Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Why BMWs are cheaper than Hyundais in Korea]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/why-bmws-are-cheaper-than-hyundais-in-korea/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/why-bmws-are-cheaper-than-hyundais-in-korea/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/why-bmws-are-cheaper-than-hyundais-in-korea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2014 Hyundai Equus

Bloomberg reports shifting tariff regulations have upended the traditional automotive pecking order in Korea. Thanks to cheaper import taxes, foreign brands have seen market share jump from 28 percent to 41 percent over the last two years. BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi have all capitalized on the shift, with domestics like Hyundai and Kia suffering at the hands of their German rivals.

Taxes on European imports have fallen from 8 percent in 2011 to just 3.2 percent today. Over the next few years, tariffs will all but be eliminated for most imports, and taxes on US-made vehicles are expected to fall to just 4 percent in 2014. By 2016, that number will be zero. Needless to say, Hyundai and Kia are concerned about the shift.

Hyundai has seen profit fall by 15 percent last quarter, and the company says it is on pace to see the slowest sales growth since 2007. The company's shares have fallen by 12 percent. In order to stem the losses, Hyundai has discounted its midsize sedans and started working on diesel engine options.

Why BMWs are cheaper than Hyundais in Korea originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 May 2013 08:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audibmwhyundaikiakorean auto marketmercedesSat, 18 May 2013 08:51:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20573562/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/18/why-bmws-are-cheaper-than-hyundais-in-korea/20573562/article-detail.xml 20573562 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-hyundai-equus-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-hyundai-equus-628.jpg <![CDATA[Business booming for Hyundai in 'Bama, new production record set]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/business-booming-for-hyundai-in-bama-new-production-record-set/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/business-booming-for-hyundai-in-bama-new-production-record-set/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/business-booming-for-hyundai-in-bama-new-production-record-set/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Although it may be a distinction of mild importance on a global scale, Hyundai announced that last month it set an all-time sales record for the month of April. Digging a little deeper, Hyundai-Blog - an enthusiast site not affiliated with the South Korean automaker - is reporting that another record was set: to go along with 63,315 total sales in April, Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembled a record 37,372 Elantra and Sonata sedans.

This doesn't mean that half of Hyundai's April sales came from the Montgomery, AL plant, but it's still a telling sign of just how important this new factory is. The Elantra and Sonata are by far Hyundai's most popular models, accounting for almost 63 percent of all Hyundai sales so far in 2013. Congrats on the achievement, Hyundai.

Business booming for Hyundai in 'Bama, new production record set originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 May 2013 13:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundaihyundai elantrahyundai motor manufacturing alabamahyundai productionhyundai saleshyundai sonataSun, 12 May 2013 13:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20564061/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/12/business-booming-for-hyundai-in-bama-new-production-record-set/20564061/article-detail.xml 20564061 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2011-hyundai-elantra-review-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2011-hyundai-elantra-review-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #332]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/autoblog-podcast-332/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/autoblog-podcast-332/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/autoblog-podcast-332/#commentsFiled under:

Jaguar F-Type Coupe, domestic automakers gaining market share, Volvo takes aim at the Volkswagen Golf

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Episode #332 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth and Zach Bowman talk about the Jaguar F-Type Coupe, the simultaneous market share gains by domestic automakers for the first quarter of 2013, and Volvo taking aim at the Volkswagen Golf. Our conversation about the Malaise Era's 40th anniversary with Rob Sass of Hagerty Classic Cars magazine had to be postponed, but look for it soon! We also address lots of your questions and comments, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. You can follow along after the jump with our Q&A. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #332:


Topics: In the Autoblog Garage: Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman

Runtime: 01:24:35
Get the podcast:
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #332

Autoblog Podcast #332 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 16:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 hyundai sonata2013 nissan juke nismoautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 332car saleshyundaihyundai sonatajaguarjaguar f-typenissannissan jukenissan juke nismonissan juke rvolvoTue, 07 May 2013 16:48:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #332Autoblog01:24:35 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20560862/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/autoblog-podcast-332/20560862/article-detail.xml 20560862 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo: April 2013]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/2013-hyundai-veloster-turbo-april-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/2013-hyundai-veloster-turbo-april-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/2013-hyundai-veloster-turbo-april-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Learning To Love Understand You

2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo

I will admit, I haven't had the nicest things to say about our long-term 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo since its arrival in our fleet earlier this year. I can't exactly say that I've bonded with our turbocharged Hyundai, despite the fact that I've driven it quite a bit since its arrival in the Autoblog Garage. Several of my friends will no doubt recall me saying things like, "I love everything about this car - except driving it," which is a shame, since the driving aspect is what's supposed to make this car so special. I'm a big fan of the base Veloster, and this one has the extra power bump that the naturally aspirated could really benefit from. So what gives?

Recently, I took a trip to the south of France, where I drove the brand-new Ford Fiesta ST along the lovely roads of the Alps. I adored that car - it's everything a hot hatch should be, and it's priced right, too. But when I came home and picked up the Veloster Turbo at the airport, I found myself disappointed. The Ford I drove in Europe was similar to the Hyundai in terms of size, function, equipment and price, but it was far better to drive. To be fair, that car wasn't even out to benchmark when the Veloster Turbo debuted, but my already sour feelings only got worse at that moment.

But this matte gray cloud does have a silver lining. And all it takes is a bit of rethinking.

Continue reading 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo: April 2013

2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo: April 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 May 2013 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 hyundai veloster turboablongterm-velosterhyundaihyundai velosterhyundai veloster turbolong-termlongtermWed, 01 May 2013 15:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549238/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/01/2013-hyundai-veloster-turbo-april-2013/20549238/article-detail.xml 20549238 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/002-long-term-2013-hyundai-veloster-turbo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/002-long-term-2013-hyundai-veloster-turbo.jpg <![CDATA[South Korea firms up fuel economy regs following Hyundai/Kia debacle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/south-korea-firms-up-fuel-economy-regs-following-hyundai-kia-deb/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/south-korea-firms-up-fuel-economy-regs-following-hyundai-kia-deb/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/south-korea-firms-up-fuel-economy-regs-following-hyundai-kia-deb/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Kia Soul Eco - profile view

According to a report from Reuters, South Korea's government has drafted strict new rules for automakers to follow when calculating fuel economy. The legislation comes after a major snafu by Hyundai and Kia that resulted in the automakers lowering the estimated fuel mileage of many popular models - some by several miles per gallon, including the Soul subcompact above - and compensating owners in the US and Canada for the reduction.

The new fuel economy rules were announced by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy in South Korea and will see average mileage ratings drop by roughly three to five percent, according to the report. In addition, manufacturers found guilty of overstating mileage figures will be liable for fines of up to $900,000.

These sweeping new regulations will go into effect in the second half of 2013 and, while they won't have any effect on EPA estimates for Hyundai and Kia vehicles in the United States, they are expected to result in new ratings for the two automakers in their home market of South Korea, where they enjoy a whopping 70-percent market share.

South Korea firms up fuel economy regs following Hyundai/Kia debacle originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>calculating fuel economyfuel economyfuel mileagehyundaikiakorean autoskorean governmentministry of tradesouth koreaTue, 30 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20553285/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/south-korea-firms-up-fuel-economy-regs-following-hyundai-kia-deb/20553285/article-detail.xml 20553285 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2012-kia-soul-base-eco_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2012-kia-soul-base-eco.jpg <![CDATA[Next Hyundai Genesis confirmed for Detroit debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/next-hyundai-genesis-confirmed-for-detroit-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/next-hyundai-genesis-confirmed-for-detroit-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/next-hyundai-genesis-confirmed-for-detroit-debut/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hyundai Genesis Spy Shots on Nurburgring

Edmunds reports the 2015 Hyundai Genesis Sedan will bow at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show next January. As expected, the redesigned luxury four-door will reportedly offer buyers an all-wheel drive option for the first time as well as a more refined interior. The news that the Genesis will show up at Detroit comes courtesy of Brandon Ramirez, senior group manager of product planning with Hyundai Motor America, though the executive stopped short of serving up any more details.

Edmunds points to "other sources" as saying the Genesis will receive a styling update in the same vein as the automaker's other Fluidic Sculpture design products. That may mean we'll see hints of the HCD-14 Genesis Concept in the final product, though the influence is likely to be pretty subtle if the spy shots above are any indication. The new model will also take a stab at improving both the machine's ride and handling as Hyundai continues to attempt to lure buyers away from brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Next Hyundai Genesis confirmed for Detroit debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 hyundai genesisgenesis all-wheel drivehyundaiTue, 30 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20553165/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/next-hyundai-genesis-confirmed-for-detroit-debut/20553165/article-detail.xml 20553165 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hyundai-genesis-spy-shots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hyundai-genesis-spy-shots.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai in hot water over suicide-themed commercial]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/hyundai-in-hot-water-over-suicide-themed-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/hyundai-in-hot-water-over-suicide-themed-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/hyundai-in-hot-water-over-suicide-themed-commercial/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Hyundai suicide ad - screencap of man close-up

There's a surprisingly long and storied history of automakers creating suicide-themed advertisements. You'd think the companies and their marketing firms would have figured out by now that such ads always result in a swirl of backlash - see examples from Audi, Citroën, General Motors and Volkswagen, all pasted down below, as proof.

It seems somebody at Hyundai didn't get the message that many people don't find suicide a laughing matter. A video making the rounds on the web that was, according to Hyundai, produced in the UK, depicts a man trying to commit suicide by pumping exhaust fumes into the passenger compartment of his car. As it turns out, the self-assisted death doesn't quite go according to plan.

Scroll down below to see the ad from Hyundai, a slew of similar spots from other automakers including an official statement from Hyundai. After that, we suggest reading this piece from our friends at AOL Autos to see how deeply such thoughtless advertisements can affect people.

Continue reading Hyundai in hot water over suicide-themed commercial

Hyundai in hot water over suicide-themed commercial originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banned adshyundaihyundai ix35hyundai suicide adsuicidesuicide advideoThu, 25 Apr 2013 16:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549222/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/25/hyundai-in-hot-water-over-suicide-themed-commercial/20549222/article-detail.xml 20549222 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hyundai-suicide-ad_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hyundai-suicide-ad.png <![CDATA[Hyundai Mingtu revealed on billboard ahead of Shanghai]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/hyundai-mingtu-revealed-on-billboard-ahead-of-shanghai/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/hyundai-mingtu-revealed-on-billboard-ahead-of-shanghai/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/hyundai-mingtu-revealed-on-billboard-ahead-of-shanghai/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hyundai Mingtu billboard

The so-called Hyundai Mini-Sonata now has a proper name. Called the Mingtu in China, this new sedan will slot in between the compact Elantra and midsize Sonata, and it sports a pretty nifty look.

We've known for a while now that Hyundai is working on a more mature version of its Fluidic styling language, the first fruits of which showed up in the latest Santa Fe, and the Mingtu seems to take that refined appearance to the next level with a refined look of creased lines, a chiseled fascia and a smooth greenhouse.

There's no indication that this car will be offered in the US market, but it's certainly possible that some of its styling elements will carry over to the next Elantra or Sonata. In any case, expect a range of 1.8- and 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines to be announced for the Chinese market when the Mingtu makes its official debut at the Shanghai Motor Show this weekend.

Hyundai Mingtu revealed on billboard ahead of Shanghai originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 shanghai motor showchinahyundaihyundai mingtushanghaishanghai motor showFri, 19 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545286/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/19/hyundai-mingtu-revealed-on-billboard-ahead-of-shanghai/20545286/article-detail.xml 20545286 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hyundai-mingtu-billboard_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hyundai-mingtu-billboard.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/2013-hyundai-santa-fe-sport-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/2013-hyundai-santa-fe-sport-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/2013-hyundai-santa-fe-sport-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Crossover For The Kardashians Of 1895



My wife and I are holdouts among our friends and family in the offspring department. Our heir-free lifestyle, however, affords us the opportunity to travel this great land, and road trips are our favorite. So while I'm unqualified to remark on how well the new 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport will swallow an infant son and stroller, I can pass judgment on this two-row crossover's talents for carrying people and cargo over great distances.

The lady and I recently drove a new 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport to one of this country's national treasures: the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. The Biltmore was built between 1889 and 1895 by George Vanderbilt, grandson of Cornelius Vanderbilt who was one of this country's earliest captains of industry. Despite the Biltmore being the largest privately owned home in the United States, which it remains to this day with a footprint of 178,926 square feet, George and his wife, Edith, only ever had one child. A family of two parents plus one child would have made the Vanderbilts exactly the type of people Hyundai hopes to attract with this two-row Santa Fe Sport - George's eldest brother, Cornelius II, had seven children and would've had better luck fitting his brood in the larger three-row Santa Fe (sans the "Sport" suffix).

Like George, the all-new Santa Fe Sport is now the youngest in a large family of redesigned Hyundais that have been pushing the Korean brand's sales ever higher. Being last in a line of overachievers has its advantages, as this new Santa Fe Sport comes to market with the brand's latest design, technology and safety features, all of which it needs to compete in a midsize crossover segment that is more crowded and competitive than perhaps any other.

Continue reading 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 hyundai santa fe sportbiltmorebiltmore estatefeaturedgeorge vanderbilthyundaihyundai santa fehyundai santa fe sportreviewreviewsvanderbiltThu, 18 Apr 2013 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20543945/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/18/2013-hyundai-santa-fe-sport-review/20543945/article-detail.xml 20543945 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-hyundai-santa-fe---01-opt2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-hyundai-santa-fe---01-opt2.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Hyundai Genesis reveals new skin on 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/17/next-gen-hyundai-genesis-reveals-new-skin-on-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/17/next-gen-hyundai-genesis-reveals-new-skin-on-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/17/next-gen-hyundai-genesis-reveals-new-skin-on-ring/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The launch of the next-generation Hyundai Genesis is drawing closer and closer, and this latest set of spy shots gives us our best look yet at the Korean automaker's new sedan. Caught testing on the Nürburgring, we're not only getting a better look at the finer details of the Hyundai's exterior, but this set of photos gives us a clear view inside the cockpit, as well.

Hyundai Genesis interior spy shotFor its new generation, the Hyundai Genesis appears to be moving a bit more upmarket in terms of materials and layout, with a redesigned steering wheel, gauge cluster and center stack. The current car's analog clock appears to be left intact, smack dab in the middle of the heating and cooling controls, but the rest of the updates look decidedly more modern and, if we're honest, a bit German.

Outside, it's obvious that the new Hyundai will wear a more aggressive front fascia, along with what appears to be a more rakish rear deck. Earlier reports have stated that the next Genesis will be much lighter than the current car, and with a much more sporty tune to the suspension. We'll know more when the car is officially revealed, though it's still unclear exactly when that will be.

Next-gen Hyundai Genesis reveals new skin on 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundaihyundai genesishyundai genesis sedanspy photosspy picsspy shotsWed, 17 Apr 2013 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20543528/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/17/next-gen-hyundai-genesis-reveals-new-skin-on-ring/20543528/article-detail.xml 20543528 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-hyundai-genesis-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-hyundai-genesis-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai, Kia ratchet up fleet sales as retail transactions slide]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/hyundai-kia-ratchet-up-fleet-sales-as-retail-transactions-slide/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/hyundai-kia-ratchet-up-fleet-sales-as-retail-transactions-slide/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/hyundai-kia-ratchet-up-fleet-sales-as-retail-transactions-slide/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo - front three-quarter view

Automotive News reports both Hyundai and Kia have stepped up fleet sales in an attempt to offset disappointing first quarter results. The Korean automakers saw their sales decline by nine percent compared to last year, while all major competitors managed to increase their sales. That situation marks an inversion of two years ago, when both gained ground after Japanese rivals suffered production and inventory shortages after the country's earthquake and tsunami tragedies.

Now, Hyundai can't come up with enough volume models in popular trim configurations to satisfy buyers, and lower-volume models are also in a snag. At the moment, Hyundai can only build 20-30 percent of Veloster hatchbacks with turbocharged engines while the US market would apparently support closer to 70 percent.

In order to reverse the sales slide, Hyundai and Kia have stepped up fleet sales of the vehicles they do have by some 50 percent, ringing up a total of 42,400 units in the first quarter. By contrast, Automotive News reports the seven largest automakers increased retail volume by seven percent and fleet sales by four percent as a group.

Hyundai, Kia ratchet up fleet sales as retail transactions slide originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 hyundai velosterhyundaihyundai saleshyundai velosterhyundai veloster turbokiakia salesTue, 16 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20541009/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/hyundai-kia-ratchet-up-fleet-sales-as-retail-transactions-slide/20541009/article-detail.xml 20541009 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-hyundai-veloster-review-1347979129_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-hyundai-veloster-review-1347979129.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai reveals flying car among other wacky concepts [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/hyundai-reveals-flying-car-among-other-wacky-concepts-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/hyundai-reveals-flying-car-among-other-wacky-concepts-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/hyundai-reveals-flying-car-among-other-wacky-concepts-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Hyundai flying car concept

Hyundai has held an IDEA festival for the past three years that gives its engineers a break from seat belts, and electrical harnesses and wheel arch moldings. Each festival serves up a theme for personal mobility, after that there's no limit - competing teams can come up with anything that serves the theme and are encouraged to get creative.

That's how you get concepts like the E4U 'egg car' (pictured); a single-stander mode of transportation that channels Mork from Ork. The oddest thing about the egg is not the yellow shell but the helmet the 'driver' wears. Other ideas included a flying car with 16 (!) rotors, a bicycle that could serve as a spare tire and a car with five joints. Although most appeared totally impractical, all were totally cool.

This year's festival is in the works, the theme being the rather ambiguous "R&D for customers," the point is apparently to come up with concepts that Hyundai customers might actually use. There's a video with scenes of last year's festival and a press release below (our vote goes to the Pandora).

Continue reading Hyundai reveals flying car among other wacky concepts [w/video]

Hyundai reveals flying car among other wacky concepts [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptegg carhyundaihyundai idea festivalidea festivalmobilityvideoyoutubeMon, 15 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20540543/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/15/hyundai-reveals-flying-car-among-other-wacky-concepts-w-video/20540543/article-detail.xml 20540543 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hyundai-idea-festival-05-1366064358_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hyundai-idea-festival-05-1366064358.jpg <![CDATA[Ward's 10 Best Interiors released, Asian automakers take 7 of 10 spots]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,



Step inside just about any new car these days and you'll quickly see that vehicle interiors have become a pretty nice place to spend some time in. For the third consecutive year, WardsAuto sat in each and every new vehicle that had received redesigned or updated interiors, and it has now named its 10 Best Interiors.

Judges look at everything from design and fit-and-finish to comfort, safety and technology. Some of the standout selections include budget cars like the Chevrolet Spark and Kia Forte all the way up to more expensive sedans like the $60,000+ Cadillac XTS and Lexus GS450h. An interesting note here is that WardsAuto praises Cadillac for its CUE infotainment system while Consumer Reports generally lambasts the system. Asian automakers definitely won the contest for nicest interiors as the list is comprised of five Japanese automakers and two South Korean, with Toyota and General Motors in a dead heat with the most number of cars on the list with two each.

Scroll down for the full list (in alphabetical order) and press release from WardsAuto for its 10 Best Interiors of 2013.

Continue reading Ward's 10 Best Interiors released, Asian automakers take 7 of 10 spots

Ward's 10 Best Interiors released, Asian automakers take 7 of 10 spots originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 best interiorsacuraacura rdxcadillaccadillac xtschevroletchevrolet sparkhyundaihyundai santa fe sportkiakia fortelexuslexus gs450hmazda6nissannissan pathfinderramram 1500ram 1500 laramie longhorntoyotatoyota avalonwards autoMon, 15 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20541080/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/15/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/20541080/article-detail.xml 20541080 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cadillac-xts-interior_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cadillac-xts-interior.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai recalling 186k Elantras due to possible headliner detachment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/hyundai-recalling-186k-elantras-due-to-possible-headliner-detach/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/hyundai-recalling-186k-elantras-due-to-possible-headliner-detach/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/hyundai-recalling-186k-elantras-due-to-possible-headliner-detach/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hyundai Elantra

Following at least one reported incident of a man who claimed his ear was sliced in half following the deployment of his side airbag, Hyundai has announced a recall for certain model year 2011 through 2013 Elantras; specifically those manufactured from November 12, 2010 through March 5, 2013. In these Elantra models, a support bracket that is attached to the car's headliner may become dislodged when the side curtain airbag deploys. If that should happen, occupants may be in danger of a laceration injury by way of the flying bracket.

Hyundai will notify owners of affected vehicles, while dealers will service the dangerous bracket by applying adhesive strips. (Feel free to insert your own duct tape joke here.) The service will be performed free of charge, starting in May of this year. Follow on to read the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notice, below.

Continue reading Hyundai recalling 186k Elantras due to possible headliner detachment

Hyundai recalling 186k Elantras due to possible headliner detachment originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 hyundai elantra2012 hyundai elantra2013 hyundai elantrahyundaihyundai elantranhtsanhtsa recallrecallWed, 10 Apr 2013 07:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20535165/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/10/hyundai-recalling-186k-elantras-due-to-possible-headliner-detach/20535165/article-detail.xml 20535165 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2011-hyundai-elantra-review-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2011-hyundai-elantra-review-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai Sonata successor to seek evolution, not revolution]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/hyundai-sonata-successor-to-seek-evolution-not-revolution/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/hyundai-sonata-successor-to-seek-evolution-not-revolution/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/hyundai-sonata-successor-to-seek-evolution-not-revolution/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Hyundai Sonata - front three-quarter view

Hyundai hit a home run with its current-generation Sonata midsize sedan, so don't expect the Korean automaker to make revolutionary changes when its replacement comes out for the 2015 model year. The four-door sitting in showrooms today was launched in 2010 with radical new lines that marked a big departure from its rather bland predecessor. Even with stiff competition from the Honda Accord, Ford Fusion and Toyota Camry - all newer designs than the Sonata - sales have been strong. Consumers embraced its new design language, taking home a record 230,605 units last year.

"I think we found a design language that works, the 'Fluidic Sculpture' stuff, so I would say (the new styling) is not pulling back in any way. It's more continuing to refine on that same trajectory that we're on," John Krafcik, Hyundai U.S. CEO, told WardsAuto in a recent interview. Consumers don't seem to be fazed by the its age either. "A lot of consumers are just entering (the) midsize (segment) for the first time. They don't see (the Sonata) as a three-year-old car. They see it as, 'Whoa, that's a pretty good-looking midsize car,' so it's doing quite well," added Krafcik.

Sonota sales have been down over the last few months, but Krafcik says that is a reflection of the automaker's decision to increase production of its Elantra compact at the Montgomery, Alabama, plant - where both are built - and a limited supply of its mid-grade GLS Sonata model.

Hyundai Sonata successor to seek evolution, not revolution originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 hyundai sonatafluidic sculpturehyundaihyundai sonatajohn krafcikMon, 08 Apr 2013 15:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20533737/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/08/hyundai-sonata-successor-to-seek-evolution-not-revolution/20533737/article-detail.xml 20533737 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/lead1sonatareview2011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/lead1sonatareview2011.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo: March 2013]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/2013-hyundai-veloster-turbo-march-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/2013-hyundai-veloster-turbo-march-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/2013-hyundai-veloster-turbo-march-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Much of my time spent with the Veloster Turbo was under gray skies dumping inches of snow.

Make sure to follow our more frequent long-term updates on the official Autoblog Facebook page.

Our 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo spent the most days in March (and many in February) with me, so I'll be handling its long-term update report this month. The time of year is important to note, as much of my time spent with the Veloster Turbo was under gray skies dumping inches of snow on Northeast Ohio. So not only were the roads prohibiting much fun from being had behind the wheel, but the constant freeze-thaw cycle of this area left the roads a mine field of uneven pavement, cracked concrete and pot holes.

First, let's talk about the Veloster Turbo's engine. The turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder puts down 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque... on paper. In the cold climes of Clevelandia, however, it often seemed like the engine was down on power, at least until it ran long enough to have toasty warm internals. As I work from home, however, many of my trips with the Veloster Turbo were short jaunts, errands and drive-bys that didn't afford the engine much warm-up time. As such, I felt like I never experienced the engine's full reserve of power, and am eager to see if my colleagues note the warmer weather alters this experience for the better.

Continue reading 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo: March 2013

2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo: March 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 hyundai veloster turboablongtermhyundaihyundai velosterhyundai veloster turboFri, 05 Apr 2013 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20530671/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/05/2013-hyundai-veloster-turbo-march-2013/20530671/article-detail.xml 20530671 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hyundai-veloster-turbo-long-term_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hyundai-veloster-turbo-long-term.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai and Kia recalling 1.6M more models for faulty brake switch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/hyundai-kia-recalling-1-6m-more-models-for-faulty-brake-switch/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/hyundai-kia-recalling-1-6m-more-models-for-faulty-brake-switch/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/hyundai-kia-recalling-1-6m-more-models-for-faulty-brake-switch/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In what is likely the largest recall campaign for Hyundai and Kia, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced a recall of more than 1.6 million models due to a faulty brake switch. This is in addition to almost 700,000 Hyundai and Kia models recalled for the same problem back in 2009.

In more than 620,000 Kia models and 1 million Hyundai products for the 2007 through 2011 model years, the brake switch could malfunction causing the brake lights to not illuminate, which could lead to accident. Other possible issues with a faulty switch include the cruise control not cancelling with the brake pedal, the push-button starter not working properly and the shift interlock not disengaging causing the transmission to be stuck in Park. To fix the problem, the brake lights switch will be replaced.

Due to the large number of units being recalled, both automakers are issuing a notice by next month with parts not expected to be ready until June. The full list of affected vehicles and the NHTSA press releases are posted below.

Continue reading Hyundai and Kia recalling 1.6M more models for faulty brake switch

Hyundai and Kia recalling 1.6M more models for faulty brake switch originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundaihyundai accenthyundai elantrahyundai genesis coupehyundai recallhyundai santa fehyundai sonatahyundai tucsonHyundai Veracruzkiakia optimakia recallkia rondokia sedonakia sorentokia soulkia sportagerecallWed, 03 Apr 2013 11:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20528166/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/03/hyundai-kia-recalling-1-6m-more-models-for-faulty-brake-switch/20528166/article-detail.xml 20528166 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2011hyundaisonata2.0t---01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2011hyundaisonata2.0t---01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA launching investigation into 2006-2008 Hyundai Sonata rust]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/02/nhtsa-launching-investigation-into-2006-2008-hyundai-sonata-rust/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/02/nhtsa-launching-investigation-into-2006-2008-hyundai-sonata-rust/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/02/nhtsa-launching-investigation-into-2006-2008-hyundai-sonata-rust/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2006 Hyundai Sonata

The Detroit News reports the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating almost 400,000 Hyundai Sonata models over rust complaints. So far, NHTSA has received six complaints that Sonata models, built between 2006 and 2008, have allegedly suffered rear control arm failures due to subframe rust. Three of those occurred at highway speeds, and two resulted in the actuation of the vehicle's stability control system, though no one was injured. An investigation is typically the first step toward determining whether or not a safety recall is necessary.

This isn't the first recall for the Sonata. Last year saw Hyundai recall certain 2012 and 2013 models for side-curtain air bags that could deploy inadvertently, and the automaker issued a campaign to recall 139,500 Sonata sedans for steering issues back in 2010.

NHTSA launching investigation into 2006-2008 Hyundai Sonata rust originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundaihyundai sonatarecallTue, 02 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20523234/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/02/nhtsa-launching-investigation-into-2006-2008-hyundai-sonata-rust/20523234/article-detail.xml 20523234 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/sonata-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/sonata-628.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai exec admits company studying pickup, no foolin']]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/hyundai-exec-admits-company-studying-pickup-no-foolin/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/hyundai-exec-admits-company-studying-pickup-no-foolin/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/hyundai-exec-admits-company-studying-pickup-no-foolin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Hyundai Emblem

Automotive News reports Hyundai may be considering jumping into the US pickup market. Lee In-cheol, ice president of international sales, says the company's product planners and engineers are currently trying to determine what size pickup would be best for our market. Currently, the automaker has no plans to build a truck, but Lee says that hasn't stopped US dealers from asking the company to produce one. The US and South Korea signed a free trade agreement that took effect in 2012 that removes the so-called Chicken Tax from South Korean imports in seven years.

That means that Hyundai or Kia could import a foreign-built truck without incurring the 25 percent tax on the vehicle's value after 2021. Even so, Hyundai isn't committed into jumping into the US full-size pickup market. Instead, the company may build a smaller truck designed to compete in emerging markets.

We've been hearing word about Hyundai's pickup musings for years now, including a rumored partnership with Chrysler to produce Ram-based trucks, but so far, nothing has come of it.

Hyundai exec admits company studying pickup, no foolin' originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundaihyundai pickuppickupMon, 01 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20525054/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/01/hyundai-exec-admits-company-studying-pickup-no-foolin/20525054/article-detail.xml 20525054 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hyundai-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hyundai-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai's rakish HND-9 concept has lots of Seoul]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/hyundai-hnd-9-concept-seoul-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/hyundai-hnd-9-concept-seoul-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/hyundai-hnd-9-concept-seoul-motor-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Hyundai HND-9 Concept

Hyundai has unwrapped the HND-9 Sports Coupe Concept at the 2013 Seoul Motor Show. The design study is intended to give the world a glimpse at what Hyundai has planned for the look of its future products - an evolution of the automaker's current Fluidic Sculpture design language.

With classic front-engine, rear-wheel-drive proportions, the HND-9 looks great, and engineers graced the concept with a 3.3-liter turbocharged, direct-injection engine good for 364 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission shuttles that thrust to the rear wheels, while touches like butterfly doors give the machine a bit of flair.

Indoors, the HND-9 features seats built with a special mesh that changes colors depending on the viewer's angle. Designers modeled the cabin after a cockpit for a close, sporty feel. You can check out the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading Hyundai's rakish HND-9 concept has lots of Seoul

Hyundai's rakish HND-9 concept has lots of Seoul originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 seoul motor showhnd-9 concepthyundaihyundai hnd-9 conceptseoul motor showThu, 28 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20522218/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/28/hyundai-hnd-9-concept-seoul-motor-show/20522218/article-detail.xml 20522218 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/hyundai-hnd-9-1-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/hyundai-hnd-9-1-628.jpg -1 2