Here's Hyundai's take on what the Govt can do for the Auto Sector

What is the industry sentiment for Budget 2016?

Passenger vehicles have shown a positive trajectory with volume growth of 8.5% for the calendar year 2015. This growth was generated on improving fundamentals of GDP growth, reduction of interest rates and controlled fuel prices. The improved customer sentiments propel customer purchase for new vehicles. Challenges were that rural India saw drop in demand with average monsoons and drop in purchasing power.
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Industry sentiment is of cautious optimism with many product launches planned for the year as showcased in Auto Expo 2016. Hyundai has led the market with double the industry growth at 15.75% and we are optimistic of our leadership position with sustained growth in volume targets 500,000 by launching two new products this year including a new Compact SUV, Hyundai Tucson and maximizing the Modern Premium expression for customers along with the three Indian Car of the Year brands- Creta, Elite i20 and Grand i10.

Expectations from Union Budget 2016?

· We expect the government will initiate policy measures to further investments which will create employment and sustain the positive GDP growth above 7%.

· Relaxation on indirect taxes to drive in increased conversions through result in a higher disposable income amongst consumers.

· We expect the government to consider Vehicle Scrappage Policy for older vehicles which are low on fuel efficiency and high on emissions.

· A uniform GST policy will provide a uniform tax regime and boost the business environment.

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2016 Hyundai Veloster Turbo Review: A Good Car for a Great Price

I really thought I would hate this car. Considering its strange styling, significant blind spots, minimal creature comforts, the lack of all-wheel drive, and that it doesn’t offer more power over the regular turbo Veloster, nor any adjustable drive modes or adaptive suspension settings, things weren’t shaping up well for the Hyundai Veloster. But after looking at the sticker price and realizing that it costs just $23,950, I gave the little blue Smurf a break and reconsidered what Hyundai was going for with this one.

The Rally Edition Veloster is a quirky little rocket ship that’s more akin to something Spaceman Spiff or Invader Zim would drive instead of a young auto enthusiast who wants something flashy. This car is almost alien in certain ways while being completely down to earth in others. After a solid week of driving it, I began to see where Hyundai was coming from in unloading it on the market.

This, my friends, is a test mule. A canary in the coal mine, trumpeting its exhaust as it offers itself up as a science project for its Korean overlords. Hyundai hasn’t built the Rally Edition you see here as a permanent fixture. Instead, it has a long-term performance plan in place for this little hellion, and we just gained access to the beta version.

Hyundai hasn’t had the time to build illustrious racing careers like Honda and Ford have, and because of this the Korean automaker is just now getting around to playing with the idea of a hot hatch. Sure, it’s by no means a Focus RS or Civic Type R fighter, but it certainly shows promise.

Many don’t know this, but Hyundai has made the Nürburgring race track in Germany its second home, all in the hopes of forging its own versions of what a racing pedigree should look like. This certainly isn’t an inexpensive undertaking, nor an overly safe one, so it makes sense why Hyundai has played it on the safe side with its first swing at making a more hardcore Veloster. So who knows, with a little luck the Veloster could one day morph into something so sinister that it gives both Honda and Ford nightmares. But for now we have to work with what we’ve got, so let’s go rallying in what the melting snow has left behind.

Exterior

If the funky external attributes of a Veloster haven’t caught your attention already, maybe this matte blue version will. I’ve heard this car get referred to as everything from a “design disaster” to a “cool custom,” and while it certainly isn’t an all-appealing platform, you have to give Hyundai kudos for having the balls to stand out from the herd.

The Rally Edition is a pretty in-your-face kind of car because if its paint job doesn’t grab your eye, the forged RAYS wheels, jutting aero, and center-cut dual exhaust will. It’s the kind of car that aesthetically grows on you over time or becomes completely repulsive, and as a fan of hatchbacks, I found myself enjoying the Rally Edition of the Veloster more than expected.

Exterior pros and cons

+ I dig the aerodynamic add-ons the Rally Edition rocks. While it does lose some cool points for going with a faux carbon look, the ground effects are proportionally balanced without being gaudy.

+ That centrally mounted dual exhaust and diffuser out back are damn near perfect. Aesthetically, this part may be the Rally Edition’s greatest strength outside of its LED taillights.

+ Those 18-inch forged multi-spoke RAYS wheels are a nice addition, as they offer just the right lightweight blend of durability and style.

– I am not the biggest fan of the front grille on the Veloster. From the blocky license plate mounting point to the Hyundai badge not being relocated, this grille looks odd with anything attached to it.

– If this is a bonafide Rally Edition, where are the functional hood vents and larger rear wing?

– While this is a stripped down vehicle, it would be nice to see some illuminated power-folding mirrors similar to what we found on the Kia Forte5 SX. I promise they don’t weigh much more.

Powertrain

This is where you would expect the green flag to fly, and the little Rally Edition Veloster to rocket off into the sunset, which it certainly does … to an extent. Hyundai has taken the stock turbo 1.6-liter motor and beefed it up with little more than a B&M Racing short shifter, but then called it a day.

While the slightly less spacious throws offer a more rewarding drive, I still found myself contemplating why Hyundai hadn’t at least opted to put a sportier exhaust or air intake on this thing. Sure, it gets around just fine since it weighs less than 3,000 pounds, and the twin-scroll turbo is peppy enough toward the middle of the powerband, but it still feels bottlenecked. Who knows, maybe Hyundai will one day turn up the dial by plopping a retuned 2.0-liter turbo from the Sonata Sport into one.

Powertrain pros and cons

+ The B&M Racing short shifter is a nice upgrade, and while gearing in the rally Edition still isn’t mind-blowing, it did make for a more enjoyable drive.

+ Having a twin-scroll turbo has its merits, even when untouched by tuning. Engine response times are snappy, turbo lag is apparent but not prevalent, and it makes a pretty nice noise at virtually any speed.

+ While all-wheel drive and some different tires would have been great considering the amount of snow, ice, mud, and gravel I encountered in this thing, the Veloster’s traction control and Torque Vectoring Control (TVC) systems worked well.

– It would be nice to see a bit more than just a short shifter on what’s purveyed as a performance model. It’s a fun little car to drive, but the Veloster would be more enjoyable with a more free-flowing exhaust, an ECU reflash, and a performance air intake.

– I expected to find some sort of Sport Mode switch in this thing, but nope, nothing.

– Since Hyundai played it safe with this first stab, the 2.0-liter turbo motor out of the Sonata never made it into the engine bay. Having driven and reviewed the 2.0T Sonata Sport, there would be a sizable bump in performance if space constraints, price, transmission gearing, or any combination of the three can be overcome.

Interior

The cockpit of the Rally Edition is just as carved, blue, and space-age as its exterior, and while all of the leather accents, “TURBO” stitching, and trim work aren’t exactly my cup of soju, I can see how it appeals to certain demographics.

Unfortunately, much like its exterior, the Rally Edition’s cabin left me a bit muddled over whether I liked it or not. It is without doubt a driver’s car. The shift knob is the perfect size, height, and weight, the pedals are aluminum and silicon-rich and super grippy, and the steering wheel is leather-bound and thicker than expected. It also has surprisingly vast head and leg room up front, and the large door windows offer a bump in visibility.

Interior pros and cons

+ In regards to sheer driving joy (which is why you buy these things anyways), the Rally Edition Veloster shines. It has a driver-focused feel to it that encourages confidence, and things like the shifter, pedals, and fat steering wheel add to the bottom line.

+ The Veloster sport seats are nicely proportioned, and are actually are pretty comfy. Also, having that third “hidden door” on the passenger’s side really makes a huge difference when getting in and out of the backseat.

+ I like the center stack on the Veloster. It’s this alien-like V-shaped control panel, and much like the trunk space in this car (which is full of cubbies and is nicely sized), the central dash area is simple yet entirely functional.

– While the pockets and cubbies in this car are abundant, many are awkwardly sized. I even ran into issues fitting a small water canteen into the driver door pocket.

– Squeaks, groans, and rattles galore. Certain parts of this interior seemed pretty loosely joined together, and even on smooth asphalt it tended to make noise.

– The shift knob spins freely (something that drives me nuts), and if you twist it too much you stand a good chance of binding the lock ring for entering reverse.

Tech and safety

When you first get in the Rally Edition Veloster, you’ll likely say, “Tech? What tech?”

You see, this is a very bare-bones kind of car, so you shouldn’t expect things like accident mitigation systems, heated seats, or blind spot monitoring. Nevertheless, there were a few neat tech features in this car that warrant mentioning, as does the surprising safety rating the government gave the Veloster.

Tech pros and cons

+ A five star overall rating and an IIHS rating prove that those race seats aren’t just for show and actually save lives.

+ While thrashing on the throttle certainly is a lot of fun, for daily driving purposes Hyundai has hooked the Veloster up with a standard 7-inch touchscreen that doubles as a back-up camera. It also comes with a 50-day SiriusXM trial and “Blue Max” driving challenges, where you have a timed gauge that registers your efficiency and awards points.

+ The 450-watt Dimension external amp, sub, and speaker combo in this car are pretty nice considering they come standard, as do things like remote keyless entry and Bluetooth.

– This car doesn’t have a lot of creature comforts, so don’t expect a push-button start, heated mirrors, or an adjustable Multi Information display (MID).

– While accident mitigation and adaptive cruise control are not very “rally,” it would be nice to at least see something like blind spot warnings or cross traffic alert on all versions of the Veloster.

– The car I got didn’t come with Hyundai’s tech package option, which would have given me a navi system, auto temp controls, auto headlights, rear parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. Some buyers don’t want or need all of these things, which means that the additional $2,700 might be a bit much.

The drive

After driving the Rally Edition Veloster for several days, I realized that rolling around in one is like eating a gallon of fat-free ice cream. You’re getting a lot for the money and are saving weight, but it’s also not as full-flavored or fulfilling as you want it to be.

This car zips around powered by a ho-hum 1.6-liter turbo engine that dishes out small servings of turbo lag down low, and although the suspension is stiffer than any other model, the Rally Edition still manages to feel a bit too soft in the corners. The brakes are good but not great, the clutch and B&M short shifter are engaging but not ideal due to the gearing being so widespread, and even though side visibility is solid due to those large windows, blind spots in the Veloster are memorable.

Also, the Kumho Solus TA31 tires that came on it are geared more toward comfort, quiet, and longevity, so expect the factory rubber to help your case. Steering inputs felt a bit disconnected, and couple all that with a creaking interior and the aforementioned tech issues, and you have a car that certainly is fun to drive, but not on a daily basis when compared to its competition.

Wrap up and review

The Rally Edition Veloster is a guinea pig project for Hyundai, and one that certainly shows promise. Hyundai has a lot of the right ideas and designs in place, but unfortunately they are not all being executed to their full potential.

It will be interesting to see how the Korean automaker tweaks the Veloster in upcoming years, and whether the Rally Edition will one day live up to its true potential as a hot hatch. It would be fantastic to see this version get re-tuned at the Nürburgring and re-emerge sporting things like adaptive suspension, a tuned 2.0-liter turbo motor, bigger brakes, multiple drive modes, and maybe even all-wheel drive. Sure, corners will have to be cut in certain areas, and prices will surely rise, but if Hyundai genuinely wants to compete in this increasingly competitive segment it has to go all-in. Otherwise, it’s just spinning its wheels.

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Hyundai Ioniq EV Will Offer 155 Miles of Range; 32 Miles for Plug-in Hybrid

Details are beginning to emerge regarding Hyundai's plans for a new dedicated plug-in hybrid and electric vehicle. The so-called Ioniq was announced late last year as the first nameplate to offer a choice of hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric powertrains. The conventional hybrid variant is slated for release this fall, with the remaining electric options expected to arrive as early as the end of 2016.

Hyundai said it plans to offer 22 green cars by 2020—including a dozen hybrids, six plug-in hybrids and two pure electric vehicles. Three of them will be badged as Ioniq.

According to a report by AutoCar, Hyundai estimates the Ioniq EV will offer a driving range of about 155 miles. The Ioniq plug-in hybrid is expected to have an all-electric range of 32 miles. Pricing and other key metrics are still unknown. Hyundai is claiming the conventional hybrid version of the Ioniq will be both the best-driving and most efficient no-plug gas-electric model.

The Ioniq EV’s 155-mile range would beat the 2016 Nissan LEAF by nearly 50 miles. It won’t match the Chevy Bolt’s 200-mile range, but the Ioniq will be a compact—compared to the smaller Bolt subcompact. The plug-in hybrid variant of the Ioniq, with 32 miles of all-electric range, will lag behind the Chevy Volt’s 53 miles. With pricing not yet announced, it’s too early to know how the two plug-in hybrid models will stack up on value.

The Ioniq will not be available in conventional gas-only form. Packaging three electric-powertrain versions into a single nameplate reveals the increasing importance of platforms that can accommodate all types of battery-based powertrains. By developing the three Ioniq models—hybrid, plug-in hybrid and EV—for the same vehicle, Hyundai will likely save hundreds of millions of dollars. Moreover, the Ioniq will join the Prius, LEAF and Volt as green-oriented models that are clearly distinguished from other models offered by full-line mainstream automakers.

Whether or not the Ioniq brand will be a success—especially in a time of low gas prices—remains to be seen. Production numbers are a key question (revealing if Hyundai wants to be a legitimate player in the plug-in market or if its plug-in models are mostly designed to comply with government mandates). From what we know so far, in terms of all-electric range and overall fuel economy, it appears that Ioniq will earn some consideration from eco-conscious consumers.

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200 HP Hyundai Elantra Sport Arriving Later This Year

Hyundai will unveil its rival to the Honda Civic Si at this year's SEMA Show, in the form of the Elantra Sport.

Based on the recently updated sedan, the Elantra Sport will arrive as a 2017 model later this year and be powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.

All up, Edmunds suggests it'll pump out 200 hp, a full 53 hp more than the 2.0-liter of the entry-level Elantra musters up.

Beyond the boost in power, the Sport variant is expected to receive a set of 18-inch wheels, retuned front and rear suspension and beefed up brakes.

Discussing the car, Hyundai Motor America chief executive Dave Zuchowski said: “We have not really had a (Honda Civic) Si type of product before. We have had Sport models among the Elantras, but this is a completely different vehicle."

Brandon Ramirez, the company's manager of product planning, added that the Hyundai Elantra Sport will receive some unique styling touches to distinguish it from lesser variants.

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2016 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid Review

2016 to be 'biggest, most robust' year in car sales in 20 years

With gas prices dipping below the  $2.00 a gallon benchmark and customers looking to upgrade their automotive technology, car dealers are revving up for a banner year in 2016.

"2015 was an excellent, excellent year", said Edward S. O'Grady, sales manager for Central Chevrolet in West Springfield, pointing out that the dealership was up 23% in sales over 2014. He projects that because of the Chevrolet products and new options on the vehicles that 2016 will be "even bigger than 2015"

Several Chevrolet models have been redesigned including the 2016 Cruze, Volt, Silverado, Malibu, and Camaro. Body styles have been refreshed, new safety devices added (like lane departure warnings and lane-catering technology) and "infotainment" upgraded to allow increased hands-free cell phone use.

An OnStar remote link cell phone app allows users to unlock, lock and remotely start their vehicle from wherever they are. This feature is "even more refined now and more common," O'Grady said.

Gary Rome, president and CEO of Gary Rome Auto Group, is looking forward to 2016 being the "biggest and most robust year we've had in the past 20 years" because of a "pent-up demand" with people looking for new models that are greener and more fuel efficient.

Popular models are CUVs, small sport utility vehicles. The Hyundai Tucson and the Kia Sportage are "very, very hot", Rome said, explaining that many vehicle buyers like the utility vehicles because the "ride like a car" but have more room and get good gas mileage.

All vehicles now come with some popular options like interactive cruise control that automatically slows the vehicle down in cruise control mode if the vehicle in front slows down and then accelerates accordingly. Other options like lane departure warnings are also available on some models.

To work with the latest communications technology, vehicles have a larger display screen to work with Apple or Android devices, the smaller screens of which can be viewed on the larger car screen.

"Car manufacturers have to come up with the next best thing to convince people to buy their cars," said Rome, who sold his first car when he was 16. He sees more hybrids, more electric hybrids and more "trendy, dynamic stylish models" in the offing, "not as many plain, vanilla cars."

Dana A. Calderone, marketing assistant for Lia Auto Group, which includes 18 dealerships in Massachusetts, CT and NY said vehicles are now "techy," with certain models equipped with features that allow the cars to parallel  park or give a swivel back-up view. "A lot of people want to make their lives easier, especially if they are not good at backing up," she said. Such features "make it easier for them to get around in those vehicles."

Last year was a "very good year" and included the opening of a Nissan dealership in Glens Falls, New York, and 2016 looks good for Lia, Caldrone said, with many new models like the Nissan Titan XD and Honda's new Pilot and Civic models.

Rome said the industry-wide estimate is that 17.7 million new cars and trucks will be sold in 2016; more than 15 million in 2015.

"You're going to see more customers drawn to dealerships that can provide them with an atmosphere that is convenient and compliant with their needs," Rome said, giving as example not only loaner cars but facilities that offer customers a place to get work done or a quiet space, food and amenities to make their stay at the dealership more comfortable and even shuttles to shopping malls. "People are busy, and their time is important to them," he said.

Source: The Republican, Powering Masslive.com

Hyundai Motor’s Genesis G90 to land Q3 2016 in the US

South Korea’s auto giant Hyundai Motor Co. is expected to roll out the G90 and G80 sedans under its new stand alone luxury brand Genesis in the United States in the third quarter with hopes to sell a total 30,000 units of its premium sedans in the world’s second largest auto market this year.

According to local industry sources on Friday, Hyundai Motor is expected to introduce its upscale Genesis models, the G80 that will be renamed from the current Genesis DH and the G90 sold in Korea as the EQ900, in the U.S. market in the third quarter this year.

Hyundai Motor expects the Genesis G90 that was well received by Korean drivers to capture the hearts of American consumers, too. The carmaker has received cumulative orders of about 20,000 units of the G90 at home since its launch under the separate upmarket Genesis brand two months ago for the first time. The company recently agreed with its labor union to double annual production of the model to 32,000 vehicles from 16,000.

Hyundai Motor Vice Chairman Chung Euisun unveiled the G90 to American consumers at the 2016 Northern American International Auto Show dubbed Detroit Motor Show held in the U.S last month.

Hyundai Motor hopes to sell total 30,000 units of Genesis vehicles including 5,000 units of the G90 in the world’s second largest auto market in 2016. It delivered 24,917 units of the Genesis DH in the U.S. market last year, a 30.2 percent gain year-over-year recording the all-time high sales for Genesis vehicles in the U.S. market where the first generation of Genesis models landed in 2008. It ranked third in the mid-luxury sedan class following Mercedes-Benz E Class and BMW 5 Series.

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Winter hasn't ended yet, here are some tips on how to stay safe on hazardess roads.

It isn't bigger, but it has grown up: Introducing the all-new 2017 Hyundai Elantra

When you think of the major players in the compact-car category, the Elantra stands tall alongside the Honda Civic, Chevrolet Cruze, Toyota Corolla and Ford Focus.

How it reached this level is a testament to Hyundai’s spare-no-effort approach to designing and building a vehicle that is larger than it looks, provides more creature comforts than you would expect and offers plenty of driving enjoyment.

Hyundai has also proven that it’s fearless when it comes to re-engineering one of its top sellers. With each successive Elantra, the automaker has carried over little if anything from previous iterations and that certainly goes for the sixth-generation model that’s now on sale.

Although the car’s key dimensions have changed little from the previous model, the sheetmetal is quite different. The prominent hexagonal grille follows the same pattern as the mid-size Sonata, while the doors, fenders and rear deck are more subtly shaped. The Elantra’s newfound conservatism is in stark contrast to the past design brashness. It’s as if the car is aging at least as gracefully as its customer base.

There’s certainly nothing old about the Elantra’s interior that eschews the exaggerated dashboard for a more straightforward and grownup appearance. It’s an effect that Toyota uses to its advantage and one that Hyundai seems to be emulating. For passengers, a reshaping of the seats has yielded a bit more cabin space, although the new-for-2016 Honda Civic reigns supreme in this regard while the Toyota Corolla and Mazda3 also provide greater personal room.

A redesign of the Elantra’s platform has led to a stronger and stiffer body structure. It’s also lighter and, along with an all-new rear suspension, is designed to deliver a better driving experience plus added comfort and quietness for passengers.

The new Elantra brings with it a choice of two new engines that stress fuel economy over raw performance. The new base unit is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that puts out 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. This replaces the 145-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder. The 2.0 can be connected to a six-speed manual transmission (but only on the base model), or an available six-speed automatic.

Optional — and available a few months after launch — is a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder that makes just 128 horsepower, but spools out 156 pound-feet of torque. This powerplant is exclusive to the Elantra Eco and comes only with a seven-speed automatic transmission.

The Turbo delivers the most torque and, with a little help from the transmission, also consumes the least amount of fuel. It’s rated at 35 mpg in combined city/highway driving, compared to 33 for the non-turbo 2.0. Those numbers aren’t tops in class, but they are competitive.

With either powerplant, you can get Hyundai’s Drive Mode Select that has Eco, Normal and Sport settings.

Elantra base pricing is pretty much unchanged from before and starts at $18,000, including destination charges. For that you get the SE model equipped with air conditioning plus the usual number of basic accessories.

For about $5,000 extra, the Limited has dual-zone climate control, leather seats (heated in front), seven-inch touch-screen, 3.5-inch driver information display and 17-inch alloy wheels (15-inch steel wheels are standard).

That still leaves plenty of room for options, including a power sunroof, navigation system, heated rear seats, eight-speaker Infinity-brand audio system, proximity automatic trunk opening (it unlatches when standing close with the fob in your pocket), push-button start plus many high-tech safety features that have trickled down from more luxurious cars. Note that the Eco trim’s standard and optional content isn’t known yet, but will likely approximate that of the Limited.

The new Elantra might appear more buttoned-down than before, but it’s consistent with the kind of quality image that other modestly priced vehicles are projecting.

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What does that light mean?

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Hyundai Appoints Erwin Raphael to Lead Genesis Brand

Hyundai has appointed Erwin Raphael to lead the Genesis brand in the U.S. Raphael, who joined Hyundai Motor America in 2010, will form a team of executives to assist in the U.S. launch of Genesis.

Prior to his new appointment, Raphael oversaw operations in more than 165 Hyundai dealerships in 12 Western states. He also served as Hyundai’s Director of Engineering and Quality, where he led in the engineering of new vehicles, quality improvement, technical training and support, and warranty planning. Throughout his 25-year career in the auto industry, he has also worked for Chrysler LLC and Toyota Motor Manufacturing.

Raphael assumes his new position March 1 and will report to Hyundai Motor America CEO Dave Zuchowski. He will be tasked with creating a strategic direction for Genesis and leading management for the Genesis brand in the U.S.

Genesis has set ambitious goals for the near future. It will bring out its flagship sedan, the 2017 Genesis G90, later this year. After that car, Genesis will roll out the G80 as a replacement to the current Genesis sedan as well as the G70, an entry-level luxury sedan to compete with the BMW 3 Series. In total, Genesis wants to launch six new vehicles by 2020.

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The Hyundai i20 Active is no brainer as everyone is buying crossovers

The person at Hyundai who came up with the idea of the i20 Active only deserves an extra Custard Cream with his coffee, but certainly not an all expenses paid holiday on the Isle of Wight.

Why? Because for the Korean firm to build this car was a no-brainer. Everyone is buying crossovers, whether they’re £30k Audis or £13k Renaults.

Hyundai is doing very well with its new Tucson but could really do with a car that sits underneath that in the price range.

There’s meant to be such a car on the way but there’s no sign of it yet. What to do in the meantime? Jack the i20 up on its suspension by 20mm and add a body kit that makes it look a bit more macho. Or in car marketing speak, turn it into a car for people who have an active lifestyle.

The result is not unappealing. It looks more distinctive than the ordinary i20 – which is an attractive looking car anyway – with its up-on-tiptoes stance, black cladding around the wheelarches and rubbing strips above the sills. All really for show, but the extra ride height will make going up farm tracks slightly easier.

We’re testing the i20 Active 1.0 T-GDI, priced at £15,225 on the road or £15,775 if you go for the optional Pearl paint finish. This model is fitted with Hyundai’s (shared with Kia) all new 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine.

It’s available with two power outputs: 100bhp, which our test car is fitted with, and 120bhp. The former comes attached to a five-speed manual gearbox and the latter a six-speeder. We also drove an i20 Coupe with the bigger power unit.

Unlike some three-cylinder engines (Vauxhall’s for example), the Active’s isn’t fitted with balance shafts to iron out vibration. An honest Hyundai engineer at the car’s launch said that they didn’t fit them for cost reasons, but he could have got away with saying that the engine doesn’t really need them, because it doesn’t. You can certainly feel that it’s a three-cylinder but I like the uneven thrum as it adds character.

And the i20 can do with all the character it can get.

What’s really refreshing about the whole i20 range – and Hyundais in general – is the simplicity of the controls, instruments and displays. Need the USB socket? It’s right in front of you at the bottom of the center console along with two 12v sockets.

Our test car does without sat-nav and instead has Hyundai’s neat smartphone mount that slots into the top of the dashboard.

The 120bhp that we tried in the i20 Coupe certainly feels more punchy when you’re overtaking and it’s helped by sensible ratios in the six-speed gearbox. But the lower- powered version of the motor works well, too, and doesn’t feel a lot less powerful when you’re only pootling about.

Raising the i20 hatchback up 20mm to turn it into an Active has a noticeable affect on the cornering as there’s a touch more body roll and the steering feels less precise than it does in the Coupe. It’s not enough to make buying the Active an unwise choice, however.

The cosmetic add-ons simply give the i20 Active more showroom appeal and for many customers that will be enough. For others, particularly older customers, the extra height off the ground could make getting in the car easier.

The i20 Active is a handy addition to Hyundai’s catalogue, but what the company really needs is a proper crossover that costs around the same money – just take a look at rivals such as the Renault Captur and Mazda CX-3.

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Hyundai Motor to start constructing 105-story building early next year

SEOUL, Feb. 17 (Yonhap) -- Hyundai Motor Group, the world's fifth-largest automotive conglomerate, will start building a 105-story structure early next year on the land it bought from Korea Electric Power Corp. (KEPCO) last year, Seoul city officials said Wednesday.

The massive building plan was finally agreed upon between the Seoul metropolitan government and Hyundai Motor after preliminary negotiations for the past six months on the urban development plan.

The two sides had a series of meetings to review Hyundai's construction proposal and to see what impacts the building plan will have on traffic and the nearby environment.

Officials said construction will start early next year after completing all necessary permit and documentation procedures by the city administration.

Hyundai aims to finish construction by 2021.

According to the city administration, the building planned by the group will be 553 meters tall and have a floor area ratio of 799 percent. It will be made up of offices, a convention center, hotel and shopping area.

The conglomerate bought the 79,345-square-meter plot of land in southern Seoul in September of last year.

Hyundai said the convention center alone will cover 15,000 square meters of floor space.

The Seoul metropolitan government has so far called for developing the KEPCO land, along with the adjacent Convention and Exhibition Center (COEX) complex, into a new hub for the country's meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry.

City officials also said such a move is expected to create new jobs and open a business area that has not been properly exploited by the country.

Both sides also agreed that the auto group will pay 1.74 trillion won in public contribution to the city government for the business group to change the use of the land site from "residential" to "commercial," a major process needed to get the construction project off the ground.

Builders here are required to contribute a certain amount of funds to a municipal government to carry out construction in return for requesting cooperation and deregulation, a practice partly aimed at sharing development profits with the public.

Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon said the construction project will be a new model for public development participated in by Seoul citizens and experts as well as Hyundai and municipal authorities.

"The Hyundai Motor complex will become a landmark of Seoul and mecca for the MICE industry when its international exchange districts are completed," the mayor said.

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2016 Hyundai Ioniq HEV review

Hyundai's Ioniq will eventually be offered in hybrid, plug-in hybrid and pure EV forms. Here is an early Korean-spec hybrid on Seoul roads.

What is it?

This is Hyundai’s first mainstream hybrid car, which is part of Hyundai’s aim to have 22 ‘eco-friendly’ cars on sale by 2020: 12 hybrids, six plug-in hybrids, two electric vehicles and two fuel cell vehicles.

Interestingly, the Ioniq will account for three of these new models. As well as a conventional hybrid model, the car will also be sold as a plug-in hybrid and a pure EV.

The core of the Ioniq’s engineering is to keep it simple, and it’s certainly rather simpler than Toyota’s Prius. This simplicity is also intended to keep the costs down, so this hybrid should arrive in showrooms with a price that is not much more than a modern diesel car with an EU6-rated engine.

Hyundai says it also wanted to fix a couple of other issues that have been criticised on hybrids such as the Prius and Honda Insight. Most important was eliminating the droning and ‘elastic’ sense of acceleration associated with CVT hybrid transmissions. Hyundai is also trying to engender a degree of driving pleasure and to try to make the car as refined as possible.

The first money-saving move was to build the Ioniq on a modified version of the new platform underpinning the new Vauxhall Astra-sized Elantra model. As well as getting a bespoke multi-link rear axle (and having much of the suspension components made of aluminium), the rear half of the floorpan is modified to incorporate three different battery capacities.

This hybrid version gets a small 1.5kWh battery that is slotted into the same space under the rear seats as the fuel tank. The latter is squeezed down to a 45-litre capacity.

Work on refinement included upgraded insulation behind the dash and in the A and B-pillars, thicker window glass and a sound-deadening film on the windscreen.

The plug-in hybrid and EV versions of the Ioniq get progressively bigger battery packs that are squeezed under the boot floor and, in the EV, also replace the fuel tank. There’s no news on the size of these battery packs, but Hyundai is estimating an EV-only range of 32 miles for the PHEV and 155 miles for the EV.

The new hybrid transmission also has simplicity on its side. Hyundai says it is the first company to build a DSG gearbox that shifts quickly enough to be used in conjunction with a petrol engine and the electric motor. The six-speed ’box uses dry clutches, gets Sport and Eco settings and is said to be 95% efficient in transferring the engine’s power.

The petrol engine is a development of the company’s existing Kappa petrol family, which is said to be 40% thermally efficient - unusually high for a petrol motor and matching the latest Toyota petrol units for theoretical efficiency.

The exterior styling deliberately avoids Prius-like individuality. It’s quite modestly sized - not dissimilar to the Mk2 Honda Insight - and there are a few obvious ‘eco car’ markers such as the large, blank grille, sizable LED running lights and the twin-window hatchback.

The interior is similarly toned down and restrained. It’s dominated by the 7.0in dash screen and neatly aligned rows of switches for the audio, navigation and climate control systems. There’s a big, useful cubby space at the base of the centre console that has twin power sockets and an induction charging pad for mobile phones. There’s even a big slot moulded by the centre armrest for a tablet computer.

The Ioniq further advances the clever heater technology from the Kia Soul EV, offering a driver-only setting, which helps to reduce power consumption.

What's it like?

‘Effortless’ is probably the best way of describing the Ioniq. Driving it out into the Seoul morning traffic, it’s clear within the first few hundred yards that this is a car engineered for the lower speeds and heavy traffic of cities such as Tokyo and Los Angeles.

The chassis tuning - in this Korean-spec version at least - is on the pleasant side of firm. There’s a little bump-thump from the rear end at low speeds on inner-city roads, but the Ioniq is almost EV-like in its progress.

There’s no hesitation from this transmission - the company really has delivered on developing a hybrid with a sense of ‘direct drive’ - and it’s smooth and very refined in city situations, especially when the engine is in stop-start mode. The braking system also seemed a step ahead of many regenerative systems, switching smoothly between braking on the motor and braking mechanically.

On a Seoul urban motorway network with a speed limit of just 56mph, it was difficult to tell how well the Ioniq would cope with the high-speed traffic on UK motorways. But again, the DSG transmission is impressively normal in its responses to demands for acceleration, shifting quickly and locking the engine back into the front wheels without hunting.

On the run out to the hills east of Seoul, the Ioniq averaged nearly 52mpg - impressive when the engine had just 500 miles under its camshafts and the exterior temperature was -6deg. Then again, the whole journey was run at a near-ideal speed for maximum economy.

A short drive along undulating A-roads showed the car in particularly impressive form. Watching the live graphic showing how the Ioniq shuttles between using engine power, battery power and coasting (when heading downhill), revealed a transmission that’s extremely reactive and quick-thinking.

These road conditions showed that the chassis has some life and character, although it is hardly a compelling driver’s car. The steering is light but quite well judged to allow the driver to place the car accurately and the body control is nicely judged.


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Why new Hyundai Tucson is topping the sales charts in Ireland this year

Hyundai Ireland must be Tuc-ing in to the bubbly up in head office on Dublin’s Naas road if last month’s sales figures are anything to go by.

The new Hyundai Tucson, which has reverted to its former name because the Yanks didn’t like ix35, is the best-selling car here. Close to 2,800 units have shifted from dealerships around the country so far this year.

It’s not the only reason Hyundai has reason to celebrate – the company has high hopes of breaking into the top three manufacturers in 2016, knocking one of the permanent ones off their perch.

Already those signs are looking good as the company was the best-selling manufacturer in Ireland in January.

Hyundai is neck-and-neck with Toyota at the moment, and both companies are practically switching position at the top of the table on a daily basis.

The new Hyundai Tucson is leading the charge for the brand and, after a week behind the wheel of one, I can see why.

Like so many of the other car companies, especially the French ones, Hyundai is trying hard to push the brand upmarket, and I think it has done a very good job of it.

On the outside, the new Tucson looks a whole lot smarter than the outgoing iX35. The new exterior features some sharper lines and the company’s newest-generation hexagonal grille, which connects with the LED headlamps to create a distinctive face.

The new Tucson has undergone a major makeover, and the soft-touch materials used throughout the cabin certainly give it that premium feel.

The new model has also increased in size with more leg and head room, and the boot size has increased by 48 litres to 513 litres, which Hyundai claim is the biggest boot in its class.

My test car for the week was the two-wheel drive 1.7-litre Tucson Premium range model, and it’s
no wonder why it is selling like hot cakes.

The Koreans have done a brilliant job on the interior, which was rather plain in the outgoing ix35. I would recommend to upgrade to at least the mid-table Executive range where you get some extra toys like sat nav, eight-inch touch screen, rear-view camera, front-seat warmers and leather seats.

My Premium added extras like panoramic sunroof, interior electro chromatic mirror and rain-sensing wipers.

On the road, the new Tucson feels like most other crossovers to drive. The commanding view is always a winner with the school mammies and the 1.7-litre diesel is all you will ever need.

Standard equipment has increased too, which is a good call from the company considering it has the market-leading Qashqai in its sights.

The core sales will come from the 1.7-litre (115bhp) diesel engine, although there is a 2.0-litre (136bhp) diesel and 1.6-litre (132bhp) petrol on offer.

Meanwhile, there is even better news if you are in the market for a new Tucson. Hyundai Ireland is offering some great deals to entice you to trade up or trade in.

All you have to do is trade in your current car before February 29 to avail of the Hyundai 161 ‘Trade & Upgrade’ scrappage offers.

The Korean brand is offering a scrappage bonus of up to €4,000 on certain models. This offer applies to the i10, i20, ix20, i30, i40 and all-new Tucson passenger models.

On top of that, you can also avail of Hyundai’s 161 Trade & Upgrade finance offers.

With Hyundai PCP, all you have to do is start with a deposit or part-exchange your current vehicle.

Then just choose your term, for example, 36 monthly installments. At the end of your term you can then decide to walk, talk, buy or sell.

It couldn’t be easier. Call in to your local Hyundai for more information.

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Feature Focus: 2017 Hyundai Elantra’s Safety Tech

What is the 2017 Hyundai Elantra’s killer feature? It’s the suite of safety and driver assist technologies.

Having recently driven the new Elantra in San Diego earlier this month, it’s clear that Hyundai  has another winner on its hands. The car is not only good looking and well-priced, but it’s now being offered with a number of safety features that used to be reserved for higher-priced luxury cars.

First and most important is the car’s front collision warning system with pedestrian detection and automatic braking. Like other such systems, the Elantra uses a front-facing camera and radar array to detect other vehicles in front of the car. The system is so sensitive that it can even detect pedestrians. When the car detects a collision might happen, it will alert the driver with a loud warning noise and if the driver takes no action, the car will make an executive decision and hit the brakes for you.

While useful in emergency situations, this technology can also be used to provide the affordable Elantra with an adaptive cruise control system. The radar and camera combination works together to maintain the distance with the vehicle in front of you, and will operate the gas and brakes to keep you from getting too close. Sadly, this particular adaptive cruise control setup doesn’t bring the car to a complete stop.

In addition to this advanced forward collision system, the Elantra features a new approach to Blind Spot Warning systems. Currently, most systems will let you know if there’s a car in your blind spot, and give you a warning if you signal to change lanes. The Elantra does this, but can also detect if a car behind you is accelerating into your blind spot and warn you of changing lanes and cutting them off.

Finally, the Elantra sports a lane departure warning system, which uses the cars forward facing camera to detect the lane markings on the road. If the vehicle drifts out of its lane without signalling, the car will warn the driver. But the Elantra isn’t a passive car when it comes to safety, so it will even apply corrective steering to keep the car within its lane.

All of these features, in addition to the seven standard airbags, are expected to give this car a Top Safety Pick + rating by the IIHS. The combination of safety and convenience technology features are one of the compact cars greatest assets and will help it stand out in this segment.

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Hyundai Motor Group to hire over 10,000 workers this year

Hyundai Motor Group is expected to recruit more than 10,000 employees this year, industry and company sources said Monday.

“There will be more recruits this year than last year,” a company official said on condition of anonymity. “The details for each affiliate have yet to be confirmed, but the overall number could exceed 10,000.”

 This is in line with the group’s mid- and long-term employment strategy.

Hyundai Motor Group -- the nation’s second-largest conglomerate -- has laid out plans to employ a total of 60,000 new workers by 2020. Among them, 36,000 will be added by 2018. They include interns and non-regular workers, sources said.

Hyundai Motor, the largest employer among around 50 affiliates belonging to Hyundai Motor Group, will start its recruitment process in March, followed by other affiliates, the sources said.

The government has also been urging big companies to hire more.

According to official data, the jobless rate for those aged 15-29 hit an all-time high of 9.2 percent in 2015, which surpassed the headline unemployment rate of 3.6 percent.

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Hyundai Refines Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport Models for 2017

No Hyundai model charts the brand’s growth better than the Santa Fe. Introduced for 2001, the midsize SUV was a good-enough alternative to the Ford Escape and the like. But the company has grown in leaps and bounds every year since, and now in its third generation, the Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport are solid, competitive, and right in the thick of the ultra-competitive crossover segment. But the models have been on the market now for three years, so for 2017 they’ll be getting a competitive new makeover in hopes of gaining even more ground as the demand for crossovers and SUVs skyrockets and gas prices fall.

The seven-seater Santa Fe and smaller five-seat Santa Fe Sport will benefit from redesigned sheet metal, an updated interior, and a whole lot of tech upgrades that should help them stand out in their crowded segment. Hyundai says: “For the 2017 Santa Fe Sport model alone, nearly 350 individual parts have been updated, representing about 25 percent of total Santa Fe Sport parts content.” And if you’re in the market for a new SUV, the new models are on their way to Hyundai dealerships as you read this.

Outside, the SUVs are treated to a new front fascia that brings them closer in line with the design language of the current lineup. Out back, the Santa Fe benefits from new tail lights and dual exhaust ports. But at the end of the day, looks don’t make the sale in the midsize crossover segment — seriously, take the badges off of them and try to tell one from the other. What matters is what’s inside, and that’s where the biggest change comes for the Santa Fe.

Like any family-friendly crossover worth its salt, the Santa Fe Sport comes standard with a 5-inch color touchscreen to control the infotainment system, while a 7-inch screen comes standard in the bigger Santa Fe. The 7-inch and available 8-inch screens are available with Hyundai’s Blue Link infotainment system. While a backup camera is standard, Blue Link-equipped models will be Android Auto compatible. There’s also an available QuantumLogic surround-sound stereo system and a host of electronic safety sensors to keep you aware of your surroundings at all times.

Both five- and seven-passenger models will continue to offer the 2.4-liter 185-horsepower naturally-aspirated four, or the 265-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo four. Both will be mated to Hyundai’s six-speed automatic transmission, and see fuel economy increases by about 1 mile per gallon. And to help owners wring every last drop of performance from their powertrains — whatever their definition of performance may be — a trio of driving modes (Normal, Eco, and Sport) are standard thanks to the new Drive Mode Select System.

Front-wheel drive Sport models start at $26,245 including fees (a $1,200 increase over ’16 models), while all-wheel drive models start at $27,995. Fully loaded Sport Ultimate models top out at $39,145. For the seven-passenger Santa Fe, entry starts at $31,695 for front-wheel drive and $33,445 for all-wheel drive models. The range-topping Ultimate AWD model will set you back a cool $42,045. That’s no small chunk of change, but then, the Santa Fe can run with the best of them nowadays.

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2016 Hyundai i20 Coupé review

What is it?

Let’s not pretend that this new, six-speed manual, 118bhp 1.0-litre turbocharged version of the Hyundai i20 Coupé is related in any way that matters to the steroidal WRC car currently rampaging around the world’s forests and mountains.

In fact, launched last year, the i20 Coupé is unashamedly billed as the sort of car that’ll appeal to drivers after something not only smart-looking and with a bit of entertainment value but also with costs still a chief priority. It’s not going to make you feel like Ari Vatanen, then.

Yet it does have real promise, chiefly because the naturally aspirated 1.2 and 1.4 engines were weak points in the i20’s armour, and this new three-cylinder turbocharged motor, also available in 98bhp and five-speed manual gearbox tune, should solve that.


What's it like?

The higher-powered engine we’re testing has some zing to it. You do have to rev it to get the best from it, but that’s no hardship as it picks up and delivers real energy when the turbo spools up through the mid-range and even beyond 5000rpm. There’s even an amusingly rorty exhaust burble to enjoy, and while the gearshift is a little mushy, it’s light and easy enough to snick it into the next gate.

What does disappoint is the ride comfort. There’s none of the Ford Fiesta’s wondrous balance of handling finesse and damper pliancy, here; instead (on the standard 17in alloys of our test car) you get a fairly wooden-feeling ride that has the Hyundai jarring heavily into potholes and fidgeting uneasily at high speeds.

The steering isn’t conducive to an enjoyable drive, either. Sure, it has a meaty weight to it that makes for good mid-corner bite, and there’s enough grip from the front end, but there’s no sense of connection and it feels vague in general. There’s just none of the light-footed, corner-hungry turn-in that you can revel in with a Ford Fiesta or Suzuki Swift Sport.

Still, the i20 Coupé is quite refined on a steady throttle, and with a decent driving position and more advanced touchscreen multimedia and nav system than you get in most rivals, there’s clearly still appeal. You even get a reversing camera as standard, on top of the auto lights and wipers, heated door mirrors and climate control that are included, even on cheaper mid-spec Sport trim.

For those designated-driver moments, two average-size adults will be fine in the back behind similarly sized front occupants when they’ve squeezed through the fairly small gap between the door pillar and tilted-forward front seat. You can seat three on the rear bench, but the middle passenger will be disgruntled to say the least.

The boot’s a respectable size – bigger than those of most rivals - and you get a standard variable-height boot floor, as well as the default 60/40 split folding rear seats.


Should I buy one?

Only if you’re tied to getting the lowest possible insurance rating, since the group 11 classification of the Hyundai is usefully lower than that of the Ford Fiesta Zetec S Ecoboost 125 or Suzuki Swift Sport that would be our first choices in the mildly sporting small hatchback fraternity.

It's also worth pointing out that the list price of the three-door Suzuki is also much cheaper at £1500 less (albeit without a touchscreen system), and both of these alternatives are noticeably faster and vastly more fun.

Simply put, for those who might actively want a sporty-looking car that puts safety ahead of performance and enthusiastic handling, the Hyundai has clear benefits. Step forward parents shopping for their teen's first car, because Hyundai has answered your prayers.

Otherwise, the Suzuki and Ford, or indeed the Mini Cooper or DS 3 that are also very competitive here, are much more to our taste and likely to be much more to yours, too.

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Hyundai Reveals Updated 2017 Santa-Fe & Santa-Fe Sport In Chicago

2017 Santa Fe

The new facelifted Hyundai Santa-Fe range made its first appearance, packing a fresher design and more onboard technology.

Both the Santa Fe and the Santa Fe Sport received a subtle redesign which includes a brushed-appearance front grille, new LED daytime running lights, updated headlights and taillights, dual exhausts and a new rocker panel trim design with silver detailing among others.

Hyundai has also added a lot more tech into the package by introducing more infotainment options with the latest connectivity features and an array of safety systems like a Smart Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection and a set of adaptive lights with High Beam Assist.

Another new feature is the Drive Mode selection which offers three settings, Sport-Eco-Normal. Hyundai continues to offer the Santa Fe range in front- and all-wheel drive versions while the powertrain line-up remains as is, including a 185hp 2.4-litre and a turbocharged 245hp 2.0-litre petrol engine for the Sport, with the seven-seater Santa Fe using a 290hp 3.3-litre V6. All models are fitted with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

The new Hyundai Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport continues to offer a long list of standard equipment which includes a Rearview Camera, automatic on/off headlights, remote keyless entry with alarm, bodycolor heated exterior power mirrors with driver’s blind spot mirror, LED headlight accents, daytime running lights, steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise control and Bluetooth hands-free smartphone system.

Hyundai also offers as an option their new Blue Link suite of connected safety and diagnostic features as well as the latest gadgetry meaning a Remote Start with Climate Control, Stolen Vehicle Recovery and Remote Door Lock/Unlock.

The new 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport is arriving at the dealers now with prices starting at $25,350 for the FWD Sport 2.4L model and $30,800 for the FWD Santa Fe SE model.

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Hyundai Launches Campaign to Educate Drivers on the Danger of Counterfeit Parts

Hyundai announced it has launched a dramatic new awareness campaign aimed at warning American drivers of the risks involved when using counterfeit automotive parts.

Hyundai states that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that vehicle owners work with their automotive dealers and repair professionals to ensure appropriate original equipment parts are used in the event they need a new airbag.

Hyundai is tackling the issue of counterfeit, aftermarket, salvaged and recycled auto parts through a consumer awareness campaign, highlighting the differences between non-Hyundai and Hyundai Genuine Parts. The integrated media, advertising and public relations campaign will focus on safety and resale value. Hyundai is launching a series of videos, which can be found on Hyundai USA’s YouTube channel or at HyundaiUSA.com/ConsumerAwareness. The first video in the series is titled “Don’t Gamble with Counterfeit Parts.” The videos and dealership displays with examples of original and fake parts are aimed to help consumers see the differences firsthand. In addition, Hyundai will be communicating the consumer awareness campaign via email to its current owners.

“Counterfeit Hyundai parts have been a growing problem over the last 30 years,” said Frank Ferrara, executive vice president, customer satisfaction, Hyundai Motor America. “Customers would see short-term savings after their vehicle was repaired, not even aware that non-Hyundai parts were used to bring these repair costs down. Short-term savings can have adverse long-term implications on the vehicle and passengers, which ultimately ends up costing more. Consumer awareness is essential to addressing this issue, and Hyundai is willing to do its part. The more people who understand the dangers behind using non-Hyundai components and see the benefits of purchasing original parts, the less likely they are to suffer severe consequences and lose value on their car. Safety and trust are paramount to our brand, which is why we are launching this campaign to encourage everyone to purchase original parts, every time.”

This campaign is the third program Hyundai has implemented to support its dealerships, strengthen relationships with collision repair centers and ensure the safety of Hyundai owners. The Hyundai Go Genuine Collision Conquest and Hyundai Recognized Collision Repair Center programs encourage repair facilities to use Hyundai Genuine Parts to make sure Hyundai vehicles are repaired properly and safely back to manufacturer specifications.

Hyundai states that due to perceived high costs, motorists sometimes choose, or are told by their insurance companies, to visit independent repair shops that are not recognized by the automakers for collision repairs. Some of these shops offer copies of original parts or recycled components from existing collision-damaged vehicles at a lower cost. Often, Hyundai says, these parts are unsafe for long-term use and pose a great danger to safety. Hyundai states that counterfeit and recycled crash parts also affect the vehicle’s appearance and decrease its resale value. Hyundai encourages the use of OEM parts on all Hyundai vehicle repairs because they’re designed and manufactured to meet Hyundai’s engineering specifications. Hyundai does not recommend the use, or re-use, of components removed or recycled from an existing collision-damaged vehicle. Hyundai states that owners need to be aware it can be hard finding out if their repair facility is using non-original equipment parts or parts that have been damaged due to a prior collision or element exposure.

Hyundai says its Genuine Parts are manufactured to exact engineering specifications for a precise fit without modifications, ensuring quick and proper installation. Hyundai says they are also tested to ensure they meet the U.S. government’s collision safety and crash protection standards. Hyundai parts have high reliability because they are made from high-quality materials.

Hyundai states that the use of imitation, aftermarket, alternative or other non-original equipment Hyundai parts may negatively affect vehicle crashworthiness and occupant safety during a collision, and is not recommended by Hyundai.

Financial Impact

Hyundai states the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) estimates that counterfeit automobile parts cost the global automotive parts industry $12 billion in lost sales a year, including $3 billion in the U.S. alone. The FTC also estimates that the U.S. auto parts industry lost sales to counterfeit parts correlates to approximately 200,000 to 250,000 fewer manufacturing jobs.

Hyundai says its Hyundai Recognized Collision Repair program ensures both independent and Hyundai dealership-owned collision repair centers have the training, tools, equipment and facilities needed to properly repair Hyundai vehicles after they have been involved in a collision.

Customers can look for the Hyundai Recognized Collision Repair Center plaque at their local collision repair center to know if their Hyundai will be repaired properly and safely to manufacturer specifications. The program will allow Hyundai to refer its owners in need of collision repair to a recognized center.

Hyundai has teamed up with Assured Performance Network on this program. Assured Performance Network is a non-profit consumer advocacy organization that will guarantee both Hyundai dealership-owned and independent collision repair centers meet the program’s specified capability requirements, and pass an annual onsite audit and inspection. Assured Performance Network will also manage enrollment, online support systems, proof of compliance documentation and marketing. Collision repair centers can call (949) 221-0010 or visit www.GetHyundaiRecognized.com for more information.

Hyundai Go Genuine Collision Conquest Program

The Hyundai Go Genuine Collision Conquest program provides reimbursement to Hyundai dealers, allowing them to competitively price their Hyundai Genuine Parts against alternative, non-Hyundai parts. Competitive prices help collision repair facilities purchase more Hyundai Genuine Parts as opposed to alternative, non-Hyundai parts. Hyundai says using Hyundai Genuine replacement parts during the collision repair process provides confidence that the parts will perform as designed and engineered by Hyundai. The program is launching with five commonly required collision parts, including hoods, fenders, bumper covers, head lamps and tail lamps. These parts and the reimbursement associated with them are available for all Hyundai vehicles, regardless of age, for all participating dealers. Additional parts may be added to the program at a later date. The program is open to all Hyundai dealers.

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Hyundai's 'The Chase' Was The Most Viewed Super Bowl 50 Ad On YouTube

Hyundai's 'The Chase' ad has become the most-viewed Super Bowl 50 commercial on YouTube, topping ads from the likes of Mountain Dew, Pokemon, Doritos, Snickers and Mini, according to Google.

'The Chase' is one of four ads created by Hyundai and shows two hikers being chased by bears before escaping in their new 2017 Elantra thanks to the car's remote-start function. At the time of writing, it has been viewed more than 21 million times on YouTube.

Two other ads from Hyundai are also in the top 10 list compiled by Google with 'First Date' starring Kevin Hart in fourth place and 'Ryanville' with Ryan Reynolds sitting as the seventh most watched Super Bowl ad of 2016.

'First Date' is our personal favorite with comedic genius Kevin Hart playing an overprotective father stalking his daughter on her first date thanks to his Hyundai Genesis and its remote tracking system.

The only other automotive ad in the top 10 is Mini's '#DefyLabels” spot created to promote the new Clubman.

In total, ads and their teasers from Super Bowl 50 have been viewed over 330 million times on YouTube and during the Super Bowl itself, viewers watched a combined 300,000 hours of ads.

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Hyundai confident new Tucson will replicate Creta and Santa Fe's success

Hyundai has put its focus on positioning SUVs in almost every price bracket in India. With the unveiling of Tucson at the 2016 Auto Expo earlier this week, the Korean car manufacturer will now boast of three SUVs in the country.

According to reports, the Creta has created a huge market for itself with dealers reporting a waiting period of close to a month. Launched last year, the SUV — priced between Rs 8.8 lakhs and Rs 13.98 lakhs (ex-showroom), Creta has found buyers due to its stylish looks and long list of creature comforts inside. On the other end of Hyundai's SUV spectrum is Santa Fe which too has been appreciated for its looks and reliability.

The Tucson will be positioned between the two cars once launched in India later in the year. Expected to be priced between Rs 17 lakh and Rs 20 lakh, the latest car is the third-generation Tucson, with the first generation faring poorly and the second generation never making it to Indian shores. However, Hyundai officials are confident that the latest Tucson will do brisk business despite options on either end of the price bracket from the same manufacturer. "Creta did really well but our studies showed that there was a white space between it and Santa Fe. This is the reason we wanted to give an SUV with an aspirational value to Indians and chose to bring in Tucson," Hyundai's general manager (marketing) and group head — Puneet Anand, told timesofindia.com.

Anand is confident that while Creta and Santa Fe will continue to top their respective SUV category, Tucson will create its own niche in the market. "Creta made a mark of its own and so did Santa Fe. Tucson too will help us add volumes to our sales and there is no chance of the three cannibalizing markets of each other," he said.

Tucson was introduced at the Auto Expo and it boasts of Hyundai's signature hexagonal grille and LED headlamps. The car has long bonnet curves and a masculine feel to its overall appearance. On the inside, Hyundai promises to stay true to its commitment of providing a lengthy list of conveniences which now include an eight-inch touchscreen multimedia system, automated parking and electrically powered tailgate. The car will be a five-seater. The Tucson will come in a 1.6-litre T-GDI petrol, 1.7-litre diesel and 2.0-litre diesel variants.

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Luxury Sedan on a Budget: The All-New Hyundai Elantra

To get a premium sedan with the latest tech features, you used to have to pay anywhere from $40,000 to $75,000 or more. It was often a German brand with elevated service, repair and insurance costs.

Let me give you just one example: It was only two and a half years ago that I drove a couple of Mercedes cars, priced from $63,000 to more than $100,000, that steered themselves on the highway. You could let go of the steering wheel, and the car would steer itself for up to 10 seconds before you had to grab the wheel again.

Now, I don't consider this feature to be particularly useful except as a party trick, but it was revolutionary at the time. Now this feature has arrived in a fully loaded 2017 Hyundai Elantra, which has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of only $27,585. As best as I can tell, this is tens of thousands of dollars less than any other car with this feature.

Actually, let me give you a second example: It was as little as three years ago that I was amazed over headlights that turn in the direction of the steering wheel, which is helpful on narrow winding roads and when you're simply turning. Yes, I know, they were already on the Tucker more than half a century ago, but they re-appeared on expensive cars such as a $60,000-plus Mercedes E-Class only recently.

Well, now they're available on that Hyundai Elantra with a MSRP of only $27,585.

I could go on and on.

Clearly the Hyundai Elantra is no Mercedes C-, E- or S-Class sedan in terms of overall luxury and heft. However, you would be surprised at how Hyundai has narrowed what was previously an impossibly wide gap.

The old Hyundai Elantra was not a bad-looking car, but nobody would have mistaken it for a luxury ride. In contrast, when you approach the new 2017 Elantra from the front, it looks like a much more expensive car, with a close resemblance to the $39,000-$55,000 Hyundai Genesis, which in turn is competitive with even more expensive German cars.

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