04/11/2011, Fountain Valley, California
MODERN, SOPHISTICATED HYUNDAI ELANTRA MAKES WARD'S 10 BEST INTERIORS LIST
The all-new 2011 Hyundai Elantra Limited, with its emotional design and numerous luxury features, was named to Ward's 10 Best Interiors list. This honor further demonstrates that a car achieving 40 mpg standard highway fuel economy is not only practicable but fashionable as well. In one of the most competitive years for the award, Ward's editors evaluated 51 vehicles that were all-new or featured significantly upgraded interiors. This year's 10 Best Interiors list represents a broad cross section of the industry, from utility vehicles and minivans to small cars and high-end premium sedans.
"Proving economy cars 'ain't what they used to be,' the Hyundai Elantra Limited delivers enough flair to suggest the South Korean automaker is finding its own unique interior design language," said Drew Winter, editor-in-chief, Ward's AutoWorld. "The instrument panel of the Elantra displays a curvaceous sensuality, with a belt drawn tightly around the climate controls; the center console then widens as it flows down to the gear shifter."
The 2011 Elantra represents a modern approach to the traditional compact sedan segment featuring a sleek style, advanced safety features, "class above" interior volume and standard 40 mpg highway fuel economy. Inside the Elantra, customers find Hyundai's expertise in interior packaging, lighting, leading-edge design and craftsmanship. This approach is visible in the clarity of the instruments and the tilt and telescopic steering wheel. The seats help fuel economy and the environment, being made of lightweight, environmentally friendly foam. Heated seats are available in the front and the rear, a segment first.
"The sophisticated interior of the Elantra is designed to bring new life to the compact car segment combined with the ultimate in functionality for the driver," said Chris Zarlenga, design manger, Hyundai America Technical Center. "Being named to Ward's 10 Best Interiors, alongside vehicles like the Audi A8 and BMW X3 xDrive35i, shows that compact cars can provide an engaging experience as well."
Ward's editors picked the winning interiors using the same methodology employed for the annual Ward's 10 Best Engines program. Scoresheets are completed for each vehicle driven based on materials, ergonomics, safety, the human-machine interface, comfort, fit-and-finish, overall value and aesthetics. Following the evaluation, Ward's editors have extensive discussions to determine the winners.
The Ward's 10 Best Interiors competition takes the place of the Interior of the Year program that dates back well before 2005, when Ward's acquired the Auto Interiors Conference. The 2011 interior winners will be honored in a special ceremony at this year's conference May 17 at The Henry Ford hotel in Dearborn, Mich.
Hyundai of Keene
591 Monadnock Highway
East Swanzey, NH 03446
- Sales: 888-416-1066
- Service: 888-416-1071
- Parts: 888-416-1076
Hyundai In The News
04/07/2011, Fountain Valley, California
HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA NAMES STEVE SHANNON VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING
Hyundai Motor America today announced that Steve Shannon has been named Vice President, Marketing. Shannon will be responsible for all marketing activities in the United States. He reports to President and Chief Executive Officer John Krafcik.
"We're delighted to have Steve Shannon on-board as our Vice President of Marketing," said John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. "Steve has delivered great marketing results throughout his career, from his very earliest days at Saturn working with Hal Riney & Partners, to his more recent luxury foray, kick-starting Cadillac's recovery. He's a marketing innovator with strong convictions about serving the customer. At the same time he's personable, enthusiastic and professional ? a perfect fit for us at Hyundai."
Prior to joining Hyundai Shannon held a number of posts at General Motors in the U.S. and Europe in marketing and other areas.
Shannon graduated from Harvard College with a Bachelor of Arts and received his Masters of Business Administration in Marketing from Columbia University.
HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA NAMES STEVE SHANNON VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING
Hyundai Motor America today announced that Steve Shannon has been named Vice President, Marketing. Shannon will be responsible for all marketing activities in the United States. He reports to President and Chief Executive Officer John Krafcik.
"We're delighted to have Steve Shannon on-board as our Vice President of Marketing," said John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. "Steve has delivered great marketing results throughout his career, from his very earliest days at Saturn working with Hal Riney & Partners, to his more recent luxury foray, kick-starting Cadillac's recovery. He's a marketing innovator with strong convictions about serving the customer. At the same time he's personable, enthusiastic and professional ? a perfect fit for us at Hyundai."
Prior to joining Hyundai Shannon held a number of posts at General Motors in the U.S. and Europe in marketing and other areas.
Shannon graduated from Harvard College with a Bachelor of Arts and received his Masters of Business Administration in Marketing from Columbia University.
03/31/2011, Fountain Valley, California
2011 HYUNDAI SONATA NAMED THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN CAR OF THE YEAR
The Rocky Mountain Automotive Press Honors Sonata at the 2011 Denver Auto Show
Hyundai Motor America is pleased to announce that the 2011 Sonata has been named the Rocky Mountain Car of the Year by The Rocky Mountain Automotive Press (RMAP). The award was given during a ceremony at the Denver Auto Show on March 30. The Sonata was chosen from among scores of new cars, SUVs, crossovers and pickups in the 2011 model year.
RMAP members described the Sonata as, "the most impressive all-around 2011 automobile." More than 75 new models from every major domestic and import automaker were subjected to test-drive evaluations in Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming over the past several months by members of the RMAP. The criteria for receiving this award included top scores in performance, fuel economy, comfort, safety, and value.
"We are thrilled that Sonata has received the Rocky Mountain Car of the Year award," said Scott Margason, director, Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. "Sonata continues to attract consumers with its exciting design, class-leading fuel economy, and outstanding residual value, making it a tough competitor in the mid-size sedan market."
The 2011 Hyundai Sonata features some of the most advanced technological options, such as a navigation system with voice activation and interactive touch screen through XM NavTraffic® and XM Data Services, integrated Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a Homelink transceiver. It has many standard safety features, including Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, and Anti-Lock breaking systems. Sonata was the first midsize car to receive a five-star crash test rating under National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's new, more stringent 2011 system and an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick honor, placing it in a safety position unsurpassed in the industry. Sonata is also available in Turbo and Hybrid versions, with Hybrid achieving class-leading 40 mpg highway fuel economy.
2011 HYUNDAI SONATA NAMED THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN CAR OF THE YEAR
The Rocky Mountain Automotive Press Honors Sonata at the 2011 Denver Auto Show
Hyundai Motor America is pleased to announce that the 2011 Sonata has been named the Rocky Mountain Car of the Year by The Rocky Mountain Automotive Press (RMAP). The award was given during a ceremony at the Denver Auto Show on March 30. The Sonata was chosen from among scores of new cars, SUVs, crossovers and pickups in the 2011 model year.
RMAP members described the Sonata as, "the most impressive all-around 2011 automobile." More than 75 new models from every major domestic and import automaker were subjected to test-drive evaluations in Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming over the past several months by members of the RMAP. The criteria for receiving this award included top scores in performance, fuel economy, comfort, safety, and value.
"We are thrilled that Sonata has received the Rocky Mountain Car of the Year award," said Scott Margason, director, Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. "Sonata continues to attract consumers with its exciting design, class-leading fuel economy, and outstanding residual value, making it a tough competitor in the mid-size sedan market."
The 2011 Hyundai Sonata features some of the most advanced technological options, such as a navigation system with voice activation and interactive touch screen through XM NavTraffic® and XM Data Services, integrated Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a Homelink transceiver. It has many standard safety features, including Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, and Anti-Lock breaking systems. Sonata was the first midsize car to receive a five-star crash test rating under National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's new, more stringent 2011 system and an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick honor, placing it in a safety position unsurpassed in the industry. Sonata is also available in Turbo and Hybrid versions, with Hybrid achieving class-leading 40 mpg highway fuel economy.
03/11/2011, Fountain Valley, California
HYUNDAI ELANTRA BREAKS LOGJAM OF HYBRIDS TO MAKE TRUECAR.COM'S TOP 10 MOST FUEL-EFFICIENT CARS
Elantra a "Clear Winner" As the Most Cost-Effective, Fuel-Efficient Car
The all-new 2011 Hyundai Elantra, in its mission to redefine the compact car segment, is also proving that non-hybrid vehicles can be among the most fuel-efficient cars on the road. TrueCar.com, the authority on new car pricing, trends and forecasting, named its Top Ten most fuel-efficient cars and the Hyundai Elantra was the only non-hybrid to make the list. With a starting price of just $14,830 and standard 40 mpg highway fuel economy, the Hyundai Elantra is demonstrating that fuel efficiency can be achieved in a high-volume, non-hybrid vehicle without the need for special fuel economy packages.
TrueCar.com compiled the list of Top Ten most fuel-efficient cars currently being sold based on fuel economy and cost of gas, per 15,000 miles driven annually. For example, when looking at the vehicles based on annual fuel costs and price, the 2011 Toyota Prius (base) average price paid is $22,235 and costs $1,064 annually based on the current price of $3.52 per gallon of unleaded fuel and 15,000 miles driven annually. The 2011 Hyundai Elantra (base) is 32 percent cheaper than the 2011 Toyota Prius (base) at $15,052, based on average price paid, yet costs only $531 more to fill up annually. At that rate, it would take more than 13 years to recoup the additional investment in the Prius.
"When purchasing a fuel-efficient vehicle, consumers should consider two factors ? price and annual cost of fuel," said Jesse Toprak, vice president of Industry Trends and Insights at TrueCar.com. "If you're looking for the most cost-effective and fuel-efficient car, the Hyundai Elantra is the clear winner."
The 2011 Elantra sets the bar in the compact sedan category offering a "class-above" midsize car interior volume, modern design, outstanding fuel economy, and loads of comfort and convenience features, all at an attractive starting price. Elantra also continues to lead the industry in standard advanced safety technologies including a new Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system to optimally manage Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and the Motor-Driven electric Power Steering (MDPS).
"The all-new Elantra, with its 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway standard fuel economy rating, is a perfect vehicle for consumers looking for an affordable solution to rising gas prices," said Mike O'Brien, vice president, Product and Corporate Planning, Hyundai Motor America. "Elantra is at the core of Hyundai's fuel economy strategy. In February, 20 percent of all Hyundai vehicles sold achieved 40 mpg on the highway thanks in large part to Elantra's success."
Hyundai made a commitment to lead the industry in sales of 40 mpg vehicles in 2011, and seeks to achieve this through the wide availability of vehicles that achieve 40 mpg on the highway. Hyundai's strategy of standard 40 mpg highway ratings on vehicles like the Elantra and the forthcoming 2012 Veloster and 2012 Accent, contrast the practice of competitors, which limit 40 mpg sales to low-volume and/or extra cost option package and trim levels. Hyundai is also moving ahead to be the first automaker to achieve a corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) rating of at least 50 mpg by 2025 for its lineup of passenger cars and light duty trucks.
HYUNDAI ELANTRA BREAKS LOGJAM OF HYBRIDS TO MAKE TRUECAR.COM'S TOP 10 MOST FUEL-EFFICIENT CARS
Elantra a "Clear Winner" As the Most Cost-Effective, Fuel-Efficient Car
The all-new 2011 Hyundai Elantra, in its mission to redefine the compact car segment, is also proving that non-hybrid vehicles can be among the most fuel-efficient cars on the road. TrueCar.com, the authority on new car pricing, trends and forecasting, named its Top Ten most fuel-efficient cars and the Hyundai Elantra was the only non-hybrid to make the list. With a starting price of just $14,830 and standard 40 mpg highway fuel economy, the Hyundai Elantra is demonstrating that fuel efficiency can be achieved in a high-volume, non-hybrid vehicle without the need for special fuel economy packages.
TrueCar.com compiled the list of Top Ten most fuel-efficient cars currently being sold based on fuel economy and cost of gas, per 15,000 miles driven annually. For example, when looking at the vehicles based on annual fuel costs and price, the 2011 Toyota Prius (base) average price paid is $22,235 and costs $1,064 annually based on the current price of $3.52 per gallon of unleaded fuel and 15,000 miles driven annually. The 2011 Hyundai Elantra (base) is 32 percent cheaper than the 2011 Toyota Prius (base) at $15,052, based on average price paid, yet costs only $531 more to fill up annually. At that rate, it would take more than 13 years to recoup the additional investment in the Prius.
"When purchasing a fuel-efficient vehicle, consumers should consider two factors ? price and annual cost of fuel," said Jesse Toprak, vice president of Industry Trends and Insights at TrueCar.com. "If you're looking for the most cost-effective and fuel-efficient car, the Hyundai Elantra is the clear winner."
The 2011 Elantra sets the bar in the compact sedan category offering a "class-above" midsize car interior volume, modern design, outstanding fuel economy, and loads of comfort and convenience features, all at an attractive starting price. Elantra also continues to lead the industry in standard advanced safety technologies including a new Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system to optimally manage Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and the Motor-Driven electric Power Steering (MDPS).
"The all-new Elantra, with its 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway standard fuel economy rating, is a perfect vehicle for consumers looking for an affordable solution to rising gas prices," said Mike O'Brien, vice president, Product and Corporate Planning, Hyundai Motor America. "Elantra is at the core of Hyundai's fuel economy strategy. In February, 20 percent of all Hyundai vehicles sold achieved 40 mpg on the highway thanks in large part to Elantra's success."
Hyundai made a commitment to lead the industry in sales of 40 mpg vehicles in 2011, and seeks to achieve this through the wide availability of vehicles that achieve 40 mpg on the highway. Hyundai's strategy of standard 40 mpg highway ratings on vehicles like the Elantra and the forthcoming 2012 Veloster and 2012 Accent, contrast the practice of competitors, which limit 40 mpg sales to low-volume and/or extra cost option package and trim levels. Hyundai is also moving ahead to be the first automaker to achieve a corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) rating of at least 50 mpg by 2025 for its lineup of passenger cars and light duty trucks.
03/10/2011, Boston, Massachusetts
HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA AND BOSTON MARATHON JIMMY FUND WALK RECEIVE 2011 RUN WALK RIDE AWARD
Recognized for 'Best Sponsorship Activation'
Since 2002, Hyundai Motor America has served as the presenting sponsor for the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk. In the event's 22-year history, Walk participants, companies and individuals have contributed more than $73 million in support of cancer care and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and more than 100 Hyundai employees have participated in the Walk, raising a collective $1.94 million. Last year, more than 8,500 participants walked all or part of the 26 mile Boston Marathon route in September.
At the annual Run Walk Ride Fundraising Conference Hyundai Motor America was recognized for "Best Sponsorship Activation" for their work with the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk.
Since 2002, Hyundai Motor America has served as the presenting sponsor for the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk. In the event's 22-year history, Walk participants, companies and individuals have contributed more than $73 million in support of cancer care and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and more than 100 Hyundai employees have participated in the Walk, raising a collective $1.94 million. Last year, more than 8,500 participants walked all or part of the 26 mile Boston Marathon® route in September.
Hyundai Motor America and its dealers joined the fight against pediatric cancer in 1998, and today make a donation from every new Hyundai car sold in the U.S. to their non-profit foundation, Hyundai Hope on Wheels, which was established in 2007. In turn, Hope on Wheels awards pediatric cancer research grants to institutions across the country. Says John Krafcik, President and CEO, Hyundai Motor America, "we are committed to helping find a cure for cancer, and are proud of our long standing partnership with the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute."
The Hope on Wheels vehicle, a white Santa Fe, serves as the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk pace car, leading the way from the Walk's three-mile start to the finish line at Copley Square. The car is adorned with the hand prints of pediatric patients from around the country, most recently applied by Dana-Farber pediatric patients.
"The Walk is a wonderful thing for the Boston community, and indeed, for pediatric and adult cancer care and research, as it serves as an inspiration to all on the possibilities of eliminating this disease. We are especially proud of the steadfast commitment of our New England area dealers to Hope on Wheels from its very inception," concludes Krafcik.
In addition to their foundation, Hyundai supports the Walk by providing space at their dealerships for participant t-shirt pick-up prior to the event. On Walk day, Hyundai provides each walker with mile-marker stickers that recognize their miles, provides massages at the finish line and has a strong brand presence with car displays and signage along the route.
To learn more about the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai please visit www.jimmyfundwalk.org or call 866-531-9255.
HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA AND BOSTON MARATHON JIMMY FUND WALK RECEIVE 2011 RUN WALK RIDE AWARD
Recognized for 'Best Sponsorship Activation'
Since 2002, Hyundai Motor America has served as the presenting sponsor for the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk. In the event's 22-year history, Walk participants, companies and individuals have contributed more than $73 million in support of cancer care and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and more than 100 Hyundai employees have participated in the Walk, raising a collective $1.94 million. Last year, more than 8,500 participants walked all or part of the 26 mile Boston Marathon route in September.
At the annual Run Walk Ride Fundraising Conference Hyundai Motor America was recognized for "Best Sponsorship Activation" for their work with the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk.
Since 2002, Hyundai Motor America has served as the presenting sponsor for the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk. In the event's 22-year history, Walk participants, companies and individuals have contributed more than $73 million in support of cancer care and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and more than 100 Hyundai employees have participated in the Walk, raising a collective $1.94 million. Last year, more than 8,500 participants walked all or part of the 26 mile Boston Marathon® route in September.
Hyundai Motor America and its dealers joined the fight against pediatric cancer in 1998, and today make a donation from every new Hyundai car sold in the U.S. to their non-profit foundation, Hyundai Hope on Wheels, which was established in 2007. In turn, Hope on Wheels awards pediatric cancer research grants to institutions across the country. Says John Krafcik, President and CEO, Hyundai Motor America, "we are committed to helping find a cure for cancer, and are proud of our long standing partnership with the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute."
The Hope on Wheels vehicle, a white Santa Fe, serves as the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk pace car, leading the way from the Walk's three-mile start to the finish line at Copley Square. The car is adorned with the hand prints of pediatric patients from around the country, most recently applied by Dana-Farber pediatric patients.
"The Walk is a wonderful thing for the Boston community, and indeed, for pediatric and adult cancer care and research, as it serves as an inspiration to all on the possibilities of eliminating this disease. We are especially proud of the steadfast commitment of our New England area dealers to Hope on Wheels from its very inception," concludes Krafcik.
In addition to their foundation, Hyundai supports the Walk by providing space at their dealerships for participant t-shirt pick-up prior to the event. On Walk day, Hyundai provides each walker with mile-marker stickers that recognize their miles, provides massages at the finish line and has a strong brand presence with car displays and signage along the route.
To learn more about the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai please visit www.jimmyfundwalk.org or call 866-531-9255.
03/04/2011, Fountain Vallley, California
HYUNDAI TAKES TOP HONORS IN BRAND KEYS 2011 CUSTOMER LOYALTY ENGAGEMENT INDEX
The Hyundai brand continues to grow in 2011, earning the No. 1 spot in the automotive category in the 2011 Customer Loyalty Engagement Index. Brand Keys, a New York-based brand, customer loyalty and engagement consultancy, publishes this annually syndicated study which examines customers' relationships with 528 different brands in 79 categories. For the second year in a row, Hyundai is the highest ranked brand in the automotive category.
"Hyundai has been able to best meet customer expectations and has, again, scored the highest levels of loyalty when it comes to the Automotive category, taking the #1 spot in our Customer Loyalty Engagement Index," said Robert Passikoff, Brand Keys Founder and President. "Of course, the true test of loyalty and engagement always shows up in the marketplace, so we weren't surprised to see their sales are up again over last year. We congratulate them on another win."
Hyundai's ongoing success is largely attributed to the positive reception of the newly redesigned Sonata and Elantra models, both of which have received significant consumer interest and positive reception since their respective launches. Both these vehicles contributed to Hyundai's great success in 2010, breaking the 500,000 vehicle sales barrier and increasing market share to nearly five percent. Now in 2011, the company's 25th year in the U.S., Hyundai is moving ahead to be the first automaker to achieve a corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) rating of at least 50 mpg by 2025 for its lineup of passenger cars and light duty trucks.
"Hyundai is completely committed to our customers with Hyundai Assurance, the industry's most comprehensive consumer protection plan," said Trea Reedy, national manager, Dealer Marketing and Resource Management, Hyundai Motor America. "And, with our strong new lineup filled with stylish, fuel efficient and affordable vehicles, both new and returning customers are keeping Hyundai at the top of their shopping lists."
HYUNDAI TAKES TOP HONORS IN BRAND KEYS 2011 CUSTOMER LOYALTY ENGAGEMENT INDEX
The Hyundai brand continues to grow in 2011, earning the No. 1 spot in the automotive category in the 2011 Customer Loyalty Engagement Index. Brand Keys, a New York-based brand, customer loyalty and engagement consultancy, publishes this annually syndicated study which examines customers' relationships with 528 different brands in 79 categories. For the second year in a row, Hyundai is the highest ranked brand in the automotive category.
"Hyundai has been able to best meet customer expectations and has, again, scored the highest levels of loyalty when it comes to the Automotive category, taking the #1 spot in our Customer Loyalty Engagement Index," said Robert Passikoff, Brand Keys Founder and President. "Of course, the true test of loyalty and engagement always shows up in the marketplace, so we weren't surprised to see their sales are up again over last year. We congratulate them on another win."
Hyundai's ongoing success is largely attributed to the positive reception of the newly redesigned Sonata and Elantra models, both of which have received significant consumer interest and positive reception since their respective launches. Both these vehicles contributed to Hyundai's great success in 2010, breaking the 500,000 vehicle sales barrier and increasing market share to nearly five percent. Now in 2011, the company's 25th year in the U.S., Hyundai is moving ahead to be the first automaker to achieve a corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) rating of at least 50 mpg by 2025 for its lineup of passenger cars and light duty trucks.
"Hyundai is completely committed to our customers with Hyundai Assurance, the industry's most comprehensive consumer protection plan," said Trea Reedy, national manager, Dealer Marketing and Resource Management, Hyundai Motor America. "And, with our strong new lineup filled with stylish, fuel efficient and affordable vehicles, both new and returning customers are keeping Hyundai at the top of their shopping lists."