The Korean manufacturer blew into the windy city with three vehicles: an updated model, a new model and something for the future…
2009 Hyundai Sonata
Even though the 2008 Sonata outsold the 2007 model, Hyundai chose to upgrade the heart of their lineup in a number of areas. New front and rear fascias incorporating new headlights, taillights and fog lights have changed the look in a very subtle way. On the inside, small changes have been made to the instrument panel and console, while USB and iPod ports are now standard and a navigation system has been added as an option.
The biggest changes have been to the engine and suspension with horsepower, torque and fuel economy improvements in both the 2.4 liter 4 cylinder and 3.3 liter 6 cylinder engines. Suspension dynamics have been re-tuned for enhanced handling in the GLS and Limited models, while the SE gets even firmer sport tuning.
2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring
Based on the Elantra architecture, the Touring has a 2” longer wheelbase and share none of the body panels with its 4 door sibling. The longer wheelbase translates into 1.5 inches more rear seat legroom, while the new roofline gives rear passengers 2 inches of additional headroom and an additional 10 cubic feet of storage behind the seats.
Chassis improvements come in the form of larger front and rear disc brakes, larger wheels and tires and unique sport suspension tuning. Electronic stability control, traction control and ABS with electronic brake force distribution round out the package.
Inside, the Elantra Touring comes standard with USB/iPod inputs and XM Satellite Radio, as well as 6 airbags.
i-Blue Concept
In an effort to help develop mass-produced fuel cell vehicles for the next decade, the i-Blue concept represents Hyundai’s first-ever model designed from the ground up to be a fuel cell vehicle. Equipped with a 100 kW electric motor and fuel cell stack as well as a 115 liter tank, the i-Blue has a range of more than 370 miles and a maximum speed of over 100 miles per hour.
