Report: Hyundai Mulling Plug-In Sonata Hybrid

A report from PlugInCars.com suggests that Hyundai‘s endless march towards global domination isn’t letting up, and the next phase of their product strategy involves both a Prius competitor and a plug-in variant of the Sonata Hybrid.

According to Mike O’Brien, Hyundai’s head of product planning, the Sonata plug-in Hybrid would require little in the way of engineering to make it ready. “Other manufacturers’ hybrid systems were developed in such a way to not allow them to easily develop plug-in hybrids,” he said. “For the Sonata Hybrid to become a plug-in hybrid, really all we need are bigger batteries—the basic technology platform is already designed to support a plug-in variation.”

According to O’Brien, we’ll see something within the next 12 months at one of the major auto shows. Let the speculation games begin!

[Source: Plug-in Cars]

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid Unveiled: LA 2010

Kia has unveiled the 2011 Optima Hybrid at the Los Angeles Auto Show recently.

Created specifically for the U.S. market, the car features a full parallel hybrid system which consists of a 168 PS (124 kW / 166 hp) 2.4-liter petrol engine and a 30 kW (41 PS / 40 hp) electric motor. All told, the two can work together to produce a combined 209 PS (154 kW / 206 hp) and 265 Nm (194 lb-ft) of torque.

This enables the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 9.2 seconds and hit a top speed of 121 mph (195 km/h). More importantly, fuel consumption is expected to be 36 mpg city / 40 mpg highway (US).

To get these impressive features, Kia engineers optimized the petrol engine and installed a 34 kW lithium-ion battery which enables the hybrid to operate in EV mode at speeds up to 100 km/h (62 mph).

On the styling front, the Hybrid is distinguished by a reduced ride height (lowered 5mm), a revised grille, and unique 16-inch alloy wheels with low-rolling resistance tires.

No word on pricing, but look for the Optima Hybrid to start arriving at U.S. dealerships early next year.

Kia POP Electric Car Concept Revealed Ahead of Paris Debut

Kia has just released new images of the POP Concept, ahead of the concept's debut in Paris. The Kia POP was designed by the company's European design team under the direction of Peter Schreyer, Kia’s Chief Design Officer, and Gregory Guillaume, Kia Europe's Chief Designer.

"A concept car like the Kia POP could only have come from us," explains Gregory Guillaume. "Designers very rarely have the opportunity to start from a clean sheet of paper and it’s great to be in a position to operate with such freedom."

Unfortunately, the company did not release any additional information regarding the Kia POP. What we do know so far about the Kia POP concept
is that it's a three-meter long three-seater powered by an electric motor. The seating configuration of the Kia POP includes a front bench and an additional rear seat. The Kia POP also seems to have a "different" door opening mechanism.

We'll have more details on the Kia POP concept at the time of its premiere in France next week.

[Source: Kia]

READ MORE for more images of the Kia POP Concept!

Kia to Launch Electric CUV by Next Year

A week after Hyundai announced its first electric car, sister company Kia Motors will continue the Korean automaker’s EV plans with a battery-powered crossover set to debut next year.

“We plan to produce 2,000 electric vehicles based on Kia’s upcoming cross utility vehicles (CUVs), and 500 BlueOns by 2012,” said Hong John-hee, the head of Hyundai’s electric vehicles division. Surprisingly, the electric car won’t be based on one of Kia’s existing CUVs, but rather on a new model. Kia’s plan is to launch a gasoline version of the crossover in September (likely at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show), followed by the electric version in December.

Initial plans for Hyundai and Kia’s electric vehicles are to sell them to government agencies in 2012, with sales to the general public beginning in 2013. The electric Kia will be able to travel up to 80 miles on a single charge.

Last week, Hyundai unveiled the BlueOn electric car based on the company’s i10 hatchback, with a total range of 87 miles.

[Source: Kia]

Hyundai Unveils BlueOn, South Korea's First Electric Car

Hyundai Motor Co. joined the global race to lead the market for electric vehicles with its first full-speed electric vehicle, BlueOn, on Thursday. The vehicle, which took 40 billion won ($34 million) and about a year to develop, is based on the facelifted version of Hyundai’s subcompact i10, which is sold exclusively in overseas markets. The BlueOn gives us an early glimpse of the refreshed i10 due for debut at Paris next month.

READ MORE for the full article.


Fitted with an electric motor capable of producing up to 61 kilowatts of power, and 16.4 kilowatt-hour lithium ion polymer battery pack, the vehicle is an exact match to the Mitsubishi i-MiEV electric car in terms of hardware. However, by adding a number of new features including the active hydraulic booster system that recharges the battery using the energy generated while braking, the company was able to extend the driving range offered by a fully charged battery pack.

Using the technology, the company extended the BlueOn’s driving range to 140 kilometers, surpassing the Mitsubishi i-MiEV’s 130 kilometers, despite both vehicles having the same battery capacity.

The BlueOn is also fitted with a number of components such as the motor-driven power steering and electronic brake oil pressure amplifier that help to improve the battery efficiency, the company said. The vehicle is also fitted with an on-board charger that allows the battery pack to be charged using the standard 220 volt household electrical outlet. Using 220 volt outlets, the vehicle can be charged to 90 percent capacity in six hours, and to 80 percent capacity in 25 minutes using the 380 volt rapid charging system. In comparison, the i-MiEV requires seven hours using the standard system and 30 minutes using the rapid charge system.

In terms of performance, both vehicles have the same top speed of 130 kilometer per hour, but with zero-to-100 kilometers per hour acceleration time of 13.1 seconds Hyundai BlueOn offers higher acceleration than its Japanese counterpart.

Hyundai, which hailed the car as South Korea's first full-speed electric vehicle, said that it plans to deliver 30 of them on a test basis to various South Korean government organizations by October and aims to manufacture 2,500 by the end of 2012.

[Source: Hyundai]

Hyundai Aims For 50 MPG Line-Up By 2025

Hyundai has set an ambitious goal of producing the world's most fuel-efficient line of cars.

The automaker on Thursday announced a plan to boost the average fuel efficiency of its U.S. vehicle lineup by more than 60 percent over the next 15 years from the current 30.9 MPG to a staggering 50 MPG. To that end, it will add electric and hybrid cars to its lineup.

Meanwhile, John Krafcik, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America, said Thursday that with the growing sales of the new Sonata mid-sized sedan, he expects the company can break the 500,000 mark in sales in the U.S. for the first time this year.

[Source: The Chosun Ilbo]

New York 2010: All-New Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Gets Unique Look and Achieves 37/39 MPG

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is the Korean company's first shot at the hybrid segment and it's not messing around. The Sonata Hybrid boasts the highest combined horsepower output of any hybrid sedan in its class and an expected best-in-class EPA highway rating of 39 mpg, not to mention the first use of lithium-polymer batteries in the automotive industry. That's pretty strong out of the gate.

Here are the basics: The Sonata Hybrid combines Hyundai's 169-horsepower, 2.4-liter Theta II inline-4 with a 30-kilowatt electric motor. This particular Theta engine runs on the Atkinson cycle and uses continuously variable valve timing along with several friction-reducing technologies to boost efficiency by 10 percent compared to the standard Theta power plant. This hybrid powertrain's combined output of 209 hp tops all sedans in the class, while the Sonata Hybrid also happens to be one of the lightest midsize hybrid sedans at 3,457 pounds.

Like the Toyota Camry and Ford Fusion hybrids, the Sonata Hybrid can run on electric power alone, but Hyundai also claims its car can achieve 100 km/h (62 mph) in the electric mode. This is one of the reasons why the Sonata delivers such an impressive highway mileage number. The six-speed automatic transmission comes from Hyundai, but this application puts an electric motor in place of the torque converter, creating a hybrid powertrain that is more efficient and less costly than the CVTs used by its competitors, Hyundai says. More conventional elements of the Sonata Hybrid include a regenerative brake system, start/stop technology and an electric air-conditioning compressor.

Continue reading for the full article and more hi-res images.

You might not recognize the phrase "lithium polymer" in reference to the Sonata's batteries, as this is the first automotive application of the technology. Hyundai says the batteries are smaller, lighter and more durable than both nickel-metal hydride and lithium-ion batteries. For instance, the Sonata's battery pack weighs 28 pounds less than the one used in the Toyota Camry. It's also easier to package, which results in less intrusion into the trunk area.

In order to visually differentiate the Sonata Hybrid from the conventional Sonata, Hyundai has added a unique front fascia with a hexagonal grille, revised rocker panels, unique wheel designs and, of course, plenty of hybrid badging. Inside the cabin, the Sonata Hybrid also includes a technology display that gives drivers information on the available charge, power flow through the drive system and overall efficiency. It uses pretty colors to display it all, too.

NY: Hyundai Releases Teaser of All-New Sonata Hybrid

After announcing it would launch a hybrid version of its shapely Sonata sedan way back at the 2009 LA auto show, Hyundai sent out this teaser photo of the 2011 Sonata Hybrid before its official debut at the 2010 New York auto show.

We’ve yet to see the car in its entirety, but it appears the Sonata Hybrid receives a significant makeover to accompany its hybrid driveline. The entire front fascia is revised, incorporating a very thin upper grille accompanied by a larger aperture positioned lower in the bumper. Headlamps and foglamps are also restyled, and it appears the former incorporate Audi-like LED running lamps.

For the most part, expect the 2011 Sonata Hybrid to closely resemble the prototype Blue Drive hybrid system Hyundai first showcased at the 2008 Los Angeles auto show. A 30 kW (41 hp) electric motor will likely be sandwiched between a 2.4-liter “Theta II” inline four-cylinder and a six-speed automatic transmission. As a parallel hybrid, the Sonata Hybrid can be propelled either by the electric motor alone or a combination of the two power sources.

Perhaps most interesting is the battery pack -- instead of following the crowd and developing lithium ion batteries, Hyundai -- along with partner LG Chem -- has pursued lithium polymer battery packs. For the most part, the battery chemistries are very similar, but instead of using a liquid electrolyte, lithium polymer cells use a polymer-based gel. As a result, each battery cell can be built in a smaller package. Hyundai says an entire lithium polymer pack can be 20 percent smaller than a lithium-ion battery -- which is already roughly 50 percent smaller than a traditional nickel metal hydride design.

Expect more details, specifications, and photos to emerge closer to the car’s New York debut on March 31.

[Source: Hyundai]

2010 Hyundai Accent Adds 36 MPG Blue Trim

PRESS RELEASE: HIGH MILEAGE ACCENT BLUE EDITION ARRIVES IN 2010 WITH 36 MPG

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 10/06/2009 - How did Hyundai improve Accent’s EPA fuel economy for 2010 without adding thousands of dollars to the price like a hybrid does? The answer is the introduction of the high mileage “Blue” edition and smart engineering to all Accent models. Accent’s fuel efficiency is improved by up to nine percent, reaching as high as 36 miles per gallon on the highway which is better than Honda Fit and Nissan Versa.

ACCENT BLUE AND FUEL ECONOMY ADVANCEMENTS

All 2010 Accents receive lower friction engine components, aerodynamic improvements, lower-rolling-resistance silica tires, a “smart” alternator management system and other enhancements all aimed at reducing fuel consumption. The Accent Blue receives the same treatment plus revised transmission gear ratios and lowered ride height to achieve even greater fuel efficiency. In fact, the Blue edition is the lowest priced Accent, starting around $10,000. It also has the highest highway fuel economy with 36 miles per gallon and the highest combined fuel economy of 31 miles per gallon, achieving one of the highest MPG-per-dollar ratios in the industry. This new high mileage Accent will be identified with unique “Blue” badging.

[Source: Hyundai Motor America]

Read more for the complete press release, including the full list of changes for 2010.


Model
Fuel Economy
Percent Increase

City

‘09 → ‘10
Highway

‘09 → ‘10
Combined

‘09 → ‘10

Blue
NA → 27
NA → 36
NA → 31
NA

GS 3-Door M/T
27 → 28
33 → 34
29 → 30 4 percent in city, 3 percent on hwy.

GS 3-Door A/T
26 → 27
35 → 36
29 → 30
4 percent in city, 3 percent on hwy.

GLS 4-Door M/T
27 → 28
33 → 34
29 → 30
4 percent in city, 3 percent on hwy.

GLS 4-Door A/T
26 → 27
35 → 36
29→ 30
4 percent in city, 3 percent on hwy.

SE 3-Door M/T
27 → 28
33 → 34
29 → 30
4 percent in city, 3 percent on hwy.

SE 3-Door A/T
26 → 27
35 → 36
29 → 30
4 percent in city, 3 percent on hwy.

To help Accent drivers get the most out of their cars Hyundai has added an economy indicator. The “eco indicator” on automatic transmission models is a green ECO light to indicate when the driver is achieving good fuel economy. Manual transmission models have a EcoShift indicator to inform drivers of the optimal time to shift.

NEW EQUIPMENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2010

High mileage, low price “Blue” edition
“Blue” edition available with air conditioning
New and improved EPA fuel economy for all other models
Standard iPod®/USB ports added to auxiliary input on all audio- equipped models
Standard steering wheel audio controls on Accent SE, optional on Accent GLS
Standard blue backlit gauges on all models
ABS is now available on Accent GS
Standard cruise control and sunroof on Accent SE

Steering wheel audio controls, blue back-lit gauges and an iPod/USB jack also make debuts on Accent. Now when an iPod is connected to the iPod/USB port, located in the front storage area, not only does it play music through the vehicle’s six-speaker audio system, but also charges the iPod. The iPod/USB input also allows the driver to access tracks with the new steering wheel audio controls. This new system also enables both driver and passengers to easily view song/artist/title information and control the music from the audio head unit rather than from the iPod itself.

INTERIOR SPACE AND UNEXPECTED FEATURES

Interior space and unexpected features keep Accent a class above the competition. The Accent has more total interior volume than either the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic – both cars that are a vehicle class above Accent and priced thousands of dollars more. Unexpected features include a B&M Racing® sport shifter and XM Satellite Radio® with three months of free service. The Accent SE’s standard B&M shifter adds shorter throw-lengths and more precision performance-tuned driving dynamics and Accent is still the only car in its class to offer XM Satellite Radio with three months of free service as standard equipment with the vehicle’s audio system.

Offered in a four-door sedan (the Accent GLS) and three-door models (the Accent Blue, GS and SE), Accent continues to offer a high level of standard safety, power and economy in its class.

ADVANCED SAFETY FEATURES

In a bold stroke in this price-sensitive market segment, Hyundai has outfitted the Accent with state-of-the-art standard safety technologies highlighted by six airbags, including dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags covering both rows of seating. The combination of side and curtain airbags, which help protect the head and body during side impacts, can reduce fatalities by more than 45 percent according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). All Accents come equipped with front seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters, which are designed to tighten the seatbelt in the event of a collision. This safety package helped the Accent GLS four-door receive a five-star frontal crash safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) is optional on the GS and GLS and standard on the SE.

REFINED AND CONFIDENT DESIGN

Hyundai designers gave the Accent GLS a distinctive look within its market segment. Upscale details like a chrome-accented grille combine with bold tail lights and strong character lines to deliver a standout presence. The roof-mounted flexible micro-antenna not only looks good, but also provides improved radio and satellite reception.

Externally, the three-door Accents reflect Hyundai’s sleek, confident design direction. Up front, the Blue, GS and SE feature an aggressive bodycolor grille with fog lights standard on the SE. Accent SE’s high-performance P205/45R16 tires and lightweight five-spoke 16-inch aluminum wheels provide a big dose of street credibility. A long wheelbase and higher seating position increase the spacious feeling of the interior. A rear spoiler and rear defroster are standard on all Accent three-door models with the GS and SE adding a standard rear wiper.

LARGE INTERIOR

The Accent’s smart design pays comfort dividends inside, with more total interior volume than either the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic – both cars that are a vehicle class above Accent. The Accent four-door sedan has a total interior volume of 104.6 cubic feet, offering an unexpectedly spacious feel which bests the larger Civic sedan by 1.7 cubic feet. In addition, Accent four-door has more passenger volume than Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris and Chevrolet Aveo. Accent three-door also delivers class-leading interior volume in the three-door segment. Its total interior volume of 108.1 cubic feet makes it roomer than the Civic Coupe by 12.9 cubic feet. Front passengers enjoy class-leading legroom and rear passengers enjoy a class-leading 53.1 inches of shoulder room. Accent three-door’s cargo space is 15.9 cubic feet, a total of 6.6 cubic feet larger than the Yaris three-door.

Accent’s interior finish, attention to detail and color options have reset expectations in its market segment. There’s a handsome two-tone interior color scheme with either a gray or beige theme, or a sporty, black monotone interior that is available on Accent three-door. Analog instrumentation keeps the driver informed, while power steering, a tilt steering wheel and a six-way adjustable driver’s seat with fold-down armrest ensure long-haul comfort. Convenient storage areas are placed throughout the interior, including bins in the front and rear center console and glove compartment. GLS and SE add a passenger side seatback pocket and bottle holders in each door. Door storage pockets are standard on all trims, as are two more cupholders in front and another pair in the fold-down rear center armrest of the GLS. All Accents have a 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback making it easy to load large objects, or to mix cargo and passengers for maximum flexibility.

Hyundai has traditionally delivered high feature content for the money, and the Accent is no exception. Standard features are comprehensive, including two-speed variable intermittent wipers, adjustable head restraints for all seating positions, cabin air filtration, rear window defroster, tachometer, rear coat hook, digital clock, two 12-volt outlets and a remote hood release.

For audiophiles, the available 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system includes auxiliary iPod/USB inputs, large-format display with easy-to-use controls and a total of six speakers positioned throughout the interior. While XM Satellite Radio is either optional or not available on most competitors, it comes standard with all Accent audio systems.

CLEAN, FUEL EFFICIENT ENGINE

The Accent is powered by a 1.6-liter DOHC in-line four cylinder engine that features four valves per cylinder with CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing). The DOHC and CVVT combination gives the engine a very broad powerband, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions.

With better breathing from the CVVT system, performance peaks at 110 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and torque is 106 lb.-ft. at 4,500 rpm. At 110 horsepower, Accent makes more horsepower than Yaris and Aveo. Fuel economy is equally impressive, achieving 36 mpg regardless of transmission choice. With a manual transmission, the Accent Blue’s EPA mileage is 27 mpg City and 36 mpg Highway. With the optional four-speed automatic transmission, the Accent’s 2010 EPA rating is 27 mpg City and 36 mpg Highway besting Versa and Fit on the highway.

Besides the added performance it provides, CVVT also helps the engine operate more cleanly, and the Accent is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). Part of the Alpha engine family, the Accent’s powerplant is a durable and technologically advanced unit that features a rigid cast-iron block and lightweight aluminum cylinder head. Engineered for the long haul, the Alpha is backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.

TWO TRANSMISSION CHOICES

For engaging performance, the Accent comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission geared for quicker acceleration and a sporty personality. For added performance, the B&M Racing shifter provides shorter throw-lengths and more precision to Accent SE’s fun-to-drive nature. Also available is an optional four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and lock-up torque converter to maximize fuel economy at highway speeds.

REMARKABLE DRIVING DYNAMICS

Accent’s stiff body structure allows the affordable Accent to deliver a comfortable ride and responsive handling. Accent features a MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension both with coil springs and gas shock absorbers. A 21.0 mm diameter front stabilizer bar helps reduce body roll when cornering. Rack-and-pinion steering with engine-RPM sensing assist makes for low-effort maneuvering around town and a secure feel at high speed. At 33.1 feet Accent’s turning diameter is better than Fit’s 34.4 feet and Versa’s 34.2 feet.

Accent has been developed to satisfy unique consumer needs. The GLS four-door is tuned for comfort, but still feels agile. The Blue and GS three-door models have a unique steering rack with a sportier feel. The top-of-the-line SE trim sets the standard in the entry-level fun-to-drive category, delivering even more road-holding capability. Accent SE’s sport-tuned suspension features a 24 percent stiffer front spring rate, an 11 percent stiffer rear spring rate, a larger stabilizer bar (24 mm) and unique strut valving. This model’s 205/45R16 tires are tuned specifically for precision and improved lateral acceleration. Accent SE delivers a 70 percent increase in roll control over the GLS. To complete the performance package, Accent SE has standard four-sensor, four-channel Antilock Braking System (ABS). Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) is integrated into the ABS, automatically adjusting braking force front to rear based on vehicle load.

QUALITY AND VALUE

The Accent’s many strengths make it not only a smart choice for buyers, but also a clear value leader in its segment. Advanced standard safety technologies give it an important edge. Accent has more passenger interior volume than the Chevrolet Aveo, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit and Honda Civic, and upscale interior appointments make it remarkably comfortable and accommodating. New features for 2010 – like steering wheel audio controls and iPod/USB inputs – demonstrate Hyundai’s commitment to continually meeting higher customer expectations and being a class-above the competition. Add in the advantage of America’s Best Warranty™, including five years and 60,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and choosing Accent becomes an even simpler decision for the savvy buyer.

ACCENT “BLUE” THREE-DOOR – THE PERFECT ENTRY-LEVEL CAR

This year, Hyundai introduces a high mileage “Blue” edition of its Accent. When shoppers see the “Blue” badge it means the model delivers outstanding fuel economy without adding thousands of dollars to the price. In fact, the “Blue” model will be priced lower than any other Accent model, assuring it will be both efficient and economical. Hyundai is focused on achieving an excellent mpg-per-dollar ratio with its “Blue” models. Fuel-efficient modifications include low friction engine components, lower-rolling-resistance silica tires, an optimized thermostat, a “smart” alternator management system, improvements to the underbody airflow management, revised transmission gear ratios and lowered ride height.

Key standard equipment includes a five-speed manual transmission with EcoShift indicator, sport-tuned power assisted rack-and-pinion steering, dual front, side and head curtain airbags, variable intermittent windshield wipers, six-way adjustable driver seat with armrest, 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback, rear spoiler and rear window defroster. Accent builds on Hyundai’s reputation for offering loads of standard equipment by also adding adjustable head restraints for all seating positions, cabin air filtration, tachometer, digital clock, two 12-volt outlets and remote hood release.

ACCENT GS

In keeping with Hyundai’s high-value approach to standard equipment, the Accent GS offers standard automatic transmission, air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, maplights, rear wiper, and bodycolor mirrors and door handles. Convenient storage areas are placed throughout the interior, including the front center console, driver storage tray and a rear storage tray. Two cupholders are ideally situated between the driver and passenger for easy reach. A 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback makes it easy to load large objects, or to mix cargo and passengers for maximum effectiveness. The roof-mounted micro antenna is aerodynamic, flexible and improves signal strength.

The GS Premium Package includes a 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with 6 speakers and iPod/USB inputs, power windows with driver’s window auto-down feature, power mirrors and door locks and remote keyless entry with alarm and panic alert. And for the first time, ABS is available on the GS as part of the Premium Package.

ACCENT SE - ENTRY-LEVEL PERFORMANCE

The sport-oriented Accent SE takes value in an exciting new, fun-to-drive direction with the addition of the B&M Racing sport shifter. To complete the driving experience, the Accent SE features a sport-tuned suspension with unique springs, strut valving, stabilizer bar and steering gear – delivering in total a 70 percent increase in roll stiffness over the GS. Accent SE also features air conditioning, power sunroof, cruise control, a 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers and auxiliary iPod/USB inputs, steering wheel audio controls, power windows with driver’s window auto-down feature, illuminated vanity mirrors, power door locks, remote keyless entry with alarm and panic alert and power-adjustable exterior mirrors. On the outside, the 16-inch alloy wheels and P205/45R16 tires deliver enhanced road-holding capability, and fog lights keep the driver’s path illuminated in adverse weather. The SE trim is equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and metallic interior accents. Additional storage is available with a seatback pocket and front door bottle holders.

ACCENT GLS

To simplify the buying process, the four-door Accent sedan comes in a single GLS trim level with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. GLS trim offers a wide range of features, including several items that are either optional or unavailable on competitive vehicles such as a powerful 110-horsepower 1.6-liter CVVT engine, power steering, rear coat hook, 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback, AM/FM/XM /CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary iPod/USB inputs, driver and passenger illuminated vanity mirrors and standard air conditioning. There are a total of six airbags, including dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof mounted side-curtain airbags. Carpeted floor mats are optional. The GLS Premium Package includes ABS with EBD, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, power windows, mirrors, door locks, steering wheel audio controls and remote keyless entry with alarm and panic alert.

WARRANTY

The 2010 Hyundai Accent is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty. Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection,

10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Accent buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit) and that service includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of these coverages.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 790 dealerships nationwide.

Frankfurt: Kia Shows Revised Cee'd Hybrid With New Face

Kia Motors unveiled the revised hybrid-electric variant of the popular cee'd Hatchback in Frankfurt last week. Developed at Kia’s European R&D centre, the cee’d hybrid concept is a follow-up model of the initial cee’d hybrid model, which debuted at the Paris Auto Show last year. Since then, the new cee’d hybrid has adopted the new front fascia and received upgraded powertrain technology.

The Kia cee’d hybrid concept car shown in Frankfurt is powered by a 1.6L Gamma inline-4 engine that is paired with a 20 horsepower electric motor. The high-torque electric motor has a maximum torque of 105 Nm from just 1500 rpm. It is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) developed by Kia. The hybrid-electric powertrain is similar in set up to the Forte LPI Hybrid's, but the cee'd hybrid propels on gasoline rather than liquified petroleum gas (LPG).

According to Kia, new cee’d hybrid reaches a top speed of 185 km/h and accelerates from 0-to-100 kmh in just 11.8 seconds. CO2 emissions of the hybrid model have been lowered by 25 percent from that of the standard cee'd to only 96 grams per kilometer.

[Source: KIA]

READ MORE for more images