Hyundai and Kia have announced plans to build more fuel-efficient versions of the Accent, Elantra and Forte compact sedans in North America. The Hyundai models will bear the "Blue" nomenclature that is used by the automaker for its greener vehicles overseas. In the competition, GM currently offers a group of more fuel-efficient cars and trucks under the "XFE" (Xtra Fuel Efficiency) branding.Better fuel economy will be achieved through many engineering tweaks such as the use of a five-speed automatic transmission, rather than the standard four-speed. Other additions include low-rolling resistance tires, electric power steering, Smart Alternator (for lower drag), and aerodynamic exterior enhancements.
Kia says the Forte EX with the Fuel Economy Package will get a city/highway rating of 27/36 mpg (30 mpg combined) as compared to 25/34 mpg achieved without it. Meanwhile, Hyundai has not released expected fuel-economy numbers for the Accent or Elantra "Blue".
The cost to consumers for these fuel-efficient models will vary. Kia will offer the Fuel-Economy Package as a $600 extra on the EX trim of the Forte, while Hyundai will offer its “Blue” models as stripped down versions costing less than the other trim levels. All three models will reach showrooms late this summer as 2010 models.
[Source: Car and Driver]
