interior materials are of top quality and the fit and finish is top end. Controls are well planned and easy to understand. The standard navigation system with its 7-inch screen conveys needed information and features a backup camera display. The seats are heated, front and rear.

Other interior features that get special mention is the optional panoramic sunroof, which allows an abundance of natural light into the cabin. It also features 3D Carbon interior accents and ambient lighting floods the cabin. Other luxury appointments include an electrochromic auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink and power rear sunshade and manual rear side window shades that tuck away when not in use.

Optional Technology Package

The single option is the Technology Package ($4000), adding such goodies as a 19-inch Hyper-Silver alloy wheels, HID Xenon headlights, power tilt-and-slide, two-pane, panoramic sunroof; power adjustable, tilt-and-telescope steering column; two-setting memory for driver’s seat, outside mirrors and steering column; fan-ventilated front seats; Infinity premium speaker system with subwoofer and 550-watt external amplifier; power rear sunshade and manual rear side window shades; and rear parking assistance sensors.

The latest engine technology

Priced at a highly competitive $32,000, this four-door, five-passenger sedan is powered by a remarkably efficient, 3.3-liter V6, that produces 293-horsepower and 255 lb ft of torque. The new Lambda II engine uses the latest Gas Direct Injection (GDI) and produces a best-in-class output of 88.8 horsepower per liter, while having the smallest displacement V6 in the segment.

The engine uses some high-tech features often found on more exotic sports sedans. It uses high compression, all-aluminum construction, piston cooling jets, and a roller timing chain for maximum performance and efficiency. Power is transfered to the front wheels through a 6-speed automatic transaxle outfitted with the Shiftronic manual shift feature. EPA fuel economy estimates for the Azera are 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined.

Smooth and quiet ride

The 2012 Azera is no sports sedan, but that was never Hyundai’s intention for the luxury car. The ride is comfortable and handling is well mannered. Azera comes with automatically adjusting shock absorbers that level out bumps in the interstate and city streets. The Hyundai Azera is also quiet while underway from the use of extra sound deadening material. Also use of sophisticated vibration isolating and motion counterbalancing underhood structures contribute to the quiet ride.

If you haven’t noticed, Hyundai Motor Group is designing and building quality cars that are catching the competition. The 2012 Hyundai Azera is another one of those cars to keep your eye on. Its new exterior design is sharp looking; it’s roomy, quiet and gets excellent fuel economy.

Hyundai to introduce world's first production fuel-cell electric vehicle

By Hyunjoo Jin and Christiaan Hetzner Reutersmercurynews.com

Posted:   09/25/2012 01:19:53 PM PDT

September 25, 2012 8:29 PM GMTUpdated:   09/25/2012 01:29:31 PM PDT

Hyundai, which has lagged its rivals in battery-powered electric cars, aims to leapfrog that technology and roll out what it calls the world's first production fuel-cell electric vehicles at this week's Paris auto show.

The South Korean automaker is betting that fuel-cell electric vehicles will be a more realistic future auto technology than pure battery electric cars such as Nissan Motor's Leaf.

Those models have struggled to win over drivers as the batteries are expensive, take hours to recharge and can only drive short distances. Toyota this week scaled back plans for its all-electric eQ minicar, saying it misread the market.

A fuel-cell converts hydrogen and oxygen into water and generating power to drive an electric motor. Fuel-cell vehicles can run five times longer than battery electric cars on a single power-up, and it takes just minutes to fill the tank with hydrogen, compared with 8 hours or so to recharge a battery.

Hyundai, which has watched Toyota make the running with its hybrid Prius model, wants to jump ahead in the fuel-cell market.

But it will offer just 1,000 FCEVs, based on its Tucson crossover, from December through to 2015 in Europe as it looks to more than halve production costs to $44,700.

Trade media have put the initial sticker price at around $88,000, a hefty price tag for a brand that made its name with cheaper, feature-filled models.

While fuel-cell electric cars may go further, manufacturers

still have to wrestle with the high cost of production -- double or triple that of battery-powered electric vehicles -- and a lack of refuelling infrastructure.

"We aim to reduce prices of fuel-cell vehicles to match battery cars by 2020-25," Lim Tae-won, the director in charge of fuel-cell research at Hyundai and its affiliate Kia Motors , told Reuters ahead of the Paris auto show.

He said fuel-cell cars would overcome the "range anxiety" -- or fear of running out of power far from a charging point -- of battery-electric cars if the refuelling issue was resolved.

A 2008 McKinsey study of 11 global carmakers predicted as many as 1 million fuel-cell electric cars on Europe's roads by the end of the decade, but industry experts caution demand will depend on customer acceptance of the technology, government aid and, crucially, the availability of hydrogen filling stations.

"The great thing about a battery powered electric car is that power sockets can be found anywhere," said Andreas Winckler, managing director of the services unit of Frankfurt trade fair operator Messe Frankfurt Medien und Service, which has leased both battery and fuel-cell electric cars from Mercedes-Benz since November.

"Before we installed the first charging stations here, we just opened a window and ran an extension cord out to the car."

Winckler noted there was just one hydrogen filling station in the entire Rhein-Main region around Frankfurt, continental Europe's financial hub, but it had been broken for weeks. "That's clearly the big dilemma with fuel-cell cars," he said.

Hyundai's Lim said it would cost more to develop a hydrogen refuelling infrastructure than one for electric battery charging, but each hydrogen station would process more cars as it would take just minutes to fill up.

German industrial gases producer Linde is investing tens of millions of euros with Daimler to build 20 hydrogen filling stations by 2015. For now, Germany has only seven.

The aim is to bring down the cost to that of a natural gas filling station, around 300,000 euros, or $387,500, from around 1 million euros today, said Ulrich Buenger, a coordinator at the European Hydrogen Road Tour 2012, which is funded by industry and the European Commission.

In Seoul, Lim predicts fuel-cell will ultimately become the leading alternative fuel technology, though hybrids will dominate during that transition. For now, Toyota is alone in increasing sales of hybrid-electric vehicles, while General Motors, Nissan and others have struggled to live up to the hype with their early battery electric models.

"Battery electric car makers entered the market too early without resolving problems such as range anxiety and costs," Lim said. "It was a hasty approach. The battery electric cars may have helped raise brand value for a couple of years, but ended up slowing down the take-off in the market."

Hyundai's production-ready fuel-cell electric vehicle can run as far as 588 kms (365 miles) on a full charge, similar to traditional gasoline vehicles, Lim said, while Nissan's Leaf can drive only up to 73 miles per charge.

Toyota slashed its plans for the eQ to sales of just 100 in Japan and the United States from previous forecasts of several thousand, saying battery technology could not live up to consumer demands. "The current capabilities of electric vehicles do not meet society's needs, whether it's the distance cars can run, or the costs, or how long it takes to charge," said Takeshi Uchiyamada, Toyota's vice chairman, adding that fuel-cell vehicles looked to have more potential.

"The biggest problem is how automakers bring down costs and how much infrastructure will be in place," he said.

Hyundai hopes to get a jump on its rivals by offering 1,000 of its FCEVs, overtaking Daimler and Honda Motor, which have leased only small numbers of their fuel-cell vehicles -- the Mercedes B-Class F-Cells and FCX Clarity, respectively. By 2015, Hyundai aims to have the capacity to build 10,000 FCEVs, rising to 100,000 in 2020, when it expects the loss-making business to achieve "economies of scale," Lim said.

Toyota plans to launch sedan-type fuel-cell electric vehicles from around 2015, and predicts sales in the tens of thousands by the 2020s. Nissan is working on a fuel-cell vehicle with Daimler for 2016 and will also unveil a concept fuel-cell sport utility vehicle, the TeRRA, in Paris.

GM shifted funding from fuel-cells to push Chevrolet Volt electric car with range extender, but sales have been sluggish.

In a KPMG global survey of 200 auto executives, one in five expected fuel-cell electric cars to attract more consumer demand than pure battery electric cars in 2025. Sixteen percent went with battery cars. Hybrids, including plug-ins, provide the best mid-term solution, the survey, published in January, showed.

Source: mercurynews.com

2012 Hyundai Sonata SE 2.0T: More tech, more power

The 2012 Hyundai Sonata SE that rolled into the Car Tech garage this week was not very different from the 2011 Sonata SE that I tested previously.



It's got the same coupelike profile and Fluidic Sculpture design that I described as swoopy and polarizing in 2010. Although, after a year on the road and when compared with the Sonata Hybrid's fish face, its aesthetic is not nearly as polarizing as it was at its debut.



In the cabin, the fit and finish haven't changed much. The dashboard tech is essentially the same and is still a pretty darn good value. Hyundai's subscription-based BlueLink telematics system is new to the Sonata and is now standard, giving users an OnStar-esque set of connected features for a monthly fee.



However, the silver-and-blue 2.0T badge on the rear deck hints that this 2012 example of the Sonata SE is hiding something new under its hood. Compared with the 2011 model that I tested, which was powered by a 2.4-liter engine, this 2012 model loses 0.4 liter of displacement and gains a twin-scroll turbocharger and a heap of horsepower. Does more power make it better? The obvious answer is yes, but I hopped into the Sparkling Ruby 2012 Hyundai Sonata SE 2.0T to put that hypothesis to the test.



Performance: 2.0-liter turbocharged engine

The Sonata's power plant starts with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder block, adds a head with direct-injection technology, and finishes up with a twin-scroll turbocharger. Power is rated at a maximum of 274 horsepower at 6,000 rpm when boost tops out at 17.4 psi. The maximum torque of 269 pound-feet comes on at much lower engine speeds, being available between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm. Power builds in a fairly linear fashion and there isn't much of what I'd consider to be turbo lag. However, there is a definite delineation at about 4,000 rpm when you can feel the engine coming to life, pulling the sedan forward with surprising zest. There's not enough grunt to snap your neck, but there's plenty to induce a grin.



Power flows to the front wheels via a single-option six-speed automatic transmission. The gearbox features a manual shift mode that allows the driver to chose gears by pushing the shift lever forward and back or by smacking the plastic paddle shifters located on the backside of the steering wheel. Before you turn your nose up at paddle shifters on a front-drive "sport" sedan, know that the Sonata's paddles have a great, clicky engagement and trigger reasonably quick shifts. I must have spent most of my driving time playing around with the paddles, which defintely explains the low fuel economy averaged during our testing.



The EPA estimates the Sonata 2.0T's economy at 22 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 26 combined mpg. After a week spent aggressively using the manual shift mode to keep the turbo spinning with almost no highway cruising to balance things out, the trip computer reported only a 16.6 mpg average.



Drivers looking to get closer to that 26 mpg average should leave the gearbox in its automatic mode and be more gentle with their right foot when driving. However, if you lack self control, Hyundai has equipped the Sonata with an Active Eco mode. Activating this mode adjusts the shift program of the automatic transmission, favoring higher gears and lower engine speeds. Active Eco also remaps the throttle response, digitally lightening your lead foot. The result is a duller ride and slower acceleration, but better fuel economy.



Compared with the entry level GLS trim and the top-tier Limited levels, the Sonata SE 2.0T model features a firmer, sport-tune for its MacPherson strut front and independent multilink rear suspension. The SE uses the same 24mm front stabilizer bar as the GLS/Limited, but a thicker 17mm rear stabilizer bar (versus the standard 15mm bar). The Sonata SE also upgrades with 18-inch wheels and wider 225-width performance tires. So, the Sonata SE has slightly more mechanical grip than the other trim levels.



I didn't notice any creaks and groans from the Sonata's body or suspension components when I tested the 2011 SE model two years ago, but I did hear this 2012 model's rear end protesting slightly as I eased it over speed bumps and over rough roads. I'm not sure the creaking is specific to our press vehicle, but it was annoying enough merit mention in this review. You'll want to listen for this on your test drive.



Cabin technology: BlueLink telematics

In the cabin, the Sonata features what has become Hyundai's standard technology suite and trim level organization. Bone stock, you get AM/FM terrestrial radio, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, standard USB and auxiliary inputs, and a single-slot CD player that decodes MP3 files. Add a $35 iPod cable to bridge the USB port and aux-input and add connectivity with the iPhone, iPod, and iPad. The midtier SE model also features keyless entry, push-button start, and "Sport cloth seats" with leather bolsters and power adjustment for the driver's position. The Sonata SE doesn't feature heated or ventilated seating surfaces or memory for its single power seat.



Most of that tech is par for the course when you're talking about a modern Hyundai car. However, new for the Sonata is the Hyundai BlueLink telematics system that debuted on the Veloster last year. BlueLink nets the owner a variety of features that can be used both in and outside of the car.



From the driver's seat, the Sonata owner can access Roadside Assistance, SOS Emergency Assistance, and Automatic Collision Notification with the basic Assurance level of service. From outside the vehicle and with the midtier Essentials level of service owners can remotely start, unlock, or honk the horn of their vehicle with a smartphone app; slowdown, immobilize, and recover a stolen vehicle; and receive alerts when the vehicle leaves a geofenced area, has its alarm or panic mode triggered, exceeds a preset speed, or is operated after a preset curfew. At the top-tier Guidance package, BlueLink becomes a sort of cloud-based navigation system that allows users to search for destinations and points of interest (POIs) with voice commands, search for and send destinations to the car from a web interface, and receive traffic and weather updates. The Sonata comes with a 90-day free trial of the full BlueLink functionality, after which owners will have to choose between the $79 per year Assurance package, $179 per year Essentials package, or the $279 per year Guidance package subscriptions.



Additionally, the Sonata SE 2.0T is available with a conventional, in-dash navigation system as part of the optional Navigation and Sunroof package. This upgrades the sedan's dashboard with a 7-inch touch-screen display that is used with the solid-state navigation system and rear-view camera added as part of the package. This is Hyundai's same basic navigation system that features two-dimensional maps. It's a simple setup, but it's also effective with XM NavTraffic data and a good voice command system. This package also includes the XM NavWeather, Sports, and Stocks data feeds and upgrades the stereo system to a seven-speaker, 360-watt Dimension audio system with a powered subwoofer and adds HD Radio decoding to the terrestrial radio tuner.



In sum

We liked the Hyundai Sonata SE when it was reviewed back in 2010, calling it "a great value, packing in a strong assortment of standard and optional cabin tech, good looks, and performance, all while maintaining a relatively low price." The 2012 Hyundai Sonata SE 2.0T is the same great car, but with a lot more power and, with the aid of Active Eco mode and a light right foot, only slightly less efficiency. I also like that owners have the option to add one of three levels of connectivity with the new standard BlueLink system.



Our 2012 Hyundai Sonata SE 2.0T starts at $24,645, but also arrived with a $2,900 SE Navigation and Sunroof package, $100 carpeted floor mats, and the $35 iPod cable. Add $775 for destination charges to reach our as-tested price of $28,455



The good: The 2012 Hyundai Sonata's turbocharger adds a substantial amount of power. The optional navigation system is simple, yet effective. Bluetooth calling and most digital audio sources are standard. The voice command system is quite good and the addition of BlueLink telematics rounds out the dashboard tech.



The bad: No manual transmission available on this "sporty" SE model. Navigation maps don't feature a 3D view. Observed fuel economy left much to be desired.



The bottom line: With more power and more tech, the 2012 Hyundai Sonata SE 2.0T offers a lot of bang for your buck.



Source: cnet.com

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDi

 The new Hyundai Santa Fe gets a big hike in quality – and price. But is it worth the extra?

Verdict4...The Santa Fe is a big step up from the model it replaces. It looks like a car from the class above, and it’s comfortable and well equipped on the inside, too. It drives relatively well, and will transport up to seven people with very little fuss, providing you dodge the potholes. Is it good enough to justify the extra £3,435? We’d say so, but only just..Hyundai claims its new Santa Fe is such an improvement over the car it replaces that it nearly got a new name. It certainly needs to be much better – the mid-spec Premium Auto model driven here costs £3,435 more than the equivalent version of the old Santa Fe. That’s a serious amount of cash.

But even before you’ve turned a wheel, the new car’s looks start to claw back some of that extra outlay. Gone is the dull two-box shape, and in its place is a sleek, modern and distinctive design.

There are a couple of concessions to its rugged off-roader past, such as the front and rear skidplates and the honeycomb mesh that runs around the foglights. But the big hexagonal grille, swept-back headlights and pointy rear spoiler confirm the new Santa Fe has been styled to be used on road.

The design revolution continues from the high-set driver’s seat. The dash is angular, like those on the latest generation of Fords, and features blue lighting. There are loads of switches and buttons across the doors, steering wheel and dash, and while quality is no match for a VW Group product, everything feels solidly built.

Driver and front seat passengers get more space than before, with plenty of seat and steering wheel adjustment. Storage options include massive door bins for big bottles, a pair of cup-holders and a large cubby between the seats.

Head and legroom is good in the second row, with passengers getting a pair of cup-holders that spring from the central armrest, 12V sockets and individual heater vents. These seats fold forward and lie almost flat with the single pull of a boot-mounted lever.

Our car also had the optional third row of seats, which flip up from the boot floor. They’re tight to get into, and space is limited, but they’re OK for children. The small window does make the rear feel dark and claustrophobic, though. As with all seven-seaters, the boot is eaten up by the extra seats when they’re up, but storage space is an impressive 2,247 litres when stowed. 

At launch, the Santa Fe is only available with Hyundai’s 194bhp 2.2-litre diesel. It’s not the quietest engine, and isn’t at its best when mated to the ponderous six-speed automatic gearbox, but it quietens down on the move.

The steering is dull and lifeless, yet you’re always in complete control. And although our car had four-wheel drive, unless the going gets slippy or you press the diff lock button on the dash, the front wheels are driven most of the time.

Hyundai has added firmer dampers to cope with the UK’s potholed roads. At speed, you’d never notice, as the Santa Fe floats along, with a compliant ride. But if you do hit a pothole, the car bangs and crashes, which is the only blip in an otherwise polished driving experience.

.Disqus - noscriptSubmitted by Soren Lorenson on Thu, 2012-09-20 09:39. £31K for a Hyundai?

I know they are pretty good cars but they are up against some pretty serious competition at this level. Perhaps they have forgotten their USP - value. Don't they realise that the companies competing at this price point are all struggling to make money (VW excepted).

Submitted by skikid on Thu, 2012-09-20 11:40. Something has gone awry as this is about 300mm longer than the IX35 but has only about 35mm extra wheelbase and a smaller boot then the ix35 and if you have the 7 seat model boot is even smaller aso do not think it has heated rear seats like the ix35 premium so is all the extra cost and length just wasted on the bonnet

Submitted by JWB on Thu, 2012-09-20 14:06. Regarding the steering, this new model is fitted with the new Hyundai FlexSteer system that gives the driver the ability to select from three settings. I wonder if this is why you felt the steering was "dull and lifeless" ???

Submitted by JWB on Thu, 2012-09-20 14:08. Still great value... More expensive but a whole lot more car!

Key specs

Price: £31,895	Engine: 2.2-litre 4cyl turbodiesel
Power: 194bhp	Transmission: Six-speed automatic, four-wheel drive
0-62mph/Top speed: 10.2 secs/118mph	Economy/CO2: 41.5mpg/178g/km
Equipment: 18-inch alloys, third row folding seats, keyless entry, rear parking camera, sat-nav	On sale: October

Source: autoexpress.co.uk

Hyundai Presents Thee-Door Hatchback Version of New i30 (Elantra GT)

Friday, September 14, 2012

Following in the footsteps of sister company Kia and its Pro_cee'd, Hyundai has also introduced a three-door variant of its own compact hatchback model, the i30, which is marketed in North America as the Elantra GT.

Hyundai points out that the i30 three-door was "designed, engineered and manufactured in Europe, for Europe", which means don't expect this body style to be added to the range of the Elantra GT.

Much like the closely related Pro_cee'd, which is the three-door version of the Cee'd compact hatch, the i30 three door differs from its five door sibling from the A-pillar and back featuring a roofline that slopes downward from front to rear, a remodel bumper and tailgate plus more heavily sculpted rear shoulders.

Hyundai's designers also made some changes to the front end of the car with a re-profiled bumper sporting different fog lamp housings and a new, black-finished mesh insert and central bar for the hexagonal grille.

The three-door i30 will be offered in Europe with the same powertrains as the five-door and station wagon version (Tourer) of the i30 including 1.4-liter and 1.6-liter diesel and gasoline units ranging in output from 89hp (90PS) to 126hp (128PS), together with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions.

The new i30 three-door will be officially revealed at the 2012 Paris Motor Show in September with a sales date to be announced.

Thanks to Bruno R. for the tip!

Source: Carscoop.com

Hyundai mounts dynamic launch for 2013 Genesis Coupe

By Jason Ang
Philippine Daily Inquirer

It’s not every day that a carmaker launches its latest model not at a swanky hotel but on a full-blown track event. Hyundai Asia Resources Inc. (Hari) did just that when it launched the 2013 Genesis Coupe at Round 3 of the Lateral Drift Championship, in front of the Quirino Grandstand in Manila. Rather than mount a static display, Hyundai put on a show as the new Coupes swept around the track in true drift fashion under the skilled hands and feet of drivers like Atoy Llave of Atoy Customs.

The Genesis Coupe expanded the appeal of the Hyundai brand, which before this car was known mainly for utilitarian

vans and sedans. The coupe is a world-class sports car platform, with rear-wheel drive and a choice of sufficiently powerful engines.

The most significant upgrade to the 2013 model is the powertrain. The four-cylinder variant gets a new 2.0-liter Theta engine equipped with a twin-scroll turbocharger. Compared with the previous turbo, the twin-scroll design is able to recover more energy from the engine’s exhaust gases, resulting in more power. The new engine outputs 257 hp, a nearly 50-hp increase from the previous model. Theoretically, a twin-scroll design is also more efficient than a single-scroll turbo. The top Genesis Coupe still gets a 3.8-liter V6 engine good for 300 hp. Sporty drivers will choose the six-speed manual, while those opting for comfort will enjoy the new 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters. A Torsen limited-slip differential helps put the power down to the road by limiting wheelspin on loose surfaces. Thanks to the front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout, weight distribution is a near-ideal 55:45 percent ratio front to rear. Manual-transmission cars also get Brembo brakes as standard. Active headrests combine with six supplemental-restraint airbags, including side and curtain bags.

PROFESSIONAL drifters Atoy Llave (left) and Gio Rodriguez, Hari chairman Edward S. Go, Hari president and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo, 2012 Miss World-Philippines and Hyundai Brand Ambassador Queneerich Rehman, and Hari chairman emeritus Richard L. Lee

No upgrade is complete without a facelift, and the new coupe gets a prettier face, courtesy of new headlamps integrated into a new fascia. The new face gets a look that is more similar to Hyundai’s new corporate face, as seen on the likes of the Sonata and Veloster. The grille is now the standard hexagon, with twin hood nostrils. The headlamp main beams feature HID technology, and LED strips around the foglights lend a more modern look. The taillights also use LED lighting. 19-inch alloy wheels are standard.

Inside, the Genesis Coupe gets a 5.6-inch display with an Infinity audio system. The Audio system has Bluetooth capability, and is iPod compatible. It can also swallow six CDs for those who can’t part with them. A new triple-gauge cluster shows acceleration, torque, and oil temperature, while a trip computer provides more information. The dashboard features hand stitching to give a more upscale feel to the interior. And the new seatbelt extension guide saves your shoulder, and perhaps your wristwatch too, from aggravation.

The Genesis Coupes were the star of the Lateral Drift round, as a pair of yellow and blue Coupes did their drift dance on the track. The Genesis Coupe showed its precision handling capabilities by allowing pinpoint maneuvers on the track, with the customary human speed cones acting as the markers. Drift racers Alex Perez, Gio Rodriguez, and Llave put the Coupes through their paces.

THE GENESIS Coupes were the star of the Lateral Drift round, as a pair of yellow and blue coupes did their drift dance on the track.

On hand to witness the power of the Genesis Coupe were Hari chairman Edward S. Go, Hari president and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo and chairman emeritus Richard L. Lee.

The Genesis Coupe is available in a choice of eye-catching colors: yellow, red, white, two shades of blue, silver, gray, black and copper.