2012 Kia Rio (UB) Spied For The First Time

Kia has been on a great momentum lately with a tidal wave of new releases, and it looks like the transformation of the line-up continues on course with the all-new Rio, spied today for the first time. Code-named "UB", the upcoming redesign of the Rio subcompact ostensibly carries on the chiseled family look of recent Kia's as it is yet another work of Peter Schreyer.

READ MORE for the full article and 15 MORE images of the next Rio test mule!

The exterior of the next-generation Rio is almost a dead-ringer to the larger K5/Optima, similar to how the new Accent casts off the impression as a miniaturized version of the Sonata. We can definitely see the influence from the K5/Optima in the front fascia of the new Rio, with familiar sights like the corporate "tiger-nose" grille and the set of sharp, stretched headlights.

The side profile is characterized by front fender vents (also a cue from the K5/Optima) and a rather unique C-pillar design. The rear fascia is mainly clad in camo for now, but from what we can see, it is definitely reminiscent of the Forte's. The black machined finish alloy wheels, meanwhile, look directly lifted off those from the K5/Optima, except the four-lug design that confirms its Rio identity.

How about powertrain technology? The new Rio shares platforms with the new Hyundai Accent. The Accent is currently available in two four-cylinder gasoline powertrains - a 107 horsepower 1.4-liter and a 126 horsepower 1.6-liter.

More details about the next generation Rio, as well as other Kia plans for 2011, will be revealed at the forth-coming Paris Auto Show in October. Production of the new Rio is rumored to start in the first half of 2011.

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Kia Releases First Images of Forte Hatchback for Korea

For our readers interested in the upcoming Kia Forte Hatchback, we have two new official images from Kia as well as some information that accompanied these pictures.

According to Kia, the automaker commenced pre-orders for the Forte Hatchback in South Korea in early August. For the Korean market, the Forte Hatchback will be powered by a direct-injected version (GDI) of its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an output of 140 horsepower and 122 lb. ft of torque. It will be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission and is touted to achieve 16.5 km/liter in fuel economy (38 US MPG).

Kia has not mentioned a clear sales date for the Forte Hatchback in Korea. For now, all we can do is stay tuned for more official tidbits from the automaker as the year progresses.

[Source: Kia]

READ MORE for the second official image released by Kia!

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Is That You, Hyundai's iPad For The Equus?

Unless you've been living under a rock these days, you probably know what an Apple iPad looks like and does. The gotta-have-it gadget has been selling like hotcakes and has been making headlines (typical of any Apple release) in the world of electronics lately. But the touch-screen tablet device from Cupertino caught the attention of car-lovers and alike when Hyundai introduced the industry-first electronic owner's manual for its flagship Equus sedan on, you guessed it, the iPad. And today, we have our first look at the iPad for the Equus.

Hyundai will be supplying a 16GB Wi-fi iPad (non-3G) with every Equus and according to the automaker, the tablet will be more than just an digital owner's manual. It will also serve as an electronic liaison between the owner and his/her dealership by helping to schedule maintenance through its Service Valet program, remind of routine maintenance, schedule vehicle (and loaner) pick-up and delivery, and so on.

Taking advantage of the iPad's capabilities, the owner's manual program will include the usual text and images, as well as videos to demonstrate the vehicle's different functions. The Equus-specific programs will arrive pre-installed alongside all other normal iPad software, and future updates will be available through iTunes, just like any other iPad program.

[Source: Hyundai]

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Hyundai Announces Details on Next Accent, Elantra, and Veloster for North America

Hyundai has released auto show information and on-sale dates of three upcoming small cars today.

First of all, Hyundai confirmed our hunch that the RB Concept, recently unveiled at the Moscow International Auto Show, will indeed reach North American markets as the Accent. Hyundai said that the next Accent will go on sale in the U.S. in mid-2011. The automaker also said the production RB will offer a choice of two four-cylinder engines: a 122 horsepower 1.6-liter and a 105 horsepower 1.4-liter. This might be the case for North American models as well.

The redesigned Elantra sedan for North America is coming to this year's Los Angeles International Auto Show held in November. According to Inside Line, the new Elantra, already on sale in South Korea as the Avante, will be powered by Hyundai's Theta-II 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The Korean-market Avante is propelled by a direct-injected version of Hyundai's 1.6-liter engine that produces 140 horsepower.

The production Veloster compact sport coupe will make its global debut at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The front-wheel drive coupe will be powered by a direct-injected 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an output in the 140-horsepower range. The Veloster is expected to go on sale by the end of 2011.

[Source: Inside Line]

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2011 Hyundai Veracruz Adds More Premium Content

With Hyundai busy taking care of the Genesis and Equus for its luxury department as of late, the automaker seems to have forgotten about the Veracruz, as it soldiers onto the 2011 model year with only minor changes again. For the 2011 model year the Veracruz GLS premium package has been updated and has the following features: power tilt-and-slide sunroof, power tailgate, auto dimming interior mirror with HomeLink® and compass, and auto-dimming, tilt-in-reverse exterior mirrors.

Pricing remains the same from the 2010 Veracruz, with the GLS FWD starting at $28,145 (plus $750 freight). The Limited AWD model, however, gets a $3,000 reduction from $38,895 of the 2010 model to $35,895 for the 2011 edition. Comparing press releases of both years, the cost cut doesn't appear to be due to de-contenting.

Click HERE for the 2011 Hyundai Veracruz Press Release.

[Source: Hyundai]

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2011 Hyundai Genesis Gets Horsepower Bump

With a major revamp expected for the 2012 model year, Hyundai is keeping the changes to the Genesis light for the 2011 model year. The big news is a 10-horsepower increase for the 4.6L Tau V8 model for a total of 385 horsepower on premium unleaded fuel (378 on regular). According to the automaker, the Genesis V8 now propels itself from zero to 60 miles per hour in 5.3 seconds, an improvement over 5.7 seconds of the 2010 model.

In addition to the horsepower upgrade, Hyundai is also adding more equipment to the Genesis by making all features of the 2010's Technology Package now standard on the Genesis 4.6. Some of these features include the Lexicon® 7.1 Discrete surround-sound audio system with 17 speakers, Ultimate Navigation System featuring the intuitive Driver Information System (DIS) with 8-inch screen, smart cruise control, electronic parking brake, cooled driver seat, adaptive front lighting system with HID headlights, and parking assistance system featuring front and rear sensors and rearview camera.

The 2011 Genesis has already started to arrive at dealerships. Pricing remains the same for the 3.8 models at $33,000, while the 4.6 is now $43,000 to reflect the additional standard equipment it receives for 2011.

[Source: Hyundai]

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2011 Hyundai Tucson Gains More Features And New 2.0L Engine Option

The Hyundai Tucson will carry over to the 2011 model year with more standard equipment and an all-new entry level GL model equipped with a new 2.0-liter Theta II four-cylinder engine. Available at dealerships right about now, the Tucson GL is only available in a front-wheel drive configuration. In addition, the 2011 GLS trim level receives upgraded model content and a premium suspension is now standard on the Limited model.

The new-for-2011 Tucson GL trim is equipped with a 2.0L Theta II four-cylinder engine that produces 165 horsepower and 146 lb.ft of torque. With an available 6-speed automatic transmission, the Tucson GL achieves 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway ratings, a one mpg improvement over the 2.4L engine.

As a result of the new entry-level GL trim, the 2011 Tucson GLS now receives all features previously found in the 2010 GLS with Popular Equipment Package. These additions include 17-inch alloy wheels, tilt and telescopic steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, Bluetooth, leatherette bolster/cloth insert seats, body-color door handles and side mirrors, privacy glass, and roof rails.

The Tucson Limited gains standard auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink, as well as premium Sachs Amplitude Selective Dampers (ASD) for improved ride quality and handling. Also, every All Wheel Drive (AWD) model is now equipped with standard heated front seats. Lastly, the standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) found in the 2011 Tucson receives enhancements including the ability to always override the system.

[Source: Hyundai Motor America]

Continue reading for the full press release.

PRESS RELEASE: 2011 Hyundai Tucson

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 08/19/2010 - Hyundai Motor America is expanding its Tucson lineup with an all-new entry-level GL model equipped with a powerful yet fuel-efficient 2.0-liter Theta II four-cylinder engine for the 2011 model year. The 2011 Hyundai Tucson GL is available at dealerships now and is only available in Front Wheel Drive (FWD). In addition, the 2011 GLS trim level receives upgraded model content and a premium suspension is now standard on the Limited model. The 2011 Tucson GLS A/T also has a higher 36-month residual value than Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4.

NEW TRIM LEVEL AND EQUIPMENT

• New trim level – GL is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and available six-speed automatic transmission with 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway fuel economy ratings, a one mpg improvement over the 2.4-liter engine city rating
• Tucson Limited now features premium Sachs Amplitude Selective Dampers (ASD) which give a smoother ride while still offer excellent handling
• Limited models also offer a standard auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink®
• Every All Wheel Drive (AWD) model now features heated front seats
• Tucson GLS now features the following as standard equipment:

o Tilt and telescopic steering wheel
o 17-inch alloy wheels
o Driver power window with auto up/down
o Leatherette bolster/cloth insert seats
o Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
o Bluetooth® hands-free phone system
o Illuminated vanity mirrors and glove compartment
o Steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls
o Soft touch interior paint
o Bodycolor door handles
o Bodycolor heated mirrors
o Side garnish
o Privacy glass
o Roof side rails
o Engine cover

• Tucson’s ESC system is enhanced for 2011:

o The Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) system is better integrated into the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system to assist the driver in counteracting adverse road conditions
o Drivers always will be able to override the system

The Tucson is the first Hyundai CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) to be designed and engineered in Europe at Hyundai’s Frankfurt-based design and technical centers. It features precedent-setting engineering including advanced weight saving technology and two eco-efficient Theta II four-cylinder engines delivering up to 31 mpg on the highway. True to Hyundai form, the Tucson applies life-saving safety technologies as standard equipment while offering Downhill Brake Control (DBC) and Hillstart Assist Control (HAC). Likewise, to keep its passengers informed and comfortable Tucson integrates Hyundai’s first available panoramic sunroof, touch-screen navigation and a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system.

CHOICE OF TWO POWERFUL AND FUEL-EFFICIENT POWERTRAINS

The entry-level Tucson GL is equipped with a high output 2.0-liter Theta II four-cylinder engine that produces 165 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 146 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,600 rpm. Fuel economy estimates for the Tucson GL Front Wheel Drive model with available six speed automatic transmission are 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway. The Front Wheel Drive 5-speed manual transmission model gets an estimated 20 city/27 highway. The 2.0-liter Theta-II also offers Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) (intake and exhaust camshaft phaser). Major improvements include the application of a two-stage Variable Intake System (VIS) which enables switching between long and short intake manifolds resulting in an across-the-board performance increase. To reduce internal friction, engineers have applied a Diamond-Like-Coating (DLC) to the top surface of the valve tappets resulting in improved fuel efficiency. Engineers also expended considerable time and effort optimizing the oil pressure to achieve an ideal balance between durability and fuel economy. Tucson GL is available with a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC®.

Tucson GLS and Limited feature the Theta II 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine. The Theta II is rated at 176 horsepower and 168 lb.-ft. of torque with Federal emissions and 170 horsepower and 163 lb.-ft. of torque with California emissions. This high-tech, all-aluminum, 16-valve engine features CVVT on both camshafts and a VIS for better engine breathing. In the green states, the 2011 Tucson GLS and Limited models are certified as Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (PZEV) which means they are as clean as many hybrids. In fact, Tucson GLS and Limited are more fuel-efficient than Honda CRV, Nissan Rogue, Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape four-cylinder engines. Tucson GLS and Limited boast an impressive estimated 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway fuel economy rating with the six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® and Front Wheel Drive. Tucson also features low rolling resistance silica tires to contribute to the 31 mpg highway. With All-Wheel Drive (AWD), Tucson delivers an estimated 21 mpg city/ 28 mpg highway exceeding the primary competitors AWD versions including Subaru Forester.

European Design

Key attributes of Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy are demonstrated through the Tucson’s flowing lines, full surfaces and muscular presence. This athletic design language is highlighted by bold, dynamic graphic elements such as the new Hyundai family hexagonal front grille, aggressive lower air intake, sculptured hood creases, swept back headlights, sleek greenhouse and wraparound taillights. Chrome grille accents and door handles lend sophistication to the top-of-the-line Tucson Limited.

The Tucson combines dynamic, sculpted, performance-oriented styling with thoughtful everyday utility to create a vehicle that will change the way consumers, especially younger car buyers, think about compact crossovers.

With an overall length of 173.2 inches, a width of 71.7 inches and a height of 66.3 inches (with roof rails), Tucson has a great stance and road presence. The design team fused a light, elegant and sporty upper body with belt lines flowing off both the front and rear wheel arches, to a tough, planted lower body so that it is assertive in the way it sits on the road.

The profile of Tucson features a sports car-like theme with a double-zigzag treatment for the wheel arches that wrap around the available Euroflange 18-inch alloy wheels. The concave sills have a wedge-shaped profile that extends rearward and wraps around into the rear bumper, a first of its kind design in a vehicle of this type. The profile is further enhanced by modern silver roof rails.

With high-mounted taillights, multi-surfaced glass and a sculpted bumper, the rear of Tucson also showcases dynamic design elements.

2011 Tucson ARCHITECTURE

- Tucson has a longer wheelbase and overall width than CR-V, Escape and Forester to deliver more packing efficiency
- Body stiffness is 38 percent greater than Rogue

World-class weight efficiency was one of the program targets for the Tucson engineering team. In fact, the 2011 Tucson leads all of its competitors in weight efficiency. Hyundai engineers also targeted leadership in power-to-weight ratio. Having these targets paid huge dividends in both performance and fuel economy.

The Tucson’s widespread use of high-strength steel provides increased strength at a lower body weight. High-strength steel allows the four-wheel independent suspension to work optimally. At 3,197 pounds, the automatic transmission Tucson GLS is lighter than its competitors while offering more interior room than Rogue and Escape, with body-bending rigidity 38 percent higher than the Rogue. This weight efficient unibody architecture allows for Tucson to achieve 31 mpg estimated EPA highway rating.

FUN TO DRIVE

The 2011 Tucson’s athletic shape is complemented with agile handling and responsive steering. Tucson uses MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems for more precise wheel control and a smoother ride. All four wheels are controlled by coil springs and fade-resistant gas-charged dampers. The front suspension has a 25 mm hollow stabilizer bar to save weight, while the rear suspension has a 18 mm solid stabilizer bar. Larger stabilizer bars keep the vehicle very flat during cornering and help provide quick turn-in response. Lastly, the Limited trim receives an upgraded premium ride thanks to sophisticated Sachs shock absorbers.

Rack-and-pinion Motor-Driven Power Steering (MDPS) also contributes to the Tucson’s nimble and refined handling dynamics while saving fuel and reducing interior noise. The MDPS system uses the vehicle’s electrical system for power (unlike older hydraulic systems), allowing for increased fuel economy and calibrated steering efforts through all vehicle speed ranges.

Due to the suspension geometry and wider track width that enables greater turn angles, Tucson’s turning circle is 34.7 feet – an advantage Tucson drivers will appreciate in their daily driving and parking. In fact, Tucson’s turning diameter bests Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

TUCSON DELIVERS BETTER FUEL ECONOMY THAN CR-V

The Tucson was engineered to be more fuel efficient than its chief competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The Tucson accomplishes this while having a longer wheelbase than Honda CR-V, Ford Escape and Subaru Forester

FUEL ECONOMY INNOVATIONS

To help Tucson drivers get the most out of their vehicles, Hyundai offers a standard trip computer and economy indicator. The trip computer provides distance to empty, average fuel consumption, average vehicle speed, elapsed time and instant fuel economy. The “Eco Indicator” on automatic transmission models nestled between the speedometer and tachometer displays a green LED light in accordance with fuel-efficient driving behavior. Fuel savings in the range of 15 to 17 percent are attainable with the automatic Eco Indicator. Manual transmission models have a shift indicator to inform drivers of the optimal time to upshift and downshift. Fuel savings in the range 7 to 9 percent are attainable with the manual Eco Gear Shift Indicator.

TWO AVAILABLE TRANSMISSIONS

Hyundai’s commitment to making the Tucson extremely fuel efficient continues through the availability of two transmissions: a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® manual control and a five-speed manual transmission.

Hyundai's six-speed automatic transaxle helps the company meet its goals of improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Shifts are silky-smooth with an option of manual control through the SHIFTRONIC feature. Designed for transverse engine applications in passenger cars and SUVs, the compact transmission puts Hyundai into an elite class of auto manufacturers who have designed proprietary six-speed automatic transmissions. The strength of the design is its unique layout which makes it smaller, more compact and lighter than any other six-speed on the market today.

For the customer, the six-speed delivers a performance edge while helping to bring a gain in highway fuel economy. When it comes to transmissions, more gears are definitely better. This enables closer spacing between gear ratios providing a better balance of performance and fuel economy while the wide overall gear ratio helps deliver strong acceleration.

There is no dipstick in the gearbox. Instead it is filled with automatic transmission fluid that is good for the life of the vehicle under normal usage conditions, thereby reducing maintenance costs. The gearbox has three planetary gearsets and a unique flat torque converter which shortens the unit's overall length by 0.47 inches. Four pinion differentials improve durability and further minimize size.

ALL WEATHER PERFORMANCE

To make the Tucson even more versatile, Hyundai engineers added an advanced electronic All Wheel Drive (AWD) system designed by JTEKT. The AWD system will automatically activate under any driving condition when needed, distributing the power equally and optimizing driving performance. Under normal driving, the system only distributes power to the front wheels, thereby reducing fuel consumption. The system includes a driver-selectable AWD lock allowing for a 50/50 torque split between the front and rear wheels for off-road and very slippery conditions.

For even more driver control, the 2011 Tucson features Hyundai’s Hillstart Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Brake Control (DBC). HAC is designed to minimize rolling backwards on steep ascents. By selecting the DBC switch, the Hydro-Electronic Control unit manages the wheel speed sensors, steering angle sensor and acceleration sensor to maintain control and speed on steep declines without having to use the brake. Neither of these controls are available on CR-V, Escape or Rogue and are typically found on luxury SUVs with much higher price tags.

THOUGHTFUL INTERIOR DESIGN

Inside, the five-seat Tucson offers a commanding view of the road and evokes an adventurous ambience that is also laid-back and relaxing. The needs of the driver are fully accommodated, with the interior blending aspects of the outdoors and an urban lifestyle. For example, Hyundai’s first panoramic sunroof brings the outside “inside” for all passengers.

An X-shaped visual theme is repeated across numerous areas of the cabin while metal paint accents provide flashes of visual brilliance.

Shapely seats feature center panels trimmed in breathable fabric with attractive and functional cushion side bolsters, plus additional lateral support for occupants’ shoulders. On the insert of the cloth seats, there is a hexagonal pattern stitched into the fabric matching the new front grille design.

The long wheelbase and generous width of the Tucson, combined with Hyundai’s expertise in interior packaging, have produced an interior that delivers class-leading rear legroom. The Tucson has more passenger volume than Rogue and Escape at 101.9 cubic feet. In fact, Tucson has more interior volume than Acura RDX and more cargo volume than Infiniti FX. The spacious cabin on Tucson Limited is further enhanced for all passengers by Hyundai’s first available panoramic sunroof. The front panel of the UV-blocking sunroof can either tilt open or open completely by sliding up and over the rear panel, while an anti-pinch system guards against injuries. Finally, with the extra wheelbase length, Hyundai engineers were able to expand front seat tracks to provide a comfortable seating position for taller drivers.

The high-tech cockpit comes standard with Hyundai’s signature blue lighting, power windows, power door locks, fold-away mirrors and remote keyless entry with alarm and panic button. Bluetooth hands-free phone system with voice recognition and steering wheel audio and cruise controls are also available. Another premium feature in the Tucson Limited is a CleanAir Ionizer that automatically kills germs within the system when the heater or air conditioner is running.

Other available features include leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, power driver seat with lumbar support, automatic headlights, side repeater exterior mirrors, front wiper de-icer and dual front automatic temperature control.

Audiophiles will love Tucson’s 160-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers. This system includes XM Satellite Radio® and iPod®/USB auxiliary inputs and an iPod cable as standard equipment.

The 2011 Tucson can be further upgraded with an optional navigation system with rearview camera. Shifting into reverse automatically turns on the rear-view camera that provides a wide-angle view reducing the risk of accidents. This navigation system also provides Bluetooth streaming audio capability. This easy-to-use unit can be controlled via a 6.5-inch LCD touch-screen or voice-activation by headliner-mounted microphone. The voice recognition allows the user to control the navigation system, audio system and phone commands. The system comes matched with the 360-watt premium audio system that includes an external amplifier and subwoofer. It plays compact discs, accesses digital music files employing Bluetooth streaming audio or allows driver and passenger to access their personal listening devices through the iPod/USB/auxiliary inputs. Bluetooth audio wirelessly streams music from a phone to the audio system. And with a Bluetooth-enabled phone, a local restaurant can be called for reservations before plotting the route. The XM Satellite Radio interface is also integrated into the navigation unit and features channel logos and real-time NavTraffic with detour function. XM Satellite Radio and NavTraffic service are complimentary for the first 90 days.

STORAGE GALORE

The 2011 Tucson features a total of 19 different storage places and drink holders:

· Console storage tray
· Glove box
· Overhead sunglass storage
· Armrest storage compartment
· Two front seat drink holders
· Two rear center armrest drink holders
· Four bottle holders – one in each door
· Four map pockets – one in each door
· Two seatback pockets
· Cargo area storage compartment

The bottle holders even have grips to make sure the bottle doesn’t tip over.

Advanced Standard Safety Technologies: PART OF HYUNDAI’S ASSURANCE COMMITMENT

The 2005 Tucson was the first Hyundai model to feature standard ESC (Electronic Stability Control) upon its launch in 2004. It was also the first vehicle under $20,000 with standard ESC and six airbags. The Tucson started Hyundai’s approach to combining state-of-the-art safety and affordability and this approach lives on in the 2011 Tucson. The Tucson is loaded with life-saving standard safety features including ESC with traction control, six airbags and active front head restraints. Its braking system features four-wheel disc brakes controlled by an advanced four-channel ABS with Brake Assist, providing maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) to optimize brake performance with uneven weight distribution.

ESC compares the driver’s intended course with the vehicle’s actual response. If needed, ESC brakes individual front or rear wheels and/or reduces engine power to help correct understeer or oversteer. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) studies show SUVs equipped with ESC experience 67 percent fewer single-vehicle crashes, and 63 percent fewer single-vehicle fatalities. In addition, a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that ESC reduces the risk of fatal single-vehicle crashes by 49 percent.

The Tucson is engineered to provide its passengers with multiple defensive safety layers. The steel unibody has integrated crumple zones and a high-tensile front sub-frame designed to work together to reduce the forces that typically reach the passenger compartment. Particular attention has been paid to increasing the stiffness of the front side members which have been enlarged and straightened. Also, the center pillars serve as the anchors of a new ring structure which improves overall side structure stiffness while also creating more room for the door armrest and seat. All four doors also have internal guard beams to protect passengers in a side-impact collision.

The entire body shell has been made stiffer and lighter thanks to its extensive use of ultra-high tensile strength steel, which comprises 68.9 percent of the shell. Also, the use of Tailor Welded Blanks (TWB) has been expanded on key structural members. TWB assemblies combine steels of different thickness and grades using a sophisticated laser welding and stamping process to achieve an optimal stiffness-to-weight ratio. TWBs reduce body weight while enhancing crash energy management. These safety systems earn the 2011 Tucson NHTSA’s top five-star crash test rating for front and side impacts.

Tucson’s standard front-seat active head restraints help prevent whiplash by automatically reducing the space between a front occupant’s head and the head restraint during certain rear collisions and are highly recommended by safety organizations such as the IIHS.

The Tucson’s passenger restraint systems also help minimize injury. Three-point belts are provided at all five seating positions, and the front seatbelts have pretensioners and load limiters. There are two outboard rear seat Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) child-seat anchors.

Elongated flush-mounted headlamps not only add a strong sense of style but also feature projector beam lenses for improved night-time driving safety. Side mirror housings have been modified to reduce wind noise and also feature an integrated repeater lamp for improved visibility on the Limited trim.

A total of six airbags are positioned in the Tucson’s interior. Dual advanced frontal airbags are complemented by front seat-mounted side-impact airbags and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags with rollover sensors that cover both the front and rear seat rows. The combination of side and curtain airbags, which help protect the head and body during side impacts, can reduce fatalities by more than 52 percent, according to the IIHS.

Tucson also features a standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) which alerts drivers if one or more tires are under inflated.

COLORS

The 2011 Tucson is offered in nine colors with an optimum mix between lighter and darker colors to satisfy regional preferences. The colors are Cotton White, Diamond Silver, Graphite Gray, Ash Black, Garnet Red, Iris Blue, Aurora Blue, Chai Bronze and Kiwi Green. Three interior colors, Black, Taupe and Saddle, are available.

PACKAGING AND PRICING

With its combination of sleek European design, modern powertrains, roomy interior, standard safety features and available premium features the 2011 Tucson will continue to turn heads at Hyundai dealers.

Tucson GL

The Tucson GL MSRP is priced at $18,745, excluding $795 freight, and includes the following standard features:

2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine
Five-speed manual transmission
Front-wheel drive
Motor driven power steering
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control System (TCS)
Four-wheel disc brakes and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) & Brake Assist
Hillstart Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Brake Control (DBC)
Multi-function trip computer
EcoShift indicator
Advanced front airbags, front side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags with rollover sensors
Active front head restraints
EZ lane change assist
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Deluxe cloth seating surfaces
Front seatback pockets
AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with iPod®/USB and auxiliary input jacks and iPod® cable
Air conditioning with cabin air filter
Power windows with driver’s auto down
Power door locks and mirrors
Remote keyless entry system with alarm
60/40 split fold-down rear seatback
17-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers with P225/60 R17 tires
Tilt steering wheel
Black manual folding power mirrors
Bodycolor rear spoiler with LED lights
Variable intermittent front windshield wiper
Rear wiper with washer
GL Options:

6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® - ($1,000 MSRP)

Tucson GLS:

GLS automatic front wheel drive starts at $21,845, excluding $795 freight, and includes all the GL Standard Equipment plus the following:

2.4L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine
Six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC®
Telescopic steering wheel
17-inch alloy wheels
Driver power window with auto up/down
Leatherette bolster/cloth insert seats
Leather-wrapped steering wheel & shift knob
Bluetooth® hands-free phone system
Illuminated vanity mirrors & glove compartment
Steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls
Soft touch interior paint
Bodycolor door handles
Bodycolor heated mirrors
Side garnish
Privacy glass
Roof side rails
Engine cover
GLS Options:

All Wheel Drive (AWD)-($1,650 MSRP)

Adds heated front seats
Navigation Package ($2,000 MSRP) includes:

Navigation system with 6.5” touch-screen
Rearview camera
Premium audio with external amplifier & subwoofer
Automatic headlights

Tucson Limited:

Limited automatic front wheel drive starts at $24,695, excluding $795 freight, and includes all the GLS Standard Equipment plus the following:

18" alloy wheels with 225/55 R18 tires
Leather seating surfaces
Heated seating surfaces
Power driver seat with power lumbar support
Dual front automatic temperature control
Auto-dimming interior mirror with HomeLink®
Solar front glass & rear privacy glass
Deluxe door scuff
Windshield wiper de-icer
Retractable cargo cover
Chrome grille & door handles
Automatic headlights
Fog lights
Side repeater exterior mirrors
Premium suspension
Limited Options:

All Wheel Drive (AWD)-($1,500 MSRP)

Premium Package ($2,850 MSRP) includes

Panoramic sunroof (replaces roof side rails_
Navigation system with 6.5" touch-screen
Rearview camera
Premium audio with external amplifier & subwoofer
2011 Tucson Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Pricing

Model
Engine
Transmission
2WD MSRP
AWD MSRP

GL
2.0-liter I4
Five-Speed M/T
$18,745
-

GL
2.0-liter I4
Six-Speed A/T
$19,745
-

GLS
2.4-liter I4
Six-Speed A/T
$21,845
$23,495

Limited
2.4-liter I4
Six-Speed A/T
$24,695
$26,195

Note: All prices in this release do not contain a freight charge of $795

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 about 800 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle warranty, Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-years of complimentary Roadside Assistance.

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Hyundai Unveils RB Concept in Moscow, Preview of Accent for Other Markets?

Hyundai took the wraps off the "RB" Concept at the Moscow International Auto Show today. And all we can say is, "That looks eerily familiar." That's because the RB Concept is essentially a thinly decorated version of the next-generation Accent (Verna in several markets) that was already unveiled in production guise for the Chinese market in Beijing.

The RB (which also happens to be the code-name of the next Accent) Concept sports a new front fascia that evokes the Fluidic Sculpture design theme observed by Hyundai's as of late. Other differences from the Chinese-market Verna are purely due to the RB's "Concept" namesake, with LED foglamps and taillamps, projector headlamps, as well as body-integrated dual exhausts that will not make the cut for the production car.

Hyundai officials confirmed that, at least for the Russian market, the new Accent will be powered by either a 1.4L or 1.6L Gamma engine. Featuring multiport fuel injection and CVVT or Continuously Variable Valve Timing, the 1.4 liter engine makes 107 PS and 135Nm of torque while the more potent 1.6 liter produces 124PS and 156Nm of torque. Both will be mated to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.

Now here's the interesting part. Remember that spyshot of the mysterious sub-compact prototype that befuddled us as to what it really was? Yes, that prototype is indeed the production version of the RB Concept, as the front fascia beneath the camo of the test car matches that of the RB Concept. What we can infer from this finding is that the Chinese-market Verna will most likely stay in China, as Hyundai has a tendency to tart up its cars exclusively for that market like this one. Meanwhile, the RB Concept is likely to be our best glimpse of the Accent destined for other markets like North America, Europe, Australia and South Korea.

[Source: Hyundai]

READ MORE for a full gallery of hi-res images of the RB Concept.

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2012 Hyundai Genesis Facelift Spied Again

New spy shots of the refreshed 2012 Hyundai Genesis have been sent to us by our South Korean readers today. Comparing these recent shots to those we posted last month, we can tell that Hyundai has since added a new set of taillights, new alloy wheels, as well as a new steering wheel.

For more information on the Genesis facelift, check out the link below. CLICK HERE

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