24-7

Just returned from Vancouver, where Hyundai Canada hosted dealers from across the country at a national meeting. There were cocktails and finger foods, but I came for one thing: to see all the latest models that will land at Castlegar Hyundai in the coming months. On this front, Hyundai did not disappoint. I was amazed by the pipeline of new product.

Hyundai is aiming to launch seven new vehicles in 24 months. The 2010 Tucson and the 2011 Sonata were the first two launched as part of this "24/7" initiative.

Building on the success of the 2011 Sonata, Hyundai will soon release the Sonata Hybrid followed by the Sonata Turbo. With a four-cylinder Gas Direction Injection (GDI) engine, the Sonata already hammers out 198 horsepower while getting 50 mpg on the highway, according to government fuel economy ratings. The hybrid features a six-speed transmission and a new lithium polymer battery. It will run with an electronic motor only, a GDI engine only, or a combination of both, which means better fuel economy in both the city and on the highway. The turbo will absolutely wow customers with a four-cylinder engine producing 274 horsepower. It is like having V6 power with four-cylinder fuel economy. What could be better for driving in the Kootenays? I've already ordered two turbo models and can't wait to get them. The Sonata is selling out. At the meeting, dealers complained to Hyundai about the shortage. The Turbo will ramp up sales every further.

The new Elantra sedan is slated for January, 2011 and will also feature GDI technology. With the most power and cargo space in its class, and featuring similar styling to the Sonata, the Elantra continues Hyundai's focus on packing huge value into every one of its smaller cars. The new Accent is next, with a newly-designed four-door sedan and a brand new five-door hatchback. All of Hyundai's small cars will be available with premium options so customers won't have to give up comfort just because they want to drive a small vehicle. And finally, the Veloster coupe will arrive as a kind of replacement to the Hyundai Tiburon. This stylish front-wheel drive sports coupe will appeal to younger buyers.

I came away from Vancouver feeling more excited than ever about Hyundai's product lineup. After just one year as a Hyundai dealer, I've seen plenty of innovation and new technology with so much more to come.  Hyundai's overarching goal is to convince more Canadians to consider Hyundai. Although the company's market share has grown immensely, there is still a large percentage of people who won't consider the brand because or preconceived notions about quality. Hyundai is winning awards and excellent reviews, but it takes time to change perceptions.

In my view, these new products will convince more people to put Hyundai on their shopping lists.