Latest Cars And Bikes Reviews

Archive for the ‘Hyundai’ Category

Sonata Hybrid’s projected best-in-class highway fuel economy of 39 mpg offers significant benefit to hybrid owners with highway commutes, while also offering outstanding city fuel economy of 37 mpg. Government studies have shown that the typical U.S. driver operates in a highway mode 57 percent of the time. Hyundai’s approach to deliver class-leading fuel economy in highway mode provides a unique solution in the mid-size sedan hybrid market, and differentiates Sonata Hybrid from the likes of Toyota Camry Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid. Sonata Hybrid delivers typical hybrid fuel economy gains in the city like its competitors, but also gives owners outstanding fuel economy on the highway, where these competitors fall short.

Sonata Hybrid delivers class-leading electric-vehicle operation at steady-state speeds of up to 62 miles per hour. Gasoline engine engagement depends on state of charge, acceleration and vehicle speed. Its two propulsion units develop a total output of 209 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, exceeding all mid-size competitors, and 195 lb-ft of torque. The weight-efficient architecture of the new Sonata platform, combined with the lightweight lithium polymer battery pack, make the Sonata Hybrid the lightest vehicle in the segment, at just 3,457 pounds, 263 pounds lighter than the Fusion Hybrid. Combined with Sonata’s best-in-class horsepower rating, Sonata Hybrid has a significant advantage in power-to-weight ratio, a key enabler of both performance and efficiency.

Hyundai’s proprietary parallel hybrid drive system is the heart of the Sonata Hybrid. The competition uses a power split system with a planetary-geared Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This is where the Sonata Hybrid gains a key advantage. Competing hybrid models use electric motors that have to power a planetary gear set. By utilizing a full parallel drive system, Sonata Hybrid uses the power from the electric motor more efficiently to directly control the vehicle, allowing it to be operated at much higher speeds than the competition in EV-only mode. This technology is also a key enabler of Sonata Hybrid’s best-in-class highway fuel economy.

The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is the new kid on the block, but it’s not a follower,’ says John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. ‘Its full parallel hybrid configuration and breakthough lithium polymer batteries offer a new take on traditional hybrid design, while its unique design sets it apart from the mid-size hybrid pack.

The Hyundai-developed Hybrid Blue Drive architecture is a full parallel hybrid drive system, which can operate on an electric motor, gasoline internal combustion engine, and a combination of the two depending on driving conditions and driver demands. Hyundai’s proprietary full parallel architecture differs from the power split technology used by most competitors, allowing significant efficiency advantages at higher speeds. Hyundai Hybrid Blue Drive is the first and only system using lithium polymer battery technology – leapfrogging competitive in-market nickel-metal hydride and lithium-ion applications. Lithium polymer offers the benefits of lithium-ion, a technology used in laptops and cell phones, but adds robustness, power-density and package flexibility, making it ideal for automotive applications. Hyundai Hybrid Blue Drive also is unique in its use of the company’s own highly efficient, compact new 6-speed transmission, modified with hybrid starter-generator, electric motor, and low-friction oil pump, which together allow the elimination of the traditional torque converter.

Hyundai Hybrid Blue Drive is a new addition to a full suite of eco-focused products and technologies that Hyundai offers in its goal to be the auto industry’s global eco-leader. According to the EPA, Hyundai has led the U.S. industry in fuel economy for 2008 and 2009, and is currently the only automaker with average fleet fuel economy of more than 30 miles per gallon.

Hyundai’s Hybrid Blue Drive is a proprietary parallel hybrid drive system that runs on the already fuel-efficient 2.4-liter Theta II engine (169 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 156 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm) mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 30kW (151 lb-ft) electric motor for maximum fuel economy. Hyundai’s Hybrid Blue Drive has an all-electric mode and a parallel drive mode. This means the wheels are turned by power coming directly from the gasoline engine, or the electric motor, or both together, as conditions demand. This parallel hybrid drive architecture will serve as the foundation for future hybrid drive vehicles to be developed by Hyundai.

In the Hyundai Hybrid Blue Drive system, the Theta II with multi-port fuel injection (MPI) operates on an Atkinson Cycle. Atkinson Cycle is a type of internal combustion engine strategy designed to dramatically increase fuel efficiency through changes in compression and power strokes in the four stroke engine. It is typically only used in hybrid systems where the high-torque electric motor boosts low-end power, which is traded off for internal combustion engine efficiency. By combining the electric motor and the Atkinson Cycle engine, the Hybrid Blue Drive system delivers best-in-class highway hybrid efficiency.

Sonata’s hybrid system stores its electrical charge in a 270V lithium polymer rechargeable battery (5.3Ah/270V) that surpasses existing nickel-metal hydride and pending lithium-ion applications. Lithium polymer batteries are more durable and space-efficient than other hybrid batteries. They are also more weight-efficient. The Sonata Hybrid’s battery pack weighs just 95.9 pounds versus the Camry Hybrid’s 123.9 pounds. The compact battery pack resides in the forward portion of the trunk to maximize cargo space.

2011 Genesis Coupe features several interior upgrades that reflect Hyundai’s commitment to craftsmanship and high-quality materials. The instrument panel is crafted in a seamless, soft-touch skin fully encompassing new dark metalgrain trim. Softer leather now wraps the steering wheel and padding has been added to the door armrests for increased comfort. The A-pillars are now covered in a premium fabric to match the roof liner. New information screen graphics enhance appearance and readability and the finish of the controls has also been enhanced.

‘The interior upgrades, our hot new 3.8 R-Spec model, and revised lineup of six focused models show that Hyundai is meeting the demands of our customers,’ said Scott Margason, director, product planning, Hyundia Motor America. ‘The upgraded interior is a great illustration of how Hyundai continually raises its own high benchmarks for quality.’

Two engines infuse Genesis Coupe with performance. The 3.8-liter Lambda DOHC V6 engine delivers 306-horsepower and 266 lb.-ft. of torque on regular unleaded. This engine will launch the Genesis Coupe from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.5 seconds. To maximize the power band, the 3.8-liter engine utilizes DCVVT and a new Variable Intake System (VIS) that helps cylinders breathe more efficiently at both low and high RPM. The better-breathing results in outstanding off-the-line acceleration, passing performance and remarkable fuel efficiency. The V6 engine uses an alloy block and cylinder heads for lighter weight and thermal efficiency and features durable timing chains with no scheduled maintenance.

The turbocharged, intercooled 2.0-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder benefits from Dual CVVT on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. The 2.0-liter turbo generates 210-horsepower and 223 lb.-ft. of torque. It also features a cast-aluminum cylinder block and cylinder head. Both engines feature a free-flowing dual cat-back exhaust and an available Torsen® limited-slip differential to put the power to the ground.

Genesis Coupe employs a MacPherson® strut dual-link front suspension and a five-link independent rear suspension setup. The front suspension is mounted to the body via a solid subframe which is lighter and stronger than a multi-piece component would be. To help reduce body roll and tune the Genesis Coupe’s at-the-limit handling for maximum predictability, 24-mm diameter front and 19-mm diameter rear stabilizer bars are used.

While all Genesis Coupe models offer a sporty and involving driving experience, the high-performance Genesis Coupe R-Spec and 3.8 Track models are the most willing partners for the true enthusiast. The track-tuned suspension features a stiffer front spring rate, stiffer rear spring rate and unique shock valving. The Genesis Coupe R-Spec and 3.8 Track models deliver a substantial increase in roll control over standard versions of the Genesis Coupe. Superb structural rigidity sets the foundation for precisely-tuned handling performance in all Genesis Coupes.

Both engines are mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission. The Genesis Coupe 2.0T offers an optional five-speed automatic with SHIFTRONIC® while the 3.8-liter V6 offers a ZF® six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC to handle the additional torque. Both automatic transmissions feature steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Brembo four-piston calipers clamp down on 13.4-inch ventilated front brake rotors and 13-inch ventilated rear rotors on R-Spec and 3.8 Track models. All other models get substantial 12.6-inch front ventilated rotors and 12.4-inch rotors in the rear with floating single-piston calipers.

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through about 800 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle warranty, Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-years of complimentary Roadside Assistance.

The Elantra Touring, with its modern, sleek styling and fun-to-drive qualities, was developed by Hyundai in response to the growing demand for stylish and functional five-door vehicles. As with all Hyundai vehicles, the Elantra Touring was designed and manufactured to meet the most stringent quality standards in the industry, exemplifying Hyundai’s quality leadership position worldwide.

Flowing curves and strong character lines highlight the broad stance and long wheelbase of the Elantra Touring. The clearly defined, unbroken, rising beltline unifies the vehicle’s functional proportions. The effect is an exciting shape that provides a dynamic impression of performance and capability. Elantra Touring has a low coefficient of drag for optimal fuel efficiency at highway speeds and minimal interior noise.

Up front, the pronounced dual air intakes flow smoothly into the hood and A-pillar lines. Sharp projection headlamps, available fog lights and available 17-inch alloy wheels complete the modern design.

Elantra Touring is powered by the same fuel-efficient 2.0-liter, in-line four-cylinder found in the Elantra sedan. This sophisticated 16-valve powerplant employs Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) and Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) for a very broad power band, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions. Elantra Touring is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). With a manual transmission, the Elantra Touring’s EPA mileage is 23 mpg City and 31 mpg Highway. With the optional four-speed automatic transmission, the Elantra Touring’s EPA rating is 23 mpg City and 30 mpg Highway.

The long wheelbase and generous width of the Elantra Touring, combined with Hyundai’s expertise in interior packaging, have produced an interior that delivers class-leading comfort, functionality and practicality. At 125.5 cubic feet, the Elantra Touring has the most interior volume (passenger volume plus cargo space) of any five-door in its class*. In fact, Elantra Touring’s cargo capacity is 65.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, resulting in more cargo space than other five-doors in its class.

The clarity of the instruments, optional B&M Racing sport shifter (M/T) and tilt and telescopic steering wheel contribute to a superior driving experience. For extra clarity, Hyundai’s signature blue LCD lighting technology has been used for the central information display and gauge cluster. Two-tone beige interior trim, with special attention to the upholstery, delivers a premium feel. Black and beige are the two interior color choices.

The Elantra Touring was the first compact five-door to offer XM Satellite Radio® and iPod®/USB auxiliary inputs as standard equipment. When an iPod or flash drive is connected through the USB port not only does it play music through the vehicle’s six-speaker audio system, but it also charges the iPod and allows the driver to access tracks with the steering wheel audio controls. This system also allows both driver and passengers to easily view song/artist/title information and control the music from the audio head unit or steering wheel audio controls rather than from the iPod itself. The center storage compartment location of the iPod/USB auxiliary inputs assures that iPods can be safely stowed out of sight.

The Hyundai Elantra Touring offers a dynamic driving experience. A MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension have been fitted to perfectly complement the body structure’s high rigidity. Ventilated 11.8-inch front and solid 10.3-inch rear discs with ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) provide excellent stopping power with added handling control.

Elantra Touring delivers high performance steering and adds unique springs, front and rear stabilizer bars and dampers. Elantra Touring features a 24 percent stiffer front spring rate, a 39 percent stiffer rear spring rate, a larger front stabilizer bar (24 mm) and larger rear stabilizer bar (21mm) than the 2010 Elantra sedan. The 17-inch alloy wheels, with ultra-low profile tires, add visual impact and extra grip to the Elantra Touring’s sporty dynamics.

Elantra Touring’s steering character is another key driver of its sporty driving nature. Hyundai chassis engineers focused on delivering an agile feel, with direct responses to driver inputs. That spirit translates to a fun-to-drive character in everyday driving situations. And all drivers will appreciate Elantra Touring’s nimble turning diameter – at 34.2 feet it is better than Volkswagen Golf’s 35.7 feet and Toyota Matrix’s 36.0 feet.

Like every Hyundai, top-tier safety was a key development goal for the Elantra Touring, which is fully equipped to protect driver and passengers. In terms of passive safety, it features dual front, side and curtain airbags, for a total of six protective airbags in the vehicle. The Elantra Touring also features active front head restraints, seatbelt pretensioners and a seatbelt reminder. The combination of side and curtain airbags, which help protect the head and body during side impacts, can reduce fatalities by more than 52 percent, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Also according to the IIHS, active front head restraints improve rear crash protection.

The 2009 Hyundai Veracruz model lineup is revised. Veracruz is a crossover SUV with seven-passenger seating. It’s about 4 inches longer in wheelbase and 6 inches longer overall than Hyundai’s Santa Fe SUV. GLS and top-end Limited trim levels are offered. The mid-level SE has been discontinued, but many of its features are available on the GLS as part of a new Preferred Package.

All are available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The AWD system can be locked in a 50/50 front/rear power split. The sole powertrain teams a 260-hp 3.8-liter V6 engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags.

The 3rd-row seat is a two-person 50/50 split bench that folds flat into the floor. The 2nd row seats three and also folds. The GLS Preferred Package includes a sunroof, heated front seats, rear-obstacle detection, and a power driver seat. The Premium Package includes leather upholstery, power liftgate, and 18-inch wheels. All these features are standard on the Limited. Limited-exclusive options include a navigation system and DVD entertainment.

The 2010 Hyundai Veracruz has expanded feature availability for its base model. This midsize crossover SUV is about 4 inches longer in wheelbase and 6 inches longer overall than Hyundai’s Santa Fe. GLS and top-end Limited trim levels are offered. All are available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The AWD system can be locked in a 50/50 front/rear power split.

The sole powertrain teams a 260-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 3,500 pounds. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. The 3rd-row seat is a 2-passenger 50/50 split bench that folds flat into the floor.

The 2nd row seats 3 and also folds. Some former Limited-exclusive features that are now offered on the GLS include a power tilt and telescopic steering wheel and a navigation system. Leather upholstery and keyless access and engine start are standard on the Limited. Heated front seats are standard on all Limited and AWD GLS models. DVD entertainment is offered on the Limited.

The 2009 Hyundai Tucson gets slightly freshened exterior styling. This compact crossover SUV is slightly smaller and less costly than Hyundai’s Santa Fe. Tucson comes in GLS, SE, and Limited trims. GLS has a 140-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The SE has a 173-hp 2.7-liter V6 and 4-speed automatic transmission.

Limiteds are offered with either the 4-cylinder or V6 and automatic transmission. All models are available with front-wheel drive. SE and Limited V6 offer all-wheel drive, which includes a dashboard switch that locks in a 50/50 front/rear power split.

Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. A sunroof is standard on Limited V6. All Limited models have specific exterior trim, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, and heated front seats. Tucson lends its basic design to the Sportage at Hyundai’s Kia division.

The 2010 Hyundai Tucson is redesigned with freshened styling, a new engine, and new features. This compact SUV seats 5 and is about 3 inches longer and 1 inch wider than the 2009 model. It comes in base GLS and uplevel Limited trim levels. The sole engine for all models is a new 176-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder. It teams with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

This powertrain replaces 140-horsepower 4-cylinder and 173-horsepower V6 engines. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are available on both trims. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. Newly standard on the 2010 Tucson is Downhill Brake Control, which is designed to maintain constant speed when traveling downhill.

Also standard is Hillstart Assist Control, which is designed to keep the vehicle from rolling backward down an incline. Leather upholstery and heated front seats are Limited-exclusive standard features. A navigation system and rearview camera are new features for Tucson, and they’re optional on both GLS and Limited. A panoramic sunroof is optional on the Limited.