Category: Hyundai

Aug 19

2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz: The Most Popular Trim Revealed

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz has shaken up the compact pickup market with its unique blend of style and utility. As it competes with rivals like the Ford Maverick, this pickup truck has proven its worth with various trim levels that cater to different needs and preferences. If you’re considering a Santa Cruz, here’s a closer look at the trims, their standout features, and which one is capturing the most interest from both buyers and experts.

Exploring the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Trims

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz comes in five distinct trims, ranging from the base SE at $26,650 to the top-of-the-line Limited at $42,405. The SE and SEL trims feature a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower, while higher trims like the Night, XRT, and Limited models offer a more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 281 horsepower. Recent updates to the Santa Cruz lineup include standard Bi-LED headlights, synthetic leather upholstery in upper trims, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen for enhanced convenience.

Which Trim is the Favorite Among Buyers?

According to Edmunds, the SEL trim stands out as the top choice among 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz buyers. For about $3,000 more than the base model, the SEL offers keyless entry, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and additional features like heated front seats and a lockable cargo bed. The SEL also provides access to the Activity Package, which includes a sunroof, roof rails, and a wireless charging pad, making it a well-rounded option for those seeking extra comfort and functionality.

Expert Recommendations for the Best Santa Cruz Experience

For those willing to invest a bit more, automotive experts suggest opting for the XRT trim, praised for its turbocharged engine and extensive list of features. Autotrader highlights the XRT’s value with its powerful engine, towing capacity, and advanced amenities. While it’s priced about $2,000 more than the previous SEL Premium trim, the XRT offers added features like synthetic leather upholstery and improved driver assistance technologies, making it a worthwhile upgrade for many buyers.

Whether you’re leaning towards the SEL for its balanced features or considering the XRT for its enhanced performance, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz delivers impressive options for every driver. With its stylish design and robust capabilities, this compact pickup is set to make a strong impression in the market.

Jul 21

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe: A Bold Redesign Mimicking Luxury SUVs

Overview of the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Redesign

Hyundai’s commitment to enhancing its SUV lineup is evident with the newly redesigned 2024 Santa Fe. The South Korean automaker has overhauled this popular model to feature a strikingly modern and luxurious appearance. Although detailed specifications are yet to be released, the fresh exterior and interior designs signal a substantial shift towards a more upscale look.

The 2024 Santa Fe showcases a futuristic aesthetic with its curved panoramic display, marking it as the first Hyundai model to incorporate a dual smartphone charging station. The exterior has transitioned from the previous generation’s curvy contours to a sleek, angular profile, highlighted by a new “H-Light” headlight design that gives the SUV a more robust and commanding presence.

The Santa Fe’s Luxury-Inspired Transformation

The redesign has given the Santa Fe a distinctive edge in the crowded midsize SUV market, resembling the boxy, high-end Land Rover Defender in its new form. While the Santa Fe and Defender differ in front-end styling, their similar boxy shapes and sizes create a striking visual similarity. This design choice, while not intended to mimic the Defender, positions the Santa Fe as a standout option with a luxurious flair.

This bold redesign could rejuvenate the Santa Fe’s sales, which had declined with the previous generation. By embracing a more commanding and premium appearance, Hyundai aims to reinvigorate interest and distinguish the Santa Fe amidst growing competition. However, the long-term success of this design will depend on consumer reception to the bold new look.

Jul 21

Hyundai Kona vs. Kia Seltos: Why the Kona Might Have the Edge

Hyundai Kona: A Sales Leader in the Subcompact SUV Segment

The Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos both excel as subcompact SUVs, yet the Kona holds a slight sales advantage over its rival. According to GoodCarBadCar, the Kona has sold 37,925 units so far in 2023, outperforming the Seltos, which has sold 32,423 units. The Kona’s edge could stem from its more extensive dealer network and a lower starting price of $22,140 compared to the Seltos’s $23,340.

The Kona’s appeal is further enhanced by its diverse lineup. It features the high-performance Kona N with a 276-horsepower turbocharged engine and the Kona Electric with a 258-mile range, options not available with the Seltos. Additionally, the Kona’s extensive model range and attractive pricing contribute to its strong market performance.

The Kia Seltos: Rapid Growth and 2024 Upgrades

Despite the Kona’s current sales lead, the Kia Seltos is making significant strides, with a 64% increase in sales for 2023 compared to the Kona’s 15%. The Seltos benefits from a mid-cycle refresh for 2024, including updated styling, an enhanced infotainment system, and a more powerful turbo engine. These improvements may bolster the Seltos’s appeal, especially given its newer market entry in 2021 versus the Kona’s introduction in 2018.

Both SUVs are set to receive updates for 2024, with the Kona undergoing a complete redesign and the Seltos receiving a refreshed look and additional features. Choosing between these two excellent options depends largely on individual preferences, whether one values performance and electric options in the Kona or the Seltos’s roomier interior and standard all-wheel drive.

Jul 21

Experience Turbocharged Thrills with Unbeatable 10-Year Warranties on These Manual Transmission Cars

Rediscovering the Joy of Manual Transmissions

Even as automatics dominate the market, the joy of a manual transmission isn’t lost—especially not with models like the 2023 Hyundai Elantra N and the Kia Forte GT. These cars defy the stereotype that manual transmissions are only for expensive sports cars. They deliver exhilarating drives without breaking the bank and come with a robust 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, ensuring they’re both fun and sensible investments.

2023 Hyundai Elantra N: Affordable Performance with Nürburgring Pedigree

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra N is a celebration of speed and agility. Developed partially on the legendary Nürburgring, this model is equipped with a 276-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, a limited-slip differential, and high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. It’s not just equipped; it’s engineered to thrill, offering a suite of performance features at a price that undercuts the Honda Civic Type R by $10,000, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts looking for serious performance on a budget.

2023 Kia Forte GT: Everyday Sportiness with a Turbocharged Kick

While the Kia Forte GT might not match the Elantra N in raw power, its 201-horsepower turbocharged engine still promises plenty of fun. It offers a more relaxed ride compared to its Hyundai counterpart but maintains a spirited edge with its manual transmission. It’s an appealing option for those who prefer a blend of sporty performance and daily driving comfort, all packaged with a price tag that makes it accessible to a wide range of buyers.

Long-term Reliability with Exceptional Warranty Coverage

Perhaps the most compelling feature of these vehicles is their industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, a testament to the confidence Hyundai and Kia have in their products. This warranty covers significant engine and transmission components but doesn’t extend to normal wear items like clutches, unless a defect causes premature failure. Moreover, these models come with comprehensive coverage including a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, paint, rust, and perforation warranties, and even a 5-year/unlimited-mileage roadside assistance plan. This extensive coverage ensures that owners can enjoy their sporty rides with peace of mind.

These manual transmission cars not only provide an engaging driving experience but also come with the security of extensive warranties, making them excellent choices for driving enthusiasts who value both performance and reliability. Whether you’re shifting gears through city streets or cruising on the highway, these cars prove that manual transmissions still have a significant place in the modern automotive landscape.

Jul 21

Hyundai and Kia Vehicles Now Top Theft Targets in Manteca

Shift in Stolen Vehicle Trends

For years, the Honda Accord held the title of the most stolen vehicle in Manteca, but recent developments have shifted the spotlight. A viral TikTok video exposed vulnerabilities in older Kia and Hyundai models, showing how a simple USB device can exploit these flaws and facilitate theft. Consequently, Hyundai owners are now the primary targets for thieves in Manteca, with Kias also high on the list.

Community Response and Prevention Measures

In response, the Manteca Police Department, under the leadership of Community Service Officer Misty Coleman, has secured 120 steering wheel locks from Kia. These locks will be distributed for free at a drive-through event this Saturday at the Manteca Civic Center, aimed at enhancing vehicle security for local residents. To receive a free steering wheel lock, residents must provide proof of Manteca residency and vehicle registration, with Hyundai models from 2021 or older qualifying for the program.

Emerging Theft Trends and Regional Impact

The theft of Kias and Hyundais is driven by two main groups: those seeking joyrides and those looking to strip vehicles for parts. Stolen vehicles often end up in chop shops, particularly in the Oakland area. This increase in theft has also been noted in other regions, with Minneapolis reporting a staggering 836% rise in Kia and Hyundai thefts from the previous year, highlighting a broader trend affecting vehicle owners nationwide.

Jul 12

Assessing the 2023 Hyundai Tucson’s Base Price: Is It Truly Accessible?

Initial Cost Versus Real-World Pricing

Hyundai, known for its diverse and popular vehicle offerings, introduces the 2023 Tucson with a starting MSRP of $26,900. This compact SUV, lauded for its comfort and advanced technology, is advertised at an attractive entry-level price. However, the practical cost of acquiring one typically surpasses this base figure once essential features and preferences are factored in.

Unpacking the Standard Features and Optional Add-Ons

The 2023 Tucson starts with a robust 2.5-liter engine and includes modern conveniences like an 8-inch touchscreen and smartphone integration, positioning it as a competitive option in its class. Yet, when customizing a basic Tucson using Hyundai’s online tool, the price climbs quickly. Opting for all-wheel drive adds $1,500, and selecting minimal yet practical accessories like all-season liners and an auto-dimming mirror pushes the price to approximately $30,705, inclusive of a $1,335 destination fee.

Evaluating the Realistic Cost of Ownership

While the base MSRP suggests affordability, the reality is that a moderately equipped Tucson can exceed $30,000. This exploration reveals that the initial price might attract consumers, but the final purchase price can be significantly higher, depending on choices and necessities. This factor, coupled with the range of trim levels that escalate in amenities and price, shows that the true cost of owning a Tucson can vary greatly, impacting consumer expectations and budget considerations.