Why Hyundai is STILL Hot!

Why does it seem like Hyundai is on a roll? Because Hyundai has a “high value” approach to standard equipment and a commitment to quality, which all work together to create a sense of security for today’s buyers.

And, Hyundai’s July sales figures show this trend with a 21 percent increase over last month and a 12 percent increase compared with July 2008. Sales from the “cash for clunkers” program, says Hyundai, accounted for 22 percent of Hyundai’s sales for July.

“The combination of increasing consumer recognition of Hyundai’s industry-leading quality, and the incremental stimulus from the Cash for Clunkers program, led to our second-best July ever,” says Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai Motor America’s vice president of national sales.

I wrote a story several months back about how the Hyundai brand was a “hot buy.” Today, with the federal government rebate program in its second round of funding and with Hyundai’s killer warranty as well as Assurance and Gas Lock programs, this may be the best time ever to buy a Hyundai. (I know that sounded cliché, but it really is true.)

The Hyundai Assurance Program has boosted this Korean car maker’s sales since this first-of-its-kind program was put in place early this year. The program allows consumers to walk away from their credit obligation provided there’s a real adverse life event or financial shortfall such as getting laid off from your job.

The Hyundai Assurance Gas Lock guarantees a year’s worth of gas at just $1.49 per gallon on most Hyundai models leased or purchased through Aug. 31, 2009. This reduced gas program complements Hyundai’s job-loss assurance program as well as Hyundai’s 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty.

In the past, Hyundai made a name for itself with what it claims is America’s Best Warranty. Today, this coverage is even better and includes bumper-to-bumper protection for five years (or 60,000 miles). In addition, Hyundai tacks on a 10-year/100,0000-mile powertrain and a seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation warranties.

Plus, Hyundai throws in free, no deductible 24-hour roadside assistance coverage for five years and with no mileage limit, which includes emergency towing, lockout service and even some coverage for trip interruption expenses.

Hyundai says the “cash for clunkers” program is even having a positive impact across all sectors of the automotive industry. For example, Hyundai plants in Alabama have returned to a five-day work week after having cut hours back in October.

“The (CARS) program is good for the environment, cuts oil dependency, saves consumers money and is good for the economy – and our dealers have a great lineup of vehicles perfect for customers looking for safe and energy-efficient transportation,” says Zuchowski.

As a road test reviewer, I have driven lots of Hyundai vehicles. In fact, I’m driving a super cool 2009 Hyundai Tucson this week and I just LOVE it. Hyundai is just a quality car brand that really is on a roll. Catch that Hyundai ride!

Sheryll Alexander is a lifestyles writer based in Costa Mesa, Calif. Follow me! @sheryllalexande