2008 Elantra and Santa Fe Named "Top Picks" by Consumer Reports
 
Sonata, Tucson, and Azera also Recommended
Exciting news announced today from Consumer Reports. For the first time ever, Hyundai models are among the magazine's "Top Picks" with not just one, but two of our vehicles earning the publication's highest honor. The HMMA-built Santa Fe beat tough competition in the Midsize SUV category and Elantra SE earned accolades among Small Sedans. This is not only a first for Hyundai, but the first time a Korean brand has ever earned "Top Picks" recognition from Consumer Reports.
This is a clear indication that Hyundai's advancements in quality and safety are differentiating our brand. Top Picks are only awarded to the most well-rounded models in their categories and must meet stringent road test, reliability and safety requirements. For the first time ever, Consumer Reports also made Electronic Stability Control (ESC) a required standard safety feature for all "Top Pick" contenders. Needless to say, our commitment to standard ESC was significant for each winning model.
As one of the most trusted sources of information and advice on consumer products and services, we have no doubt the Consumer Reports recognition will help your sales efforts. All Top Pick winners will be featured in the Consumer Reports Annual April Auto Issue, on sale Tuesday, March 4.
Here's what the magazine said about each model:
* Hyundai Santa Fe: Redesigned for 2007, the much-improved Santa Fe edged out the Honda Pilot in CR's tests. It provides a quiet and roomy interior, excellent fit and finish, a refined powertrain, a relatively good ride, and an optional third-row seat. Standard ESC helps provide secure handling. (Last year's Top Pick for Midsized SUV was Toyota Highlander Hybrid.)
* Hyundai Elantra SE: The Hyundai Elantra SE is a well-rounded small car that provides good fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and an interior that's quiet, roomy and well-equipped. The SE also has standard electronic stability control, a proven safety feature that's absent on many other small cars. (Last year's Top Pick for Small Sedan was the Honda Civic.)
* Hyundai Azera: Roomy interior is well finished and quiet. Controls are straightforward. The ride is comfortable and steady, and handling is fairly responsive. Priced less than a well equipped Toyota Camry, the Azera undercuts a comparably equipped Buick Lucerne or Toyota Avalon. The Azera was also listed as one of the "Most Overlooked Cars," and as highest in Owner Satisfaction in reguard to overall value.
* Hyundai Sonata: Rear seat is roomy. Controls are straightforward. Stability Control and curtain airbags are standard. Reliability of the V6 is average and the I4 is well above average. The ride is comfortable and quiet.
* Hyundai Tucson: Standard stability control makes handling secure. The ride is comfortable. Cabin access is easy, and the rear is roomy. Reliability has been above average.
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