13 November 2006
Immediate release
Hyundai continues strong diesel lineup
As many car manufacturers scour the world seeking diesel power plants to enhance their vehicle range, Hyundai New
Zealand has significantly strengthened its diesel line up here in New Zealand. The company has launched next generation
diesel engines in its highly popular mid-sized sedan, the Sonata, and the already thrifty Getz small car.
When it was released one year ago Hyundai’s Sonata raised the bar for family sedan performance, features and quality. It
also established the South Korean car company firmly in the ranks of a serious design and engineering focussed
manufacturer. Furthermore, it has received awards globally, including in New Zealand with the NBR Vehicle of the Year in
2005, as well as the 2006 AA Motoring Excellence Awards, with a win in the Medium/Large car class.
The launch of the Sonata diesel this week sees Hyundai firmly placed to maintain the momentum generated by the petrol
Sonata. As fuel prices move well above many motorist’s comfort zones, the diesel Sonata provides an answer that, as yet,
most of Hyundai’s competitors are unable to match.
Featuring a 2.0 litre Common Rail turbo charged diesel engine, the Sonata diesel makes no compromise on performance as
it delivers diesel economy. It also features the very latest in engine technology, including a Variable Geometry Turbo.
The engine develops 103 kW of power at 4,000 rpm, as well as 305 Nm of torque at 1800 – 2,500 rpm, and is coupled to a
four speed transmission that features a sequential sports shift option.
All the features that have earned the petrol Sonata wide recognition in the motoring press are included in this diesel
variant. Passenger and driver comforts include a six speaker sound system, steering wheel mounted audio controls, heated
side mirrors and front fog lights.
All models come with a five star crash test rating, and a raft on on-board safety systems and devices. The Sonata is one
of the few cars in its class to have the proven ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) system that is capable of detecting
precarious driving situations as they occur, and adjust braking and engine speed accordingly.
“Having the Sonata available in diesel means there is a model for all tastes when you include the 2.4 and 3.3 litre
petrols in the line up, we are sure families and businesses alike will appreciate the engine choice, all wrapped up with
a great number of safety and luxury features,” says Philip Eustace, Managing Director of Hyundai New Zealand.
The Sonata diesel pricing will start at $39,990 for the base CRDi model, with an Elite option to be available early in
2007.
The Hyundai Getz has won the hearts and minds of Kiwi drivers with its modern styling and deceivingly large cabin space.
Now available with a 1.5 litre Common Rail turbo charged diesel and a five speed manual, the Getz promises to become one
of the most frugal cars on the road. Delivering 65 kW of power at 4,000 rpm, and 215 Nm of torque at 1,900 – 2,500 rpm,
the small car abounds with features that only add to its attractiveness.
An in-dash MP3 compatible CD player reflects the lifestyle of those wanting a smart, sassy round town car, along with
ample storage space in the front console and under the driver’s seat for mobile phones and accessories.
The added benefit of Hyundai’s extended 15,000 km servicing interval warranty on both diesel vehicles only increases the
affordability and appeal of the new variants,” says Mr Eustace.
The diesels represent the vanguard of Hyundai’s move on the diesel market with more models due out in the New Year.
These include in early January 2007 an Elite Sonata diesel and a 1.5 litre Accent, as well as an Elantra Euro hatch
diesel in the latter half of 2007.
Ends