Hyundai Highlights

Hyundai is looking to sell the $60k Equus sedan in the U.S. starting in 2011. If that's through its existing dealer network, which seems likely since the stated goal is to elevate Hyundai's image, that will be a huge step up. Remember that Toyota, Nissan and Honda all created separate luxury brands when they moved upmarket.

Meanwhile, Blue Edition versions of various Hyundai models will feature lower weight, lower gear ratios and rolling resistance (not to mention price) to raise their fuel economy ratings. Surprisingly they may eliminate power windows and door locks in these models as a means to save weight and reduce costs.

Source: Automotive News

Rising Star: Hyundai

A good article that highlights some of the moves that have made Hyundai a sales success in light of the downturn. Notice that John Krafcik, (acting?) CEO of Hyundai Motor America was on the research team behind the groundbreaking book "The Machine That Changed the World".

Here's the link:
http://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article.cfm?articleid=2256

MerLexus 5 Sedan

I've seen a fair number of Hyundai's new Genesis sedan around lately. If it weren't for the badges I wouldn't know what it was. It looks like a deadringer for a composite of a Mercedes, Lexus, and BMW 5 series. Toss in some BMW 3 series taillights for good measure and there you have it.

Source: Hyundai

The drag coefficient is a claimed 0.27 (slick), though like most other cars these days it's a real porker. The V6 model has a curb weight of 3,748 and the V8 is over the two ton mark at 4,012 lbs.

Still the team behind this car have done a remarkable job. It looks a lot more expensive than it is, has great specifications (available with a 375 hp V8, six speed automatic transmission, 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds, and 25 mpg highway), and is surely going to give established players a healthy dose of competition.

Not surprising then that it took North American Car of the Year honors. This could be as much of a game changer as the original Lexus LS400 was in 1990.