Monday, November 04, 2013

New Sonata paces Hyundai October sales record

After a September drop-off, Hyundai Motor America rebounded with its best October sales month in company history led by the new 2014 model of the Montgomery-made Sonata.

There were nearly 20,000 Sonatas sold in October, about 5,000 more than the Elantra. It’s the first time since January that the Elantra, which also is made at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, hasn’t been the company’s top seller.

Overall, the company sold 53,555 vehicles in North America last month, up 7 percent over October 2012.

HMA said the nation’s political issues may have contributed to an 8 percent year-over-year drop in September. Now, that could be turning around. The company said sales were especially strong in the final two weeks of October, after the federal government went back to work.

“October was a bit of a roller coaster ride for the entire automotive sector, so we feel pretty good about exceeding prior year sales results and posting our best-ever October performance,” HMA executive vice president of national sales Dave Zuchowski said in a statement.

“We expect continued economic and political stabilization throughout the final two months of 2013, which should ease uncertainty, boost consumer confidence and restore a robust growth curve for new vehicle sales.”

The Montgomery plant shifted its production mix last month to focus on the rollout of the new Sonata. While final production numbers were not immediately available, HMMA spokesman Robert Burns said the plant planned to build 61 percent Sonatas and 39 percent Elantras in October.

Sonata sales had fallen this year as workers here focused on building the hot-selling Elantra through the summer, a change that HMA said led to a thin Sonata supply at dealerships.

The company plans to debut its 2014 Elantralineup at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month.

Burns said he expects that model change to lead to another shift in production mix at the Montgomery plant by December.


Wednesday, October 09, 2013

Gary Rome Auto Group Partners With Premier Motoring Concepts



Holyoke, MA, October 8, 2013 - - Gary Rome Auto Group has embarked on a lucrative partnership with Premier Motoring Concepts (PMC). The deal allows the auto dealer group to feature PMC products on its accessory store websites while simultaneously providing 120 more product choices for customers.
Premier Motoring Concepts is a Hyundai and Kia accessories distributor which sources Hyundai and Kia parts and accessories from South Koreaand make them available in the United States. Featured products are not sold through Hyundai Motor America or Kia Motor America. PMC’s customer base includes the five largest-volume Hyundai dealers in the U.S., as well as dealers that sell fewer than 50 units a month. The company prides itself on its excellent reputation for outstanding customer service and impeccable attention to detail.
“We are very excited to be offering more product categories for customers to choose from in our Hyundai and Kia Accessory Stores” says Gary Rome, President of Gary Rome Hyundai in Holyoke, MAand Kia in Enfield, CT. “This partnership is possible because we always listen to our customers and find ways to solve their problems. Our relationship with PMC will help us supply products which are otherwise unavailable in the United States.
This press release has been distributed by Gary Rome Auto Group. Gary Rome Hyundai, based in Holyoke Massachusetts, and Gary Rome Kia, based in Enfield Connecticut provide Hyundai and Kia sales and service to all of Massachusetts and Connecticut. When you visit our car dealerships, expect the superior customer service that you deserve. With years of experience and training, the Gary Rome Kia and Hyundai teams are your Connecticut and Massachusetts Hyundai and Kia dealer, and will get you into the car that was built for you. Get the new or used car that you have been dreaming of by calling or visiting Gary Rome Kia of Enfield and Gary Rome Hyundai of Holyoke today. For more information, go to http:// www.garyromekia.com/or http://www.garyromehyundai.com/.


Sunday, October 06, 2013

Gary Rome Hyundai Reacts to Government Shut Down

Gary Rome Hyundai of Holyoke Massachusetts reacts to the Government shutdown by reiterating the Hyundai USA national policy of assurance.


Gary Rome Hyundai
Holyoke, MA, October 06, 2013 --(PR.com)-- “Hyundai of North America is concerned about your family and so are we,” said Holyoke, MA based Hyundai dealer Gary Rome of the Gary Rome Auto Group. Since 1998, Gary Rome Hyundai and its experienced professional staff have provided Holyoke and the surrounding areas in and around Western Massachusetts with outstanding top quality service. Rome continued, “Gary Rome Hyundai is very proud to be a Hyundai dealer and affiliated with Hyundai USA. We are thrilled to be first-responders to what is proving to be a difficult and stressful situation for those that have been furloughed due to the present government shutdown.” This is in response to the Hyundai Assurance Program that assures families going through financial crisis that they are not required to make further payments while their income is unknown. Rome added, “even though national policy reads that no payments will be due for 90 days, I am confident that Hyundai will extend this for as long as people need.”

Gary Rome Hyundai is proud to offer the most comprehensive line of Hyundais available in the Northeast. From Elantras and Sonatas to Santa Fes and Tucsons, Gary Rome has the right car or SUV for you and your family. Used cars of all makes and models are also available with existing warranties on most vehicles.

Call (413) 233-4666 for more information or visit the Gary Rome Hyundai website at www.GaryRomeHyundai.com
source: PR.com
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Gary Rome Auto Group
Timothy Ferreira
413-536-4328
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Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Hyundai’s $48,000 Genesis beats competitors’ prices


The recent Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in Monterey, Calif., showcased the rarest and most costly autos in the world, from a 1935 Duesenberg to Ferrari race cars.
Also included on the lawn were new concept cars from Lamborghini, Aston Martin and Hyundai. Yes, Hyundai.
The South Korean brand has come from the first shoddy exports to North America in the 1980s to the HCD-14 Genesis concept, an automotive sculpture from the brand’s Irvine, Calif., design studio.
Hyundai has declared that it can line up alongside the world’s most storied brands and not look out of place.
While the Genesis concept car won’t go on sale as shown, it indicates where the company is headed, especially relevant for me, having just spent a week in the current model, a 2013 Genesis 5.0 R-Spec.
The Genesis is Hyundai’s rear-wheel sedan and the best example of the company’s unusual blend of budget and luxury.
The Genesis swims in competitive waters, among luxury sedans like the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Jaguar XF and the Lexus GS350. It’s unlikely that even the next generation Genesis will snag away 5 Series drivers who look for superior driving chops and brand recognition.
What the Genesis 5.0 does is beat competitors in value, with all of the major options included in the $48,000 price. It also gets a 10-year/100,000-mile power train warranty.
The all-in sticker is a major change from the practices of German automakers, who are especially prone to charging for every option. It’s also not easy to find a base BMW or Mercedes on sales lots.
While there is a base Genesis sedan with a 333-horsepower V-6 and a price of $35,100, the R-Spec is the model most in keeping with its rivals. It has a 5.0-liter V-8 with an eight- speed transmission, 19-inch wheels and leather seats.
Also included are a power sunroof, lane departure warning system, rain-sensing wipers, adaptive xenon headlamps, a navigation system and backup camera. One of the few options you can add is a $35 iPod cable.
I kept comparing the Hyundai to another car I recently reviewed, the Jaguar XF 2.0, which starts at $47,000. The entry-priced Jag looks great and handles extremely well, besting the Hyundai in both categories. But it has only a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with 240 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque — underwhelming compared to the Genesis’s V-8, with 429 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque.
With all of its options, many which aped the Genesis, my test XF came to $61,100. Not so cheap at all. It’s easy to see why many consumers would happily look to the less expensive Hyundai.
Of course not all is perfect. Hyundai has been on a design roll recently — but the current Genesis is still using older, stilted design language. The front end (which has no logo on the grill) looks like a reinterpretation of a Mercedes, and the sides are bland.
The HCD-14 concept indicates a new direction. It is long and slinky, with an upright sci-fi nose and short overhangs. It also has a rear-hinged back door, the kind of concept car styling which rarely makes its way into the real car.
The production-ready Genesis will be shown at January’s Detroit auto show as a 2015 model, and a company spokesman says it could go on sale the second quarter of next year.
The interior of the current Genesis lacks a suede headliner and first-grade leather. The navigation system mimics the Mercedes rotary control system, a poor choice. It should be a touch screen. One imagines those issues will be fixed in the next generation.
Hyundai’s drive character has steadily improved, but the R-Spec’s steering is artificially heavy, and the body rolls in corners, with odd shudders on broken pavement. The result is a feeling of wallowing, rather than wafting, down the road.

The thing’s got guts, though. Ford has famously offered its 5.0-liter V-8 on the Mustang over the years, and there’s a bit of muscle car character to this engine. It pushes through traffic with a nice bit of rough sound.
Turn off the traction control and gun it around a corner, and you’d even get a bit of tail swinging action like in a 1970s action film.
Again, my mind turns to the next generation, and the improvements that may come. Will it go the way of Lexus, soft and pliant, or BMW, heady and fast?
The R-Spec’s strengths and weaknesses are clear. It makes an excellent entry into the luxury sedan space for budget-minded buyers.
And when the new generation is released, the current car should go on a fire sale with significant incentives. It could make a very good deal a veritable steal.

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Korean automaker Hyundai's market share is growing in the U.S., and its vehicles are getting larger as well

The Santa Fe used to be a modest mid-size sport-utility truck and is now a large crossover. It's heavy at 4,098 pounds and long at 193.1 inches. It has a large 3.3-liter V6 engine, and its gas mileage is mediocre at 18 mpg city and 24 highway.



I drove the GLS AWD model, meaning it has all-wheel-drive, which adds some weight and cuts its gas mileage. But AWD does give Santa Fe some of its old sport-SUV functionality. Outwardly the Santa Fe looks like most other large crossovers; not much to distinguish it. In fact, it looks more like a minivan now, but with outward opening rear doors instead of sliding van doors.



The crossover's size means it now has room for a third row seat, which is split, and will fold flat in back to boost cargo capacity that otherwise is moderate. My test unit, a Night Sky Pearl (metallic blue/gray), had no power hatch, which seemed a bit odd at the asking price of $35,180.



The GLS starts at $30,100, but this one added $4,100 for a leather and navigation package that included a premium Dimension sound system, leather seating surfaces, heated second row seats and heated steering wheel, a rearview camera, power passenger's seat and, naturally, the navigation system.



Functionally Santa Fe was on par with other large crossovers and minivans.



That direct-injected V6 cranks out 290 horsepower. You can get it to downshift and get this heavy-feeling crossover rolling by tromping the gas pedal. That will affect your gas mileage. Or you can just accelerate normally, which is plenty smooth with the six-speed automatic, but feels lethargic. Coming off a turn at a stoplight and then trying to accelerate to 35 or 40 feels slow and there is some hesitation.



If you plan to tow, it'll lug 5,000 pounds of trailer.



Likewise, if you want to save as much gas as possible, there is an ECO button on the dash that creates earlier shifts and cuts power overall. I rarely used it, feeling I needed the crossover's full power to get the Santa Fe up to proper cruising speeds.



Ride, though, is a strong point. The 4-wheel independent suspension does a good job of handling our crumbling roads and joints between cement slabs on many city streets. The interior is quiet and well-appointed to keep passengers -- up to seven of them -- comfy.



Handling is van-like, but credit Hyundai with giving you three steering choices: Normal, Comfort and Sport. Sport is the most responsive, but still there is play in the wheel and the steering effort is heavy. Comfort and Normal feel pretty much the same, which is to say more vague, yet still relatively heavy.



Braking is fine and all-wheel-drive is standard on this model, so traction will be solid in winter. Stability and traction control are standard here, too.



Inside, Hyundai has created a luxury look and feel in the GLS, including tan perforated leather seats in the test vehicle, matched with a brown textured dash and tiny bits of fake wood trim on either end of the dash. A matte silver finish is used on the doors and door releases.



For families, the best is probably the interior's quiet comfort and well formed seats, plus the fact that there is that third row. Kids will fit in the third row and moderate sized adults in the second row.



I like that both front seats were power controlled and heated, plus the option package gave the second row riders heated seats, a benefit with leather seats that tend to be pretty icy feeling in winter. The thick leather steering wheel also was heated.



That wheel featured a manual tilt/telescope function and a bunch of radio, phone and trip computer buttons on the hub. The GLS model also had automatic headlights, a big covered bin between the front seats, two 12-volt outlets under the center stack, plus an open bin with USB port.



Overhead is an OnStar type system, plus HomeLink on the rearview mirror. I bumped the navigation aid once just adjusting the mirror.



My only interior complaint is Hyundai's insistence of a little chime tune that plays every time you get in the car and shut the door, and every time you shut off the ignition.



While the test unit was pricey, you should know that you can get the same room and many of these features by going with a lower trim level. The base Sport 2.4 FWD (front wheel drive) starts at just $24,700 and earns a much better 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway due to using a 190-horse 2.4-liter I4. That's 100 hp less than the tested model, so it might be weak for hauling a lot of kids and cargo.



An AWD Sport lists at $26,450 and is rated 20 mpg city and 26 highway. A mid-level 2.0 model with 264-horse 2.0-liter I4 turbo starts at $27,950 in front-drive model, while a top level Limited with AWD starts at $34,850.



Mark Savage welcomes your questions and comments regarding new vehicles at Savageonwheels@yahoo.com.

Friday, June 21, 2013

HYUNDAI GENESIS RECEIVED J.D. POWER HIGHEST INITIAL QUALITY SEGMENT RANKING

Hyundai Nameplate Improves in J.D. Power Initial Quality Study;
Finishes in the Top 10 Overall




COSTA MESA, Calif., June 19, 2013 – J.D. Power announced today that the Hyundai Genesis received the trophy for the highest initial quality in the midsize premium car segment. The award comes from the J.D. Power 2013 U.S. Initial Quality StudySM (IQS). The Initial Quality Study, now in its 27th year, serves as the industry benchmark for new-vehicle quality measured at 90 days of ownership. According to the study Hyundai Genesis owners reported fewer problems with their vehicles than any premium midsize car.



"Outperforming all of our competitors in the premium midsize car segment is a reflection of the dedication of all Hyundai team members," said Erwin Raphael, director of engineering and quality, Hyundai Motor America. "Awards like this demonstrate we're succeeding in connecting with our customers through an unprecedented combination of premium performance, technology, safety and quality."



In addition to Genesis's victory, the Hyundai brand substantially reduced problems per 100 vehicles and finished tenth overall, gaining eight rank positions. The Hyundai overall score was 106 problems per 100 vehicles, seven problems fewer than the industry average. Accent, Sonata and Azera ranked second in their respective segments. The all-new Santa Fe ranked third in its segment.



ABOUT THE J.D. POWER AND ASSOCIATES 2013 U.S. INITIAL QUALITY STUDY

The 2013 U.S. Initial Quality Study is based on responses from more than 83,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2013 model-year cars, trucks and multi-activity vehicles surveyed after 90 days of ownership. The study is based on a 233-question battery designed to provide manufacturers with information to facilitate identification of problems and drive product improvement. The study was fielded between February and May 2013. The study is used by manufacturers worldwide to improve quality and by consumers to help them make more informed purchasing decisions. Throughout the years, initial quality has been shown to be a leading indicator of long-term durability, which directly impacts customer loyalty and purchase decisions.



HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Costa Mesa, 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 820 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle limited warranty, Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, and five years of complimentary Roadside Assistance. Hyundai Assurance includes Assurance Connected Care that provides Hyundai owners with proactive safety and car care services made possible by the Hyundai Blue Link telematics platform, complimentary for three years. These services include Automatic Collision Notification, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Vehicle Diagnostic Alert, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and in-vehicle service scheduling.

Saturday, June 15, 2013

2013 Hyundai Sonata hybrid bulks up with more power

By David Booth
Hyundai has upgraded its Sonata hybridfor 2013 with a more powerful electric motor, a more fuel efficient 2.4-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine and a lighter, but more powerful, lithium-ion battery. The result is a better Natural Resources Canada fuel economy rating (5.4 L/100 km in the city and 4.9 L/100 km on the highway) as well as improved real-word fuel economy. Indeed, in the city, the Sonata hybrid consumed about half as much dinosaur juice as the Fusion EcoBoost - 7.0 L/100 km versus 13.6. Its parsimony continued on the highway although, like other hybrids, the size of its advantage dissipated as speeds increased. By 120 km/h, it was consuming just 1.0 L/100 km less than the Sonata Turbo and the Accord V6.
Nonetheless, this and its superior drivability see Hyundai's hybrid much improved. Indeed, though the 2013 is seven horsepower down on the 2012 model, it gains 40 pound-feet of torque, making 2013 hybrid much more responsive.

Read more: source

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Car Review: The 2013 Hyundai Elantra still tops the compact market

DALLAS, May 27, 2013 — Changes to the 2013 Hyundai Elantra are miniscule this year, but there has been the introduction of new body styles, a coupe and a hatchback.
The Hyundai Elantra comes in a hatchback too.
For the standard Elantra, however, it’s business as usual and still all about the classy styling as well as what’s under the hood, emphasizing good fuel economy and many excellent standard features.
A fixture in the compact car market, particularly after a redesign several years ago, Hyundai’s competition ranges from the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus and Mazda 3 to the Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra and Toyota Corolla.
There are two trims to choose from: the GLS and Limited. With the GLS, you get 16-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, power accessories, a height-adjustable driver seat, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, and a good bit of techie options like a trip computer, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack, and iPod/USB audio interface.
If you choose the GLS with automatic transmission, there is a Preferred Package, making a few changes to the standard features like 16-inch alloy wheels as well as the addition of fog lamps, upgraded interior trim, heated front seats, and lighted vanity mirrors.
The Limited 2013 Hyundai Elantra offers all the goodies from the GLS Preferred Package, but 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, and heated front and rear seats are also added. For more luxury, you can also opt for the Technology Package, which adds to the mix automatic headlamps, rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an upgraded sound system.
Under the hood, this Hyundai has front-wheel drive with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed manual transmission is the norm, but a six-speed automatic is optional on the GLS. On the Limited sedan, it is automatic as the standard.
For safety, the 2013 Hyundai Elantra has traction and stability control, antilock disc brakes, active front head restraints and front seat side-impact, and side curtain airbags.
Inside the Elantra, you will find a stylized interior that boasts a center stack and easy to use and manipulate buttons and knobs, a design that Hyundai can certainly boast about overall.
Space-wise, the Hyundai Elantra offers plenty of it for the compact car market. Plenty of headroom even for a front seat driver or passenger who stands over six-feet, and even in the backseat seat there is plenty of legroom. The trunk is large with 14.8 cubic feet of cargo space too.
Behind the wheel, the 2013 Hyundai Elantra is fun to drive as there is plenty of power to get where you need to go quickly and easy with handling good for this compact market option.
Should You Need to Know: Kudos to the larger than usual trunks found in this class and the outstanding warranty coverage. Take particular note of the 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT, which is an all-new hatchback that replaced the Elantra Touring wagon with a 51-foot cargo area.
Miles Per Gallon: The 2013 Hyundai Elantra has impressive fuel economy with 29 miles per gallon in the city and 40 miles per gallon on the highway.
Cost: The 2013 Hyundai Elantra starts at around $17,000 for the GLS.
Rita Cook is a writer/editor with over 1300 articles to her credit in the past 15-plus years. She is a frequent auto and travel contributor on a national radio show called “The Duva Show” where her “The Insider Mag’s”I’m Standing Here segment can be heard weekly between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. Monday evenings.
Cook is a member of the Texas Auto Writer’s Association and the North Texas Film Critics and writes for the Dallas Morning News, Focus Daily New, Living Magazine and Valley Scene Magazines as well as www.greensourceDFW. She also spends much of her time on the road traveling or working on books.
She recently received the 2012 Green Media Award from the North Texas Corporate Recycling Association.
Her latest book release is “Haunted Bartlesville, Oklahoma”from www.historypress.net and she will be publishing her ninth book this spring about Prohibition-Era cocktails in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Follow Cook at Twitter at @ritacook13.


Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Service Appointment Scheduler


Gary Rome Hyundai has launched a new online appointment site designed to serve you better. Our old site is now discontinued and unavailable. Please follow the link and instructions below. For your protection, you will need a new username and password with our new site. We welcome your feedback as we add new features. As always, you will be able to book appointments 24/7 at your convenience.


Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Vehicle Profile: 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo

Boost makes everything better
The 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo model’s coupling of distinctive visual appeal and efficient performance makes it special, with an extra helping of sportiness for those who long to carve corners tighter and reach speed limits faster and it's now on sale here at Gary Rome Hyundai in Holyoke, Massachusetts.
The three-door 2013 Veloster Turbo (MSRP $22,100) seats four. Power comes from an aluminum 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine featuring Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI), dual overhead cams (DOHC) and Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (Dual CVVT). A twin-scroll turbocharger brings output up to 201 hp and 195 lb/ft of torque. Those numbers represent best-in-class hp per liter and weight-to-power ratio. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, or you can opt for a six-speed automatic with SHIFTRONIC manual shifting, paddle shifters, the Hyundai Active ECO system, and Hill-Start Assist. EPA estimates for the Veloster Turbo are 24 mpg city and 35 mpg highway.
This front-wheel drive Veloster Turbo rides on a front suspension featuring MacPherson struts, twin-tube shocks and a 24-mm stabilizer bar; under the rear is a V-torsion beam setup with monotube shocks. Connecting it all to the road are 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 215/40 V-rated tires; sticky Michelin Pilot Super Sport summer tires are optional. A sport-tuned motor-driven electric power steering (MDPS) system provides the driver with a good bit of response and feedback, while four-wheel antilock (ABS) disc brakes ensure everything comes to a quick and controlled stop.
Well-Equipped for All
The 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo tackles safety with those ABS brakes, as well as six standard airbags, Vehicle Stability Management, Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control System, Brake Assist, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution.
Veloster Turbo drivers benefit from standard keyless entry with push-button start; power-adjustable heated exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals; a leather-wrapped, tilt and telescoping steering wheel with audio controls; Bluetooth® hands-free calling with voice recognition; and an eight-speaker Dimension premium audio system boasting an external amplifier and subwoofer, Sirius/XM Satellite Radio, iPod®/USB/video input jacks and a Gracenote feature that allows owners to upload album cover art and manage their personal music libraries using voice-recognition technology.
These items are complimented by heated front seats with driver-side power lumbar support, Blue Link® telematics, leather upholstery, black high-gloss accents, a seven-inch LCD touch-screen display and alloy pedals that contribute to the interior’s sporty appearance. Outside, the 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo is tricked out with LED headlamp accents, LED taillamps, foglamps, and styling tweaks including a lower-body kit and a unique grille. Finishing things off is a pair of center-mounted chrome exhaust tips.
After that generous list of standard goods, there’s not a lot left for the options column, but Hyundai has put together an Ultimate Package with a navigation system, backup sensors and a rearview camera, a panoramic sunroof, automatic headlights and a handy 115-volt power outlet.
An Instant Hit
The Hyundai Veloster Turbo hatchback is receiving lots of positive attention. Among the accolades are a “5-Year Cost to Own Award” from Kelley Blue Book (KBB.com) and a “Best Sports Car” award from Ruedas ESPN, a Spanish-language automotive radio show.
In summing up this award-winning pocket rocket, perhaps the editors of CarandDriver.com put it best when they wrote, Restraint is a noble thing, and Hyundai sets an excellent example with the 2013 Veloster Turbo. The 201-hp version of this half-coupe/half-sedan/half-hatchback is everything it could be without becoming things it shouldn’t be, including expensive.”
For a closer look at the high-performance Veloster Turbo, schedule a test drive today.
[[make = "Hyundai"]] [[model = "Veloster Turbo"]] [[year = "2013"]]

[PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]

Tuesday, May 07, 2013

Gary Rome Needs Your Help to Donate to The One Fund

This is Gary Rome and I'm here to talk to you about something much more important than cars. I want to talk to you about our friends and families that were impacted by the tragic events at the marathon. My family at Gary Rome Auto Group came to me and asked me what can we do? We decided to support the Boston One Fund. For every test drive we'll donate $10and $100 for every car purchased. And because we know how important time with our family is, I'm going to give you a $10 gift certificate to Squires Bistro on Main Street in Agawam.
 
GO TO VIDEO

Please come to Gary Rome Hyundai in Holyoke or Gary Rome Kia in Enfield and take a test drive and I'll donate $10 to The One Fund and I'll give you a $10 gift certificate to Squires Bistro in Agawam and when you decide to buy from me, I'll then donate $100 to The One Fund. Gary Rome Auto Group, helping those that help us. It doesn't cost any of us extra to be nice!

You can also donate directly to The One Fund: OneFundBoston.org



Wednesday, May 01, 2013

2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: First Drive

Sonatahybrid1

When it appeared in 2011 to counter rivals like the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Toyota Camry Hybrid, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid generally didn't fare too well in head-to-head matchups. Complaints of a lack of refinement in the hybrid powertrain and braking feel were cited, and the Sonata routinely under-delivered on the fuel economy front. Hyundai seems to have been listening, as these are exactly the areas the company focused on for the 2013 Sonata Hybrid, and the result is a top-notch, fully competitive hybrid sedan ready to take on the competitors.

Changes start with the powertrain: The same 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine remains, but it now makes slightly less power, 159 horsepower compared to the 2012 model's 166. This is made up for by a more powerful electric motor, rated at 35 kilowatts instead of the last model's 30. Net power thus drops from 206 in the 2012 model to 199 in the 2013, but this is the only trade-off for superior performance, fuel economy and cargo room. The 2013 Sonata Hybrid'slithium polymer battery has a higher capacity, but it's also lighter and better packaged, allowing the trunk's cargo room to grow from 10.7 to 12.1 cubic feet.


Sonatahybrid2

Hyundai also tuned these new components far better than the last version. The car exhibits improved smoothness in its electric-to-gas hybrid transition, better regenerative braking feel and much more seamless acceleration. A light in the gauge cluster will light up when the engine shuts off while cruising on flat, level roads indicating that the car is operating electrically — and it will do so even at highway speeds. Although there is no dedicated EV mode button, the car seems like it's engaged in all-electric driving over more distance and under harder acceleration than the competition.
Sonatahybridscreen2
The Sonata Hybrid has a conventional six-speed automatic, which makes the car feel more "normal" than many other hybrid sedans on the market that use continuously variable transmissions. There is no loud, buzzy drone under hard acceleration as there is with a CVT, just smooth acceleration and barely perceptible shifts. At speed, the Sonata's ride is well damped, and the cabin is quiet with just minor wind noise.
The improvements boost the Sonata Hybrid's fuel economy as well, with the 2013 rated at 36 city, 40 highway and 38 combined, compared to the 2012 model's 34/39/36 (the 2013 Limited trim level gets 37 combined, due to the extra weight of equipment). This matches more favorably against the Toyota Camry Hybrid LE (43/39/41) and XLE (40/38/40) than the Ford Fusion Hybrid (47/47/47), although the average reported fuel economy for the Fusion is nowhere near the EPA rating, according to government website fueleconomy.gov. My test loop consisted of a morning's worth of high-speed highway, some stop-and-go traffic and a few hard acceleration moments to pass slower traffic, returning a respectable combined 37 mpg. This compares favorably to the consumer-reported averages for the Camry and Fusion.
Sonatahybridint
That number becomes even more impressive when one considers the car that delivered it. The '13 Sonata Hybrid is a big midsize sedan with plenty of room inside, comfortable seats and high-quality materials throughout. Exterior styling is differentiated from conventional Sonatas through different front and rear ends, headlights, taillights and wheels. My Limited model had leather seats, navigation, a nine-speaker Infinity sound system, heated front and rear seats and a massive panoramic sunroof. The only aspect of the Sonata Hybrid's interior that did not impress was the infotainment system's subpar graphics. Hybrid functions and monitoring displays are located in several different places throughout the hierarchy of screens, and the ones that are available look extremely dated and offer limited information. This is an area that can easily be updated to look better, yet looks nearly a decade behind the times in its sophistication.
Pricing is still reasonable for the Sonata Hybrid as well, starting at $26,445 (including $795 delivery fee) for the base Hybrid and climbing to $31,345 for the Hybrid Limited. The only option is a $1,000 panoramic sunroof on the Limited model. The Camry Hybrid LE starts at $26,935 (including $795 destination fee), jumping to $28,465 for the more luxurious XLE. The XLE price does not include a leather interior ($1,185) or integrated back-up camera and alarm ($695), bringing a comparably equipped XLE to $30,345. The Ford Fusion Hybrid is more expensive, starting at $27,995 (including $795 shipping) for an SE trim model and jumping to $32,895 for the Titanium. Load it up with comparable technology goodies and a moonroof, however, and the Fusion Hybrid Titanium can easily top $36,890.
Hyundai's updated Sonata Hybrid removes all the complaints many had about the operation of the old model, displaying a welcome refinement that further demonstrates the company's ability to do something that previously the Japanese had been known for: continuous improvement.
source

Saturday, March 30, 2013

Hyundai to Launch a Compact SUV, MPV and a new Hatchback: Official

In an earlier report published on CarDekho, we talked about Hyundai's plans of launching a new hatchback to rival Maruti Suzuki Swift. The said hatchback will sit between the company's flagship hatches i10 and the i20, taking the total no. of hatchbacks to five. Now a report published today on ET confirms the same, it also reveals that there will be "a slew of products for the Indian market , including a compact SUV, an MPV as well". This has been confirmed by none another than Hyundai's CEO and MD, BO Shin Seo.

Hyundai Compact SUV
Image used for represenation purpose only


Seo also said that the company's focus will be on diesel engines, the company has recently made investments in diesel engine capacity. Speaking to TOI, Seo said that "the HMI will launch a small SUV soon The SUV will COME earlier, followed by an MPV ".

Hyundai's arch rival Maruti Suzuki India has already launched the Ertiga MPV, while it still doesn't have anything in the growing compact SUV/MPV segment. On the other hand, the newly launched Renault Duster has already been doing superb in terms of sales, Ford is ready with its compact Crossover, the EcoSport and Chevrolet Enjoy MPV will be here anytime soon. So, it has become more a necessity now for Hyundai India to launch a good product to earn the market share in this space.

Hyundai India is keeping its focus on diesel run cars, diesel vehicles accounted for 28% of the company's total sales. "We have invested $ 300 million in a new diesel gasoline flexible plant which has a 3,00,000-unit capacity. The flexi assembly line future-proofs us from any changes in the government's fuel POLICY, the while at the same time it Protects us from currency fluctuation since we no longer import diesel engines, "he said.

The company is also working on the next-generation i10, which will house the company's newly developed 1.1-litre diesel engine, while the petrol version will continue to derive its power from the existing 1.2-litre Kappa2 motor. The aforementioned 1.1-litre diesel engine is the company's smallest engine right now, which might also power the new compact car we mentioned above.

Speaking about the new compact car, Seo says "between the i10 and i20. It will create a completely new segment and will have better pick -up and performance than the i10 segment ". Denying that Hyundai will get into sub-Eon segment, he said, "Our Brand POSITIONING is On all about modern premium, so we will not go below the Eon, "said Seo.

Stay tuned to CarDekho for all the latest updates on upcoming Hyundai cars, Cheers!
source

Friday, March 29, 2013

Hyundai Equus: A Few Rungs Up the Social Ladder

By LAWRENCE ULRICH
Introduced on Wednesday, March 27, 2013: 2014 Hyundai Equus
2013 New York Auto Show

What is it? A refreshed version of perhaps the biggest social climber in luxury cars, Hyundai’s roughly $60,000, full-size sedan.

Is it real? Dismissed by some critics as a poseur, the Equus has established a modest toehold in a class dominated by far pricier models from Mercedes, BMW, Lexus and Audi.

What they said: John Krafcik, chief executive of Hyundai Motor America, said the Equus led every car in the industry – luxury or mainstream — in J.D. Power’s most recent customer satisfaction survey. Customer service has been an Equus hallmark, including free iPads and owner perks; dealers pick up cars from owners’ homes and return them following service visits.

What they didn’t say: How quickly Hyundai can advance the Equus from its generic large-car styling to something resembling its well-received HCD-14 Genesis concept car.

What makes it tick? The formidable 5-liter, direct-injection V-8 with 429 horsepower and 8-speed automatic transmission carry-over from last year’s model. The air suspension is retuned, hopefully lending the Equus the sophisticated dynamics it currently lacks. But the Equus is noticeably gussied-up inside, with more convincing wood, aluminum, leather, display screens and features.

How much? How soon? The reworked Equus goes on sale in May, for roughly $57,000 to start.

How’s it look? No threat to design leaders like the Audi A8 or Jaguar XJ. But the Equus is more convincingly deluxe, especially inside, where it looks more Lexus, less Buick.













Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Nolan Gould Of ABC's Modern Family Joins Hyundai Hope On Wheels In New York To Help Kids Fight Cancer


Mar 27, 2013 10:00 AM EDT
NEW YORK, March 27, 2013 /3BL Media/ PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Hope On Wheels®, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping kids fight cancer, today announced that Nolan Gould, star of the Emmy Award-winning comedy series Modern Family, will join the organization for its 2013 launch activities in New York City. Yesterday at the NASDAQ MarketSite in Times Square, Nolan Gould was on hand as Hyundai Motor America and its dealers rang the Closing Bell to commemorate their 15th year in the fight against pediatric cancer through Hyundai Hope On Wheels.

Photo
Logo

"Being in New York with Hope On Wheels, I'm learning firsthand the immense impact cancer has on thousands of kids throughout the country," said Nolan Gould. "I believe us kids coming together to help other kids can send a powerful message and bring greater awareness to this important cause. I congratulate Hope On Wheels on its 15th year in this fight and encourage everyone to give hope a hand."

To increase public awareness for childhood cancer, Hyundai Hope On Wheels has launched a new social media campaign called, "Give Hope A Hand." Throughout the year, supporters are invited to join the cause by snapping a photo of their hand and sharing it on social media outlets. Visit www.HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org/hope to find out more.

"We congratulate Nolan for participating in the Hyundai Hope On Wheels program launch this week," said Zafar Brooks, Program Director, Hyundai Hope On Wheels. "His celebrity status and willingness to be involved with such a worthwhile cause will no doubt help boost awareness for the program. We appreciate his support."

Hyundai Hope On Wheels will surpass $72 million in donations in pursuit of a cure since its inception in 1998. Hope On Wheels will officially launch its 2013 grant program during a special press conference on Thursday, March 28 at the New York International Auto Show. Nolan Gould will participate in the press conference and will also visit Columbia University Medical Center with Hope On Wheels to meet children battling cancer.
For more information about Hyundai Hope On Wheels, please visit www.HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org.
You can also join us on Facebook and Twitter, by visiting facebook.com/HyundaiHopeOnWheels or twitter.com/HopeOnWheels.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA
Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Costa Mesa, 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 820 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle warranty, Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and five years of complimentary Roadside Assistance.

HYUNDAI HOPE ON WHEELS
Hyundai Hope On Wheels® is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is committed to finding a cure for childhood cancer. Launched in 1998, Hyundai Hope On Wheels provides grants to eligible institutions nationwide that are pursuing life-saving research and innovative treatments for the disease. Primary funding for Hyundai Hope On Wheels comes from Hyundai Motor America and its more than 800 U.S. dealers. At the end of its 15th year, Hyundai Hope On Wheels will have awarded more than $72 million towards childhood cancer research in pursuit of a cure.
Copyright 2012 PR Newswire.  All Rights Reserved

Monday, March 11, 2013

Dealership News!

Check us out on Facebook and YouTube. Our Holyoke dealership currently has 1,294 friends and our Enfield dealership has 552 friends. Join us and out and find out if our friends are also your friends.
Our Facebook pages are a place where we get to communicate with our
customers. We get to show what we are doing in our dealerships in real time. It gives
customers the opportunity to also communicate with us and share things that
they might have not otherwise share. With our Facebook pages, we are always
giving away prizes. It’s fun and helps us as a company to be with the Social Media movement.

Our Enfield store is starting a YouTube channel. We will be adding a new video every week, so don’t miss out.
Click on the links below and begin connecting with us now!
www.facebook.com/garyromehyundai
www.facebook.com/garyromekia
www.youtube.com/garyromekia

Friday, March 08, 2013

Future Cars: Hyundai's All-New 2014 Genesis Sedan Comes into Focus

Now, when someone asks what type of car you drive, and you answer with 'Genesis', more often than not, you'll receive a puzzling blank stare. However, one need not to be offended; Hyundai'sentrant into the luxury car segment is still a relatively new player.

Revealed at the 2008 North American International Auto Show, it was Hyundai's interpretation of a luxury sedan to compete with the Euros. While sales of the first generation haven't exactly taken the world by storm, those enthusiastic boffins from South Korea are not waving the white flag just yet.

In fact, they're so intent on making inroads on the luxury sedan market that they're having a second attempt, with the reveal expected either later this year or early 2014. While the current Genesis Sedan has a reasonable amount of kit for the dollar, it struggles to exude a visual statement compared to its direct competitors.

Hyundai's next installment hope's to change that; so based on actual spy-shots depicting the real thing, we at Carscoops are providing an illustrated glimpse of how things have improved.

The Peter Schreyer-led team has translated a fair chunk of aesthetic punch from the HCD-14 Concept car that debuted at this year's Detroit motor show, and infused it into the bodywork of the next Genesis.
Hyundai's Fluidic Sculpture design language is complemented with smooth surfacing and shorter overhangs; while the long powerful hood and imposing 'Bentley-like' grill conceal what is expected to be either a 3.8L V6 or a 5.0L V8. Mated to an eight speed transmission (with a 10-speed unit to be introduced later on), the Genesis is also expected to offer both rear wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations for those who live amongst the more slippery geography.

Detailed visual highlights start with the LED head and taillights; tackling Audi where so much design emphasis has been placed in the recent past, and strategic placing of chrome-work.
Even the shut-lines have been carefully thought out with fluidic intersecting joins at the base of the windscreen and rear bumper. Whilst the greenhouse could have been transferred from the latest Toyota Avalon or Chevrolet Impala, a prominent shoulder crease runs the length of the car linking head and taillights together in a broad sweep.
Compared with the likes of Jaguar XF, Mercedes E-Class, and BMW 5-Series, the next Genesis appears to be a strong contender. However, does it go far enough? One cannot help wonder if staying closer to the HCD-14 Concept in design would have yielded a greater statement. Tell us what you think in the comments below.

By Josh Byrnes

Monday, February 25, 2013

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA SELLS ITS FIRST SPECIAL EDITION VELOSTER RE:MIX MODEL


Hyundai’s Innovative 3-door Sport Coupe Now Available in a Uniquely Aggressive Sporty Variant with Premium Features and a 450-watt Dimension® Audio System


COSTA MESA, Calif., Feb. 22, 2013 – Hyundai Motor America recently delivered the first of its new Veloster RE:MIX limited edition models to its excited new owner at Sterling McCall Hyundai in Houston, Texas. Hyundai began selling its special edition production Veloster in mid-February alongside a comprehensive offering of stylish, well-equipped and efficient sedans, coupes and crossovers, including the all-new 2013 Santa Fe SUV and the stylish and fun-to-drive 2013 Elantra GT.

Inspired by Hyundai’s successful RE:MIX Lab program, Hyundai first introduced the special edition RE:MIX production Veloster to consumers at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show at Las Vegas in November 2012. This limited edition production Veloster features an aggressive sporty exterior with a unique body kit, 18-inch dark gunmetal-finish alloy wheels, LED headlight accents and taillights, and unique RE:MIX badging. The interior is enhanced with a 450-watt premium Dimension audio system, push-button start with proximity key, leather steering wheel and shift knob, unique interior light kit and RE:MIX floormats.

This Veloster is a turn-key production offering with an aggressive demeanor, specifically for enthusiasts. Truly a “Re-Mix,” this Veloster is a cool blend of exclusive features and options that synthesize to create a distinctive lifestyle offering from Hyundai. In addition to the exclusive Sprint Gray exterior color, a simplified color palate of five additional Veloster colors will be available: Century White, 26.2 Yellow, Marathon Blue, Ultra Black and Boston Red. The Veloster RE:MIX starts at $20,845 for the manual transmission model (including a $795 freight charge).

“The Veloster RE:MIX represents the ultimate Hyundai lifestyle coupe in terms of style, design and performance,” said Sales Manager, Sterling McCall Hyundai. “Many Hyundai customers today are looking for individual design expression, exclusivity and smartphone connectivity. Veloster RE:MIX delivers a truly unique sporty appearance, premium branded audio and abundant tech features.”

Hyundai’s Veloster is an innovative compact coupe that features ground-breaking design, with a unique curbside third door for easy rear-seat access, Hyundai’s Blue Link® telematics system, Pandora® internet radio with seven-inch touch-screen display and a new 1.6-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine. Veloster continues to attract Hyundai’s next generation of buyers, earning numerous accolades including Bloomberg’s “Best Economy Car,” one of Kelley Blue Book’s “10 Coolest New Cars under $18,000” and Autobytel’s Car of the Year for 2012.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA
Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Costa Mesa, 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 820 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle warranty, Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and five years of complimentary Roadside Assistance.

For more details on Hyundai Assurance, please visit www.HyundaiAssurance.com
Please visit our media website at www.hyundainews.com and our blog at www.hyundailikesunday.com
Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook

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