The Chicago Auto Show is in full swing, and Hyundai is busy adding new variants to its hot-selling Elantra lineup. In just a few years Hyundai has gone from joke, to also ran and now, one of the segment’s leaders. The Elantra is well-regarded as one of the best new compact cars on the market. Stylish, fuel-efficient, reliable – we’d rank it right up with the Chevrolet Cruze if we were in the market. What it has lacked up until now is diversity – it has sold with just one model, the standard four-door sedan. Today, the Elantra adds a coupe model as well as Elantra GT.

We’ve already seen the Elantra GT – in Europe and other countries it is known as the i30. This is the strategy that Hyundai followed last time when it brought over the European hatchback model. It was previously called the Elantra Touring though. Given its European roots, the Elantra GT is a bit more upscale than the standard sedan.

There is projector headlamps, and the interior design we like better than the more polarizing look of the American Elantra. This Elantra GT goes squarely against other hatchback models in the segment like the VW Golf, Mazda3 and the Focus. Hyundai is trumpeting the Elantra GT as the lightest car in its segment, checking in at 222 pounds less than the Golf, 175 pounds less than the Focus and 151 pounds less than the 3. Fuel economy is estimated to be 28 mpg city, 39 mpg highway. Nice job guys. Under the hood is the same 1.8-liter four-cylinder that powers the rest of the Elantra lineup.

It makes 148 horsepower, which is a best-in-class output of 82.2 hp per liter. The GT also has a driver knee airbag, a first for the Elantra line and another feature you can thank the Europeans for. While hatchbacks never have been the biggest sellers in the United States, their share is increasing so expect Elantra sales to get a nice boost from the addition of the GT.

What we didn’t expect is an Elantra Coupe! Hyundai’s fluidic sculpture design philosophy translates really well. Hyundai seemed to take care in getting the proportions right. If you notice, there is a wide expanse between the front and rear of the Elantra Coupe. There is a bigger door and larger rear seating area than most small coupes. Part of that is due to is due to the fact that the Elantra Coupe is longer than the standard sedan, by 0.3 inches.

The length helps make the front end look stubby from certain angles. Overall though, props to Hyundai. The only other car with a coupe in this segment is the Honda Civic. Maybe if the Elantra does well, it will spur more competitors to jump into the fray. We’d like to see a Mazda3 and Chevrolet Cruze Coupe. Pricing information for these two has yet to be released. The Elantra GT and Elantra Coupe mark the third and fourth vehicles in Hyundai’s recurring 7/11 product initiative (7 products in 11 months). The first two were the Veloster Turbo and refreshed Genesis Coupe. Check out our gallery for photos of Hyundai’s expanded Elantra lineup.

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The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is a very cool car. Mainly for a younger crowd, the Coupe gives us the quintessential sports-car layout: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (FR,) on a lightweight, fun-to-drive platform for a measly $23,000 (starting price.) And what do nearly all import tuners do with an FR layout sports car? Well, they drop in a humongous LS1 V8 from a Corvette, of course.

We originally saw this car at the 2011 SEMA Show in Las Vegas last November. And now it’s for sale – for only $45,000.

Mated to a Magnusun Roots Style Supercharger and T56 Manual Transmission (used in everything from a Dodge Viper to the Aston Martin V12 Vanquish,) this bad boy puts out somewhere around 560 hp to the wheels. Yes, that’s ridiculously fast.

Of course, more than just the engine and transmission were modified to achieve this sort of power. The builders, Enjuku Racing, also installed and replaced all sorts of internals, modified the suspension to BC Racing Coilovers, added a Quaife LSD, BC Racing Wheels, a Wilwood 14″ Front Big Brake Kit to slow all that momentum, SPEC Stage 1 Clutch & Flywheel, ISIS Performance Race Exhaust, Custom headers, Hurst Short shifter, Sparco racing seats, a Carbon Fiber body kit (including the hood, trunk, lip, and roof skin,) and plenty of other minor goodies to make the car safe to drive.

The parts total: $51,000 alone. You can buy the car without the supercharger, but why would you want to? Either way, Enjuku Racing will dyno and tune the car for you upon purchase.

Check out the short driving video of the car:

The supercharger popping out the top looks pretty funny, but it sure does sound good.

If you’ve got $45k to blow on a one-of-a-kind show car from Enjuku, check out the eBay listing for more info and pictures: 2011 Enjuku Racing Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Related posts:

1. Hyundai Genesis Coupe Concept Unveiled
2. Hyundai Adding Turbocharged Veloster, Refreshed Genesis Coupe
3. Detroit: Hyundai Genesis Coupe Adds Serious Power

Every year, many people’s favorite part of the Super Bowl are the commercials. Year after year, it seems like more and more automotive-related commercials are being aired. For 2012, the Super Bowl XLVI didn’t disappoint, with a range of funny car commercials. Check them all out below:

(if the videos fail to load at first, click here to reload the page)

Chevy Sonic “Stunt Anthem”

Hyundai Veloster Turbo – “Cheetah”

2012 Acura NSX – “Transactions” (Jerry Seinfeld)

Chevy Silverado – “2012″ (The one Ford asked Chevy not to air)

Cars.com – “Confident You”

2012 Honda CR-V – “Matthew’s Day Off” (aka “Honda’s Ferris Bueller Commericial”)

2012 Audi S7 – “Vampire Party”

2012 Toyota Camry – “It’s Reinvented”

Hyundai Genesis Coupe – “Think Fast”

2012 Kia Optima Big Game – “A Dream Car. For Real Life.”

Cadillac ATS – “Green Hell”

Suzuki Kizashi – “Sled” (with 50 Cent)

2013 Lexus GS – “Beast”

Fiat 500 Abarth – “Seduction”

Chrysler – “It’s Halftime in America”

2012 Volkswagen Beetle – “The Dog Strikes Back”

Bridgestone – “Performance Football”

2012 Toyota Camry – “Connections”

Related posts:

1. Super Bowl Car Commercials
2. 2011 Automotive Super Bowl Commercials
3. Volkswagen Debuts Two Super Bowl Commercials

As expected early this 2012 year, automakers posted some very optimistic sales numbers for the United States marketplace for 2011. A place where consumers still love their cars, 2011 provided an excellent year for North American car fans. No other time in the North American auto industry has motorists been able to explore so much freedom and choice.

In only three years, the American auto industry has turned from forecasted shambles to a rosier, settled environment. Hitting Chrysler and General Motors in the most severe manner, no major auto company was truly immune to the economic troubles started in late 2008. Similar to reaction from the global banking and financial sector, it wasn’t until a key period where the public truly understood until bankruptcy papers were being filed.

The combination of troubled business models and customers losing access to money or car loans needed for purchases led to a disappointing start of the 2009 calendar year. Between seven major automakers selling vehicles in the United States (GM, Ford, Chrysler, Nissan, Honda, Toyota and Hyundai/Kia), auto sales amounted to 9,124,380 cars in all of 2009 (5,145,746 units lower than just two years prior). It was only through a United States government sponsored new car purchase program that the tides began to reverse. Known as “Cash for Clunkers,” motorists were able to trade in an old vehicle for a guaranteed trade-in credit.

After the 12 months of 2011, the same seven automakers have steadily performed better than the disastrous 2009 auto sales year. When the 2011 year ended, 10,987,403 were sold by the seven high volume automakers in the United States. Up 20.4 percent from 2009, the 2011 results continued the gains made after 2010 as some elements of the economy recuperated. Recognizing there is so many reasons to celebrate the improvement of the North American motor vehicle industry, the recent auto sale numbers indicating positive momentum from dismal 2009 figures have shown that the current car business is far from past glory.

The Detroit Three

For automakers Chrysler, Ford and General Motors, six years have seen once-proclaimed Big Three transform into the more modest moniker Detroit Three. In 2005, General Motors led United States car sales handsomely with 4,454,385 vehicles. Thanks to declining sales due to a changing economy and the doom of bankruptcy, 2009 vehicle sales dropped 53.2 percent for GM at just 2,084,492 units. Recovering with auto sales reaching 2,503,820 vehicles after 2011, the improvement comes with the loss of brands Pontiac and Hummer as well as the offloading of the now troubled Saab. The major source for General Motors’ traction in the United States automotive marketplace remains the Chevrolet division with 1,775,812 products sold last year. In 2011, the Chevrolet Cruze accounted for 231,732 of Chevrolet’s sales becoming a star for the auto industry.

In the case of Chrysler Group, a sales drop of 59.6 percent from 2005 to 2009 indicated a particularly volatile presence not seen since the 1979 bankruptcy. Over the past six years, Chrysler was separated from Daimler-Benz, sold to a private equity group, filed bankruptcy and was partly rescued by Italian auto giant Fiat Group. As Chrysler’s 1,369,114 unit sales recovery in 2011 is still almost one million vehicles short of 2005 levels. Chrysler will be relying on vehicles like the 2013 Dodge Dart to entice consumers while also attempting to lure commercial vehicle contracts with the Ram brand that should include at least one new work van in the near future.

While Ford Motor Company escaped the need for government assistance, the past six years has taken the Blue Oval car company on a wild ride. Selling 3,168,156 vehicles in 2005, Ford Motor Company posted 2,148,806 in 2011 sales. As Ford devoted their business back to cars, truck sales have taken a sizable hit. Despite a reduction in truck sales, the Ford F-150 and Ford Escape remain the top-selling vehicles by the carmaker in 2011. Losing Mercury and still struggling to bring Lincoln back to the luxury car forefront challenges Ford’s total recovery. A reborn Ford brand line-up that includes the 2013 Taurus and Fusion sedans plus the 2013 Escape crossover are future vanguards for healthy auto sales.

Some people (even the same ones who originally wished the US government to protect financial institutions with taxpayer dollars) wanted to allow General Motors and Chrysler to succumb to liquidation. Led first by former president George W Bush’s administration with emergency financial aid and later by Barack Obama’s White House directing the needed loans through GM and Chrysler’s bankruptcy, both car companies survived. Wanting to be relieved of the public taunting of phrases such as “Government Motors”, GM and Chrysler paid back the emergency assistance late in 2011. Regardless of political leaning or perhaps free of such constraints, government intervention of the two American auto companies stabilized what could have been a much harsher industry-wide events. What if many more autoworkers would be out of the job? What if the 100th year of Chevrolet had been marred with a giant production blackout continuing to this day? Those and other questions can be answered hypothetically.

US Auto Market for Import Brands

While the mighty Detroit Three restructured their business model, many would believe the Japanese automakers Honda and Toyota have finally entered prime position to eat drastically eat away at the market. However, just like the American based companies, the Japanese carmakers have been suffering similar sales slippage from 2005 levels. Toyota Motor Corporation 2011 auto sales of 1,644,661 units is 27 percent lower than the 2005 year (Toyota fell just short of Chrysler with yearlong sales in 2005). Honda’s United States auto sales have also been noticeably lower at 21.5 percent over 2005 numbers. Third place in US sales among the Japanese carmakers is Nissan. Suffering a drop of about 230,000 vehicles from 2005 to 2009, Nissan pulled an enviable achievement recovering all but around 34,000 units in US sales delivering 1,042,534 vehicles to customers during 2011.

Bucking the trend of the economic hardships felt by leading auto companies was the South Korea’s Hyundai/Kia. In 2009, Hyundai/Kia actually posted a modest growth. Still emerging as a trustworthy company in the United States in 2005, the South Korean entity of Hyundai Motor America and sister group Kia Motors were able to benefit from a slimmer market profile. Kia and Hyundai brands have steadily sailed forward in American auto sales that totalled 1,131,183 vehicles after the 2011 calendar year. Increasing annual sales by 400,000 cars and crossover vehicles 2005 through 2011, records a sensational 54.77 percent increase in sales.

The US Auto Sales Recovery to Date

Despite successes and disappointments, the results of these seven top auto companies (totalling 10,987,403 units in 2011) shows that recovery is not yet a full recuperation to previous years. The point of observing this six-year span of sales numbers in the United States paints a picture of a different time in the auto industry on a continent. From the buzz at the upcoming auto shows, with all the uncertainty that recalls, the latest in advanced propulsion technology, the lessons of the past pushes a stride to former glory or even to a greater future.

Information source: Chrysler Group, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, American Honda Motors, Hyundai Motor America, Kia Motors, Nissan Americas, Toyota Motor Corporation
Photo source: Chris Nagy, Chrysler Group

Related posts:

1. Ford Rings in New Year with Healthy 2011 US Sales
2. Ford Sales Flourishes in 2010; 2nd in US Sales
3. Fiat 500 Marketing Mess: Chrysler Looks To Fix, Sales Actually Look Pretty Good

In the auto industry, Hyundai fits the overachiever bill nicely. The company’s lineup has been transformed from a lackluster group of vehicles to some of the top performing cars in their classes.

One snickered at, no one is doing that now. Now the race is on in the industry to produce fuel-efficient vehicles, ones that will help manufacturers hit tough Corporate Average Fuel Economy requirements. They are being amped up, with car companies required to hit 36 mpg CAFE by 2016 and 54.5 mpg by 2025. Those numbers will undoubtedly be helped by higher numbers of hybrids, electrics and range-extended electric vehicles on the market.

While everyone is scrambling to get ready for the 2016 milestone, Hyundai has quietly hit that goal in 2011 – five years early.

How is that for over-achieving? Hyundai’s lineup of efficient cars powered by four-cylinder engines (Sonata ditched a six, for instance) has helped it to hit the target. It’s important to note that CAFE figures are determined based on mileage estimates released by Environmental Protection Agency. Meaning, 36 mpg is far from the true average mileage of Hyundai’s 2011 fleet. Activist group Consumer Watchdog is petitioning the EPA over this, trying to get them to retest the Elantra.

They say the car isn’t capable of hitting its 29 city/40 mpg highway mark in real life driving. Hyundai says it is likely due to these people being urban drivers, and a vocal minority. Chief Executive officer John Krafcik commented on the situation, saying: “We’re not sure who the vocal people are, and who might be representing the vocal people, but we do know this: In a very large (sample) survey by J.D. Power of 2011 car buyers the Elantra got better real-world fuel economy than any other competitor.” To try to rectify the situation, dealers are reaching out to customers unhappy with mileage to give them efficiency tips.

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You asked for it, you got it. Hyundai is giving enthusiasts more power at the North American International Auto Show, with two updated and new offerings. Each are in Hyundai’s performance lineup, and the 2013 Genesis got some significant boosts to power. The Veloster has grown on us since its debuted – its funky, sporty styling is fresh and different.

Buyers agree, as the Veloster has sold really well so far. We’ve always thought it needed more power though. Despite being called (and looking like) a performance offering, the Veloster’s four only puts out 138 horsepower. That isn’t going to win many drag races. Cars can still be fun to drive while not having much horsepower, but extra oomph helps things a lot in that regard. Hyundai is happy to oblige.

The Veloster Turbo boosts its power to 201 hp and 196 pound-feet of torque. Now that is more like it. Weighing in at just 2,800 pounds, that should make for engaging performance. Hyundai wants to make sure people notice the extra power visually too.

Instead of a split setup like the regular car, the Veloster gets a huge new grille that is taller and wider. The look of aggression is continued by new 18-inch wheels and redesigned fog lamps. Out back there is new LED tail lamps, and large, center mounted exhaust tips. They hint at a reworked exhaust system which aims to provide a more vocal soundtrack. It has to sound the part too!

A cool element is a new paint color, called Matte Grey. Like its name implies, it is flat – making it one of the first, if not the first applications of a flat color by a manufacturer. We aren’t sure if it is an option limited to just the Veloster Turbo. Most likely you’ll have to fork over some extra dough if you spring for it. Like most Hyundais, the Veloster Turbo should offer a nice value when it rolls into showrooms this summer. Pricing has yet to be released.

Related posts:

1. Hyundai Adding Turbocharged Veloster, Refreshed Genesis Coupe
2. PM Lifestyle/UTI Prepped Hyundai Veloster to Rock SEMA Show
3. Hyundai Veloster Could Add a Door

Affordable performance is making a comeback. Chevrolet has shown off two interpretations of a sports coupe at Detroit and Scion debuted the FR-S recently. Now its Hyundai’s turn to focus on performance with two debuts at the Detroit show.

The first is the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe, which received a mid-cycle enhancement. Styling wise. we’ve see quite a bit of it over the past few months – full shots have leaked out. Needless to say, it hasn’t been the best kept secret of the show. The styling changes update the car to give it a more aggressive and modern face inline with the Veloster. It is more youthful than the previous Genesis, and it ditches the cheap-looking grille that car had.

Underneath the hood is where the most important changes are though – there is huge boosts in power in store for buyers of the 2013 model. This isn’t just a tweak here and there. The proof is in the numbers. The Genesis Coupe has always had a turbocharged four-cylinder as its base model.

The four-cylinder gets a new turbocharger and intercooler setup that is good for 275 horsepower and 275 pound feet. That is up by 74 hp (!) and 52 lb-ft of torque. Whoa. With prices like they are on the Genesis Coupe, that is a serious value proposition. Consider that its chief competitor, the Scion FR-S, has 197 hp and things are looking good for the Genesis indeed.

The 3.8-liter V-6 gets a boost in power as well, up to 348 hp and 296 lb-ft. The current car makes 306 hp and 266 lb-ft. A new eight-speed automatic replaces the previous unit, and is good for a slight fuel economy boost. As for prices, Hyundai hasn’t released any new figure. The Genesis Coupe is a big step forward for Hyundai performance, and it shows the company is serious about continuous improvement. Bring it on!

Related posts:

1. Hyundai Adding Turbocharged Veloster, Refreshed Genesis Coupe
2. Hyundai Genesis Superbowl Ad Photos
3. Hyundai Genesis Coupe Concept Unveiled

America’s love affair with the sport utility vehicle has been pretty much “replaced” by a love affair with the crossover. Not all that much has changed, but they offer a more car-like ride, along with improved fuel economy and less capability. Most SUV owners never take their vehicles off road, so they don’t need heavy-off road capability. Throughout history, Americans have always liked big, roomy and spacious vehicles.

In India, Hyundai has launched a new upright minivan/Multi Purpose Vehicle-like concept, called the Hexa Space HND-7. Hyundai’s largest crossover is the Veracruz, and it has a three-row, but a very small one. Hyundai has yet to produce something with a usable third row or a crossover in the full-size segment.

The Hexa Space isn’t a full-size entry, but it shows they are thinking in new ways about interior room and comfort. The Space looks like some kind of a blend between a crossover and a minivan. It rides higher than a minivan, but it has minivan hard points like the front windshield and rear B- and C-pillars. The result is a design that stand out.

We’ll let you decide if that is a good thing or not….the Hexa Space has already taken a lot of flack on the internet. The emphasis with the car isn’t on looks though, it is on practicality. The “Hexa” in the car’s name comes from the seating arrangement in the interior, which is reconfigurable. The seats are organized in a honeycomb-like fashion that Hyundai says increases comfort and space.

If true it is a promising development; third row seating has always been like punishment. Ford probably comes closest to what we’d like to see with the Flex. It has a livable third-row when there is captains chairs in the middle. The Hexa Space doesn’t appear to preview any production model at this point; Hyundai says they have no plans to produce it.

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1. Hyundai i-flow Concept Revealed at Geneva
2. Hyundai Veloster Concept – Taking on Scion
3. Hyundai Tucson Enhances Features, Fuel Economy into 2012

2011 was a great year for Hyundai/Kia. The company achieved record sales in the United States and around the globe. With a lot of 2010 model year debuts hitting their stride, it was a breakout year. The stigma from previous econoboxes the company produced is steadily disappearing. The level of competition in the mainstream auto market is fierce. It has forced everyone to step up.

The Japanese automakers are now the ones trailing in quality and vehicle competitiveness, a remarkable change. The size of the auto market is expected to grow by a good margin in 2012, but Hyundai chairman Chung Mong-koo is predicting slower growth for his company. His prediction came during his annual speech to company employees. Over the past few years, Hyundai and Kia have experienced double-digit growth.

Reported by Reuters, Mong-koo predicts growth of around 6 percent, which is nothing to turn your nose up at. The lower figure quoted is said to be due to overstretched capacity and a desire to focus on quality. Sometimes in a rush for quantity, quality can suffer significantly. That is something the company wants to avoid. Given troubles with other manufacturers (ahem, Toyota) that have grown too fast, that is a worthy goal. Still, industry analysts expect Hyundai and Kia to post higher growth than the chairman’s guidance.

For 2011, Hyundai and Kia sales are up 15 percent, to 6.6 million. The target Hyundai gave was 6.33 million vehicles. Next year the prediction is 7 million, but others are predicting 7.2 million or higher. That it is still well under competitors like Toyota, which is predicting 20 percent growth for 2012 and a record tally of 8.48 million. Two key markets, the United States and China, appear to be very strong going into this new year. The only issues is that the European crisis is putting a damper on sales there. Hopes in the industry are that they will get their issues resolved as quickly as possible.

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1. Hyundai Tucson Enhances Features, Fuel Economy into 2012
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Enduring the ride that was the 2011 year for better or worse, we have now arrived in the new year of 2012. For the auto industry, 2011 has taken some auto companies on differing paths. For companies like Ford Motor Company, Hyundai and General Motors, their year ends with a series of successes leading to certain profitability at the end of 2011. Other automakers have gone into 2011 expecting a new beginning only to face what could be an ending. Swedish’s car company Saab could have a short-lived life beyond General Motors unless a solid financial rescuer comes to its aid. As automakers think shortly back to the 2011 year, seeking for top spot in the 2012 automobile market, some vehicles reflect clear winners for attracting the interests of rightfully demanding consumers.

While not necessarily dominating sales charts, the following new vehicles captured the mood of 2011 in automotive design and innovations:

Hyundai Veloster

Infusing their line-up with character, Hyundai first sought to attract an upscale clientele. Sculpting a reinvented brand perception with the Veracruz, Genesis and Equus, Hyundai’s focus on product development has worked from the top down. As the Hyundai Accent received a much-overdue redesign for the 2012 model year, observers noted the absence of the three-door hatchback version. Planning something sportier and unique, the Veloster came to life at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show projecting some deep personality from Hyundai.

Powered by a spunky 138-horsepower from a 1.6 liter Gamma powerplant, the Hyundai Veloster delivers pep along with excellent fuel economy of 32 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving. Drivers could choose from an innovative 6-speed dual-clutch transmission or the more pleasuring 6-speed manual gearbox. Standard equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, a 7-inch LG touch screen stereo system with Pandora and Bluetooth connectivity meant the 2012 Hyundai Veloster had the ingredients to be an instant hot item at a $17,300 starting price. Officially launched in October, the 2012 Hyundai Veloster accumulated 7,096 in sales by the end of November.

For sale during only the final quarter of 2011, the Veloster has already received the attention of a young crowd looking for what hidden talent rests in the radical three-door vehicle. At the 2011 SEMA Show, several examples for modded out PM Lifestyle/UTI Veloster elevated Hyundai to a flashier world stage. A turbocharged production version of the three-door Hyundai Veloster in the near future should only allow the car to continue its quest to become a recognized pocket rocket from 2012 and beyond.

Lamborghini Aventador

Replacing the Murcielago, Italian sports car builder Lamborghini is pressured to improve upon 48 years of delivering dream rides. A supercar moved by 700-horsepower, the Aventador is the bull’s newest progression in Lamborghini’s heritage.

Built around a full carbon fiber monocoque, aluminum combines with the exterior construction of the Lamborghini Aventador LP-700-4 ’s structure for an ultra-lightweight supercar. A driver and passenger step into the Aventador though the upward opening scissor doors that have become a Lamborghini staple. Rated to weigh just over 3,472 pounds, the all-new Lamborghini Aventador is in excess of 400 pounds lighter than the outgoing Murcielago. Mid-mounted in the Lamborghini Aventador LP-700-4 is a 6.5 liter V-12 engine. Handling the 700 horsepower in a strategic manner is accomplished through an all-wheel drive system supplied by Haldex. Seven gears are arranged through a unique ISR (Independent Shifting Rod) transmission insuring quick, responsive movements through shifts. With 0 to 62-mile per hour acceleration runs occurring in a prompt 2.9 seconds, the Aventador LP-700-4 inspired launches into the roads of 2012.

Chevrolet Cruze

Accustomed to selling their compact sedans as bargain haulers, Chevrolet had devoted questionable dedication to the Cavalier and even the Cobalt. When the Chevrolet Cruze was launched in North America in late 2010, the sophisticated world sedan demonstrated we could expect greater things from the top General Motors brand in the smaller vehicle class.

Stylish without being overwhelming, the compact Cruze was welcomed by as many as 215,057 customers for the current year as of November 2011 (making it Chevrolet’s best-selling car and second only to the Silverado pickup in overall bowtie products sold in the year). A good reason for the positive reception of the Chevrolet Cruze rests in the fact the car does not represent the usually expected ‘corner-cutting’ in the development process. Ten airbags, StabiliTrak electronic stability control with anti-lock braking and detail to noise reduction standard on all Cruze models recognizes the motorist deserves better from 2011 model year vehicles. Powered by the Ecotec family of engines, a 1.8 liter and turbocharged 1.4 liter provides an amply power range for the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. Propelled by one of two high efficiency power plants, the Cruze features robust power at a low cost of operations. For optimal fuel economy, the Cruze Eco version can go up to 42 miles per gallon when linked to the six-speed manual transmission.

As the Chevrolet Volt attracted all the press and Chevrolet’s Centennial was passionately celebrated with commemorative editions of the Camaro and Corvette, the Chevrolet Cruze sales success played an immediate role insuring their will be many more parties in honour of the brand.

Volkswagen Jetta

While the Chevrolet Cruze was accomplishing the act of bringing refinement to entry-level vehicles through minor overall price increases, the Volkswagen Jetta entered 2011 attempting to re-establish itself as an affordable small sedan. Extremely popular in North America from the mid-1980s to the early 2000s, the German car brand scared off some buyers when the Jetta steered into premium car pricing. Wanting increased sale volumes, Volkswagen redesign of the 6th generation Jetta sedan heavily involved making the a better value to North American car buyers.

Larger than the more expensive predecessor model, the 2011 Volkswagen Jetta took a more back-to-basics approach in engineering. Gone is the high-end materials and suspension system in favour of lower-cost, easier to produce components as the 2011 model year Jetta arrived for a retail price starting under $16,000. Designed to win over young families, the 2011 Jetta incorporated standard comfort and safety features including a 60/40 split rear seat as well as up to six airbags. The new Jetta is recognized as an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2012. Powered by the 2-liter and 2.5 liter gasoline engines, the 140-horsepower turbocharged clean diesel powerplant of the 2011 Jetta TDI delivers up to 42 miles per gallon fuel economy.

A vehicle created to boost Volkswagen‘s United States sales, the all-new Jetta sedan was a mission accomplished in the first 11 months of 2011 netting sales almost 59 percent higher than the 2010 pattern.

Audi A7 Sportback

Audi has tempted more luxury car buyers than ever with a flourishing line-up of technologically advanced upscale vehicles in 2011. The Audi A7 Sportback was introduced to the marketplace this year as the perfect conveyance of the brand’s drive for modern luxury and performance. Though the five-door represents a late arrival to an automotive category of unconventional sport coupes wearing more than two doors (i.e. Mercedes CLS-Class and Porsche Panamera), the Audi A7 Sportback blend of the new A6 sedan architecture into a radiant-looking creation. Composing of a combination of steel and aluminum, the 2012 model year A7 Sportback was launched in April to brisk sales that totalled to over 5,000 vehicles by the end of November. North American customers receive the supercharged 3.0 TFSI V6 powerplant routed to the quattro drivetrain through an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission. Seating for four passengers provides an individualized performance luxury feel. The Audi A7 Sportback’s MMI system with an available 15-speaker supplied by Bang & Olufsen and Audi connect solutions are some highlights in store for all occupants.

With the best yet to come from the unique coupe, the high-performance Audi S7 Sportback is due for the 2013 model year.

Information source: Audi AG, Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A., General Motors, Hyundai Motor America, VW Group

Photo source: Audi AG, Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A., Chris Nagy

Related posts:

1. Chevrolet Announces Record Sales For First Half of Year
2. 2011 Automotive Super Bowl Commercials
3. Z-Spec Chevy Sonic and Cruze Models 2011 SEMA Show Debut

Proficient communication skills have long allured the willing to believe or experience. Advertising and marketing is the based on the principles that the right messages to a wide audience can the key to supremacy within industry competition. As consumers will determine afterwards whether a product or service lives up to the promise of its advertisement, the effective broadcast spot an asset all corporations and businesses stride to possess. With a wide range of brand identities trying to embed themselves in the minds of consumers, the auto industry use of promotional tools could involve the perfect, creative method for attracting the new car purchaser.

Not enough to lure potential customers with radio, television and Internet advertisements, automakers must draws eyes previewing of what can be expected during an ownership experience. The customary test drive has long been the way car dealerships to reinforce their car or truck’s attributes, technology has given an even more engaging experience to play a companion role in between ads and actual product use. With the latest mobile apps, smartphone and computer tablet users are now courted to partake in many aspects of a potential vehicle including styling choices. Started December 20th, Hyundai Motors America unleashed one of the world’s largest racing video game experience.

Providing a free auto racing simulator through the Apple App Store called Hyundai Race, gamers with iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad devices can engage a large screen in New York’s Times Square through an interactive challenge. Featuring Hyundai‘s sporty new Veloster compact, mobile App users engaging the program within the Hyundai Race WiFi network (set-up for the game alone) are given a free chance to control a virtual vehicle. Accurate steering and speed controls for the computer-generated three-door Veloster is given to a mobile device user as they compete for highest score in front of hundreds (if not thousands) of people in witness. At the end of a player’s turn playing Hyundai Race, the game broadcasts the round’s score. Hyundai Race scores will also be ranked among all other competitors in Times Square.

In the early 20th century advertisement market, Times Square was a super station broadcasting the brands and products of major corporations. Permitting the use of large billboards on buildings since 1916, New York City’s Times Square has turned the area into what is known as “The Crossroads of the World”. Auto companies First advertising in the famous New York locale in 1925, General Motors held a constant presence that came to a brief suspension in 2009 when the auto company filed for bankruptcy. GM’s first sign consisted of 5,000 neon lights constructing a 100-foot advertisement message. Today’s Times Square billboards are brought to life by complex but ultra-efficient LED panels.

A temporary attraction within one of the most famous metropolitan hotspots in the world, Times Square visitors will have until the end of the 2011 calendar year to engage the virtual Hyundai Veloster on the uniquely large arcade. Hyundai has stated the racing game experience will be followed-up with many other interactive experiences in the Times Square area in coming year.

Information source: Hyundai Motors America, Inventing Times Square: Commerce and Culture at the Crossroads of the World by William R. Taylor
Photo Source: Hyundai Motors America

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The Genesis and Genesis Coupe represented Hyundai’s first rear-wheel drive entries on the United States. With all that investment on a new platform, there is a lot of possibilities. Hyundai has consistently refined the Genesis Sedan, and the Genesis Coupe is getting its first update at the North American International Auto Show in January.

Part of the big investment with the Genesis Sedan was the Tau V-8. Despite enthusiasts hopes though, the V-8 has never been put into the Genesis Coupe. Hyundai doesn’t have any plans to do so either. The Genesis sedan and coupe remain pretty distinct products from each other, despite sharing a name. When there’s a demand for something the manufacturer won’t do, the aftermarket often steps up. In this case, its Rhys Millen.

The RM500 Genesis Coupe recently debuted at SEMA 2011, packing a V-8 power plant. Along with the RM500 the company has debuted an RMR line of accessories that include a carbon fiber aerodynamics package, Brembo carbon ceramic brakes and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Millen says “From the moment I saw the Tau V8 engine in the Genesis R-Spec and Equus, I knew it would be a perfect fit for the Genesis Coupe, adding even more performance and power to the dynamic coupe.” After seeing that, he set out to make a Genesis Coupe V-8 happen. The 5.0-liter power plant hasn’t been left stock either. Millen boosted the power by 20 ponies, to 449 horsepower, thanks to a stainless steel exhaust and AEM engine management system. Other changes include a light weight clutch and flywheel, oil cooler, rear differential cooler, and adapter plate.

The carbon fiber package is made up of a front grille, fog light vents with brake ducts, yellow fog light covers, front lip, side skirts, rear diffuser, and three-piece spoiler. Inside, there is a suede trim package, Sparco Chrono Sport Seats, track sliders and leather shift knob, along with RMR seat brackets and a 1-inch steering column extension. Now, how much will it cost? That’s the question, and one we don’t have answer for yet.

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Historically, Hyundai has never been known for offering anything performance related. The Tiburon was mostly a failure at attracting any kind of enthusiasts. The rear-wheel drive Genesis Coupe started to change things though, and recently Hyundai upped the ante with the 5.0 R-Spec Genesis Sedan. The company still has a long way to go though, and via Car and Driver Chief Executive Officer John Krafcik has shed some lights on plans to boost power for its two “performance” models.

We say “performance” with quotations because, while Hyundai categorizes its front-wheel drive Veloster as a sporty entrant, its hard to call it one. While being lightweight, the 138 horsepower four-cylinder doesn’t move it all that quickly. To offer something for those looking for a more involving drive, Hyundai has announced a turbocharged version. The turbo Veloster will get a 1.6-liter four-cylinder making 204 hp. Now that’s more like it! A boost of 66 ponies will be the shot in the arm that the Veloster needs.

Hopefully, along with the added power will come some suspension and other tweaks. Hyundai is hoping its new Veloster will find a foothold younger buyers wanting to stand out. Small cars have been getting increasingly more competitive and stylish lately, as buyers are looking for more fuel-efficient options. More stylish options is a welcome change. Remember econoboxes from a few years back? On second thought, don’t. They don’t bring back great memories. Hyundai is pitching the Veloster as a sporty offering, slotting in (very much so in our opinion) the Genesis Coupe.

Given that Hyundai considers the Veloster part of its “performance” portfolio, the Genesis Coupe will be getting upgraded to provide more of a separation in power between the two. We doubt the Veloster will prove much of a threat, but it’s good to see the Genesis Coupe getting some improvements regardless. Given Hyundai’s consistent updates to the Genesis sedan, it has been overdue for some tweaking.

Tweaks will include boosting the base Genesis Coupe’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four, as well the updated six-cylinder from the sedan. That means the refreshed Genesis should offer 333 hp from its top-end naturally-aspirated 3.8-liter. No word on where the the 2.0-liter turbo will come in as far as power.

The Genesis Coupe will also be getting a styling refresh; Hyundai will updated it with a front-end design similar to the Veloster. We can’t say we like the sounds of that. We were hoping the Genesis Coupe would go down a bit different route, adding a touch of class and maturity similar to the sedan. Cartoonish is the way they are going though apparently. Hopefully it turns out better looking than it sounds. The updated Genesis Coupe and Veloster Turbo will be debuting at the North American International Auto Show in January.

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While the summer road trip has passed, the end of the year brings two major traveling events for a considerable group of American families. With sport utility and crossover vehicles existing as the most trusted form of private transportation, budgeting for the expense of everyday driving, let alone long distance travels, could have new car motorists looking to the revised 2012 Hyundai Tucson.

Hyundai’s continuing intent to convince the motoring public the auto company stands for building good cars for a price less than competitors, the 2012 Tucson is the latest reflection of how the South Korean auto manufacturer is attracting the tight pocketbooks of North Americans. Possessing a manufacturer suggested price starting at $19,045 for the front-wheel drive, 5-speed manual GL version, the top-ranked 2012 Tucson Limited with all-wheel drive is obtainable at $26,395.

Buyers of the 2012 Hyundai Tucson compact utility vehicle will be able to take five passengers further than ever before thanks to some crucial technical changes. The majority of the 2012 Tucson’s mechanical changes set off to improve the fuel economy of the compact crossover. On the Hyundai Tucson GLS and Limited models for he 2012 model year mating the 2.4 liter Theta II engine with the six-speed automatic Shiftronic gearbox, highway fuel mileage adds an extra mile per gallon traveling distance. The 2012 GLS and Limited models of the Hyundai Tucson achieves 23 miles per gallon city and 32 miles per gallon highway. Owing the additional mileage to low-rolling resistance tires and a cabin climate control setup designed to minimize energy consumption, the 2012 Hyundai Tucson has the leading fuel economy of vehicles in its market segment. Despite the engine being up to 11 horsepower more powerful than the Tucson GL’s 2-liter powerplant, the Hyundai compact crossover vehicle with the larger 2.4 liter engine preserves high fuel efficiency.

A departure of thinking from the all-utility persona the crossover vehicles, the 2012 Hyundai Tucson adheres to fuel economy awareness. The traditional allure of designing sport utility and crossover vehicles consisted of rather sinister motivation. In 2004, it was determined that over 52 percent of vehicles produced were classified as light trucks (up from just under 10 percent in 1979). As abuse of the light truck category became apparent entering into the last decade, revisions to fuel economy were made to reduce the more relaxed light truck regulation process compared to cars. While the utility/crossover popularity continued to grow, auto engineers and designers were required to improve the efficiency of a less than efficient vehicle configuration. Bringing civility to the class known primarily for tough and tumble utilitarian duties, smaller but taller vehicles with all-wheel drive has redefined roadways.

Along with steps to improve the efficiency of the 2012 Hyundai Tucson, South Korean-badged compact crossover will also feature a larger fuel supply. Able to hold 0.8 gallons more than the 2011 model, the 2012 Tucson’s 15.3-gallon fuel tank matches the size of the outgoing Honda CR-V. Combined with the improved highway fuel economy, the 2012 Hyundai Tucson can roll for up to 489 miles on a single tank of gasoline (almost exactly 40 miles farther than the 2011 model‘s best range).

Better disc brakes and the availability of premium suspension as standard on the GLS model are other touches making the value-leading 2012 Hyundai Tucson a worthwhile consideration as a new crossover vehicle.

Information and photo source: Hyundai Motor America

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Thanks to the evolutions in cell phones and the boom of mobile tablets, the current consumer marketplace expects a lot from a small package. Translating to automobiles, a new push by all car manufacturers sees the development of compact vehicles receiving the attention and focus once belonging to a crossover or exotic sports car. Upcoming government regulations and even the motivation of auto companies themselves have seen some impressive numbers coming from under 2-liter engines in recent model years.

For the 2012 model year, the following four engines are desirable four cylinders that no longer represents a compromise to motorists.

Hyundai Kappa Engine

Besides building up their influence on the North American marketplace, Hyundai is quickly gaining steam as a global automotive player beyond South Korean borders. Striding with the creation of the Tau V-8 utilized on the Genesis and Equus (a powerplant awarded in Ward’s list of the 10 Best engines of 2010), Hyundai’s gained mastery of engine technology was carried down to their entry-level four-cylinder power. Introducing the subcompact Hyundai i20 in 2008 for Asia and Europe, the four-cylinder Kappa engine would be the product of the equivalent of $421 million American investment into creating their most refined, small power unit.

Either 1.2 or 1.25 liter in engine displacement, Hyundai’s Kappa in-line four-cylinder engine incorporates many high quality touches including the use of aluminum and stainless steel. The Kappa’s aluminum engine block weighs less than other manufacturers in the compact car class. A double overhead cam powerplant, the valves in the upper area of Hyundai’s Kappa engine actuate with beehive-shaped springs providing lower friction. Also reducing resistance, Kappa powerplant piston rings and skirt are coated with a thin layer of anti-friction material.

Acting on reducing common consumer complaints that smaller, compact car engines are generally noisy and run with less finesse than larger powerplants, the Hyundai Kappa powerplant’s work for improving fuel economy also involves improvements for vibration as well as noise reduction. A new belt design and a silent-type timing chain insure driving the Hyundai i10 as well as i20 compacts is refreshingly subtle.

Audi 1.8 TFSI

Introduced as the new powerplant for the Audi A5 Coupe, a smaller 170-horsepower TFSI gasoline engine has been devised to meet stricter emission and fuel economy standard.

Turbocharged, Audi’s new for 2012 1.8-liter powerplant takes advantage of several measures to maximize efficiency. Weighing 289.91 pounds, the Audi 1.8 TFSI engine consists of high-strength alloy piston and a lightweight polymer oil pan. Uniquely, direct and indirect fuel injection is rushed into the four combustion chambers of the Audi A5’s 1.8-liter engine. The strategically placed fuel injectors guarantee a well-balanced air-fuel mixture that greatly reduces fuel economy. Said to produce 41.27 miles per gallon fuel consumption, Audi advertises the savings as a 21 percent improvement over the previous model Audi engine. A clean-operating powerplant, the new Audi 1.8 TFSI engine already applies with 2015 emission requirement for the Europe marketplace.

Assisting the Audi 1.8 TFSI engine’s smooth, optimum running condition, a fully electronic coolant regulation system is created for the four-cylinder unit. Bringing the Audi A5 Coupe’s new engine to ideal operating temperature as quickly as possible, the Audi 1.8 TFSI also incorporates oil-jet piston head cooling and key turbocharger parts capable of withstanding up to 980 degrees Celsius heat.

Mazda SkyActiv-G Engine

Rather than basing their company’s future on a hybrid and all-electric vehicle, Mazda is promoting their SkyActiv technology philosophy. Designing vehicles around lighter, more mechanically efficient components, the SkyActiv-G powerplant debuting to American in the 2012 Mazda3 is a pivotal item to the Japanese auto company’s upcoming fleet.

The 2-liter Mazda SkyActiv-G inline four-cylinder engine utilizes higher than average compression (12 to 1) for optimal thermal efficiency. Overcoming the common problem of engine knocking (a premature combustion of the engine’s cycle air-fuel mixture), Mazda engineers employed several features to combat the issue. Cavity pistons, multi hole fuel injectors and a special “4-2-1 exhaust system allows equipped models of the 2012 Mazda3 to greater, further performance. Compared to the standard Mazda 2-liter engine, the SkyActiv-G achieves fuel economy roughly 4 miles per gallon better on average. At the same time, the Mazda3 with SkyActiv contributes a modest 7 horsepower gain (155 horsepower total) over the base 2-liter powerplant.

Unlike many high compression engines, the SkyActiv-G engine can run at peak power on only regular unleaded gasoline.

Ford 2.0-liter Ecoboost

Establishing a technological edge in powertrain technology American automakers rarely accomplished with six-cylinder engines, the stir Ford has created with their Ecoboost technology compared to that of a Mustang GT 5-liter V-8 or their Escape Hybrid. Carrying over the lessons learned with the V-6 engine, Ford has downsized the Ecoboost technology with newly arriving four-cylinder vehicles.

Said to be the first global use of Ford Motor Company’s advanced engine technology, the 2.0-liter Ecoboost arrives to the United States in the 2012 model year on the Edge and Explorer crossover vehicles as well as the sport compact Ford Focus ST. Featuring the assistance of a single turbocharger, the 2.0-liter Ecoboost engine performance is maximized from the small displacement through gasoline direct injection and Ford’s TI-VCT (twin independent variable camshaft timing) system. Bracing to provide North American road car buyers with near unthinkable performance from a four-cylinder engine, horsepower from the 2.0-liter Ecoboost will range between 240 to 247 horsepower. A stout performer, the 2.0-liter Ecoboost-equipped 2012 Ford Edge fuel economy is impressive with 21 miles per gallon city and 30 miles per gallon highway. While other competing crossover vehicles produce four-cylinder models capable of matching fuel consumption figure, the 2.0-liter Ecoboost engine achieves its goal while delivering between 50-70 horsepower more to the Ford Edge.

Information source: Audi AG, Hyundai Motors Ford Motor Company, Mazda Motor of America

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