Hyundai Rated First in Fuel Economy by the EPA

Automakers make a lot of claims about their vehicles' fuel efficiency and environmental merit, but ultimately it is the EPA that has the final say in legitimizing those claims. In that respect, fuel-conscious buyers may want to head to a Hyundai dealership for their next vehicle, as the brand was rated best in fuel economy and lowest in CO2 emissions in the EPA 2011 Light-Duty Automotive Technology and Fuel Economy Trends Report.

Analyzing 2010-model-year vehicles, the EPA report found that Hyundai models averaged an adjusted fuel economy of 27.0 mpg and CO2 emissions of 329 g/mi, placing the brand first among the 13 highest-selling automakers in the United States. Though it earned the top spot over past winners like Honda and Toyota, Hyundai had been ranked first previously as well for the 2008 model year. The EPA also forecasts that the fuel-efficiency crown will stay with Hyundai for 2011-model-year rankings, estimating an adjusted fuel-economy rating of 27.5 mpg.

"We expect to continue to see high gas prices this summer, but Hyundai makes it easy for drivers to save at the pump," said Bob McCullen, general sales manager of Bow, New Hampshire Hyundai dealer Grappone Hyundai. "Hyundais are built with lightweight materials, innovative engines and smooth-shifting transmissions that allow drivers to return impressive fuel-economy numbers that other automakers just can't deliver."

The EPA report also notes that Hyundai is the only manufacturer to have four models achieving 40 mpg on the highway, including the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Accent, Veloster M/T and Elantra. Currently, a 1.6-liter GDI engine provides the 2012 Veloster and Accent with 138 horsepower and 40 mpg on the highway. Meanwhile, the 2012 Sonata Hybrid adds more power to the mix, thanks to a 2.4-liter gas engine, an electric motor and a lithium polymer battery that combine to deliver a total of 206 horsepower.

As the only vehicle in its segment with a standard 40-mpg highway rating across all trim levels, the Hyundai Elantra has a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that returns 148 horsepower. That efficiency gives Hyundai's compact car a highway driving range of up to 500 miles, making it well suited for long summer road trips.

Hyundai is currently rolling out its 2013 Elantra, which offers new standard and optional equipment to buyers. The base 2013 Elantra GLS M/T sports a number of newly standard features like cruise control and a telescopic steering wheel, both of which previously had to be purchased in the Comfort Package. Meanwhile, the Elantra GLS A/T's Preferred Package includes heated seats to make chilly New England mornings more bearable. A power driver's seat with lumbar support is now a standard feature on Limited trim models.

"The Elantra is as ready for your morning commute as it is for your weekend getaway," added McCullen. "Great fuel economy, high resale value and Hyundai's signature styling make the Elantra a smart investment that will keep owners satisfied for the life of their vehicle."