Hyundai i-flow Concept, 2010

Hyundai i-flow Concept, 2010

 

 

 

 Making its global debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the Hyundai i-flow Concept car carries forward the company's evocative new form language, 'fluidic sculpture'. The flowing, elegant lines not only create a bionic, futuristic shape, but also contribute to exceptional aerodynamics, helping to reduce the car's CO2 output to just 85g/km and fuel consumption to only 3l/100km.

Hyundai's first diesel hybrid powertrain is also a key factor in delivering such an environmentally-conscious return, as is the application of next-generation materials and technologies developed in cooperation with leading chemical company BASF.

Previewing a future D-segment contender
With an overall length of 4.780mm and a 2.800mm wheelbase, the Hyundai i-flow Concept brings new ideas and a pioneering form to the traditional European D-segment. The dramatically-sculpted forms of the interior and exterior make for a striking sports sedan, and its width and height (1.850mm and 1.420mm respectively) give it an athletic stance.

The name i-flow reflects the exceptionally aerodynamic shape and the flowing lines of the concept car's eye-catching styling, and retains the 'i' prefix of Hyundai's established alphanumeric nomenclature for Europe. In 2011 Hyundai will bring into production a new challenger in the segment, drawing on the Hyundai i-flow Concept's sleek styling and innovative technology.

Inside: minimum weight, maximum space and a bionic feel
The interior of Hyundai i-flow Concept redefines the perception of space in a sedan bodystyle. Fundamental elements, such as the seats and center console, were crafted for minimal weight and volume using cutting-edge materials from BASF - one of the world's leading automotive suppliers.

The seats, for example, were developed in conjunction with BASF using advanced stress analysis, which highlighted the unnecessary mass areas and pointed towards an optimized lightweight seat structure. 'Steron', a BASF material, gives the seats a highly-resilient quality, excellent breathability and a high-tech touch.

The upper dashboard, meanwhile, is treated with Elastoskin, a sprayed skin from BASF for a sophisticated, shimmering finish.
This technical, meticulous approach combines with an abundance of natural materials to engender a bionic feel in the cabin, further symbolized by the green color tones and the leaf-like shadows projected from the roof's semi-transparent dye-sensitized solar cells.

The cockpit's main interface centers around an expansive, contoured screen, which recognizes not only touch but also gestural inputs along its fascia-wide display. The fluidic forms of the exterior are echoed in the Hyundai i-flow Concept's cabin, where continuous lines sweep from the dashboard, through the doors to the open storage area at the rear.

Energy Conservation
BASF and Hyundai R&D engineers have developed thermal engine encapsulation, which ensures that the engine reaches optimum operating temperature more quickly, by retaining heat when the car is at idle. Where a non-insulated engine would take three hours to drop to 40°C, the Hyundai i-flow Concept will stay above that temperature for 14 hours. This translates into fuel savings and emissions cuts of 5 per cent during summer and up to 9 per cent during winter.

Energy Harvesting
Another pioneering technique introduced in collaboration with BASF is thermo-electric waste heat recovery. This process equates to further reductions in fuel consumption, 5% at highest driving. In fact, up to half of the electrical energy consumed by Hyundai i-flow Concept at 80kph - 250 watts - can be recovered through the work of a thermo-electric generator. Harvested energy from hot exhaust gases is recaptured by this generator which is fitted into the exhaust manifold. The thermal electric generator then converts the wasted heat into useful electrical energy to help power auxiliary systems.

Liquid Metal, a coating with the appearance of a glossy skin made of liquid metal, has been developed by BASF Coatings. Special effect pigments in this eco-friendly waterborne coating system let the surface appear as polished metal with targeted mirror like reflections - this gives a liquid skin appearance to the car's exterior and increases the tension of the surface in the same time. The high color saturation on the Hyundai i-flow Concept adds an energizing charisma to the Hyundai concept car. The typical high contrast between highlight and flop underlines the sculptural impact of the Hyundai i-flow Concept.

READ MORE - Hyundai i-flow Concept, 2010

Hyundai i-flow Concept, 2010

Hyundai i-flow Concept, 2010

 

 

 

 Making its global debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the Hyundai i-flow Concept car carries forward the company's evocative new form language, 'fluidic sculpture'. The flowing, elegant lines not only create a bionic, futuristic shape, but also contribute to exceptional aerodynamics, helping to reduce the car's CO2 output to just 85g/km and fuel consumption to only 3l/100km.

Hyundai's first diesel hybrid powertrain is also a key factor in delivering such an environmentally-conscious return, as is the application of next-generation materials and technologies developed in cooperation with leading chemical company BASF.

Previewing a future D-segment contender
With an overall length of 4.780mm and a 2.800mm wheelbase, the Hyundai i-flow Concept brings new ideas and a pioneering form to the traditional European D-segment. The dramatically-sculpted forms of the interior and exterior make for a striking sports sedan, and its width and height (1.850mm and 1.420mm respectively) give it an athletic stance.

The name i-flow reflects the exceptionally aerodynamic shape and the flowing lines of the concept car's eye-catching styling, and retains the 'i' prefix of Hyundai's established alphanumeric nomenclature for Europe. In 2011 Hyundai will bring into production a new challenger in the segment, drawing on the Hyundai i-flow Concept's sleek styling and innovative technology.

Inside: minimum weight, maximum space and a bionic feel
The interior of Hyundai i-flow Concept redefines the perception of space in a sedan bodystyle. Fundamental elements, such as the seats and center console, were crafted for minimal weight and volume using cutting-edge materials from BASF - one of the world's leading automotive suppliers.

The seats, for example, were developed in conjunction with BASF using advanced stress analysis, which highlighted the unnecessary mass areas and pointed towards an optimized lightweight seat structure. 'Steron', a BASF material, gives the seats a highly-resilient quality, excellent breathability and a high-tech touch.

The upper dashboard, meanwhile, is treated with Elastoskin, a sprayed skin from BASF for a sophisticated, shimmering finish.
This technical, meticulous approach combines with an abundance of natural materials to engender a bionic feel in the cabin, further symbolized by the green color tones and the leaf-like shadows projected from the roof's semi-transparent dye-sensitized solar cells.

The cockpit's main interface centers around an expansive, contoured screen, which recognizes not only touch but also gestural inputs along its fascia-wide display. The fluidic forms of the exterior are echoed in the Hyundai i-flow Concept's cabin, where continuous lines sweep from the dashboard, through the doors to the open storage area at the rear.

Energy Conservation
BASF and Hyundai R&D engineers have developed thermal engine encapsulation, which ensures that the engine reaches optimum operating temperature more quickly, by retaining heat when the car is at idle. Where a non-insulated engine would take three hours to drop to 40°C, the Hyundai i-flow Concept will stay above that temperature for 14 hours. This translates into fuel savings and emissions cuts of 5 per cent during summer and up to 9 per cent during winter.

Energy Harvesting
Another pioneering technique introduced in collaboration with BASF is thermo-electric waste heat recovery. This process equates to further reductions in fuel consumption, 5% at highest driving. In fact, up to half of the electrical energy consumed by Hyundai i-flow Concept at 80kph - 250 watts - can be recovered through the work of a thermo-electric generator. Harvested energy from hot exhaust gases is recaptured by this generator which is fitted into the exhaust manifold. The thermal electric generator then converts the wasted heat into useful electrical energy to help power auxiliary systems.

Liquid Metal, a coating with the appearance of a glossy skin made of liquid metal, has been developed by BASF Coatings. Special effect pigments in this eco-friendly waterborne coating system let the surface appear as polished metal with targeted mirror like reflections - this gives a liquid skin appearance to the car's exterior and increases the tension of the surface in the same time. The high color saturation on the Hyundai i-flow Concept adds an energizing charisma to the Hyundai concept car. The typical high contrast between highlight and flop underlines the sculptural impact of the Hyundai i-flow Concept.

READ MORE - Hyundai i-flow Concept, 2010

Hyundai ix-onic Concept, 2009

Hyundai ix-onic Concept, 2009

The designed to assertive but not aggressive, the Hyundai ix-onic Concept (pronounced "ik-sonnik") combines dynamic styling with an environmentally-friendly power train and thoughtful everyday utility. It creates a vehicle that will change the way consumers think about compact crossover vehicles.

With an overall length of 4,400mm, the 1,850mm-wide and 1,650mm-high Hyundai ix-onic Concept has an imposing stance and road presence but takes up little more space on the road than a C-segment hatchback.

The Key attributes of Hyundai's 'dynamic sculpture' design philosophy are the athleticism and sophistication that ix-onic demonstrates through its dynamic and flowing lines. These are emphasised by specially developed, high-contrast exterior paint. Employing an advanced-effect pigment, the innovative paint gives the car's skin a brilliant shine.

The hexagonal grille is a further evolution of the style introduced on the 2006 Genus concept car and developed for its appearance on the Hyundai i-mode concept in 2008. The headlamps feature innovative LED daytime running lights which move down electrically whenever the 'dipped beam' is switched on.

The profile of Hyundai ix-onic Concept features a dynamic glass line and a sports car-like theme with a muscular, double-zigzag treatment for the wheel arches that wrap around the 21-inch polished alloy wheels. Unusually, the concave sills have a wedge-shaped profile which extends rearwards and wraps around into the rear bumper. The sills and bumper are finished in a contrasting colour, with an aluminium garnish that echoes the trim in the door handles to enhance the perception of premium quality.

With high-mounted tail lamps, multi-surfaced glass and a sculpted bumper, the rear of Hyundai ix-onic Concept also incorporates 'dynamic design' elements. The rear lamp clusters feature a grille mesh inspired by nature, while the rear bumper also neatly incorporates the dual, polished aluminium exhaust tailpipes.

The rear window has been designed and produced by Hyundai in close cooperation with the QarmaQ-partner SABIC Innovative Plastics. Using Lexan high-performance plastics instead of conventional glass enabled the designers to give the rear window a much more three-dimensional shape. On each side of the rear window two vertical spoilers are integrated to reduce aerodynamic drag. The upper part of the window features a strongly concave shape to make it possible to integrate the roof spoiler in the rear window.

The Inside, the five-seater Hyundai ix-onic Concept offers a commanding view of the road and evokes an adventurous ambience that is also laid-back and relaxing.

An X-shaped visual theme is repeated across numerous areas of the cabin, with embossed leather to accentuate key areas while light-alloy magnesium accents provide flashes of visual brilliance. The sleek shapes of the interior are outlined with 'ice blue' seams that replicate the colour of both the ribbed ice blue floor carpet, which contains a high percentage of natural cashmere wool, and the exterior.

Shapely seats feature centre panels trimmed in breathable fabric with attractive and functional cushion side bolsters, plus additional lateral support for occupants' shoulders - all trimmed in contrasting magnesium grey.

The mounted much higher than usual in the doors, the audio speakers present occupants with a true and highly detailed, top-quality sound reproduction. The interior rear-view mirror has a 'blind spot' warning light that alerts the driver to other road users in close proximity.

The Beneath its sensational exterior, the Hyundai ix-onic Concept's power train is equipped with a 170PS, 1.6-litre GDi turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine, with ISG (Idle Stop & Go) technology and a double-clutch six-speed transmission. Power is transferred to the road by an intelligent four-wheel drive system fine-tuned to deliver outstanding on-road driving dynamics, together with significant off-road ability. The next-generation, eco-friendly engine emits just 149 g/km of CO2, an impressive figure for an SUV and comparable with conventional hatchbacks and superminis.

READ MORE - Hyundai ix-onic Concept, 2009

Hyundai ix-onic Concept, 2009

Hyundai ix-onic Concept, 2009

The designed to assertive but not aggressive, the Hyundai ix-onic Concept (pronounced "ik-sonnik") combines dynamic styling with an environmentally-friendly power train and thoughtful everyday utility. It creates a vehicle that will change the way consumers think about compact crossover vehicles.

With an overall length of 4,400mm, the 1,850mm-wide and 1,650mm-high Hyundai ix-onic Concept has an imposing stance and road presence but takes up little more space on the road than a C-segment hatchback.

The Key attributes of Hyundai's 'dynamic sculpture' design philosophy are the athleticism and sophistication that ix-onic demonstrates through its dynamic and flowing lines. These are emphasised by specially developed, high-contrast exterior paint. Employing an advanced-effect pigment, the innovative paint gives the car's skin a brilliant shine.

The hexagonal grille is a further evolution of the style introduced on the 2006 Genus concept car and developed for its appearance on the Hyundai i-mode concept in 2008. The headlamps feature innovative LED daytime running lights which move down electrically whenever the 'dipped beam' is switched on.

The profile of Hyundai ix-onic Concept features a dynamic glass line and a sports car-like theme with a muscular, double-zigzag treatment for the wheel arches that wrap around the 21-inch polished alloy wheels. Unusually, the concave sills have a wedge-shaped profile which extends rearwards and wraps around into the rear bumper. The sills and bumper are finished in a contrasting colour, with an aluminium garnish that echoes the trim in the door handles to enhance the perception of premium quality.

With high-mounted tail lamps, multi-surfaced glass and a sculpted bumper, the rear of Hyundai ix-onic Concept also incorporates 'dynamic design' elements. The rear lamp clusters feature a grille mesh inspired by nature, while the rear bumper also neatly incorporates the dual, polished aluminium exhaust tailpipes.

The rear window has been designed and produced by Hyundai in close cooperation with the QarmaQ-partner SABIC Innovative Plastics. Using Lexan high-performance plastics instead of conventional glass enabled the designers to give the rear window a much more three-dimensional shape. On each side of the rear window two vertical spoilers are integrated to reduce aerodynamic drag. The upper part of the window features a strongly concave shape to make it possible to integrate the roof spoiler in the rear window.

The Inside, the five-seater Hyundai ix-onic Concept offers a commanding view of the road and evokes an adventurous ambience that is also laid-back and relaxing.

An X-shaped visual theme is repeated across numerous areas of the cabin, with embossed leather to accentuate key areas while light-alloy magnesium accents provide flashes of visual brilliance. The sleek shapes of the interior are outlined with 'ice blue' seams that replicate the colour of both the ribbed ice blue floor carpet, which contains a high percentage of natural cashmere wool, and the exterior.

Shapely seats feature centre panels trimmed in breathable fabric with attractive and functional cushion side bolsters, plus additional lateral support for occupants' shoulders - all trimmed in contrasting magnesium grey.

The mounted much higher than usual in the doors, the audio speakers present occupants with a true and highly detailed, top-quality sound reproduction. The interior rear-view mirror has a 'blind spot' warning light that alerts the driver to other road users in close proximity.

The Beneath its sensational exterior, the Hyundai ix-onic Concept's power train is equipped with a 170PS, 1.6-litre GDi turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine, with ISG (Idle Stop & Go) technology and a double-clutch six-speed transmission. Power is transferred to the road by an intelligent four-wheel drive system fine-tuned to deliver outstanding on-road driving dynamics, together with significant off-road ability. The next-generation, eco-friendly engine emits just 149 g/km of CO2, an impressive figure for an SUV and comparable with conventional hatchbacks and superminis.

READ MORE - Hyundai ix-onic Concept, 2009

Hyundai Blue-Will Concept, 2009

Hyundai Blue-Will Concept, 2009

 

The Hyundai has revealed the first pictures of an innovative plug-in hybrid Hyundai Blue-Will Concept car. It has exceptionally advanced technology crammed inside its striking bodyshell.

The Recycled PET soft drink bottles were used to make the material for the headlamp bezels while use has also been made of bio-plastics: PLA for the interior while PA11 was specified for the engine cover. These materials are made from plants extract rather than fossil fuels and are bio-degradable.

The Hyundai Blue-Will Concept is powered by an all-aluminium Gasoline Direct Injected 1.6-litre engine which is coupled to a Continuously Variable Transmission and a 100kw electric motor which is at the heart of Hyundai's parallel hybrid drive architecture.

The Electric power, stored by a Lithium Ion Polymer battery pack, is neatly bundled with the fuel tank under the rear seat to maximise luggage space.

The Hyundai will be the first automaker in the world to apply Lithium Ion Polymer in a mass production vehicle.
A further expression of the concept's design flexibility is found on the panoramic roof. The glass area integrates dye-sensitized solar cells which can generate power for the batteries from the sun without impeding visibility.

READ MORE - Hyundai Blue-Will Concept, 2009

Hyundai Blue-Will Concept, 2009

Hyundai Blue-Will Concept, 2009

 

The Hyundai has revealed the first pictures of an innovative plug-in hybrid Hyundai Blue-Will Concept car. It has exceptionally advanced technology crammed inside its striking bodyshell.

The Recycled PET soft drink bottles were used to make the material for the headlamp bezels while use has also been made of bio-plastics: PLA for the interior while PA11 was specified for the engine cover. These materials are made from plants extract rather than fossil fuels and are bio-degradable.

The Hyundai Blue-Will Concept is powered by an all-aluminium Gasoline Direct Injected 1.6-litre engine which is coupled to a Continuously Variable Transmission and a 100kw electric motor which is at the heart of Hyundai's parallel hybrid drive architecture.

The Electric power, stored by a Lithium Ion Polymer battery pack, is neatly bundled with the fuel tank under the rear seat to maximise luggage space.

The Hyundai will be the first automaker in the world to apply Lithium Ion Polymer in a mass production vehicle.
A further expression of the concept's design flexibility is found on the panoramic roof. The glass area integrates dye-sensitized solar cells which can generate power for the batteries from the sun without impeding visibility.

READ MORE - Hyundai Blue-Will Concept, 2009

2011 Hyundai Azera Reviews

Hyundai used the 2010 Chicago auto show to quietly trot out a freshened 2011 Azera sedan, the large front-driver that sits between the Sonata and rear-drive Genesis in the brand’s lineup. GLS models get a revamped 3.3-liter that adds variable valve timing to the exhaust camshaft; the engine already featured the tech on the intake side. The Hyundai Azera Limited will continue to use the 3.8-liter V-6, which also gets dual variable valve timing plus a variable intake manifold, good for 283 hp and 263 lb-ft of torque—increases of 20 and 6. 2011 Azeras receive a new front fascia with round fog lamps, plus a new grille and headlights that help give the car a more aggressive look, one reminiscent of the Genesis sedan.

Hyundai has given the Azera a fresh new look with an updated grille and exterior trim. Read on for details on how the 2011 Azera performed on our road test.

The specs for the 2011 Hyundai Azera are listed below.

Car pricing: $25,495 - $30,095 MSRP; $24,216 - $27,938 invoice

Fuel Economy: 20/28 mpg city/highway

Transmission: Shiftronic six-speed automatic

Warranty: five-years/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty; ten-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty

See photos of the new Azera in our gallery. The "2011 Hyundai Azera" is available in the GLS and Limited trims. Standard exterior features include 17-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, and foglights.

Both the 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter V6 engines have become more potent for the 2011 Hyundai Azera, offering 260 horsepower and 283 horsepower, respectively

The 2011 Hyundai Azera ranks 4 out of 8 Affordable Large Cars. The 2011 Hyundai Azera is a great value. The Azera doesn’t offer a big, thirsty V8 engine. Overall, the Azera is a practical, comfortable large sedan with a features list that approaches entry-level luxury car status, but has a sub-$30,000 price tag.

The 2011 Hyundai Azera is available in two trims: a base-level GLS trim, which is very well-equipped for a base model, and a Limited trim that adds luxury features

READ MORE - 2011 Hyundai Azera Reviews

Hyundai Tucson ix hydrogen fuel cell will be tested next year

Hyundai Motor Co., Korea’s top carmaker, has completed the development of a new hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, advancing its entry into the green car market. The model, Tucson ix hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle, will be tested next year, the company said Sunday.

Hyundai Tucson ix FCEV is the latest in the firm’s green car lineup following the first-generation Santa Fe FCEV introduced in 2000 and second-generation Tucson hybrid FCEV in 2008.

Improvements also include a 15 percent higher fuel efficiency, which enables the car to run 31 kilometers per liter.Hyundai Motor Group, which owns Hyundai and Kia Motors Corp., has introduced various electric vehicles including the Elec-City, BlueOn and i10 and other hydrogen cars such as Kia’s Mohave.

In March, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Mohave fuel-cell vehicles finished a 2,655-kilometer course in the Hydrogen Road Tour organized by the U.S. Department of Energy.

Caught in the green fuels frenzy which has engulfed the automotive industry, South Korean manufacturer Hyundai announced today the start of a trial program for a "Hyundai Tucson" model fitted with a fuel cell drive train.

Officially, the model is called Tucson ix FCEV. According to Hyundai, the model, whose drivetrain comprises a 100kW fuel cell system and two hydrogen storage tanks, can operate at temperatures of minus 25 degrees Celsius.

Fuel cells are probably one of the most effective ways to build an electric vehicle.
The Hyundai Tucson ix FCEV is the latest in the firm’s green car line-up following the first-generation Santa Fe FCEV introduced in 2000 and second-generation Tucson hybrid FCEV in 2008.
The fuel-cell system has been modularised, reducing the size 20% from the previous version to match conventional petrol engines. Hyundai and affiliate Kia have been testing 66 hydrogen-based vehicles in Korea and abroad. In March, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Mohave fuel-cell vehicles finished a 2,655km course in a hydrogen road tour organised by the US department of energy.

READ MORE - Hyundai Tucson ix hydrogen fuel cell will be tested next year

Hyundai lounch Hyundai Equus Owner's Manual App ipad

Hyundai is launching a new kind of owners manual for its new Equus luxury car. Besides the usual rundown of information about vehicle features, the app has live service scheduling called “Equus At Your Service” that includes valet service.

Hyundai said its new interactive Equus Owner's Manual App for iPad — an exclusive feature on the 2011 luxury sedan — is now available for downloading from Apple's App Store.
The Equus Owner's Manual App for iPad can be downloaded from the App Store.
hyundai is redefining the luxury vehicle ownership experience with the launch of the Equus Owner's Manual App for iPad®, iPhone and iPod touch. The app is available now on the App Store for owners and non-owners, and is available to download for iPads that Hyundai is providing to all new Equus owners.

"The Equus App is the ultimate owner's manual. The Equus App includes:
Vehicle location-based dealer locator; finds the nearest authorized Equus dealer based on current location
Equus photo/video gallery provides beautiful footage and photography in various scenarios and locations

Links to Hyundai model pages on Hyundai.com for owners who may want to view other vehicles
Customers who visit the app site can download Equus feature call-outs and interactive demonstrations including:
Vehicle Stability Management system
Rear-wheel drive powertrain configuration
Equus dynamic running footage

EQUUS AT YOUR SERVICE
Beyond the immersive owner's manual, the Equus App delivers Equus At Your Service, an industry-first on-line vehicle service scheduling capability with valet service for Equus owners.
"Equus At Your Service includes live service scheduling functionality from iPad, iPhone or iPod touch, allowing Equus owners to schedule service appointments directly with the dealership," says Krafcik. For more information about the 2011 Hyundai Equus, visit www.hyundaiusa.com.
HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA
Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through about 800 dealerships nationwide.

READ MORE - Hyundai lounch Hyundai Equus Owner's Manual App ipad

2011 Hyundai Elantra Test Drive

2011 Hyundai Elantra Test Drive
Hyundai’s impressive product push continues unabated. John wasn’t even breathing hard as he greeted me effortlessly cruising up the hill. Designer of both cars, Cedric d’Andre, describes the design language they call “fluidic sculpture” that characterizes the current generation of Hyundais. Character lines move around the car drawing it tightly into a graceful, aesthetic, efficient whole.
Interior design reflects the same design philosophy. Moving the cowl forward, increasing the wheel base by a couple of inches and designing in every space advantage they could conceive puts interior volume for Hyundai Elantra technically into the mid-size category. The 60/40 split rear seat makes for efficient expansion of the large trunk. Even with the front seats fully back most rear seat passengers will be comfortable. It’s amazing how roomy they’ve made this “compact” car.

The Hyundai Elantra felt great on the highway and on level roads but once off I-8 and into the mountain two-lanes I felt like we needed a bit more power. Driving dynamics are excellent. (Hyundai has its own Steel plant and 400 metallurgists working on new uses for the hard metal.) A great deal of effort went into making Elantra quiet. What the Hyundai folks are most proud of are the mileage numbers posted confidently by Elantra. The basic car with six-speed manual transmission and no extras (it’s reasonably well equipped without extras) comes in at under $15,000.

Obviously, the new Hyundai Elantra styling is the big story. Base models start at $15,625, making the Hyundai Elantra one of the least-expensive compact sedans on the market, and undercutting the Kia Forte -- a distant mechanical relative of the Hyundai Elantra -- by $65. At the high end of the scale is the $20,775 Elantra Limited, which includes leather seats (heated in front and in back!), a sunroof, alloy wheels, and an automatic transmission.

The "Hyundai Elantra" 148 hp 1.8 liter engine provides a perfect blend of power and fuel economy. Overall, I'm quite pleased with the new Elantra. How does the Hyundai Elantracompare to the big dogs in the segment?

With the 2011 Hyundai Elantra, the company is attempting to take that box of compromise and shake it all about. Hyundai's taking the fight to the compact side of the sedan spectrum with the new Elantra, the latest in the reinvention of its model range. The Elantra's visual presence suggests confidence. Although similar to the outgoing Elantra in width and length, the 2011 Hyundai Elantra chops nearly 2 inches out of the height and instead adds it to the wheelbase. The subdued aggression of the nose, the long wheelbase, sharp character lines — this is definitely not a toylike small car.

Styling nits to pick? The "2011 Hyundai Elantra" simply looks terrific in the metal.
Also of note — rear seat heaters. Yep, and they're standard on the Elantra Limited.

Hyundai is quite proud of the Hyundai Elantra 29 city/40 highway mpg, taking great pains to point out that those fuel economy numbers apply to all Elantras regardless of transmission, trim level, wheel size or even paint color. No premium need be paid for a special high-efficiency version as with the Cruze Eco or Fiesta with the Super Fuel Economy package. Not so the Hyundai Elantra. Although it delivers fully class-competitive power, the Elantra's engine still relies on revs to tackle large hills or freeway merging situations. A six-speed manual is standard on base models, but the six-speed automatic is optional on the GLS and standard on the Limited.
The front suspension consists of MacPherson struts up front and there's a twist-beam rear suspension. This compact rear suspension allows for ample cargo volume of 14.8 cubic feet.
Surprisingly, Hyundai fitted monotube dampers to the Hyundai Elantra rear suspension rather than cheaper twin-tube dampers. The fundamental goodness of the Elantra's chassis is, er, good.
Two Trim Levels, Many Choices

Like the Sonata, the "Hyundai Elantra" will be offered in two trim levels, GLS and Limited. Optioned smartly, the Hyundai Elantra is more than just a lot of car for the money.

READ MORE - 2011 Hyundai Elantra Test Drive

2011 Hyundai i20 Sport Edition

At the Paris Motor Show, one such limited run model is the i20 Sport Edition, co-developed by Hyundai’s European R&D team and aftermarket tuners Car Research and Development (CRD) in Germany. The i20 Sport Edition goes into limited production in the first half of 2011.

The interior of the Hyundai i20 Sport Edition gets orange leather wrapped Recaros, a chrome shift knob and 7-inch touch screen sat nav. The centre console, door panels and gearshift cover also get the leather treatment.

Sporty exterior there is body-colored front skirts and wheelarch flares, glossy mesh grille insert and B-pillar, black bezel headlights, daytime running lights, smoked side and rear glass, dark red tinted taillights and 17-inch Brabus alloys wrapped in Yokohama rubber.

Also available as either 3dr or 5dr model, it will be manufactured in Hyundai’s existing i20 plants in either India or Turkey, depending on the market.

READ MORE - 2011 Hyundai i20 Sport Edition

2011 Hyundai i20 Sport Edition

At the Paris Motor Show, one such limited run model is the i20 Sport Edition, co-developed by Hyundai’s European R&D team and aftermarket tuners Car Research and Development (CRD) in Germany. The i20 Sport Edition goes into limited production in the first half of 2011.

The interior of the Hyundai i20 Sport Edition gets orange leather wrapped Recaros, a chrome shift knob and 7-inch touch screen sat nav. The centre console, door panels and gearshift cover also get the leather treatment.

Sporty exterior there is body-colored front skirts and wheelarch flares, glossy mesh grille insert and B-pillar, black bezel headlights, daytime running lights, smoked side and rear glass, dark red tinted taillights and 17-inch Brabus alloys wrapped in Yokohama rubber.

Also available as either 3dr or 5dr model, it will be manufactured in Hyundai’s existing i20 plants in either India or Turkey, depending on the market.

READ MORE - 2011 Hyundai i20 Sport Edition

2011 Fiorucci Hyundai i10

This time, Hyundai’s Italian arm partnered with Milanese fashion brand Fiorucci to create a special series of models based on the i10 city car and the larger i20 supermini. Both models by Fiorucci are characterized by the unique color combos inside and out as well as their upgraded standard equipment and the use of exclusive materials in the cabin.

2010 Fiorucci Hyundai i10 available with a choice of five colors including Deep Ocean Blue, Oyster Gray, Sleek Silver, Stone Black or Crystal White, with details such as the mirror caps and grille finished in either Fuscia (pink) or Verde Lime (lime green).

In interior’s i10 has two tone theme is repeated inside on the seat upholstery, dashboard trim, door panels, the unique gearshift knob and floor mats. Added features include the retractable softop and a Park Assist system with a 4.5 inch monitor on the central mirror that’s connected to the rear camera.

The Fiorucci Hyundai i10 is powered by a 66HP 1.1-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine with prices starting from €10,990.

While the other Fiorucci models is Hyundai i20. Italian buyers can choose from four different colors (Crystal White, Blue Spark, Dark Grey, Sleek Silver and Black Diamond). All exterior details are finished in a matte black color.

Interior’s i20 with unique materials and a black and orange two-tone theme. The special edition i20 also gets two glass sunroofs and the same Park Assist system found in its smaller sibling.

The Fiorucci Hyundai i20 available engine option is a 1.2-liter four-cylinder gasoline unit with 78 ponies. Prices in Italy start from €14,990.

So if you are a fashionista, which do you think most interesting?

READ MORE - 2011 Fiorucci Hyundai i10

2011 Fiorucci Hyundai i10

This time, Hyundai’s Italian arm partnered with Milanese fashion brand Fiorucci to create a special series of models based on the i10 city car and the larger i20 supermini. Both models by Fiorucci are characterized by the unique color combos inside and out as well as their upgraded standard equipment and the use of exclusive materials in the cabin.

2010 Fiorucci Hyundai i10 available with a choice of five colors including Deep Ocean Blue, Oyster Gray, Sleek Silver, Stone Black or Crystal White, with details such as the mirror caps and grille finished in either Fuscia (pink) or Verde Lime (lime green).

In interior’s i10 has two tone theme is repeated inside on the seat upholstery, dashboard trim, door panels, the unique gearshift knob and floor mats. Added features include the retractable softop and a Park Assist system with a 4.5 inch monitor on the central mirror that’s connected to the rear camera.

The Fiorucci Hyundai i10 is powered by a 66HP 1.1-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine with prices starting from €10,990.

While the other Fiorucci models is Hyundai i20. Italian buyers can choose from four different colors (Crystal White, Blue Spark, Dark Grey, Sleek Silver and Black Diamond). All exterior details are finished in a matte black color.

Interior’s i20 with unique materials and a black and orange two-tone theme. The special edition i20 also gets two glass sunroofs and the same Park Assist system found in its smaller sibling.

The Fiorucci Hyundai i20 available engine option is a 1.2-liter four-cylinder gasoline unit with 78 ponies. Prices in Italy start from €14,990.

So if you are a fashionista, which do you think most interesting?

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2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T SE

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata is a highly competitive entry into the mid-size family sedan segment. Well, that’s finally changed with the 2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T SE. Not the inline-four part, but the displacement has dropped to 2.0-liters and a twin-scroll turbo pushing 17.4 psi was strapped on. The new turbo Sonata makes 274 horsepower That’s more than the V6 Accord (271) and more than the V6 Camry (268), it’s more than the Malibu (252) and more than the Altima (270).

However, after road test has result that’s with TC on, the Sonata 2.0T was a little slow off the line, not allowing wheelspin, but the time was still plenty quick. With the stability system off, it allows a bit of wheelspin, but ultimately wasn’t that much quicker. Does not allow pedal overlap for power braking. Does not hold gears; manual mode auto-upshifts, early no less. Fairly significant heat-soak.

With ESP off, the slalom was an exercise in front-wheel-drive oversteer. Slow in, fast out kept the rear in line, and steering smoothness was key. It’s easy to get behind quickly due to slight yaw delay, combined with a losse tail.

Vehicle: 2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T SE

Odometer: 3,016
Date: 10/12/10
Driver: Mike Monticello
Base Price (with destination and tax): $24,865
Options:
Price As tested: $24,865 (est.)

Specifications:
Drive Type: Front-wheel drive
Transmission Type: six-speed Automatic
Engine Type: Direct-injection, turbocharged, variable intake and exhaust valve timing, Inline-4
Displacement (cc/cu-in): 1,998cc (122 cu-in)
Redline (rpm): 6,500
Horsepower (hp @ rpm): 274 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (lb-ft @ rpm): 269 lb-ft @ 1,800 – 4,500 rpm
Brake Type (front): 11.8-inch ventilated discs with single-piston sliding calipers
Brake Type (rear): 11.2-inch ventilated discs with single-piston sliding calipers
Steering System: Electric speed-proportional power steeringWell, that’s finally changed with the 2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T SE. Not the inline-four part, but the displacement has dropped to 2.0-liters and a twin-scroll turbo pushing 17.4 psi was strapped on. The new turbo Sonata makes 274 horsepower That’s more than the V6 Accord (271) and more than the V6 Camry (268), it’s more than the Malibu (252) and more than the Altima (270).
Suspension Type (front): Independent MacPherson strut with gas-charged hydraulic twin tube shock absorber
Suspension Type (rear): Independent multilink, coil-springs, gas-charged hydraulic monotube shock absorbers, stabilizer bar.

Tire Size (front): 225/45R18 95V
Tire Size (rear): 225/45R18 95V
Tire Brand: Hankook
Tire Model: Optimo H431
Tire Type: All Season
Wheel Size: 17-by-7.5 inches front and rear
As Tested Curb Weight (lb): 3,388

Test Results:
0 – 30 (sec): 2.8
0 – 45 (sec): 4.4
0 – 60 (sec): 6.6
0 – 75 (sec): 9.3
1/4 Mile (sec @ mph): 14.6 @ 97.9
0-60 with 1-ft Rollout (sec): 6.2
30 – 0 (ft): 30
60 – 0 (ft): 120
Slalom (mph): 63.0 stability off ( 59.8 on)
Skid Pad Lateral Acceleration (g): 0.84 stability off (0.80 trac on)
Db @ Idle: 38
Db @ Full Throttle: 66.1
Db @ 70 mph Cruise: 62.0

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2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T SE

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata is a highly competitive entry into the mid-size family sedan segment. Well, that’s finally changed with the 2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T SE. Not the inline-four part, but the displacement has dropped to 2.0-liters and a twin-scroll turbo pushing 17.4 psi was strapped on. The new turbo Sonata makes 274 horsepower That’s more than the V6 Accord (271) and more than the V6 Camry (268), it’s more than the Malibu (252) and more than the Altima (270).

However, after road test has result that’s with TC on, the Sonata 2.0T was a little slow off the line, not allowing wheelspin, but the time was still plenty quick. With the stability system off, it allows a bit of wheelspin, but ultimately wasn’t that much quicker. Does not allow pedal overlap for power braking. Does not hold gears; manual mode auto-upshifts, early no less. Fairly significant heat-soak.

With ESP off, the slalom was an exercise in front-wheel-drive oversteer. Slow in, fast out kept the rear in line, and steering smoothness was key. It’s easy to get behind quickly due to slight yaw delay, combined with a losse tail.

Vehicle: 2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T SE

Odometer: 3,016
Date: 10/12/10
Driver: Mike Monticello
Base Price (with destination and tax): $24,865
Options:
Price As tested: $24,865 (est.)

Specifications:
Drive Type: Front-wheel drive
Transmission Type: six-speed Automatic
Engine Type: Direct-injection, turbocharged, variable intake and exhaust valve timing, Inline-4
Displacement (cc/cu-in): 1,998cc (122 cu-in)
Redline (rpm): 6,500
Horsepower (hp @ rpm): 274 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (lb-ft @ rpm): 269 lb-ft @ 1,800 – 4,500 rpm
Brake Type (front): 11.8-inch ventilated discs with single-piston sliding calipers
Brake Type (rear): 11.2-inch ventilated discs with single-piston sliding calipers
Steering System: Electric speed-proportional power steeringWell, that’s finally changed with the 2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T SE. Not the inline-four part, but the displacement has dropped to 2.0-liters and a twin-scroll turbo pushing 17.4 psi was strapped on. The new turbo Sonata makes 274 horsepower That’s more than the V6 Accord (271) and more than the V6 Camry (268), it’s more than the Malibu (252) and more than the Altima (270).
Suspension Type (front): Independent MacPherson strut with gas-charged hydraulic twin tube shock absorber
Suspension Type (rear): Independent multilink, coil-springs, gas-charged hydraulic monotube shock absorbers, stabilizer bar.

Tire Size (front): 225/45R18 95V
Tire Size (rear): 225/45R18 95V
Tire Brand: Hankook
Tire Model: Optimo H431
Tire Type: All Season
Wheel Size: 17-by-7.5 inches front and rear
As Tested Curb Weight (lb): 3,388

Test Results:
0 – 30 (sec): 2.8
0 – 45 (sec): 4.4
0 – 60 (sec): 6.6
0 – 75 (sec): 9.3
1/4 Mile (sec @ mph): 14.6 @ 97.9
0-60 with 1-ft Rollout (sec): 6.2
30 – 0 (ft): 30
60 – 0 (ft): 120
Slalom (mph): 63.0 stability off ( 59.8 on)
Skid Pad Lateral Acceleration (g): 0.84 stability off (0.80 trac on)
Db @ Idle: 38
Db @ Full Throttle: 66.1
Db @ 70 mph Cruise: 62.0

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