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

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.”