Kia Motors America Hires New Vice President, Parts

Tom Leimkuhler Joins Kia Motors America

IRVINE, Calif., April 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) announced that Tom Leimkuhler is joining the company as the new vice president, parts, effective April 18, reporting directly to Len Hunt, executive vice president and COO of KMA. In his new role, Mr. Leimkuhler is responsible for increasing parts and accessory sales, and overseeing all parts and accessories for inventory management, logistics and retail sales.

Leimkuhler brings to Kia more than 25 years of automotive experience, having most recently held the position of managing director, supply chain management and vice president, parts at MG/Nanjing Global Motors, where he was responsible for the creation and management of the Aftermarket Parts and Supply Chain Divisions in China, Europe and the United States. Prior to that, he spent 14 years with Mazda North American Operations as director, logistics, inventory management and parts distribution. Before joining Mazda, Leimkuhler served as national traffic manager, parts distribution at Subaru of America, Inc.

"Tom will be an excellent addition to our organization, bringing with him extensive knowledge of the automotive industry and specific expertise in the parts and accessories division," said Hunt. "We are confident in his ability to contribute to our continued growth and success."

Kia Motors America -- the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corp. in Seoul, South Korea -- offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States.

For more information visit www.kiamedia.com

Source: Kia Motors America

Hyundai Santa Fe Ranked Among the Best Small SUVs Tested By Consumer Reports

• - Hyundai Santa Fe now ranked just below CR's top-rated Toyota RAV4
• - Dodge Nitro posts disappointing "Fair" score

Newly redesigned, the Hyundai Santa Fe Limited earned a "Very Good" overall rating -- surpassed only by the V6-powered Toyota RAV4 Limited -- in tests for the May issue of Consumer Reports.

The Hyundai Santa Fe ranks second overall among some 20 small SUVs recently tested by Consumer Reports, including the highly rated Subaru Forester and Honda CR- V.

"The Hyundai Santa Fe is quiet, comfortable riding, and it's refined," said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut. "It has a versatile interior, yet its exterior dimensions are modest."

The Hyundai Santa Fe was one of five small SUVs tested for the May issue. Other vehicles in the group were the Subaru Forester, Mitsubishi Outlander, Suzuki XL7, and Dodge Nitro. The RAV4 and CR-V are among the other small SUVs previously tested by CR. As tested, the SUVs ranged in price from $27,662 for the Subaru Forester Sports 2.5XT to $30,745 for the Santa Fe Limited equipped with a 3.3 liter engine.

Though not on par with the Hyundai Santa Fe, the Subaru Forester, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Suzuki XL-7 all posted "Very Good" overall scores. The new Dodge Nitro scored at the bottom of the pack with a "Fair" score.

The May issue also includes updates on three previously-tested minivans -- the Toyota Sienna, Nissan Quest, and Chevrolet Uplander. As reported in the Annual April Auto Issue, the Toyota Sienna is CR's Top Pick in the minivan category. It posted an "Excellent" overall score. The Nissan Quest achieved a "Very Good" score and the Chevrolet Uplander is rated "Good".

Tests and ratings of the small SUVs and the three minivans appear in the May issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale April 10. The reports are also available to subscribers of http://www.consumerreports.org/.

Among the SUVs in this test group, Consumer Reports recommends only the Subaru Forester. CR does not yet have reliability data on the Hyundai Santa Fe, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Suzuki XL7. The Dodge Nitro scored too low to be recommended. Consumer Reports only recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR's Annual Car Reliability Survey of its own subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.

The redesigned Mitsubishi Santa Fe is a big improvement over the old model. With an interior now big enough for a third row seat and excellent fit and finish, it is a refined and versatile package. The Santa Fe Limited ($30,745 Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price as tested) was tested with an optional 242-hp, 3.3-liter V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission that deliver very good acceleration and smooth shifts -- but only 18 mpg overall in CR's fuel economy tests. The Santa Fe's third-row seat is suitable only for children, with a low cushion and very little leg room. The SUV has 37.5 cubic

feet of storage area with the second- and third-row seats folded. Braking is very good overall.

The high-end Sports XT is the only Forester to currently offer electronic stability control. It is also quick and handles nimbly. But the ESC kicks in too late to prevent the SUV's tail from sliding. The Forester Sports XT ($27,662 MSRP as tested) is powered by a refined 224-hp, 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers acceleration matching that from many V6s. The four-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly. The Forester has a substantial amount of cargo space for its size -- 32.0 cubic feet with the 60/40 rear seat folded forward. Braking performance is very good.

The redesigned Outlander is greatly improved and is now a competitive entry in this class. It has a refined, responsive powertrain and agile handling. The Outlander XLS ($30,615 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 220- hp, 3.0-liter V6 that delivers smooth power and very good acceleration. It's mated to a slick, six-speed transmission. The interior is roomy and offers a tiny, third-row seat. With all the rear seatbacks folded, the Outlander has 33.5 cubic feet of storage space. Braking is very good.

The redesigned XL7 has moved past its truck roots and is now based on the Chevrolet Equinox. But it's longer than the Equinox and has enough room for a usable third row. Different suspension tuning gives it improved ride and handling over the Equinox. The XL7 Luxury ($29,284 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 252-hp, 3.6-liter V6 engine that provides ample performance. The XL7 pulled CR's 3,500-pound test trailer to 60 mph faster than any vehicle in this group. The five-speed automatic transmission shifts very smoothly. Cargo room is 36.5 cubic feet, and both 60/40 second-row and 50/50 third-row seatbacks fold forward for additional storage space. Braking distances are fairly good.

The Nitro shares a platform with the Jeep Liberty and has bold styling but otherwise falls flat. Handling is clumsy, and the ride is snappy and unsettled. The driving position is awkward, and fit and finish are below par. The Nitro SLT ($28, 875 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 210-hp, 3.7-liter V6 engine that feels sluggish and gets 16 mpg, the group's worst. The four- speed transmission shifts smoothly but isn't particularly responsive to part throttle downshifts. Cargo area expands to 39.5 cubic feet by folding the 60/40 rear seatbacks. The tailgate rises for access to the cargo area, and the floor pulls out for loading. Stopping distances from 60 mph were long on both dry and wet pavement.

Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted sources for information and advice on consumer products and services. It conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Website; the magazine's auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars. To subscribe to Consumer Reports, call 1-800-234-1645.

Information and articles from the magazine can be accessed online at www.ConsumerReports.org

(C) Consumers Union 2007. The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for commercial or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports(R) is published by Consumers Union, an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. To achieve this mission, we test, inform, and protect. To maintain our independence and impartiality, Consumers Union accepts no outside advertising, no free test samples, and has no agenda other than the interests of consumers. Consumers Union supports itself through the sale of our information products and services, individual contributions, and a few noncommercial grants.

Source: Consumer Reports

Hyundai Adds XM as Standard Feature on All-new Hyundai Veracruz and Future Premium Sports Sedan

XM also now available on 2007 Hyundai Azera, 2007 Hyundai Elantra, 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2007 Hyundai Sonata models

XM (NASDAQ:XMSR) , the nation's leading provider of satellite radio with more than 7.6 million subscribers, today announced its continued expansion as a factory-installed, standard feature across the Hyundai vehicle lineup. New vehicles with standard XM include the all-new Veracruz midsize crossover on sale now and Hyundai's upcoming premium sports sedan. A concept of the future sports sedan was revealed today at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS).

XM Radio is already a standard, factory-installed feature on all 2007 Azera, 2007 Hyundai Elantra, 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2007 Hyundai Sonata audio systems.

"Hyundai customers come to expect unique and innovative style and technology, along with performance, comfort and safety across our diverse product portfolio," said John Krafcik, vice-president of product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. "The addition of XM Satellite Radio to these models is yet another great feature to enhance the already excellent value offered by all of Hyundai's vehicles."

"Hyundai was the first automotive brand to announce plans to make XM Radio standard across the board," said Steve Cook, executive vice president, Automotive for XM. "The addition of XM's coast-to-coast programming is another feature to remind Hyundai buyers that they are enjoying one of the best new car values on the market today. By the end of 2007, all Hyundai factory audio systems will feature XM's 170-plus channels of commercial-free music, news, sports, talk, and entertainment."

Every Hyundai model equipped with factory-installed XM Radio comes with a three-month trial subscription.

About XM Satellite Radio

XM (NASDAQ:XMSR) is America's number one satellite radio company with more than 7.6 million subscribers. Broadcasting live daily from studios in Washington, DC, New York City, Chicago, the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Toronto and Montreal, XM's 2006 lineup includes more than 170 digital channels of choice from coast to coast: commercial-free music, premier sports, news, talk radio, comedy, children's and entertainment programming; and the most advanced traffic and weather information.

XM, the leader in satellite-delivered entertainment and data services for the automobile market is available in 140 different vehicle models for 2007 through partnerships with auto manufacturers, including Infiniti. XM's industry-leading products are available at consumer electronics retailers nationwide.

For more information about XM hardware, programming and partnerships, please visit http://www.xmradio.com/

Hyundai Motor America

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through 755 dealerships nationwide.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements in this press release include demand for XM Satellite Radio's service, the Company's dependence on technology and third party vendors, its potential need for additional financing, as well as other risks described in XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc.'s Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on 3-3-06. Copies of the filing are available upon request from XM Radio's Investor Relations Department.


Source: XM Satellite Radio

Hyundai Concept Genesis Premium Sports Sedan to Be Unveiled at NYIAS

Rear-Wheel Drive and V-8 Engine Promise World Class Dynamics and Refinement

Hyundai will present the world debut of Concept Genesis during a press conference at the 2007 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) on April 4. The concept car heralds the future architecture and design of a rear-wheel drive premium sports sedan scheduled to grace the Hyundai lineup in 2008."

"Concept Genesis extends our product range into new territories from a performance, design and packaging perspective," said Steve Wilhite, chief operating officer, Hyundai Motor America. "When it arrives in 2008 it will catapult Hyundai into competition against some potent rivals, and Genesis is up for the challenge."

Concept Genesis rides on a prototype of Hyundai's all-new rear-wheel drive platform, signaling the brand's desire to broaden its appeal to discerning driving enthusiasts. Concept Genesis is powered by Hyundai's newly developed Tau DOHC 32-valve V-8 powertrain. Concept Genesis marks the beginning of premium performance for the Hyundai brand.

"Concept Genesis is a manifestation of Hyundai's extraordinary desire to deliver world-class products across all model segments," said John Krafcik, vice president, Product Development and Strategic Planning, Hyundai Motor America. "With Genesis, we've got a unique product position -- an all-new, highly capable, rear-wheel drive platform; a high-performance powertrain; and premium, progressive design -- all at a price starting well under $30,000."

NEW REAR-WHEEL-DRIVE ARCHITECTURE IS A FIRST FOR THE U.S.

Concept Genesis features a rear-wheel-drive architecture, its first application in a U.S. Hyundai model. Rear-wheel drive provides a 53:47 front/rear weight distribution for optimal handling as well as more refined steering characteristics. Concept Genesis' premium handling and steering performance is further controlled by Electronic Stability Control (ESC), the industry's most important new safety technology. Hyundai leads all popular car brands in the standard application of ESC, with more than 70 percent of 2007 Hyundai sales volume featuring this life-saving technology as standard equipment. ESC continually analyzes road speed, steering input, throttle position, lateral yaw rate and other factors. An onboard microprocessor determines if the vehicle is starting to understeer or oversteer, and can brake appropriate wheels and reduce engine power to keep the vehicle safely on course.

Utilizing ultra high-tensile steel in critical areas in the unibody provides Concept Genesis with a 12-14 percent higher dynamic torsional rigidity and a lower body-in-white weight than the BMW 5-series and Mercedes- Benz E-Class. This stiffer, lighter, larger body provides a terrific foundation for world-class dynamics and lowering noise levels inside the vehicle.

Tau v-8 powertrain

Adding to the Concept Genesis' performance factor is the all-new Tau 4.6- liter V8 engine mated to a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC(R) manual control and a limited-slip differential. The Tau delivers well over 300 horsepower to fit the demands of performance-oriented consumers. This powertrain combination will launch Genesis to 60 miles per hour in well under six seconds. The Tau engine is built with flexibility for the future. Future Tau variants may offer larger displacement, forced induction options and other technology enhancements.

INNOVATIVE AND SOPHISTICATED SPORT-TUNED SUSPENSION

Genesis features a suspension design that is among the most sophisticated and refined anywhere, at any price. The front five-link suspension features upper and lower arms linking the front wheels to the chassis. This artfully articulated arrangement creates a virtual king pin axis which dramatically reduces unwanted kickback through the steering wheel as well as improving responsiveness. The five-link independent rear suspension is equally sophisticated, enabling precise suspension geometry for an incredible level of ride and handling prowess. The capabilities of the advanced front and rear- suspension are maximized through driver selectable dynamic settings allowing tailored ride and handling characteristics according to need ... or desire.

MODERN DESIGN

Genesis' design is a progressive interpretation of the modern rear-wheel drive sports sedan. To match its dynamic powertrain capabilities, Genesis combines strong, sculpted forms which integrate precise details, natural materials and innovative lighting to provide a well-crafted, premium design aesthetic.

SAFETY FEATURES

Maintaining Hyundai's emphasis on delivering leading safety technology, Concept Genesis boasts world class active and passive safety features to both prevent accidents, and maximize the well being of its occupants in the event of a collision. The Genesis continues the Hyundai tradition of standardizing key life-saving active safety technology such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with traction control, eight airbags and active headrests.

Concept Genesis is brought to a halt by large four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). The 12.6- inch front rotors have single-piston floating calipers and the rear brakes feature 12.4-inch rotors with single-pistons.

  TECHNOLOGY

* Advanced adaptive cruise control    * Navigation with backup camera

* Electronic Stability Control        * Electric parking brake

* Eight airbags                       * Bluetooth technology

* Heat / cool seats                   * USB / Auxiliary input jack

* High Intensity Discharge (HID)      * HD Radio(TM) Receiver
headlamps with adaptive leveling

* Push-button start                   * XM Satellite Radio(R)

                                    * Infinity(R) Discrete Surround
                                      Audio System

GENESIS PREMIUM SPORTS SEDAN SPECIFICATIONS

* Configuration: FR Engine RWD        * Estimated 0-60 mph: well under 6.0
                                      seconds Sport Sedan

* Wheelbase:  2935 mm / 115.6 inches  * Top speed:  130 mph (restricted)

* Overall length:  5005 mm /          * Recommended fuel: Unleaded
197.0 inches

* Overall width:  1863 mm /           * Transmission type:  ZF 6-speed
73.3 inches                           automatic with SHIFTRONIC manual
                                      control

* Overall height:  1490 mm /          * Suspension:  Front multi-link (5-
58.7 inches                           link) / Rear multi-link (5-link)


* Track, f/r:  1575 mm /              * Stabilizer bar (front/rear):
62.0 inches, 1580 mm / 62.2 inches    26 mm/18 mm

* Wheels:  20-inch multi-spoke        * Weight distribution front to rear:
                                      53:47

* Engine type:  V8                    * Brakes:  Power-assisted 4-wheel
                                      disc

* Estimated horsepower: Well          * Front brake diameter (mm / in):
over 300HP                            320 / 12.6 ventilated disc

* Estimated torque:  Over 300 lb. ft. * Rear brake diameter (mm / in):
                                      314 / 12.4 solid disc

* Displacement:  4,627 cc             * Steering type:  Speed-sensing
                                      rack-and-pinion

* Block material: High pressure       * Steering ratio:  14.86
die casting aluminum block

* Cylinder head material: Aluminum

* Valvetrain: Dual Over Head Cam
(DOHC)

* Valve timing: Continuous variable
valve timing

* Variable induction system

* Fuel delivery: Multi-port fuel
injection

* Bore & stroke: 92 x 87

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 750 dealerships nationwide.

Source: Hyundai Motor America

Hyundai Sets Record March with 41,984 U.S. Sales

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., April 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America today reported its best March ever with sales of 41,984 vehicles, up 22 percent over February. The all-new Hyundai Santa Fe and Hyundai Accent were up 109 percent and 57 percent over March 2006 respectively.

"Once again we are pleased to see such a strong March given the continued challenging sales conditions across the country," said Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai's vice president of National Sales. "We are excited to finish off the first quarter with such momentum and feel poised for continued sales growth in the second quarter with the launch of our new midsize crossover Hyundai Veracruz and continued strong performance from one of the freshest product lineups in the industry."

All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty. Hyundai buyers are protected by a 10- year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, and a 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty and 5- year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance protection.


Following is the sales breakdown for March 2007:

  CARLINE               MAR/2007     MAR/2006       CY2007       CY2006

ACCENT                   3,427        2,181        8,272        4,765
SONATA                  10,584       17,487       29,997       42,871
ELANTRA                 10,343        9,665       22,832       25,785
TIBURON                  1,247        1,547        2,903        3,663
SANTA FE                 8,470        4,058       21,239       10,452
XG350/AZERA              2,395        2,401        5,864        6,260
TUCSON                   3,982        4,427        9,694       12,192
ENTOURAGE                1,358          n/a        3,226          n/a
VERACRUZ                   178          n/a          178          n/a

TOTAL                   41,984       41,766      104,205      105,988

Source: Hyundai Motor America