As part of their Assurance program, Hyundai is offering a bailout for customers who want a vehicle but are uncertain about their financial futures, buying back a customer’s car if he or she is not able to pay for it due to job loss or a disability a year after purchase.  The auto giant will also make the car payment for three months for those out-of-work consumers who lose their jobs but want to keep the car, allowing them a 90-day grace period for them to find work without ever asking for these payments back.  That means you can buy the new 2010 Hyundai Chicago Accent Sedan or a Chicago Elantra and, if an unfortunate job situation befalls you in the next year, there’s no risk!

Hyundai is the first automaker in the U.S. to offer a return without having to worry about equity or depreciation.  This Good Samaritan-like ethic and security assurance has brought Hyundai up in the market and has brought on a greater confidence in the auto consumer, considering the rise in job losses and unemployment leading customers to think more than twice about their auto purchases.

Hyundai has also gained market share most likely through relating to customers on a regional, rather than national, level, in dealerships, such as your local Chicago Hyundai dealership, allowing consumers to interact online and check out the latest and greatest before even stepping into the dealership.  Hyundai also sponsored the Academy Awards last year, a most appropriate sponsorship from an award-winning design and manufacturing company, matching customer satisfaction to a contemporary risk-free bailout program where everybody wins.

So I started making the rounds and I have to say, I was impressed.  All cars offered great amenities and each had appealing differences.  But there wasn’t one that stuck out.  Until I visited my Chicago Hyundai Dealership and had the opportunity to finally test drive the 2009 Hyundai Sonata.  Now I have to say, I’m really impressed.

The first thing I noticed was the luxurious interior.  I know luxurious seems like an overstatement reserved for the likes of a Jaguar or BMW, but Hyundai has really earned the right to utilize the adjective.  Between the comfortable leather seats, accented wood trimming and leather-wrapped steering wheel, it really made the car feel more “at-home” than the Camry or the Accord.  I’m also a huge music guy and have to know that I can take my mp3 player with me anywhere.  I know it’s a minor detail for some, but this is a major detail for me.  Luckily, I was shown the intuitive portal to connect an mp3 player or an iPod to the premium 6 speaker audio system (which sounded amazing by the way.)  So the Hyundai Sonata scored extra points.

And then there was the engine.  The most power I’ve ever had in a vehicle involved 4 cylinders and a 0-60 in around 11 seconds.  So needless to say I was pretty excited to look under the hood and see “V6″ in bold letters on the casing.  At this point I had to take it out for a spin.  Since we were at a Chicago Hyundai Sonata dealership, I had to play it cool on the road, but immediately I could feel the power of the 249 hp engine.  Just knowing it was there was enough for me.  It was a noticeable difference between the 4 cylinders I’m used to, and definitely pushed me in the right direction.  Again, extra points for the Hyundai Sonata.

So after I had all the facts and saw all of the cars, did I make the right choice?  I would say MOST DEFINITELY.  I chose the Hyundai Sonata at the Chicago Hyundai dealership over all other models I’d considered because of the well-rounded amenities and superior performance.  Of course, you can get most of the same features in any other mid-sized sedan, but Hyundai offers the whole package for a great price that you really can’t say no to.  Well, at least I couldn’t say no to it.

When I showed up at my Hyundai Chicago dealer I could not help but to test drive Hyundai’s new Touring model. That’s right, the hatchback is back. The 2009 Elantra Touring is a spicy little ride.

I realized all of the perks that this new model would be able to deliver. This new design offers much more room than before, with the most cargo capacity of any vehicle in its class.

Aside from the new design, the new Elantra Touring also handles the road like a pro. The 2.0 4-cylinder 141 horsepower engine was more energetic than I had expected and the overall ride was far sportier than any of the Elantra predecessors. The 2009 Touring model has much larger wheels and tires, along with a sportier suspension, making the overall feel much sturdier and more responsive.

I was also very impressed by all of the new features the new Touring offers. The Chicago Hyundai dealer pointed out that it has iPod connectivity, along with a USB port for other electronic devices. But even better, when he let me put in my iPod into the car, it started to charge it for me, while also displaying what song was playing with artist and album name as well. Good thing to have for someone so obsessed with their iPod, like I am. It also comes with XM Satellite radio (for those not as obsessed with their iPods), heated mirrors, keyless entry and plenty more new features. Plus, the new Touring is big on safety – with stability control, active head restraints, six airbags and ABS.

After driving the 2009 model around and seeing its new features up close in person, I can honestly say that this new Touring is my favorite Hyundai Elantra. Chicago showrooms are now featuring this new model, so stop in and test drive on for yourself to see what I mean and get hooked as well.

Hyundai's Gas Promotion Just in Time

With summer driving season upon us, and recent attacks on Nigeria’s oil pipelines (the U.S. imports almost half of Nigeria’s production of light crude, which is the oil used in gasoline refining), gasoline has returned to the headlines as energy analysts predict higher prices at the pump, which may just end up paying dividends for Hyundai. Already benefiting from an increase in attention after edging Toyota in J.D. Power & Associates Initial Quality Study, which measures problems in the first three months of owning a new vehicle, as reported by buyers, the Korean automaker implemented a summer promotion on Tuesday, June 30, 2009, guaranteeing buyers of its vehicles one year’s worth of gas at $1.49 per gallon.

Compounding previous offers, the gas guarantee should help Hyundai boost its share of the U.S. auto market, which has already jumped from 2.9% to 4.2% so far this year. This year Hyundai initiated its “Hyundai Assurance” program guaranteeing that buyers can walk away from a new-car loan, with no adverse effect to their credit rating, if they lose their jobs. Already offering one of the most charitable warranty programs in the industry, Hyundai proceeded to buy a series of extremely high-audience TV ad buys, such as the Super Bowl and the first ad spot on CNN after then-President-elect Obama’s election night acceptance speech.

With Japanese companies engaged in a downward spiraling battle with the economy, and Detroit automakers regrouping, Hyundai is trying to increase its market share amid the recession with promotions that are hitting home during tough economic times for all.

Research has demonstrated that nearly 40% of potential new-car buyers were staying away from the market explicitly because of uncertainty around future gas prices. Chris Perry, director of marketing communications at Hyundai, says: “Our programs are designed to address consumer needs, the ones they are talking about around their kitchen tables.” Indeed, while Hyundai’s Assurance program increased Web interest when it was launched last January, fewer than 10 buyers have had to take advantage so far, the company says.

In order to take advantage of the discount gas offer, called Hyundai Assurance Gas Lock, consumers must buy or lease a new Hyundai by August 31, 2009. Perry says used Hyundai Chicago is also sponsoring advertising reminding new-vehicle buyers of the Hyundai models that qualify for the Federal government’s Cash for Clunkers program (which gives consumers up to $4,500 trade-in value for trading in old vehicles that get below 18 mpg for new, more fuel-efficient vehicles). “We already are marketing our vehicles that qualify on our Web site, and we will add it to our ads as the government program rolls out.”

After purchase new Hyundai in Chicago, the buyer registers a Visa, MasterCard, American Express (or Discover credit card, or a Visa or MasterCard check card), at hyundai.pricelock.com. Once activated, the consumer receives a new Hyundai Assurance branded card to be used for all future fill-ups. The consumer is billed $1.49 per gallon of regular grade gasoline, regardless of the price at the pump, with Hyundai paying the difference. (The driver may elect to purchase mid-grade gasoline for $1.64 per gallon or premium gas for $1.79 per gallon as well, though all eligible Hyundai vehicles are factory-certified for regular fuel.).

The card ranges between any gas station in the Voyager credit -card network, which covers 93% of gas stations nationwide, including brands such as Exxon (XOM), Chevron (CVX), BP (BP), Shell, Texaco, and many more. Consumers are eligible for a maximum number of gallons, equal to 12,000 miles divided by the EPA combined fuel economy rating for the qualifying model.

* Chicago Hyundai dealer says buyers who opt for the gas discount have to subtract $1,000 from any rebate offered on its individual models. That may mean many buyers will pass on the gas discount.

Visit your Chicago Hyundai dealer to find out more!

It was a little more than a decade ago that Chicago Hyundai dealers first introduced drivers to America’s Best Warranty as a way of showing car buyers how much faith the company had in Hyundai’s vehicles. Fast-forward ahead to today and the warranty is still in place. Now, Hyundai is demonstrating to buyers Hyundai’s faith in them. Allow me to further explain.

Anyone, regardless of age, health, or employment history, financing or leasing any new Hyundai automobile who loses their income will be eligible to return their Hyundai hassle-free; even being covered up to $7,500 in negative equity. Coverage comprises a wide range of circumstances of which the driver is eligible to return the automobile, including, involuntary unemployment, physical disabilities, revoking of driver’s license due to medical impairment, international employment relocation, personal bankruptcy, and accidental death.

For those who fall under any of the categories listed above, one is eligible to file a request for benefits with Hyundai Assurance Administrator. To qualify the driver must have made at least two scheduled payments and be up-to-date on their loan or lease. From there the benefits specialist will assess the value of the vehicle by averaging your dealer’s appraisal and the values from leading industry guides. Upon approval, the vehicle will be returned to the selling dealer and pay any additional balance above the previously mentioned $7,500 Hyundai Assurance, if any; walking away free of further financial obligation and their credit score intact.

Not sure what “negative equity” is? Imagine you still owed $20,000 on your Hyundai when it is decided to be turned back in; if the automobile is valued at $15,000, then it has $5,000 in “negative equity.” That’s $2,500 under the $7,500 limit, and therefore you owe nothing. The likelihood of the car depreciating by more than $7,500 in the first 12 months is very slim.

Hypothetically speaking, what if I were to lose my job and didn’t have enough saved up to make payments in the meantime but felt I could track down another opportunity in only a couple of months? Having already planned ahead, Hyundai recently introduced the Hyundai Assurance Program Plus, a program available to anyone looking to buy new Hyundai in Chicago. If let go by your place of employment, Hyundai will make your payments for up to three months; after those three months are up, if you have a job, you are able to keep the car with no obligation to pay them back for the assisted payments. If you are still unable to find employment, you can return the car via the normal Assurance process, free and clear and without it impacting your credit rating.

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For more information please visit your Chicago Hyundai dealership.

The Hyundai Elantra Touring offers a smooth ride, and a surprisingly spacious interior

Growing up, my siblings  favorite argument was about the back of the car. Neither of them ever had enough room, and heaven forbid either of them ever sit in the middle seat, or behind the driver and survive with a little less leg room. Now they’re older and wiser, but their arguments haven’t really progressed. Put the two of them in a car together and you only need to wait to see who will throw the first punch. With that thought in mind, I decided it would be a good idea to bring both of them with me to a Chicago Hyundai dealer for a test drive of a2009 Chicago Hyundai Elantra Touring.

Having heard rumors about the insanely large interior, I figured I had brought along a fool-proof way to test how spacious it really was – with back-seat-warring siblings.

We took it out for a spin, and the 138-horsepower engine was more powerful than I had expected it to be. More importantly, it’s efficient and economical. This wagon gets 25 mpg overall,  better fuel economy than most other vehicles in its class. It offered a smooth and easy ride that was very pleasant to steer. A salesperson from the Chicago Hyundai dealer explained as we drove how safe it is. The Elantra Touring received five stars for its overall crash rating.

The Touring also boasts a multitude of features that are now offered standard. Air-conditioning, keyless remote entry, heated outside mirrors, a six-speaker sound system and even XM satellite radio are all now offered standard in this sporty little wagon.

However the most remarkable aspect of the test drive was the back-seat silence. Neither sibling was yelling about the other occupying the other’s legroom, and neither threw a punch over who had to sit behind the driver’s seat. The copious cabin space saved the day! Everyone had enough leg room and head room, and they were far enough away from one another that they could carry on a pleasant conversation without accusing anyone of halitosis. And there was room to spare. The rear cargo space , which the Chicago Hyundai dealer salesperson informed me is 24.3 cubic feet, is large enough to fit cargo for almost any outing.

So, I am pleased to say that there is something out there that can supress my siblings’ loathe of riding together in the back seat. Its safety ratings, great fuel-efficiency, and smooth ride are all added bonuses to the amount of room it boasts for its sportiness and affordability.

Currently, the story is that 100 Equus sedans are on their way to the U.S. in order to gauge consumer reaction to the model.  If consumers respond positively, and I’m guessing they will, the top-of-the-line luxury sedan will be rolled out in the States.  Hyundai first got feedback from a U.S. audience at the New York Auto Show and must have felt confident enough in its appeal to give it this broader test.

U.S. consumers have already purchased 6,021 Genesis sedans this year through April, so I think the idea that car buyers will reject Hyundai as a luxury car provider is pretty unfounded. True, the Genesis price range is roughly $32K to $42K and the Equus would be priced at a higher level, as it would compete with high end sedans of other luxury auto makers.  According to CNW Marketing Research, Genesis buyers have included consumers switching over from entry-level Lexus models, the BMW 3 Series, or upgrading from large, non-luxury sedans like the Toyota Avalon.  This speaks volumes to me.  Based on what the Genesis has done, I feel like the Equus will lure buyers from the mid-level luxury car lines because it would be similarly priced but pack the luxury of the top-level models of those luxury brands.  Additionally, I feel like entry-level Lexus or BMW owners would be tempted to jump to the Equus for the same reasons: top-line luxury for mid-level price.  Of course, I’m speculating.  I’m not sure what the Equus would be priced at in the U.S.  USA Today mentioned a $75,000 price, but I believe that was just generated by converting its current selling price in South Korea.  I think it might come in under a $60,000 starting price here, which would turn heads the way the Genesis has.

Besides price, there is another uncertainty.  I remember hearing about the Equus getting a “Genesis Prestige” label if it came to the U.S. in order to keep it branded under the successful Genesis line.  Perhaps they will keep the Equus name in order to break free from the Genesis and hope the Equus emerges as a name with even more panache.

I’ve taken a Chicago Hyundai Genesis Coupe and Genesis sedan out for test drives.  They are great cars, and I expect the Equus to impress even more.

For now, it seems smart the way Hyundai is going about this.  Even though the Equus had a great response at the New York Auto Show, they are still cautiously gauging consumer reaction to a higher-priced, luxury option from an unlikely source for luxury autos.  They realize Hyundai is not a brand associated with luxury, but I think they also realize that can/will change.

I really can’t wait to get inside the Equus that arrives at the Chicago Hyundai dealership near me (if I’m allowed).

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I gave a brief look at the Genesis Coupe a while back, but riding along with Josh I was able to get a much better feel for the car and learned a few things from him that I had not read anywhere.  I just shut up and let him do all the talking.  (But I did not let him do all the driving.)

The Genesis Coupe we took out was the 306-horsepower V-6 Grand Touring model, and it was amazing both with amenities and performance.  Loaded with a moonroof, leather seats, Bluetooth, premium audio system, push-button start and more, this car was an absolute blast to be in.

I didn’t catch it on the video, but Josh told me the difference between the fuel economy on the four and the V-6.  I was surprised by both, considering their performance capabilities.  The V-6 gets 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, and the four is rated at 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.

Thanks again to Josh at the Chicago Hyundai dealership, Patrick Hyundai, who led us about town on our ride-along, showing us just what this Chicago Hyundai Genesis Coupe is capable of.  Once again, I find myself incredibly impressed by Hyundai’s ability to deliver what American consumers want.

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Hyundai revealed the Blue-Will plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) in Seoul a couple of weeks ago. I’m glad Hyundai is getting into the plug-in hybrid arena.  My guess is that since they have something going on the HEV realm, they will be ready with a plug-in electric hybrid car when all of the other car makers drop them on the North American market in 2011 and 2012.  And I’m also guessing they will make a huge impact, like the company has done in every other segment it’s ventured into.  Somehow Hyundai will turn this concept into a more affordable plug-in HEV than anyone else can offer and then give it the best warranty.

The specs on mileage capability and electric-only miles are similar to other plug-in hybrid concepts right now.  That’s cool, because we know that if Hyundai matches what other plug-ins can do, we’ll be able to get the same benefits with a lower price tag.

What do I think of the design?  Well, a lot of times with concepts (especially the recent hybrid concepts) only one of two things is retained into production: design or powertrain.  My guess is that we’ll definitely see the Blue-Will’s plug-in hybrid engine technology pop up in a production model within two years, but I’m betting against this exact body style making it past the cut.  I actually really love it and wish there was more uniqueness in cars on the road.  I can see myself pulling out of a Chicago Hyundai dealership in this exact car.

I’m happy, as usual, with Hyundai for doing something different.  I’m worried it is too design-forward to appeal to the number of consumers Hyundai will hope to entice, though.  Like the 4th-grade basketball player who has the most fun on the court but forgets to play defense and doesn’t totally understand the traveling rule — he deserves a chance and some encouragement, but he probably won’t make it on the high school varsity team when the time comes.  Anyway, this is Hyundai’s first plug-in HEV attempt, so you can be sure refinements and consumer testing will change what you see currently, even if a model emerges that’s based on this design.

Still, some design elements from the Blue-Will should be emulated if not retained.  Like the car’s underbelly, which has a full length cover to make it more aerodynamic and minimize drag.  Another good idea, carbon-fiber reinforced plastics and composites were applied to the Blue-Will’s side sills, moldings and fenders to make the car lighter.

Lots of other cool stuff: Recycled soda bottles were used to make the material for the headlamp covers.  And bio-plastics were used for the interior the engine cover.  Bio-plastics are made from plant extract in place of fossil fuels and are bio-degradable.  Here is a quick video of the Blue-Will being unveiled in Seoul:

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Again, I wouldn’t expect to see this at a Chicago Hyundai dealership when Hyundai does introduce its first production plug-in hybrid, but how cool would it be to see this plug-in techonology in the next generation of the Elantra or the Genesis?

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