Thursday, May 31, 2012

20,000 Apply for 877 Hyundai Plant Jobs

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It's been heard so many times over the last two years that it's beginning to sound trite, but Hyundai is hot. Need proof? The company recently received approximately 20,000 applications for 877 job openings for jobs at its Montgomery, Alabama plant, according to a report from the Montgomery Advertiser. The factory makes the Sonata and Elantra models and Santa Fe SUV for the U.S. market.

The original application deadline was June 2, but Hyundai was so overwhelmed by the number of applications, that it suspended acceptance of subsequent applications on May 18. Those that applied after that date will be banked to be considered for future jobs on an "as needed" basis.

2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Side View In Motion
The initial application and screening process is being handled by Alabama Industrial Development Training, a department of the Alabama Community College system. Of the initial 18,500 applicants that were in the potential candidate database, 6000 to 7000 are expected to make it to the initial assessment stage, at which point they will move on to a screening process conducted by Hyundai representatives.

The company has screened 1500 applicants already, and is conducting screenings from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week. The screening process includes a multiple-choice test and a meeting with Hyundai team members. The finalists will then be given a hands-on component assembly test consisting of following simple written instructions.

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Tops Consumer Award’s Hybrid Category

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Winners of this year’s Autobytel & AutoPacific Consumer Awards have been released and the top-rated hybrid car winner is the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.

This is the 16th edition of this annual Vehicle Satisfaction Awards.

Based solely on input from actual owners—more than 75,000 of them—taken during the first quarter of the year, AutoPacific’s 2012 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards (VSAs) provide a unique look at which vehicles provide the most satisfying overall ownership experience. Many other awards focus solely on specific aspects of that experience, or the subjective opinions of the media, and can’t identify the vehicles that really satisfy real drivers.

For example, when looking at the top-rated hybrid car in this year’s VSAs, the winner wasn’t the one with the absolute highest mpg ratings. Yes, the main reason people buy hybrids is to save on fuel costs, but, at this stage in the game, people expect that plus all the benefits found in a traditionally powered vehicle, too. And that’s exactly what they get in this year’s highest-rated hybrid car, the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.

Part of the equation is Hyundai’s satisfying price tag of $25,850 that is the lowest MSRP of any hybrid mid-size sedan on the market.

The Sonata Hybrid also delivers the highest net horsepower in its class, and, thanks to Hyundai’s “Blue Drive” hybrid powertrain, EPA marks of up to 35 mpg city/40 mpg highway/37 mpg combined. Another Blue Drive benefit comes from the system’s advanced battery technology that relies on polymer gel electrolytes instead of the typical nickel-metal hydride setup. In plain English, the result is a battery that is 25 percent lighter, takes up 40 percent less space, delivers 10 percent better efficiency and can maintain available power for 1.7 times longer than traditional hybrid batteries.

An impressive list of standard content also contributed to the vehicle’s recognition as the highest-rated hybrid car in the 2012 VSAs.

Competitors included the Toyota Camry Hybrid, which was completely redesigned for the 2012 model year, as well as two luxury choices: The Buick LaCrosse eAssist and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. The highest-rated dedicated hybrid was the Lexus CT 200h, which tied the Camry Hybrid for second place in the segment.

The most satisfying EV was the Chevrolet Volt, coming in just a few points behind the Buick and Lincoln.

More information on Hyundai’s win can be found here.

In the Hybrid SUV category, the 2012 Lexus RX 450h was named the top-rated hybrid truck. Showing the diversity of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system, all of the entrants in the hybrid truck category used this advanced technology, but while the 2012 Lexus RX 450h.

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Memorial Day "Dare to Compare" Competitive Owner Program

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Eligible Vehicles must be sold and delivered between May 22 - May 31st, 2012.

 

 Customer must be the registered owner of an eligible competitive vehicle at the commencement of the program period.

Customers must purchase an eligible new Hyundai vehicle from our participating Hyundai Dealership.

Eligible competitive vehicle may only be used once towards the purchase of a new eligible Hyundai vehicle.

Competitive owner incentive may not be combined with Valued Owner incentive.

 

Eligible Vehicles                Value Award

2012 Sonata                        $500

2012 Sonata Hybrid         $500

2012 Santa Fe                    $750

2012 Veracruz                    $750

 

2013 Sonata                        $500

 

Customers must own a competitive vehicle which is any vehicle other than any Kia Models.

 

Previous Hyundai owners receive the $500 Value Owner Rebate in lieu of the Competitive Owner Award.

Memorial Day "Dare to Compare" Competitive Owner Program

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2012-05-23_0904
Eligible Vehicles must be sold and delivered between May 22 - May 31st, 2012.

 

 

Customer must be the registered owner of an eligible competitive vehicle at the commencement of the program period.

Customers must purchase an eligible new Hyundai vehicle from our participating Hyundai Dealership.

Eligible competitive vehicle may only be used once towards the purchase of a new eligible Hyundai vehicle.

Competitive owner incentive may not be combined with Valued Owner incentive.

 

Eligible Vehicles                Value Award

2012 Sonata                        $500

2012 Sonata Hybrid         $500

2012 Santa Fe                    $750

2012 Veracruz                    $750

 

2013 Sonata                        $500

 

Customers must own a competitive vehicle which is any vehicle other than any Kia Models.

 

Previous Hyundai owners receive the $500 Value Owner Rebate in lieu of the Competitive Owner Award.

Memorial Day "Dare to Compare" Competitive Owner Program

2012-05-23_0904
Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4

Eligible Vehicles must be sold and delivered between May 22 - May 31st, 2012.

 

 Customer must be the registered owner of an eligible competitive vehicle at the commencement of the program period.

Customers must purchase an eligible new Hyundai vehicle from our participating Hyundai Dealership.

Eligible competitive vehicle may only be used once towards the purchase of a new eligible Hyundai vehicle.

Competitive owner incentive may not be combined with Valued Owner incentive.

 

Eligible Vehicles                Value Award

2012 Sonata                        $500

2012 Sonata Hybrid         $500

2012 Santa Fe                    $750

2012 Veracruz                    $750

 

2013 Sonata                        $500

 

Customers must own a competitive vehicle which is any vehicle other than any Kia Models.

 

Previous Hyundai owners receive the $500 Value Owner Rebate in lieu of the Competitive Owner Award.

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Road Test: Hyundai Azera, an everyman's large sedan

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In a quiet, forgotten corner of the automotive landscape, there is a segment of vehicle called the large sedan. These cars tilt toward luxury but have a foot firmly planted in practicality and economics.

They are for cheap hedonists. Or penny-pinching gourmands. They are for people who fly coach but upgrade to the exit row, favor Macaroni Grill over Olive Garden, or see movies only when they hit video on demand but then spring for the HD version.

After several years of neglect, Hyundai is now paying this segment some attention with its 2012 Azera. Slotting above the company's everyman Sonata but below the European-hunting Genesis sedan, the relaunch of the $32,000 Azera foretells of a battle in the large sedan segment.

The Azera has a V-6 engine routing power to the front wheels via an automatic transmission. The 3.3-liter engine is direct-injected for efficiency and has 293 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque.

The engine is quiet under nearly every circumstance, but like that shy kid in the back of chorus, it really sings when encouraged. Fuel economy is rated at 20 miles per gallon in the city and 29 on the highway.

The driving experience is pleasantly subdued. The suspension is comfortable yet firm; the body rolls around corners in an expected yet not alarming manner, and wind and road noise are nicely hushed.

The Azera's biggest drawback for drivers is the car's electric power steering. This isn't the first time Hyundai has brought to market a new model with a steering system that feels unnecessarily synthetic and removed from what the front wheels are really doing.

But on the outside, even the harshest critics of Hyundai's "fluidic sculpture" design theme should admit that this is arguably the best-looking vehicle in the automaker's showroom. It takes that design language and applies it in a mature, complete manner. The flowing style is confident without resorting to superfluous embellishments to get attention.

Standard features include a backup camera; dual climate control; stereo system with iPod, Bluetooth and XM Satellite radio; and push-button start. Safety comes in the form of nine air bags, anti-lock breaking system, stability and traction control and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

Although it's a bit pricey, Hyundai keeps the 2012 model fiercely competitive for its segment. Thus, value joins a commendable list of reasons the Azera is in an excellent position to challenge current and future rivals.

Thursday, May 10, 2012

2013 Hyundai Sonata: What's Changed

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For the new model year, Hyundai adds more available features to Sonata's base trim level. Most prices increase by $100 to $150 or more per trim for 2013.

All 2013 Sonatas now come standard with a six-speed automatic transmission; the manual-transmission GLS is no longer available. Without the manual transmission, all Sonatas now get 24/35 mpg city/highway.

The Popular Equipment Package on the GLS now costs $825 and includes features like fog lights and heated seats, for a total cost of $21,720.

The SE trim now comes standard with heated front seats, and the Limited trim no longer comes with a panoramic sunroof. Instead, it gets a regular sunroof. The Limited trim is $600 less expensive this year because of the change. If you still want a panoramic sunroof, it's been added to a $2,900 Limited Premium Package. Ultimately, a 2013 Hyundai Sonata tops out at $31,270, which is just $100 more than last year's model.

The 2013 Hyundai Sonata is already on sale. Continue reading below for more pricing details.

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

USAA names Hyundai Elantra and Genesis sedans as “Best Values”

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A few years ago, Hyundais were only occasionally spotted on LA streets. In addition, they were viewed as inexpensive, low quality vehicles. Currently, their numbers are constantly on the rise. The “low quality” moniker no longer holds true; however, they continue to give the purchaser a lot of bang for the buck. The latest accolade for Hyundai came from the United Services Automobile Association (USAA), which offers financial services to those that have served in the US Military, named the Hyundai Elantra and Genesis as “Best Values.” In addition, the insurer named the Elantra as one of the 10 Best Cars for Teens. Hyundai Motor America reported the recognition on May 7, 2012.

To determine the winners, USAA rated vehicles in 16 different categories with a proprietary vehicle rating system using quantitative data, which included such factors such as cost, safety, reliability, and fuel economy. The two vehicles represent both ends of the Hyundai spectrum. The Elantra is a modestly priced sedan, slotted just above the subcompact accent. The Genesis is a full-sized luxury sedan, which is only out-luxed by the high-end Hyundai Equus. Both vehicles were chosen because they offered the best financial value in their respective segments.

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In addition, the Elantra was also listed among USAA’s Top 10 for Teens list. The list was compiled from the results of a recent survey, which identified the top 10 USAA Preferred vehicles that offer reliability, a high safety rating, and affordable auto insurance. Four other Hyundai models were given USAA’s Preferred designation: Accent (small sedan), Genesis Coupe (large luxury sedan), Santa Fe (midsize SUV), and Sonata (midsize sedan).

“The goal of the list is to help members identify vehicles that typically offer better safety ratings, lower insurance premium costs, higher fuel economy, better overall reliability, and lower MSRP compared to other vehicles in the same category,” noted USAA Assistant Vice President Steve Thompson. He added, “The Elantra and Genesis both rose to the top as vehicles that offer these key elements, making them great buys for the value-minded consumer.”

The Elantra was also 10 Best Green Cars for 2012 by Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com and was also honored as the 2012 North American Car of the Year at the 2012 North American Auto Show in Detroit. For 2012, the Elantra was equipped with an ActiveECO System that modifies engine and transmission control to smooth out throttle response and increase real-world fuel economy by up to 7%. Elantra is rated at 29 MPG city and 40 MPG highway, and is powered by an all-new 1.8-liter Nu four-cylinder engine with 148 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque. The fun-to-drive sedan has a base price of $16,695 and also comes in a touring model. The Elantra Touring has a slightly lower base price and has class-leading cargo space (65 cubic feet), which is 10% more than Hyundai’s nearest competitor. Thus, it is a good choice for a college-bound teen who needs the cargo capacity to haul essential stuff between home and campus. In addition to cargo space, the vehicle has exceptional head room (40 inches) and leg room (43.6 inches) for a compact. The Elantra contains standard features usually found on more expensive vehicles such as air conditioning, heated dual power side mirrors, a cooled glove compartment, and a great iPod®‐ready stereo.

The Hyundai’s Genesis sedan would not qualify as an inexpensive choice to send your college kid off to school in; however, it is an excellent choice for someone seeking a luxury vehicle priced well below Mercedes, BMW, or Lexus. For 2012, the Genesis comes w exterior design improvements, new direct injection technology for its Lambda V6 engine, new eight-speed automatic transmissions, and enhanced chassis tuning. Furthermore, a new 5.0-liter direct injection V8 engine is now available exclusively with the 5.0 R-Spec model; this Genesis version includes: unique 19-inch machined-finish alloy wheels; optional Bridgestone Potenza S-04 Pole Position summer performance tires; sport-tuned transmission; as well as suspension and steering calibrations.

“The Elantra upholds Hyundai’s commitment to value with emotional design, 40 MPG highway fuel economy and outstanding residual value,” noted Scott Margason, director of Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. He added, “The Genesis sedan also continues to provide ground-breaking value among its luxury competition with lavish features and impressive driving performance. Both cars continue to exceed expectations for consumers in their respective segments.”

 

Monday, May 7, 2012

Are you looking for a great sedan?

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We currently have a great deal on the Hyundai Sonata! You could save up to $3,000 on any new 2012 or 2013 vehicles!

Click here to fill this out and save some money!

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Hyundai to add nearly 900 jobs in Alabama

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Hyundai Motor Co. plans to hire 877 more workers to add a third shift at its Montgomery, Ala., assembly plant so it can crank out more Sonata midsize cars and Elantra compacts.

The Korean automaker said Monday the hiring will take place during the summer, with the plant transitioning to the third shift in September. The move will give Hyundai the ability to make 20,000 more vehicles at the plant in 2012.

The added shift will help get more cars to Hyundai dealers nationwide, who have been complaining for months that they could sell more cars if they could get them. The Sonata and Elantra are Hyundai's top-selling vehicles in the U.S.

Through March, Hyundai sold more than 55,000 Sonatas, with sales up more than 6 percent over last year. The company sold more than 44,000 Elantras during the same period, an increase of almost 8-percent.

The added shift will bring total employment at the plant to more than 3,000 people, Hyundai said. The company also expects the additional production to create more jobs at companies that make parts for the two cars.

Hyundai has been struggling for months to produce enough cars to satisfy demand, trying to squeeze as much production as possible out of the Montgomery factory.

In an interview with The Associated Press in early April, John Krafcik, Hyundai's CEO of American operations, said the company was trying to make more cars without affecting the quality.

"We're doing everything we can, honestly," he said. "We're finding ways to get more production capacity for the U.S. market."

Krafcik said the U.S. market is recovering from the recession faster than other regions, so he's been able to make a strong case to the corporate office in Seoul to boost production for North America.

Hyundai does not want to build a new factory in the U.S. because of the expense, and fears that it could affect the quality of its vehicles, he said.

Overall, Hyundai's sales are up almost 15 percent through March.

 

Source:CBS News

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Hyundai Motor America Reports Best-Ever April Sales

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Hyundai Motor America, the most fuel efficient automaker in the U.S., today announced an all-time April sales record of 62,264 units, up 1 percent over last year's all-time April record, and the second best sales month in company history after last month's all-time record. With three fewer selling days this April versus last April, Hyundai's average daily sales rate improved 12 percent.

 

"Never has a relatively flat sales month felt quite so good," said Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai Motor America's executive vice president of national sales. "We definitely felt some pullback from an overheated March sales pace but really picked up some momentum at the tail end of the month and finished with a flurry to set another all-time volume record. Vehicle availability continues to improve and our announcement just last night of the assembly plant expansion in Alabama will provide much needed production increases for our highly fuel efficient Sonata and Elantra sedans, while generating nearly 900 new jobs for the local economy. "

In its first month of sales, the all-new Azera is off to a torrid start with sales up 399 percent over last April, while Hyundai's family of RWD premium products, Genesis and Equus, continue to deliver outstanding sales results with volume up 36 percent over a year ago. In an ongoing effort to meet retail demand, business to fleet accounts continues to run at less than a 10 percent mix, amongst the lowest levels in the industry.

 

Hyundai achieved a corporate average fuel economy level of 37.1 MPG (27.9 MPG label value) in April, while selling 23,632 vehicles (38 percent of total sales) with 40 MPG window label highway fuel economy ratings. "April was a great month for us, but low availability of our 40-mpg highway Accent, Veloster, and Elantra, three of the hottest cars in the industry, definitely impacted our final sales result," said John Krafcik, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. "We'll continue to work through these constraints with actions like the addition of a third shift at our Alabama plant later this year, which will help feed unmet demand for Elantra and Sonata."

Thanks to Victor for writing us a great review!