Sunday, June 26, 2011
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
2011 Hyundai Elantra Makes WARD'S 10 Best Interiors List

The all-new 2011 Hyundai Elantra (Avante) with its modern design and numerous luxury features, was named to Ward’s 10 Best Interiors list. This honour 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.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Hyundai's first full-EV: 'BLUEON'

Hyundai Motor Co. today unveiled the company’s and Korea’s - first Full Speed Electric Vehicle (FSEV) named ‘BlueOn,’ opening a new era in eco-friendly technology. We are proud to introduce the world to BlueOn, which was fully developed in Korea and displays Hyundai’s latest technological advancements,” said Dr. Hyun-Soon Lee, Vice Chairman at Hyundai’s Corporate R&D Center. “Consumers’ interests and demand for eco-friendly cars are rising and securing such advanced technology is critical in becoming an industry leader. Hyundai is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint and satisfying market needs.” Hyundai unveiled the car at the Blue House yesterday, in the presence of Korean President Lee Myung-Bak and Ministers from the Ministry of Knowledge Economy and Ministry of Environment. During the unveiling ceremony, President Lee and Hyundai’s Vice Chairman Lee test-drove one of the new vehicles together on the Blue House premises.
Test Fleets
Hyundai invested a total of about 40 billion won over a one-year period to create BlueOn, which is based on Hyundai’s small hatchback, i10. The electric version of i10 was first unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2009. Beginning with today’s ceremony, Hyundai is planning to provide 30 BlueOn vehicles as test fleets to various government organizations in Korea by October. These vehicles will be mainly used to help develop and test charging infrastructures for about two years, until August 2012. Furthermore, these cars will be used for promotional purposes, starting with the upcoming G20 summit, to boost Korea’s eco-friendly image. The name ‘BlueOn’ derives from Hyundai’s Blue Drive strategy, which encompasses the company’s eco-friendly products and technologies. The word ‘On’ symbolizes “switch on.”

Innovative LiPoly Batteries, Virtual Sound
BlueOn has a compact body with an overall length of 3,585 mm, overall width of 1,595 mm and overall height of 1,540 mm. It is equipped with a highly efficient electric motor powered by an innovative 16.4 kWh LiPoly (lithium-ion polymer) battery technology that offers numerous advantages over other battery types. BlueOn boasts a maximum power of 81ps(61kW) and maximum torque of 21.4kg/m(210Nm). As pure electric vehicles operate only with the battery and electric motor, the battery’s lifespan and storage capacity determines the vehicle’s performance. Hyundai chose LiPoly batteries because compared with previous nickel-metal hydride batteries (NiMH), LiPoly delivers the same power with 30 percent less weight and 40 percent less volume, boosting efficiency and leaving more interior space for passengers. Furthermore, the car has been designed to prevent overcharging and collision-related safety issues. Hyundai also conducted hundreds of thousands of kilometers’ worth of endurance testing to secure safety. BlueOn boasts a maximum speed of 130km/h and 0-100 km/h is achieved in 13.1 seconds, better than some gasoline models in the same class. BlueOn also features a Virtual Engine Sound System (VESS), which creates an artificial sound for the safety of pedestrians, as electric vehicles make little to no sound when driving at low speeds.
Recharging

BlueOn can travel as much as 140 km on a single charge. It also accommodates dual recharging methods: a 220V household power and a 380V industrial-strength power, which promises quick recharging speeds. Under the household power, the battery will be fully recharged within six hours. Under the quick charge method, the battery can be recharged to about 80 percent of its capacity within 25 minutes. Hyundai will collaborate with the Seoul Metropolitan Government and other government agencies to build recharging facilities. In addition, the engine-driven components were electrified so that the electric motor-driven power steering, electric water pump and regenerative brake system could be adapted to BlueOn. Furthermore, for the driver’s convenience, an advanced telematics system showing the charge status and location of recharging stations is installed. A 4.2-inch TFT LCD Supervision Cluster that provides voice guidance has also been installed. Hyundai plans to expand its manufacturing capabilities for BlueOn next year, carrying out test productions and making about 2,500 units by the end of 2012.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Hyundai Tucson Awarded 5-Star EURO NCAP Rating

Euro NCAP, the independent vehicle safety organization, has announced that Hyundai’s new ix35 (also known as Tucson) compact SUV has been awarded the maximum five-star safety rating in its rigorous crash-test assessment program. The result places the ix35 (Tucson) as one of the safest vehicles in its class, and included a segment-best score for the ‘child occupant protection’ category.
The ix35 (Tucson) is the third Hyundai vehicle in a row to achieve a five-star rating from Euro NCAP, following on from the top ratings achieved by i20 supermini and i30 hatchback.
The C-segment SUV received a class-leading score of 88% for child occupants, scoring well in tests with both 18-month-old and three–year-old dummies. The test score for adult occupants was 90%, and the safety assist features earned a score of 71%.
Electronic stability control, which is standard on all models, and a seatbelt reminder system played a key role in the ix35’s (Tucson) score in the safety assist category. Hyundai’s focus on occupant safety was highlighted with high scores in the front and rear impact tests, with a stable compartment providing good protection in the event of a crash.
Allan Rushforth, Vice President of Hyundai Motor Europe said, “Receiving a five star crash test rating is testament to our commitment to providing customers with vehicles of superior quality and top-class safety. European drivers have very high demands, and our design and engineering teams at our European R&D centre have created a car, which matches such expectations.

Special Hari Raya Service Promotion for Hyundai car owners in Malaysia

Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors Sdn Bhd (HSDM) is offering its customers a “Special Hari Raya Service Promotion” in conjunction with the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations. This service promotion is available at participating Hyundai service centers from 20th August to 9th September, 2010.
With an emphasis on “safety first” for the ‘balik kampung’ rush this Hari Raya festivity, Hyundai wants to ensure Hyundai car owners a peace of mind during their long drive home. The promotion is also part of Hyundai’s commitment in providing value for money after-sales service to its valued customers. Customers can enjoy up to 20% discount on selected parts with 10% to 15% discount on labour depending on amount spent on parts purchase.
“Hyundai cars will be serviced by certified Hyundai technicians who use the latest diagnostic and service equipment. They also have immediate access to up-to-date technical and repair information which allows quicker diagnosis and repairs to any problem,” said Mr Dennis Ho, Managing Director of Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors Sdn Bhd.
He added that all certified Hyundai service outlets use only genuine parts manufactured according to Hyundai specifications. This is to ensure top performance and a maximum life span of Hyundai cars.
“Hyundai car owners should take advantage of this promotion as it does not only mean savings on selected parts and labour, but also a better and safer drive home,” said Mr Ho.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Saturday, June 26, 2010
2010 Hyundai Sonata (YF) previewed before actual launch date of 2nd July 2010 in Malaysia
Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has given the media a preview of its latest Sonata YF 2.0 and 2.4. Plans are afoot to launch it officially on 2nd July 2010. The 2.0-litre version is available in two trims level i.e. Standard Spec and High Spec while the 2.4 is only available in top spec, with prices ranging from RM135,888 to RM163,888 (OTR).
Please click on the chart below for more info on the 2.0 and 2.4 variants to be available soon:

Powered by Hyundai's indigenous new Theta II family of engines, the 2.0 churns out a respectable 164 bhp and maximum torque of 197 Nm. The 2.4 meanwhile, has a combo of 175 bhp/227 Nm. Rather class-leading figures for naturally aspirated powerplants in the Japanese-Korean class of cars. Claimed fuel consumption (combined cycle) are 13.2 km/l for the 2.0L and 12.5 km/l for the 2.4L Sonatas.
Available in White, Silver, Black, Blue and Red, the sleek 4-door coupe is fully imported (CBU) from South Korea. The all-new Sonata is available for pre-viewing now - daily from 2pm to 7pm - until next Tuesday (29th June) at Hyundai’s showroom at Glenmarie, Shah Alam.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Hyundai Tucson prices hiked in Malaysia

Prices of the new Hyundai Tucson have been hiked by 1% to 2% effective 7th June 2010.
This is the first price increase after its introduction to the Malaysian market sometime April 2010.
The new prices are:
Standard 2.0 - RM129,888
High-Spec 2.0- RM139,888
Top-of-the-line 2.4 - RM154,888.
Those who have placed their bookings before 7th June will not be subjected to this price increase.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
2011 Hyundai Accent/Verna
Hyundai has got all its bases covered as far as its new range of saloon/sedans for 2011 model year is concerned - from the entry-level B-segment Verna/Accent right up to the D-segment Sonata. With of course, the newly unveiled C-segment Elantra/Avante being the most balanced of the lot - at least aesthetically and proportion wise. Boasting Hyundai's latest "fluidic design", the Accent is very much akin to a junior Sonata.
The 2011 Accent/Verna measures 4,340mm in length, 1,700mm in width, 1,460mm in height, and has a relatively generous wheelbase of 2,570mm - for a B-segment budget sedan.
The base Verna/Accent will beat with a 1.4-litre 4-pot capable of 106 hp and 135 Nm of torque - with the choice of a five-speed manual gearbox or four-speed automatic.
However, the larger displacement 1.6-litre that pushes out 121 hp and 155Nm of peak torque will be paired only with a four-speed automatic transmission.


All-New 2011 Hyundai Elantra/Avante
A pictures tells a thousand stories, so they say. Judge for yourself how handsome Hyundai's latest "fluidic design" is and you'd be awed by how far this Korean automaker has come of age.
To be sold by Q2 in South Korea and perhaps up to six months later in other markets, the all-new Avante/Elantra will be sporting a 6-speed auto transmission mediating power to the front wheels - from a 1.6-litre (Gamma) GDI engine capable of 140 hp and 166 Nm - while claiming to be 10 percent more fuel efficient than its immediate predecessor.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010
2010 Hyundai Tucson available now in Malaysia

Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors Sdn Bhd (HSDM) today released the pricing of the new Tucson. The new Tucson, which is scheduled to be launched officially next month, will be priced at RM 126,888 (OTR) for the standard 2.0 model, RM136,888 (OTR) for the 2.0 (High Spec), and RM 152,888 (OTR) for the 2.4 the top-of-the-line model.
The new Tucson 2-litre and 2.4-litre engine come with the all-new gasoline Theta-II and are fitted with Hyundai’s new six-speed automatic transmission. The gasoline engine delivers a 12.2 percent gain in fuel economy (10.1km/l versus 9.0km/l) and is 2.5 percent quicker in zero to 100km/h acceleration times (7.8sec versus 8.0 sec). It also delivers an 11 percent improvement in 60km/h to 100km/h overtaking performance (4.0 sec versus 4.5 sec).
Furthermore the unit is maintenance-free: the gearbox is not equipped with a dipstick as it is filled with an automatic transmission fluid that is good for the life of the vehicle thereby reducing maintenance costs.
Named after a city in the U.S. state of Arizona, Tucson has been one of the most popular Hyundai models with more than 1 million units sold worldwide since its launch in 2004.
Some of the notable features of Tucson are as follows:
- 6 Speed Automatic Transmission is Hyundai developed and maintenance free for the life of the vehicle.
- Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing allows the engine to produce 166 PS (122kW) for the 2.0l and 177 PS (130 kW) for the 2.4l Theta II engine.
- Panoramic Sunroof (for the top-of-the-line 2.0 and 2.4 version)
- Smart Key allows for driver convenience when locking or unlocking the vehicle without needing to take out the key from pocket or handbag.
- Engine Start Stop Button allows driver convenience when starting the vehicle without needing to take out the key from pocket or handbag with just a push of a button.
The new Tucson is now available for test drive and viewing at major Hyundai showrooms.
For further enquiries or to place a booking, please call the Customer Careline at 1-300-13-2000.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Hyundai does a 2.0T for its 2011 Sonata...Audi style*!

The Korean automakers are really on a roll now. Hyundai has unveiled - at the New York Auto Show - its latest 2011 Sonata 2.0T with their latest Theta-II GDI Turbo engine. It is capable of standard maximum output of 274 hp - no need remap or any of those after-market tuning mumbo-jumbo - and get this, maximum torque of...365Nm!
Eat your heart out Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Heck! Even VW's famed 2.0TSI (EA888) of the Mk6 Golf GTI/Scirocco/Passat CC takes a back seat with 'only' 210ps and 280Nm. At this rating, only Audi's version of TFSI nearly matches such torque level at 350Nm in their Q5 SUV and the A4 (B8) 2.0 TFSI quattro...but that's power and technology at a premium for you.

Read the full press-release after these pictures:






*denotes Gasoline Direct Injection + turbocharging (twin-scroll compressor) = high output + high low end torque!
Press Release:
SHAH ALAM (
The new Sonata is the first Hyundai vehicle to have both GDI technology and a turbocharger. By the end of Hyundai’s 24/7 version 2.0 product initiative (seven new models in the next 24 months), four nameplates will be available with GDI or the combination of GDI and a turbocharger. Turbocharging and GDI are part of “
“The Sonata 2.0T is a great example of what our
The 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine in the 2011 Sonata produces 274 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 269 lb-ft of torque from 1800-4500 rpm with regular fuel. The Sonata 2.0T will deliver 22 mpg city and 34 mpg highway (preliminary estimates). Hyundai’s turbocharged engine features a twin-scroll turbocharger that when combined with the GDI system results in instantaneous power delivery. Twin-scroll turbochargers have traditionally been used on more expensive high performance engines, but as with GDI, Hyundai has chosen once again to apply this efficient technology in high volume to its most popular model.
The 2.0T engine will be available on the SE and Limited trim level, with the 2.0T Limited getting additional upgrades, including:
· Panoramic sunroof
· 18-inch hyper silver alloy wheels
· Dual exhaust system
· Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters
TWIN-SCROLL TURBOCHARGER AND GDI TECHNOLOGY
Twin-scroll turbocharger designs have two exhaust gas inlets divided by split walls inside the turbine housing, with both gas passages controlled by a waste-gate. A twin-scroll turbo recovers even more energy from the exhaust than a single-scroll turbocharger thanks to a divided manifold. The twin-scroll design separates the cylinders whose exhaust gas pulses interfere with each other resulting in improved pressure distribution in the exhaust ports and a more efficient delivery of exhaust gas energy to the turbocharger’s turbine.
For example, at the start of the intake stroke of cylinder one, and when both the intake and exhaust valves of cylinder one are open (valve overlap period), cylinder three already starts its exhaust stroke with the exhaust valve open. If the exhaust passages of cylinder one and three were connected, the exhaust gas pulse from cylinder three would increase the back pressure of cylinder one. This would reduce the induction of the fresh air and increase the amount of hot residual gases inside the cylinder. However, with the twin-scroll turbocharger setup, this interference is minimized.
The result of this superior scavenging effect from a twin-scroll design leads to better pressure distribution in the exhaust ports and a more efficient delivery of exhaust gas energy to the turbocharger's turbine. This in turn allows greater valve overlap, resulting in an improved quality and quantity of the air charge entering each cylinder. In fact, with more valve overlap, the scavenging effect of the exhaust flow can literally draw more air in on the intake side. At the same time, drawing out the last of the low-pressure exhaust gases help pack each cylinder with a denser and purer air charge. Maximum boost from the turbocharger is 17.4 psi.
The twin-scroll turbocharger design has several other advantages over traditional, single-scroll turbocharging systems, including:
· Improved combustion efficiency
· Low engine-speed efficiency
· Kinetic exhaust gas energy is not wasted or trapped
· Cooler cylinder temperatures
· Lower exhaust temperatures
· Leaner air/fuel ratio
· Better pressure distribution in the exhaust ports and more efficient delivery of exhaust gas energy to the turbocharger's turbine
Essentially, Sonata’s twin-scroll turbo directs even more air into the engine while a compressor increases the pressure entering the cylinder. This allows the air entering the cylinder to be even more densely packed for higher compression and better performance, contributing to a more-efficient burn and fuel efficiency.
Two key features of Hyundai’s twin-scroll turbocharger setup are:
• The stainless steel exhaust manifold and the twin-scroll turbine housing are cast in a patent pending one-piece design
• The waste-gate for the turbocharger uses a motor-driven electrical controller instead of being mechanically controlled
Thanks to the integrated stainless-steel turbine housing with the exhaust manifold, not only is the weight and cost of the casting dramatically reduced, the durability of the turbine housing is also improved.
By adapting the motor-driven electrical waste-gate, the boost pressure is precisely controlled. The back pressure is reduced when turbo boost is not necessary by opening the waste-gate, which improves fuel efficiency. In addition, during cold starts, the waste-gate remains open which results in faster catalyst light-off for reduced exhaust emissions.
A GDI fuel delivery system contributes to improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions. This shorter, more direct path of fuel delivery allows for greater control of the fuel mixture at the optimum moment, thus improving efficiency. The fuel is injected by a camshaft-driven, high pressure pump that operates at pressures up to 2175 psi. Direct injection also utilizes a higher-than-normal 9.5:1 compression ratio while achieving a remarkable 137 horsepower-per-liter. The piston heads are “dished” to increase combustion efficiency in the cylinder.
WORLD-CLASS POWER-TO-WEIGHT RATIO, RIGIDITY AND SPACE
One of the program targets for the 2011 Sonata engineering team was world-class power-to-weight ratio. This philosophy was also applied to the Sonata 2.0T, with the result of a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio of 12.2 horsepower per pound, significantly better than any mid-size sedan competitor, and even better than the performance-focused Chevrolet Camaro V6. Power-to-weight ratio pays dividends in both performance and fuel economy, and is the key to Sonata’s superior performance in both of these areas.
Additionally, all Sonatas are rich in ultra-high-strength steel, leading to world-class body rigidity. The 2011 Sonata is 25 percent stiffer in torsion and 19 percent stiffer in bending rigidity than its predecessor, yet it is lighter than most midsize sedans, also offering more interior room.
SIX-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Hyundai’s commitment to making the Sonata 2.0T extremely fuel efficient continues with a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual control.
Hyundai's all-new six-speed automatic A6LF2 transaxle is another way the company is meeting its goals of improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Shifts are silky smooth with an option of manual control through the SHIFTRONIC feature.
Drivers can access the SHIFTRONIC feature by moving the gear selector into a separate gate. Pushing the selector forward or pulling it rearward will shift the transmission up or down sequentially, adding to driver control. Turbocharged Sonatas will also feature steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. A clear LCD readout on the instrument panel shows the gear being used.
Designed for transverse engine applications in passenger cars and SUVs, the new compact transmission puts Hyundai into an elite class of auto manufacturers who have designed their own proprietary six-speed automatic transmissions. The strength of the design is its unique layout which makes it smaller, more compact and lighter than any other six-speed transmission on the market today.
For the customer, the new six-speed delivers a performance edge. The gearbox has no dipstick because it is filled with automatic transmission fluid that is good for the life of the vehicle under normal usage conditions, thereby reducing maintenance costs.
Developed over a four-year period, this new six-speed automatic is 26.4 pounds lighter than the five-speed it replaces. It is also 1.6 inches shorter and considerably simpler, having 62 fewer parts, which is key to increased durability, lighter weight and lower cost.
When it comes to transmissions, more gears are definitely better. The addition of a sixth gear enables closer spacing between gear ratios providing a better balance of performance and fuel economy while the wide overall gear ratio helps deliver strong acceleration.
The gearbox has three planetary gearsets and a unique flat torque converter that shortens the unit's overall length by 0.47 inches. Four pinion differentials improve durability and further minimize size.
Another example of engineering ingenuity is found in the design of the hydraulic pressure control unit. Slight manufacturing deviations from one solenoid valve to the next often cause fluctuation in the hydraulic pressure and affect shift precision and quality. The transmission featured in the Sonata cleverly integrates adjustment screws in the valves that enable each of the eight valves to be calibrated at the factory. This feature ensures stable hydraulic pressure at any shift point which facilitates a high degree of precision and control needed to deliver fast, smooth and precise shifts throughout the rpm range.
