2013 Hyundai Accent Offers Amazing Value and World Class Features

2013 Hyundai Accent Palm Springs

Defy convention on the streets and roads of Palm Springs with the 2013 Hyundai Accent.  Offering amazing value and class-above features, the Accent’s standard options, safety, and fuel economy are among the best in its class.

New for the 2013 model year, the GLS MT base model now includes a/c, AM/FM/SiriusXM Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with 6 speakers, iPod/USB auxiliary input jacks, power and heated body-colored side mirrors, body-colored door handles and sunglass holders.  Remote keyless entry with panic feature and cloth insert door trims are also standard on all trims to give drivers greater comfort.  Heated side mirrors are now also standard on all models.  A power sunroof and turn signal indicators are standard on the 2013MY and SE trim.

A long list of safety features is now standard because Hyundai doesn’t believe drivers should have to pay a premium for safety.  Six airbags protect occupants in case of a collision, including two front impact airbags, two front seat-mounted side impact airbags, and curtain side-impact airbags for front and rear passengers.  Standard front-seat active head restraints help prevent whiplash by reducing the space between a front occupant’s head and the head restraint during certain rear collisions.  These active head restraints are highly recommended by safety organizations such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The 2013 Hyundai Accent has an underlying structure engineered to protect occupants using a Collision Load Dispersion (CLD) mechanism.  Rear doors also have internal beams for an added layer of protection and safety.  This structure distributes the force of an impact in three ways to maintain the integrity of the cabin.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control work together to help deliver superior handling in almost any driving conditions. Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) integrates control of the ESC and Motor-Driven Power Steering (MDPS) to provide handling assistance in slippery or sudden cornering situations.

The Accent’s all-aluminum 1.6-liter Gamma four-cylinder engine features the latest innovations in engine technology.  Selected as one of Ward’s 10 Best Engines, it delivers an unsurpassed 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque.  This creates a standard 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway EPA fuel economy rating.

The engine’s most notable feature is its use of Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI). By precisely controlling the injection of fuel, GDI allows for better fuel economy, increased power and reduced emissions. The application of Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts increases efficiency, improves fuel economy and reduces emissions.  To reduce lifetime operation costs and increase reliability, the Gamma engine features a maintenance-free silent roller timing chain.

When working together, the complete range of engine technologies offers unsurpassed specific output at 86 horsepower per liter, low emissions with ULEV certification, and reliability backed by a 10 year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Available in six-speed manual or automatic with SHIFTRONIC manual control, delivering smooth and efficient power delivery, the 2013 Hyundai Accent is made for the streets of Southern California.  The 2013 Hyundai Accent is perfect for the Palm Springs commuter, and anyone looking for performance, safety, and fuel efficiency.  Available in Century White, Ironman Silver, Cyclone Gray, Ultra Black, Boston Red, Mocha Bronze, Marathon Blue, Clearwater Blue and Electrolyte Green, there is an Accent for any style in the Coachella Valley.

2013 Hyundai Azera is Statement in Sophistication and Modern Design

2013 Hyundai Azera Palm Springs

Sophistication and Modern Design can be used to describe Palm Springs, as well as the 2013 Hyundai Azera.  Interpreting Hyundai’s signature Fluidic Sculpture language, this flagship sedan also features Hyundai’s new generation Lambda II 3.3-liter GDI V6 engine, a six-speed transmission, advanced safety equipment and incredible fuel economy.  The 2013 Hyundai Azera is the ideal sedan for the Palm Springs professional who wants their own style and class reflected in the best possible light.

The 2013 Hyundai Azera’s Fluidic Sculpture design takes inspiration from the mechanics of flight. The exterior of the Azera is long, light and low. The unique beltline allows for a long, sleek roofline accented by the third window and wraparound LED taillights. A mono-form side profile includes flowing lines in the rear quarter panel. The face is powerful with a winged chrome grille and HID headlamps that integrate precise details. The stance is completed by available 19-inch multi-spoke wheels.

Elegance continues inside with an upscale ambiance and a flow-through center fascia and instrument panel creating a dual-cockpit front passenger space.  Focusing heavily on interior details, such as optional panoramic sunroof, which allows more natural light into the cabin and 3D Carbon interior accents, compliment the Azera’s modern outward appearance.  Ambient lighting and other standard luxuries include power front seats, power rear sunshade and manual rear side window shades.

The functionality and design of the Azera gives seat quality and comfort great importance to the feel of the sedan. The 2013 Azera offers first-class seating for all passengers, with leather seating as standard equipment. A ten-way power driver and eight-way front passenger seat are also included. The driver’s seat has an optional cushion extension and memory system for the seat, steering wheel and side mirrors.  The Azera’s climate and seat temperature controls keep occupants in optimal comfort.

The 2013 Hyundai Azera is powered by the new Lambda II 3.3-liter Gasoline Direct injection (GDI) V6 engine and in-house six-speed automatic transmission.  With 293 horsepower at 6400 RPM, the 2013 Azera improves Combined Fuel Economy to 24 MPG, and Highway Fuel Economy to 30 MPG.  This makes the Azera the first V6 powered Hyundai to achieve 30 MPG Highway.

Advanced connectivity and standard navigation system include a seven-inch WVGA screen, three months of XM Satellite Radio, Real-time XM NavTraffic, XM NAV Weather, XM Sports Ticker and XM Stock Ticker.  Azera also offers the clarity of digital HD Radio Technology Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System as standard.

Touch-screen navigation with backup camera is also standard on all Azeras. This easy-to-use unit can be controlled via the seven-inch WVGA touch-screen or voice-activation by a headliner-mounted microphone. The system features 8GB of flash memory and comes matched with a sound system that plays CDs, accesses digital music files via Bluetooth streaming audio or allows driver and passengers to access their personal listening devices through the iPod/USB/auxiliary inputs. Bluetooth audio wirelessly streams music from select mobile phones to the head unit. In addition, Bluetooth-enabled phones allow drivers to look up a local restaurant and call for reservations before plotting the route.

The Azera is further brought to life through bold colors including Black Onyx Pearl, Porcelain White Pearl, Silver Frost Metallic, Smoke Gray Metallic, Hyper Silver Metallic, Venetian Red Pearl, Bronze Mist Metallic and Midnight Blue Pearl. Interior color choices are Camel, Graphite Black and Chestnut Brown.

The 2013 Azera is an advanced approach to the traditional large sedan, delivering power, efficiency, a bold design and luxury features.  With the new Azera, Hyundai continues to offer Southern California the highest levels of luxury, performance, and efficiency, all brought together in praised design.

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2013 Hyundai Elantra Continues Record Setting Pace

2013 Hyundai Elantra Palm Springs

Elantra, the 2012 North American Car of the Year will continue its record-setting pace with changes for the 2013 model year. On sale now, the 2013 Elantra GLS and Limited lineups will make anyone looking for a Sedan in Palm Springs delighted with the new standards and optional equipment.

The 2013 Elantra GLS M/T now comes standard with air-conditioning, 16-inch wheels, cruise control, telescopic steering wheel and solar glass with windshield shade band. Heated front seats are also now included on the high volume GLS A/T Preferred Package.

The Elantra Limited adds a standard power driver’s seat with power lumbar support and an available Dual Automatic Temperature Control with Clean Air Ionizer and Auto Defog System as part of the Limited Technology Package.

Elantra continues to deliver an EPA certified 28 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, producing a highway-only driving range of up to 450 miles.  Elantra has also won the ALG Residual Value Award in the Compact Car segment for the second year in a row.

Exemplifying Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” design principles, the interplay of wind with rigid surfaces create the illusion of constant motion.  Elanta’s sides have flowing lines, with a strong undercut feature line starting at the front doors.  These lines, along with muscular wheel arches and a sleek roofline, create a spacious and memorable experience.  The Elantra’s flowing lines and aerodynamic body create a drag coefficient for the Elantra in exceptionally low 0.28.

Designed at Hyundai’s North American Design Center in Irvine, Calif., Hyundai’s signature hexagonal front grille and detailed swept-back headlights give the 2013 Elantra a compact, athletic face. Available fog lights and side mirrors with integrated turn signals complete the distinct design. Elantra was designed at Hyundai’s North American Design Center in Irvine, Calif.

The Elantra is powered by an all-new 1.8-liter Nu four-cylinder engine with 148 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque.  Thanks to advanced clean engine technology, most Elantras sold in California, Oregon and several Northeast states are certified as Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (PZEV) by the EPA. The PZEV Elantra is as clean as many hybrid electric vehicles.

Key Engine components include an aluminum block and head, Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT), Variable Induction System (VIS), Roller seing arm and Hydraulic Lash Adjuster (HLA), electronic throttle control, and an offset crankshaft.  The 2012 Elantra can be equipped with a six-speed manual (M6CF3-1) or automatic (A6GF1) transaxle with SHIFTRONIC manual control. This transmission mated to the 1.8-liter Nu engine helps Elantra deliver improved fuel efficiency.  Elantra’s six-speed manual transmission is also all-new and provides crisp shifts and further optimizes engine performance. These crisp shifts are courtesy of triple-cone synchronizers for first and second gears, double-cone for third gear and single-cone for fourth, fifth and sixth gears.

Inside, drivers will find Hyundai’s expertise in interior packaging, lighting, leading-edge design and craftsmanship. This approach is visible in the clarity of the instruments and the tilt and telescopic steering wheel. The seats are made of lightweight, environmentally friendly foam. Heated seats are available in the front and the rear, which is a segment first.

The 2013 Elantra is a statement in its class.  Style, performance, and all new standards and features make for an automotive experience tailored for the Coachella Valley.

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2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe is Fluid Motion

2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe Palm Springs

This two-door coupe model of the Elantra sedan will attract more attention in the Coachella Valley than you might expect.  The Elantra line-up, further expanding its appeal to savvy consumers, offers many of the same attributes that made the sedan version such a huge success, while appealing to buyers who want to forgo the four-door for a a couple design.   The 2013 Elantra Coupe marks the continuing evolution of Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” design theme with sporty design language, while assuming a compact coupe segment leadership position with an eco-efficient powertrain, generous convenience features, exceptional roominess and abundant safety features.

The 2013 Elantra Coupe takes Hyundai’s dynamic “Fluidic Sculpture” design principles to the next level. “Fluidic Sculpture” design language replicates the interaction of wind with rigid surfaces to create a perception of fluid in motion.  Hyundai’s signature hexagonal front fascia opening and jeweled swept-back headlights give Elantra Coupe a lean, aggressive demeanor. Fog lights and available side mirror repeater lamps complement the view from the front.

From the side, Elantra Coupe conveys a wedge-like sport coupe silhouette with deeply sculpted surfaces. SE model sporty five-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels with dark spoke inserts add a dynamic presence, while further accentuating the wedge profile. Just below the belt line, a prominent character line carries from the door through to the rear deck. Wheel arch creases give a subtle flared appearance around front and rear wheels, for a wide and aggressive presence. A beveled rocker panel rounds out the lean and muscular effect.

Designed at Hyundai’s North American Design Center in Irvine, California, these sculpted surfaces serve to create a highly aerodynamic body. The drag coefficient for the Elantra Coupe is an exceptionally low 0.28 Cd, resulting in minimal cabin noise and optimal fuel economy.

Under the hood, the Elantra Coupe is powered by the same 1.8-liter Nu four-cylinder engine with an estimated 148 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque found in the Elantra sedan (145 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque for Elantra Coupe PZEV).  Thanks to advanced clean engine technology, most Elantra Coupes sold in California are certified as Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (PZEV) by the EPA. The PZEV Elantra Coupe is as clean as many hybrid electric vehicles, without the extra technological complexity and cost.

The 2013 Elantra Coupe can be equipped with a six-speed manual or automatic transaxle with SHIFTRONIC manual control.  The six-speed automatic is 11 pounds lighter than Hyundai’s global five-speed. It is considerably simpler, having 62 fewer parts, for greater durability, lighter weight and lower cost. It also features an ultra-flat torque converter that shortens the unit’s overall length by 0.43 inches, while being 2.6 pounds lighter.

This transmission, mated to the 1.8-liter Nu engine, helps Elantra Coupe deliver improved fuel efficiency of 38 MPG.  The Elantra Coupe’s six-speed manual transmission offers positive shift feel and further optimizes powertrain performance. Shifting performance is facilitated by durable triple-cone synchronizers for first and second gears, with double-cones for third gear and a single-cone for fourth, fifth and sixth gears.

Inside the Elantra Coupe, drivers will find Hyundai’s expertise in interior packaging, lighting, leading-edge design and craftsmanship. This approach is visible in gauge clarity and the tilt and telescopic steering wheel. Seat construction uses lightweight materials and environmentally-friendly foam for further benefits to fuel efficiency.  Heated seats are standard on all Elantra Coupes, while the SE model offers sporty aluminum pedals.

The 2013 Elantra Coupe represents a modern approach to the sporty coupe segment in Palm Springs.  A youth-oriented design and premium features offered with Hyundai’s strong value proposition makes owning an Elantra coupe easier than ever.

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2013 Hyundai Elantra GT Fun to Drive and Fuel Efficient

2013 Hyundai Elantra GT Palm Springs

Fun to drive, fuel efficient, five-door hatchback versatility, and European driving dynamics make the all new 2013 Elantra GT a new-generation of car for a new-generation of Palm Springs drivers.  Cruising the 10 and navigating the tight turns in the Coachella Valley just got a whole lot more fun.

Up front, Hyundai’s signature hexagonal grille with chrome accents flows into the hood with effortless grace. The body-side graphic features a chrome beltline molding to keep up the sleek and stylish character lines. Sharp projection headlamps, fog lights and available 17-inch alloy wheels with chrome spears complete the modern design.

The new 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT represents further evolution of the ‘Fluidic Sculpture’- the company’s distinctive design DNA.  Including a slippery .30 coefficient of drag, everything about Elantra GT is designed to be aerodynamic for the most enjoyable ride imaginable.  From the aggressive profile and low overall height, to the sleek side mirrors, tire gaps are minimized while rocker panels are streamlined. All of these changes, plus a sport-tuned suspension, equal lower wind resistance, which translates into better fuel economy and a smoother ride.

Powered by an advanced 1.8-liter four cylinder engine and in-house six-speed automatic or manual transmission, the 2013 Elantra GT provides 148-horsepower at 6,500 rpm (ULEV), and Best-in-class specific output at 82.2 horsepower per liter.  Standard fuel economy is an estimated 26 mpg city, 37 mpg highway for the six-speed manual transmission and 27 mpg city, 37 mpg highway for the six-speed automatic transmission. Both transmissions provide 30 mpg combined that gives Elantra GT a highway-only driving range of more than 480 miles.

Elantra GT is fitted with a MacPherson strut front suspension, with coil springs and gas shock absorbers. The rear suspension is comprised of a light weight coupled torsion beam for enhanced steering stability and mono-tube shock absorbers. A 22 mm diameter front stabilizer bar helps reduce body roll when cornering. Elantra GT is tuned for added feel, responsiveness and control, while the Elantra sedan is tuned for comfort. Modifications to the GT include higher rear spring rates, a stiffer twist beam and Sachs dampers for improved body motion control. These changes create driving dynamics which are sporty and comfortable. In addition, two suspension packages were developed to optimize tuning for the two different tire sizes. The Elantra GT’s Style package offers a sportier suspension calibration that is optimized for its lower-profile P215/45R17 tire.

The Hyundai’s all-new Driver Selectable Steering Mode, with three operating modes to select from – Comfort, Normal, and Sport – allows drivers to adapt Elantra GT steering characteristics to varying driving preferences and road conditions any time they choose. Comfort level offers the greatest ease of steering and is ideal for Downtown Palm Springs and parking environments. Sport is optimized for higher-speed highways or winding roads, while Normal is ideal for a variety of driving conditions. The Driver Selectable Steering Mode not only adjusts power assistance levels in each mode, but also on-center build-up feel and steering build-up curves throughout the steering range, for a very natural, progressive feel. Steering damping characteristics, active return gain, and high frequency friction levels have also been optimized for Elantra GT in this system.

The 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT is a sporty hatchback with dynamic European handling and style.  Perfect for anything you have in mind for the Coachella Valley, the Elantra GT is just waiting to show you what it can do.

2013 Hyundai Equus Review Palm Springs

2013 Hyundai Equus

An intelligent luxury automobile for the refined Palm Springs driver, the 2013 Hyundai Equus successfully competes with the best sedans in the world, all while adding a new level of customer experience to luxury car ownership.  Equus features Hyundai’s most powerful engine ever, the direct-injected 5.0-liter Tau V8 engine. This award-winning engine produces 429 horsepower and is matched to an in-house eight-speed transmission, providing Equus drivers in the Coachella Valley even more power and refinement.  Technology and comfort also add to the 2013 Hyundai Equus.

The 2013 Equus is powered by Hyundai’s 5.0-liter Tau DOHC V8 engine, producing 429 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 376 lb-ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm, with a higher specific output (85.8 hp/liter) than its normally-aspirated premium luxury competitors. The Tau V8 engine family was named to the prestigious Ward’s Ten Best Engines list in 2011.

This V8 engine offers premium engine technology, including Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT), a tuned variable induction system, and low-friction diamond-like coatings (DLC) on piston skirts, rings and tappets. With sophisticated octane sensors, this high-performance powerplant will run well on either regular or premium fuel, another benefit for Equus drivers.

The Tau 5.0-liter V8 engine is coupled with a Hyundai-developed eight-speed transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual shift capability. The transmission adds two additional ratios to enhance acceleration, shifting smoothness, and transmission efficiency by more than six percent compared to the previous six-speed.

The handsome design of the 2013 Equus is provided by a progressive rear-end treatment with bold taillights, strong shoulders and look of precision.  Fully-integrated asymmetrical exhaust tips and rear LED turn signal indicators also help to accomplish this look.  The side silhouette is refined, with character lines that accent the rear fenders and a satin chrome side window daylight opening finish. Up front is a subtle horizontal radiator grille and well-proportioned headlamps with jeweled detailing. LED turn signals complement the HID headlamps along with an adaptive front lighting system. The lower air intakes are bold and add to the positive reaction of the overall design. To assist in parking and navigating blind corners and alleys in urban driving, there is an optional forward-view cornering camera integrated into the grille.

The busy Palm Springs executive as well as the couple heading out on the town will feel pampered in the 2013 Equus due to abundant luxury touches and passenger comfort features. This ambience begins with superior quality materials and design layout. The leather upholstery, Microfiber suede headliner, natural wood trim and leather-wrapped French-stitched instrument panel showcase the richness of the Equus interior.

The seats are fully adjustable with plenty of width and support. Thermoelectric devices located in the seat backs and bottom cushions provide control for heating, cooling and humidity. There is ample leg and head room for drivers more than six-feet tall and a massaging driver seat.

The 2013 Equus maintains Hyundai’s emphasis on delivering leading safety technology, boasting world-class active and passive safety features to help prevent accidents, and maximize the well-being of its occupants in the event of a collision. Named a 2012 “TOP SAFETY PICK” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Equus continues the Hyundai tradition of offering features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), nine airbags, electronic active front head restraints, lane departure warning system and smart cruise control. Equus even has a Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system that optimally manages ESC, the electronic parking brake, smart cruise control and the seatbelt tensioning system for optimal safety.

The 2013 Hyundai Equus epitomizes the class and luxury those in Palm Springs deserve.  Powerful, luxurious, and stylish not only describes the Equus, but also those who drive it.

2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Review Palm Springs

2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

The 2013 Genesis Coupe reveals more dynamic design with serious performance credentials.  The significantly redesigned 2013 Genesis Coupe is made for showing off around the Coachella Valley.  In keeping with impressive performance upgrades, Genesis Coupe now sports more aggressive coupe styling, complemented by improved interior materials and design. Both 4-cylinder and V6 engines benefit from significant technology enhancements, with the 3.8-liter V6 engine receiving sophisticated direct-injection technology and the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine upgrading to a more precise twin-scroll turbocharger and larger intercooler. Automatic transmissions for these two models now have 8-speeds, with paddle-shift SHIFTRONIC manual-shifting capability.

Both engines are mated to standard six-speed manual transmissions which have been extensively refined to provide more driver-friendly shift gating and balanced weighting precision. The clutch take-up, feel, and engagement characteristics also have been refined for optimum shifting ease and feel. Both engines now offer an in-house-developed eight-speed automatic with paddle-shift SHIFTRONIC manual-shifting capability. Each transmission has been specifically tuned to match its engine’s unique power and torque curve characteristics.

In addition to the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, each automatic offers shift capability via the shift lever according to individual driver preference. A clear LCD readout on the instrument panel shows the selected gear at all times.

The refreshed 2013 Genesis Coupe strikes a more menacing demeanor, with an aggressively redesigned front fascia, grille, headlights, LED daytime running lights, fog lights and hood with heat extractor cues. The side view reveals new, aggressive 18- and 19-inch alloy wheel designs with deeper dimensional sculpting. Finally, the rear taillights provide a visual spark via premium LED illumination and new contours. Of course, the traditional rear-drive sport coupe proportions remain, with a long wheelbase and short front and rear overhangs producing a classic wedge-like profile. Genesis Coupe’s bodyside character line is an innovative “Z”-shaped design that integrates seamlessly with a unique, drop-beltline rear window graphic.

Genesis Coupe’s arching roofline and tapering greenhouse highlight the exterior profile and emphasize the car’s broad shoulders and wide stance. To complete the aggressive sports car look, the depth between the fenders and the greenhouse has been maximized.  Enlarged openings in the front fascia allow for better engine breathing along with a more aggressive look. Dual asymmetrical exhaust tips integrated with the blackout rear diffuser treatment complete the performance message from the rear.

While all Genesis Coupe models offer a true rear-drive sport driving experience, the high-performance Genesis Coupe R-Spec and Track models raise the bar even higher with differentiated, track-tuned suspension calibrations. The R-Spec/Track suspension features both firmer front and rear spring rates, with matched damper rates.  For 2013, all Genesis Coupes receive improved low-velocity-control dampers for refined ride comfort coupled with improved body control.

The 2013 Genesis Coupe interior has been enhanced with distinctive, upscale features and design cues.  The instrument panel crash pad features a stitched-seam appearance for a distinctly upscale look, and the parking brake lever is leather-wrapped on leather-equipped models. The instrument cluster now features an electroluminescent gauge cluster for premium ambience and superior readability. A new driver-side rear seat walk-in assist function has been added for more convenient rear seat access from the driver’s side.

Drastic, dynamic design and superior performance make the redesigned 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe a ride fitting for Palm Springs.

2013 Hyundai Sonata Review Palm Springs

2013 Hyundai Sonata

The Hyundai Sonata, the mid-size sedan that sent competitors back to the drawing board, is back for its third model year and ready to take whatever Palm Springs has to offer.  For 2013, the Hyundai Sonata builds on its trailblazing recipe of high-design and high fuel efficiency with more features, higher value, and better residual value than ever before.

The exterior of the Sonata is long, light and low. The high beltline allows for a long, sleek roofline accented by a third window. A monoform side profile includes flowing lines highlighted by a Hyundai signature chrome accent spanning the length of the car. Normally, this type of trim is only found around the windows. On the Sonata, this trim extends out from the headlamps, shoots up along the hood and through the beltline. The face is bold with a large powerful chrome grille and headlamps that integrate precise details. The stance is completed by 16-, 17- or 18-inch multi-spoke wheels.

The sophisticated look continues inside, where Hyundai has created an upscale ambiance thanks to a flow-through center console and instrument panel. These flowing surfaces complement the exterior design and wrap around the driver and passengers.

With the 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged GDI engine, the 2013 Sonata offers an unprecedented combination of segment-leading fuel efficiency and power.  274 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 269 lb.-ft of torque from 1,750 – 4,500 rpm and an estimated 22 mpg city and 34 mpg highway with regular fuel.  The Hyundai’s turbocharged engine features a twin-scroll turbocharger that, when combined with the GDI system, results in instantaneous power delivery. The 2.0T engine is available on the SE and Limited trim levels. The Sonata 2.0T SE adds an upgraded fully automatic temperature control system, and the Limited adds the SE’s 18-inch hyper silver alloy wheels, dual exhaust, and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. All 2013 Sonatas utilize a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual control.

The Sonata SE is an even more exciting and willing partner for drivers in the Coachella Valley who prefer a sportier ride and handling dynamics. The sport-tuned suspension features stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars, resulting in a 20 percent increase in roll stiffness. Low profile 18-inch tires round out the unique chassis components of the Sonata SE.

All Sonatas are equipped with motor-driven electric power steering that adjusts instantly to changing driving conditions while improving fuel economy over a conventional steering system. A quick-ratio steering rack is used for crisp feel on turn-in.

Sonata was built from the ground up with safety in mind, with a hot stamped ultra-high-strength steel body structure, advanced airbag technology and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), delivering on Hyundai’s commitment to both active and passive safety technology leadership. Every 2013 Sonata has lifesaving ESC as standard equipment. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported that ESC results in 35 percent fewer single-vehicle crashes and 30 percent fewer single-vehicle fatalities in passenger cars.

The Sonata also features a state-of-the-art braking package. The package includes four-wheel disc brakes and an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) including Brake Assist, which provides maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) to automatically adjust the braking force to front and rear axles based on the vehicle loading conditions.

The 2013 Hyundai Sonata is an unsurpassed value in mid-size sedans, and practically tailor made to fit drivers in Southern California.  Performance, comfort, and style are waiting

2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review Palm Springs

2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

With gasoline prices continually on the rise, especially in Southern California, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid increases fuel efficiency and operates in an all-electric mode more often and for longer periods of time, with an advanced version of Hyundai’s Hybrid Blue Drive architecture. The improved architecture optimizes electric-only driving with a higher output 35 kW electric motor, a more powerful 47 kW Lithium Polymer battery pack and an optimized hybrid operating strategy.

These upgrades are paired with a 2.4-liter Theta II four-cylinder engine that now runs on a more efficient Atkinson cycle and an enhanced transmission to generate 199 combined net horsepower. The new Sonata Hybrid Blue Drive system offers greater fuel economy by increasing the overall amount of available electrical drive power, allowing drivers to go further between fill ups.

As in previous Sonata Hybrids, the 2013 Sonata Hybrid features a clutch to decouple the gasoline engine from the drivetrain. When in pure electric drive, the Sonata Hybrid can drive electrically up to 75 miles per hour. As the upgraded battery stores more energy, engineers also increased the output on the electric traction motor from 30 kW to 35 kW. The increased energy pulled into the system is used for higher torque output in electric drive mode before the system has to start the internal combustion engine.  These changes deliver both improved fuel economy and drivability. The higher output electric motor is also essential to improving energy capture during regenerative braking.

The body of the 2013 Sonata Hybrid features the unique exterior that sets it apart from other Sonatas. The combination of a re-shaped front and rear fascias with a deeper air dam, extended rocker panels and lower drag wheels allow air to flow around the body with less resistance.

The ability to easily slice through the air, combined with low rolling resistance tires and the reduced friction in the newly optimized Hybrid Blue Drive powertrain significantly reduces the amount of energy required to maintain highway speeds. The result is the remarkable highway fuel efficiency of the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.

The Sonata Hybrid, with Hyundai’s improved Hybrid Blue Drive technology, has always featured a lithium-polymer battery pack, making Hyundai one of the first automakers in the world to incorporate this remarkably efficient battery technology into production vehicles. Lithium-polymer is the next generation of lithium-ion technology and is ideally suited to automotive applications thanks to a particularly robust and reliable chemistry.

The lithium-polymer cells, developed with Hyundai’s partner LG Chem, use a manganese-spinel chemistry that provides an excellent compromise between power delivery, energy density and thermal stability.  Thermal stability is critical to ensuring durability, effectively eliminating the need to replace the battery pack during the normal lifespan of the vehicle. The electrodes in older lithium-ion systems expand and contract significantly with the heating and cooling that naturally occurs during charging and discharging. This thermal expansion causes cracks in the electrodes which ultimately reduces the cell’s ability to hold a charge. Manganese-spinel lithium-polymer cells have much lower expansion rates and are thus able to go through tens-of-thousands of charge cycles even without having to use a heavier, liquid-cooling system.

For the environmentally conscious driver who also likes to save money on gasoline, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is the ideal match for Palm Springs.

2013 Hyundai Tucson Review Palm Springs

2013 Hyundai Tucson

     Planning a hiking trip to Pacific Crest Trail Ridge Loop, or a drive through Joshua Tree?  Enjoy the luxury of a 2013 Hyundai Tucson without the price of a luxury CUV.. 

For the 2013 model year, Hyundai delights by increasing the number of standard features on both Tucson GLS and the top-of-the-line Tucson Limited. The fast growing compact crossover now demands comfort features once belonging only to luxury models and favors miles per gallon over miles per hour.  The new standard features on Tucson GLS are fog lights, automatic headlight control and heated front seats. The Limited trim level gains proximity key entry with push button start. Tucson packages these luxury comfort features an EPA estimated 30 mpg on the highway and a distinctive design making it a sophisticated CUV for the active lifestyles of Southern California, with a compact size ideal for singles and couples.

The 2013 Hyundai Tucson features precedent-setting engineering, including advanced weight saving technology, and two eco-efficient Theta II four-cylinder engines delivering up to 30 mpg on the highway.  True to Hyundai form, Tucson applies advanced technologies as standard equipment such as Downhill Brake Control (DBC) and Hillstart Assist Control (HAC).  Also, to keep its passengers comfortable and informed, the 2013 Tucson also has an optional panoramic sunroof, touch-screen navigation and a Bluetooth hands-free phone system.

Hyundai’s commitment to making Tucson 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 improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Shifts are silky-smooth with an option of manual control through the SHIFTRONIC feature.  For the driver, the six-speed delivers a performance edge while helping improve highway fuel economy. There is no dipstick in the transmission 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.

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 Hyundai family hexagonal front grille, aggressive lower air intake, sculptured hood creases, swept back headlights, and sleek greenhouse and wraparound taillights. Chrome grille accents and door handles lend sophistication to the top-of-the-line Tucson Limited. 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.

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.

The 2013 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. All four doors also have internal guard beams to protect passengers in a side-impact collision.

Safety, reliability, and style all define the 2013 Tucson, as well as those who choose to drive it.  Made for Coachella Valley adventures, the 2013 Hyundai Tucson is available now.