GM Daewoo releases Lacetti Premiere, America still waits

GM Daewoo has commenced sales of the long-awaited Lacetti Premiere compact sedan today in South Korea. Unveiled at the Paris International Motor Show this month, the Lacetti Premiere is a collaborative work of GM's global design and engineering teams as it will be also sold in other markets around the world, including the United States. In the U.S. and Europe, it will be called Cruze and badged as a Chevrolet.

Assembled at GMDAT's Gunsan plant, the Lacetti Premiere will initially be powered by an ECOTEC III 1.6L 4-cylinder engine that produces 114 horsepower. Coupled to it is a standard Hydromatic 6-speed automatic transmission. It is expected to achieve over 40 MPG. The Lacetti Premiere has a base price of 11.15 million Won (US$7600) in South Korea. Later models will be available with a 150 horsepower 2.0L turbodiesel engine.

Perhaps the more significant news is the Cruze's impact in the U.S. and the world. The USDM Cruze will be assembled at GM's Lordstown facility, and will replace the aging Cobalt. The Cruze will also pack the 1.6L engine and will reach U.S. showrooms in, get this, 2010. GM stated that it took 27 months to develop the Cruze and is counting on it to make a very needed impact in the competitive C-segment market in America. The Cruze will arrive in Europe in spring 2009.

[Source: Trading Markets]

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Hyundai ranks 5th in Auto Bild Quality Report

Auto Bild, one of Germany's most renowned car magazines, has posted its annual Quality Report, and Hyundai has ranked 5th out of 22 brands.

Topping the list was undoubtedly Toyota with Honda and Mazda tying for second place. Opel came in fourth place. The survey is conducted based on seven criteria, including customer satisfaction and the number of recalled cars. Hyundai was the only automaker in the survey to not have a single car recalled in the past two years. To note the quantum leap Hyundai has made, the automaker came in 11th place last year.

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USA: 2009 Kia Optima website up and rolling

Kia Motors has finally updated its American website, now including the refreshed 2009 Kia Optima. The facelifted Optima, penned by Peter Schreyer, made its debut last March at the 2008 New York International Auto Show. The revision includes redesigned front and rear fascias, refreshed interior, upgraded engine outputs, and added fuel economy.

Different from the pre-production model unveiled in the Big Apple, Kia has revised the grille and now incorporates the more stylish "tiger-tooth" style corporate grille. No, the stunning LED taillights did not cross the Pacific, but an optional navigation system did.

Kia has not released sales date or pricing information for the 2009 Optima. However, I did spot a silver one here in Toronto (maybe a prototype) implying that it will arrive in showrooms very soon. Click on the image to visit the website.

[Source: Kia]

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Spied: 2011 Hyundai "PO" 6-seater sheds camo

Leftlane has gotten a hold of a batch of new spy shots of Hyundai's upcoming 6-seater crossover, code-named "PO." Different from past spy shots of this, however, is that this particular prototype was caught driving with almost no camouflage.

The 6-seater crossover was first previewed at the 2005 Chicago Autoshow, carrying on Hyundai's Spanish nomenclature pattern as "Portico". With the PO, Hyundai is attempting to prosper in a segment that has only seen doomsdays with epitomes such as the Chrysler Pacifica and Mercedes-Benz R-Class. The PO is expected to be powered by either a 3.3L V6 rated around 240 horsepower or a 3.8L V6 producing about 280 horsepower. An Aisin 6-speed automatic is in the runnings, and it will be available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.

Due to go on sale in the third quarter of 2009, the PO will be produced in South Korea. Stay tuned for more information and click on the image to view the full images.

[Source: Leftlane]

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SEMA 2008: Hyundai and RIDES create custom Genesis

Hyundai is going big at this year's upcoming SEMA show in Las Vegas. The automaker is showing three custom Genesis Coupes and three custom Genesis Sedans. This one, in particular, is the result of Hyundai and RIDES magazine teaming up to create the ultimate tech-infested (or Mac-infested, we daresay) ride.

The RIDES Genesis sports a myriad of technological goodies such as its own Wi-fi network, two Mac Minis, a MacBook Air, iPod Touch, iPhone 3G, and a premium surround sound audio system. The trunk of the car also packs a Mac Mini computer and a 20-inch Apple Cinema Display.

"Genesis' spacious and ultra-quiet cabin offers an ideal environment to experiment with new in-vehicle information and entertainment systems," said Michael Deitz, manager, Product Development, Hyundai Motor America. "Adding state-of-the-art connectivity and computing power to existing technology like navigation, Bluetooth and satellite radio, this RIDES Genesis offers a glimpse into the future of hi-tech luxury."

Exterior modifications have been also made such as 22-inch MHT wheels, Pirelli tires, custom-molded front body kit and side skirts, lowered suspension, smoked headlights, dual-tip stacked exhausts, and a custom rear bumper. No, it will not go on sale. But, it will be displayed for your viewing pleasure at the SEMA show from November 4th to November 7th.

[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading to view more images and the official press release.



PRESS RELEASE: RIDES MAGAZINE TRANSFORMS HYUNDAI GENESIS SEDAN INTO TECHNOLOGY CENTER ON WHEELS FOR SEMA SHOW 2008

Hyundai Motor America and RIDES magazine are teaming up to develop a customized Hyundai Genesis for the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. The RIDES Genesis will be the ultimate in technology, style and refinement, containing the latest in technology both inside and out. As added incentive to visit the Hyundai display, 5,000 RIDES Digital Genesis iTunes cards will be distributed from the car's Wi-Fi network during the show at the Las Vegas Convention Center from Nov. 4 – Nov. 7, 2008.

"This Genesis perfectly suits the mobile executive, with multiple Mac computers and its own mobile Wi-Fi network," said Ben Harris, associate publisher, RIDES. "All of the modifications compliment the Genesis' natural attributes and emphasize the sleek look and luxury interior. We are looking forward to the SEMA show and displaying this amazing vehicle."

Inside, the RIDES Genesis will feature the latest in digital accessories including two Mac Mini computers, a MacBook Air, iPod Touch, iPhone 3G, high-speed Wi-Fi internet connection and movie theater-quality surround sound. The trunk will house its own Mac mini computer, a 20-inch Apple Cinema Display and a motorized tray containing the mouse and keyboard for the rear computer. Within the center console will be the iPhone 3G, Mac Book Air laptop and wireless keyboard and mouse for the Mac Mini mounted on the rear deck. Each passenger in the back seat has their own computer with internet connectivity. The 8.4-inch VGA headrest monitors are wrapped in the original leather to maintain the OE look and feel, while the seats contain suede accents.

"Genesis' spacious and ultra-quiet cabin offers an ideal environment to experiment with new in-vehicle information and entertainment systems," said Michael Deitz, manager, Product Development, Hyundai Motor America. "Adding state-of-the-art connectivity and computing power to existing technology like navigation, Bluetooth and satellite radio, this RIDES Genesis offers a glimpse into the future of hi-tech luxury."

At the Hyundai booth, SEMA attendees will view clean exterior modifications to compliment the high-tech interior. Modifications include 22-inch custom-made staggered fitment MHT three-piece wheels, Pirelli tires, custom-molded front body kit and side skirts, lowered suspension and smoked headlights. Custom dual-tip stacked exhausts and custom-molded rear bumper accentuate the metallic silver and blue paint job.

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USA: Hyundai issues two recalls on Elantras

Hyundai Motor Co. is recalling about 150,000 Hyundai Elantra sedans because of potential electrical problems that could prevent air bags from deploying. Hyundai said Friday the recall involves Elantras from the 2001 model year.

If a liquid is spilled near the cupholder, it could drip into the air bag control module electrical connector, contaminate the module, preventing air bags from deploying in a crash.

The Korean automaker also is recalling about 75,000 Elantras from the 2001 and 2002 model years because of issues with an air bag wiring harness that could prevent the side air bags from deploying. Hyundai spokesman Miles Johnson says owners who see an air bag warning light should take their car to a dealership for inspection.

[Source: BusinessWeek]

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Korea: Kia releases gasoline Mohave

Kia Motors released the long-awaited gasoline variants of the Mohave SUV (Borrego in NA) today. Alongside the 3.0L VGT diesel, the Mohave is now available with a 274 horsepower 3.8L Lambda V6 or a more potent 340 horsepower 4.6L Tau V8.

Gasoline Mohaves are priced on average 3.5 million Won (USD$2464) less than its diesel counterparts. With the 3.8L V6, Kia boasts a mileage rating of 8.6km/L, an equivalent of 20MPG. For the flagship 4.6L V8 models, Kia includes a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission. The 3.8L V6 models have a 0-60 MPH time of 8.5 seconds, while the 4.6L V8 models boast 7.4 seconds.

Prices of the Mohave Gasoline start at 32.07 million Won (US$22,580) for the JV380 Essence model to 47.47 million Won (US$33,422) for the KV460 Ultra-Premium model.

[Source: Kia]

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Stunning shots of the Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Cars.com recently posted a stunning gallery of high-resolution images of the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe. What is probably even better is that the rear-wheel drive coupe is coated in an equally attractive black paint. Although the front-end and the Genesis nomenclature might raise some conflicts, the Genesis Coupe looks to be another success for Hyundai - if marketed right.

The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is slated to go on sale in America in spring of 2009. It will be available in two powertrains: a 212 horsepower 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder that will cater mainly to the vast tuner crowd, and a 306 horsepower 3.8L V6. Pricing is expected to start around $20,000 for the 4-cylinder and $25,000 for the V6. Click on the source to view the images in full glory.

[Source: Cars.com]

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Kia shows redesigned Cerato at Sydney

Kia Motors debuted the redesigned Cerato for the Australian market at the Sydney Motor Show today. Dubbed the Forte in the car's home market of South Korea, the Cerato for the land of Down Under will be available in a 2.0L 4-cylinder petrol engine initially.

Kia announced a sales date of early 2009 for the Cerato. Officials stated that the company is still finalizing the specifications and pricing of the Cerato.

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Hyundai targets 500,000 hybrids per year by 2018

Hyundai hasn't yet put a hybrid car on the market, but the company sure is throwing around some big numbers for its hybrid program. Let’s start with 38 miles to the gallon. According to Hyundai, that’s the mileage expected from the hybrid version of the Santa Fe small SUV, on display this week at the Paris Motor Show.

The company claims that the concept hybrid SUV will reach 38 mpg by virtue of its 2.4-liter gas engine, 40-horsepower electric motor and 270-volt lithium battery pack. The unveiling of the Santa Fe “Blue” Hybrid—no word on actual production—gives further evidence to Hyundai’s intentions to get serious about hybrids and other fuel efficient vehicle strategies.

Hyundai is using the term “blue” to designate an emphasis on aerodynamics, efficiency, and low weight. The “blue” strategy is employed in the Hyundai i20 concept minicar — also on display in Paris — which could break 60MPG, according to the company. The i20 combines a diesel engine and micro-hybrid “stop-start” technology to greatly reduce burning petroleum when the vehicle comes to a stop.

Perhaps the biggest number recently offered up by Hyundai is 500,000. That’s its target for annual hybrid sales by 2018, according to Brandon Yea, senior vice president for marketing. To reach that goal, Hyundai will need to move very fast. The company’s first gas-electric vehicle, the mid-size Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, doesn’t goes on sale until 2010.

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Paris: Kia unveils Soul and hybrid counterpart

Kia has unveiled its Soul urban crossover vehicle at the Mondial de l’Automobile show in Paris, along with concept models of the cee’d Hybrid and Soul Hybrid, the hydrogen-powered Sportage FCEV prototype, and the cee’d with new ISG (Idle Stop & Go). The Soul will be sold globally, including in North America.

In Europe, the Soul will be offered with a diesel or gasoline engine, based closely on the 1.6-litre units produced for the Kia cee’d model. For Canada, the U.S. and some non-European general markets, the Soul will come with a 2.0-litre gasoline engine. For European models, fuel consumption ranges from 5.1 to 6.6 L/100 km. Soul models sold in North America and in the majority of countries in Western Europe will be fitted with standard electronic stability control, four disc brakes and six airbags.

Kia is also displaying four models in its “Green Zone” in Paris: the cee’d ISG, Soul Hybrid, cee’d Hybrid and Sportage FCEV. Kia’s new ISG system, which makes its world premiere at Paris, will be available on Kia cee’d gasoline models from early 2009. The system cuts fuel consumption and emissions in heavy traffic by up to 15 per cent. The hybrid concept cars use a 1.6-litre gasoline engine mated to an electronic motor and automatic transmission, while the FCEV model’s latest generation contains a higher-output 100 kW fuel cell and a range of 300 km.

[Source: Kia]

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