2013 Hyundai Sonata Review

Today I'd like to talk about one of our most popular vehicles we have to offer. The 2013 Hyundai Sonata GLS 2.4L Popular Package is a great value for any family. I'm sure by now you've seen the fluidic sculpture design Hyundai has offered on the Sonata. I mean, how could you miss how sharp it is! The powerful 2.4L GDI is equipped with 198 horsepower and features a 6-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission.  With an EPA rating of 24(city)/35(highway)/28(combined), the Sonata has a cruising range of 647 miles (highway) to ensure an extended trip between fuel stops.

Key features the Sonata has to offer with the Popular Package is heated from cloth seats, power driver's seat with lumbar, chrome door handles, leatherette door panel inserts, front fog lights, automatic headlights, 16" aluminum alloy wheels, 6-airbag safety system, 4-wheel disc abs with brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution. Bluelink is also standard (free trial) on every Sonata. With Bluelink, you can link your cellphone to the car and remote lock/unlock, receive vehicle diagnostics with more features that I've discussed in previous blogs.

The Sonata, if you've not driven one it a true must if you're considering a new car! It's a sporty fun car with a lot to offer your family. The Sonata makes for a great family sedan, work sedan or just a play car. With a 5 star overall safety rating, the Sonata makes a lot of sense in many ways.

For more help, view our website www.lexingtonhyundai.com or you can email me with any questions you have.

Peace,
@YourAutoGuyZach

Buying for a teenager with safety in mind? Pick the Hyundai Sonata!

I came across a study by the Governors Highway Safety Associations (GHSA) that stated teen traffic deaths are on the rise again. I thought that today I would write about the safety advantages the 2013 Hyundai Sonata has to offer your new driver. Of course you have the basic safety rules that should always be followed:

• Always fasten your seatbelt. No exceptions. 
• No phone calls or texting while in the car. 
• Recommend not driving at night or during inclement weather. 
• With a teenager driving, always limit the number of passengers. No distractions. 

Kentucky, my home state,  has taken it a step further to help insure safety with teenage drivers.

• At 16, teenagers can apply for a learner's permit. Once obtained, the permit  limits the driver to only drive with a licensed driver age 21 or older sitting in the front seat. Teenagers are required at least 60 hours of driving with at least 10 hours at night (with a parent or guardian). 
• At 16 1/2 with at least 180 days of driving and completed the 60 hours of practice driving, they can apply for the "intermediate license". With the intermediate license, teenagers can drive alone with restrictions. No driving is allowed between midnight and 6 am. They are also not allowed to drive with more than one non-family member under the age 18 (unless an adult with a valid license is seated next to them). If a teenage with the intermediate license is convicted of a moving violation, they must restart the 180-day learners permit holding period. 
• At 17 your teenager is eligible for a full unrestricted license as long as they've held the intermediate license for at least six months and taken a drivers education course. Without the drivers education course, teenagers are limited until they are 18 to obtain a full unrestricted drivers license.

I think Kentucky (and others states) have done a great job to try and improve teenager safety while driving.

So it's time to pick out a vehicle. Maybe I'm bias, but the 2013 Hyundai Sonata is a great choice! I'll explain why and maybe you'll see why I'm bias. The 2012 (when test was done) Hyundai Sonata received a 2012 Top Safety Pick award the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). With an overall safety rating of 5 Stars, the Sonata should be number one on your list! Here's a list of safety features to consider when your teenager is driving. Source: Hyundai USA

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC): NHTSA analysis estimates that passenger cars equipped with ESC may experience 35% fewer single-vehicle crashes, and 30% fewer single-vehicle fatalities*. ESC sensors measure the difference between a driver's intended path—when a turn is less or more than intended—and applies appropriate braking force to individual wheels to help regain control.⁵ ESC also includes Traction Control System (TCS), which reduces wheelspin when accelerating.^{4 Disclaimer}
• Traction Control System (TCS): By reducing wheelspin in various adverse traction conditions, including inclement weather, the Traction Control System helps give more stable and predictable acceleration characteristics for a more confident, controlled driving experience.
• Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): Emergency braking maneuvers can cause a vehicle's wheels to lock up and skid, resulting in a loss of steering control exactly when you need it most. ABS helps prevent the possibility of wheel lockup under hard braking, and rapidly pulses the brakes to help you retain steering control as you come to a stop.
• Brake Assist System: In emergency braking situations, many drivers may not apply sufficient braking force to achieve the shortest possible stopping distance. The Brake Assist system helps detect emergency braking and ensures the maximum braking force is immediately applied to minimize stopping distances.

On top of all that, Hyundai offers Blue Link (Standard Feature but requires a subscription) to help put your mind at ease. Blue Link consist of three different packages. Assurance, Essentials and Guidance.  Here's a rundown of what Blue Link can do for you and your teenage driver. Source: Hyundai USA

Assurance: Automatic Collision Notification, SOS Emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance and Monthly Vehicle Report. 

Essentials Package: Smart phone application that allows you to Remote Lock/Unlock, Remote Vehicle Start (with push button only), Remote Horn & Lights, Car Finder, Geo-Fence, Speed Alert & Curfew Alert (Big Ones and I'll talk about it below), Stolen Vehicle Recovery, Web Diagnostic, Voice Text Messaging and more! 

Guidance Package: Turn-by-turn Navigation, POI Search, Traffic, Gas station locations and prices, Eco-Coach, Restaurant Ratings and Weather. 

The big boys regarding safety would be Geo-Fence, Speed Alert and Curfew Alert. Here's what's nice about that! Blue Link can call or text you alerts based on your settings!

• Geo-Fence: Monitor your vehicle's movement in and out of a specified region. 
• Speed Alert: If your vehicle exceeds a specified speed, you'll be alerted. 
• Curfew Alert: Set a time limit for your vehicle and receive an alert if it operates beyond that time. 

Very nice safety features Hyundai offers parents for their young teenage drivers! Stop by at Glenn Hyundai and see me for a full explanation of what Hyundai and Blue Link has to offer you! Feel free to email me any questions or concerns you may have! 

As always, Peace! 

Zach

The lowest price doesn't always mean the best price

I know that a lot of people think the lowest price is the best deal. Absolutely not true!! Think about the service you'll receive down the road. Would you like help in service? How about a dealer who will wash your car when you like? I think this is especially true when it comes to buying a used car. Do most dealers fully service the used car before selling it to you? Will they replace the tires if they are low on tread, chopped, or damaged? What kind of reconditioning do you think so and will happen? I can tell you at my store, we fully service our cars! If it doesn't pass the service inspection, we sell it as-is and offer the customer to have it privately inspected before taking delivery. Our service department offers a twelve month or twelve thousand mile warranty of service work, too! Once our car has been fully reconditioned, we can offer you an extended warranty if you wish to purchase one.

Back to the point, the lowest price doesn't always win. To be the lowest price, generally you're always cutting corners to do so or you're willing to make a special offer to help get people in the door. Trust me, you do want to purchase a vehicle that's fully ready for delivery and you want a dealer who will stand behind it! Check the dealer out online to see how they are!

If you need assistance, you can email me, and feel free to visit me online at www.glennautomall.com.


Peace,

Zach

2013 Hyundai Sonata vs 2013 Hyundai Elantra

Today I'll try and help you decide which Hyundai is right for you between the 2013 Sonata vs 2013 Elantra. Several variables will determine which one you should select to achieve the most for you and your money. What's the main purpose of the car? To and from work? Family sedan? Just for you? Future plans? Makes a difference to help insure you're setting yourself up in the best scenario. For this blog I'm only using the base GLS packages without the sunroof on the Sonata and base GLS 4-door sedan on the Elantra without the sunroof.

The pricing between difference between the two isn't enough to swing you to one over the other in the GLS package. The Sonata has an MSRP between $22,000-$24,000. The Elantra has an MSRP between $18,500-$19,800. Hyundai does have several available rebates to offer the consumer. The Elantra has $1,250 in rebates (owner loyalty/conquest with HMFC discount). The Sonata offers $1,500 in rebates (owner loyalty/conquest with HMFC discount). You can also receive an additional $500 if you're prior military and $400 if you're a recent college graduate (2 years..some restrictions do apply). Rebates from 2/25/2013 to 4/1/2013.

The gas mileage between the two are similar. The 2.4L Sonata is rated for 35 Highway/24 City/28 Combined. The 1.8L Elantra is rated for 38 Highway/28 City/32 Combined. The Sonata holds 17.2 gallons of gas compared to 12.8 gallons in the Elantra.

Interior Dimensions:

                                                 Sonata            Elantra
Head Room (Front/Rear):          40.0"/37.8"      40.0"/37.1"
Leg Room   (Front/Rear):           45.5"/34.6       43.6"/33.1"
Passenger Volume (cubit feet):    103.8              95.6
Total Interior Volume(cubit feet): 120.2             110.4

Exterior Dimensions:                

                                                 Sonata            Elantra
Wheelbase:                                110.0"             106.3"
Length:                                       189.8"             178.3"
Width:                                         72.2"               69.9"
 Height:                                       57.9"               56.5"

As you can see, the differences between the two are very, very minor. You will save money and improve on gas with the Elantra, but if you're looking for a little more elbow room you should look at the Sonata. Both will drive and handle very similar. You can't go wrong with either one with the outstanding warranty Hyundai offer! 10 Years or 100,000 miles will help put your mind at ease. For a young family, the Elantra will work for several years. Once your family is growing up, soon you'll need to switch to the Sonata. I would encourage you to do an extended test drive of both.

Visit us online at www.gateshyundai.com If you have any questions, feel free to email me. 

Peace,
Zach                                      

Which Hyundai Sonata is right for you?

Choosing the right Sonata for you and be somewhat confusing with such a big variety between the models. I'll attempt to slow the confusing somewhat and try and explain the different options! For more information, you can visit out website www.glennhyundai.com. You can also follow me on twitter @YourAutoGuyZach.

You have several different engines to choose from: 2.4L (198 HP GLS), 2.4L (200 HP SE), 2.0T (274 HP) or 2.4L Atkinson Cycle 4-cylinder Hybrid engine with electric motor.

• Standard GLS 2.4L is equipped with Bluelink, Bluetooth, iPod Auxiliary, Keyless Entry, Power Windows, Power Locks, 16" aluminum alloy wheels, Daytime Running Lights, 4-Wheel ABS with Brake Assist & Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Active Eco System with a 6-Speed Shifttronic automatic transmission. 
• Standard GLS 2.4L with Popular Equipment Package ($725 add) includes everything the Standard GLS has with the addition to Heated Front Seats, Power Driver's Seat with Lumbar, Chrome interior door handles, Leatherette door panel inserts, Front fog lights with Automatic headlights. 
• Standard SE 2.4L & 2.0T is equipped the same as the Popular Equipment Package GLS with the addition of Sport-tuned suspension and Steering, Proximity keyless entry with push button start, Leather bolster with cloth insert sport seats, Leather-wrapped  steering wheel and shift knob, Dark Chrome front grille, Dual exhaust system with chrome tips, Chrome accent exterior door handles and 18" Hyper Silver alloy wheels. The 2.0T is equipped with Dual-zone automatic temperature control. 
• The SE 2.4L &2.0T Navigation & Sunroof Package ($2,900 add) is equipped with the standard SE features plus a Power tilt-and-slide sunroof, Navigation system with 7" touchscreen & voice commands, Review backup camera, 360-Watt Dimension AM/FM/SiriusXM/CD/MP3 audio system with 6 speakers & subwoofer, HD Radio Technology with multicasting.  
• 2.4L or 2.0T Limited is the top of the line on the Sonata Model. The Limited is equipped with the SE equipment package plus Power tilt-and-slide sunroof, Leather Seating Surfaces, Heated Rear Seats, Dual-Zone automatic temperature control, Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters (2.0T only), Premium door sill scuff plates, 360-Watt Dimension audio system with 6 speakers and subwoofer, HD Radio Technology with multicasting, Rear console-mounted vents, Piano Black or Woodgrain interior accents, Auto Dimming Review Mirror with Compass and Homelink, Chrome-tipped dual exhaust (2.0T), Side mirror-mounted turn signal indicators, 17" aluminum alloy wheels (18" on 2.0T only) and deletes sport-tuned suspensions and steering. 
• 2.4L or 2.0T Limited with Premium Package includes in addition the Panoramic tilt-and-slide sunroof, 7" Touchscreen Navigation System with Voice Commands and Rearview Camera, 400-Watt Infinity AM/FM/SiriusXM/CD/MP3 audio system with 8 speakers & subwoofer. 
• The Standard Hybrid  includes the 2.4L Atkinson Cycle 4-cylinder Hybrid engine with electric motor with Permanent magnet high-power density motor, Lithium polymer battery system, Hybrid Start Generator, 6-speed shifttronic automatic transmission, Proximity keyless entry with push-button start, Dual-Zone automatic temperature control, Electroluminescent instrument cluster with color display, Premium Cloth Seats, Heated Front Seats, Rear console-mounted vents, Steering wheel audio, Bluetooth & Cruise control, Blue Link, Chrome interior door handles & leatherette door panel inserts, LED headlight accents & taillights, Automatic Headlights and Front Fog Lights, Side Mirror turn signal indicators, Chrome Window beltline moldings, 16" Eco-spoke aluminum alloy wheels. 
• Hybrid Limited has the additional equipment of Panoramic tilt-and-slide sunroof, Leather Seating Surface, Heated Front and Rear Seats, Leather-wrapped steering wheel & shift knob, Power Driver's Seat with Lumbar Support, 7" touchscreen navigation system with voice commands, Rearview Backup Camera, 400-Watt Infinity Sounds, Auto Dimming rearview mirror with compass and Homelink, Premium door sill scuff plates, Glossy black door surround and outside mirror accents and 17" Eco-Spoke aluminum alloy wheels. 

Peace,

Zach

Which is the right vehicle for you?

So, you're starting to itch all over. We all know the feeling when it's time for a new vehicle! One of the hardest urges to pass is thinking of a new vehicle! One of the neighbors just traded, or your best friend showed up in a sweet new sports car! Regardless, it's a hard itch to scratch! You're ready to pull the trigger... convinced yourself that's it's time! Now what?

SUV, Car, Truck...High mpg's? 100,000 mile warranty? 5 Seater, 7 Seater, 8 Seater or more? 4X4, AWD or FWD? So many to choose! At my dealership alone, at this moment I have over 1,000 new and used vehicles to sell to offer you! Here's a few simple steps to remember when you're looking to purchase or lease your new vehicle!

• Do you really need 4X4 or AWD? FWD will save you gas money and still provide a great level of safety! Most people will be just fine in a FWD. 
• Should you Lease or Purchase? Leasing has it's advantages. Do you trade a lot? Do you drive between 10,000-15,000 miles?
• Work car or Family car? Big difference between the two. Don't settle, or you'll trade before you're ready...again! 
• How much can you really afford? Are you stretching out to a 6 year loan to make the payment? Should you consider something less and look at a 2-3 year note? 
• Do you try the Hybrid or go traditional? Do the research. Look at how many miles you drive a day and how you drive. In some cases, the Hybrid can net you an additional 5-10 miles per gallon, but it's going to cost you an additional $5,000 to buy! Do the math! 

For more help, let me know! It's my job to help! @YourAutoGuyZach on Twitter or send me an email your questions! 

Peace! 

Zach

How was your last experience?

What are the steps you take when you're looking for a new ride? Do you look online, if so, which site? Do you check the local Saturday Automotive section from the paper? Make a random call to a dealership? How many just drive to a car lot hoping to find the perfect match? I'd say most of you, especially if you're reading a blog, have started online. Researching your next automobile is very important to make sure you're completely satisfied with your purchase. I'm here to help! YourAutoGuyZach is a real person...not a fake person in the middle of internet land. I sell cars, make friends and offer real support to all my customers. Visit me online @yourautoguyzach on twitter or www.pinterest.com/yourautoguyzach for your help today!

Peace
Zach