One of the big surprises to emerge from the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) is that the Hyundai Elantra nabbed North American Car of the Year honors.
The fact that the Elantra won isn’t so surprising. We’ve been big fans of the Elantra since we first drove the redesigned model in late 2010.
Read: 2012 Hyundai Elantra Review
What surprised many observers is that the Elantra beat the highly regarded and more expensive Volkswagen Passat, a car that was named Motor Trend Car of the Year just a few months ago.
Hyundai public relations manager, Jim Trainor, represented the thoughts of many when he told Vehix, “Car of the Year is quite an honor. We competed against a lot of great cars this year and we’re really honored to win.”
The 2012 Elantra topped our list of sedans under $20,000 in our 2012 Sedan Buying Guide where editor Chris Wardlaw wrote, “If you’re buying a new, affordable compact sedan and you don’t test-drive the Elantra, you’ve done yourself a huge disservice.”
Although Hyundai has notched plenty of good news and awards in the past few years, Hyundai skeptics remain. They simply don’t believe what they see as hype for this Korean car company that has gone from cheap to good to great in seemingly record time. So let’s quickly recap the Vehix View of the Elantra based on what our editors have said about the redesigned Elantra because if you’re looking for quality and value in a sub-$20,000 car, you really should drive the Elantra.
The Vehix View of the Hyundai Elantra
“Arguably more stylish than the Corolla, Sentra and overhauled Civic, sufficiently comfortable, fun to drive, boasting a 40-mpg EPA rating across all trim levels, and offered with features like an optional heated rear seat, the Elantra represents an excellent overall package and a real-world case study in value.”
Thom Blackett, Vehix Contributing Editor, in the 2012 Sedan Buying Guide
“We love it when a car lives up to the hype. The 2012 Hyundai Elantra looks fantastic inside and out, is roomy, provides great value, gets pretty impressive fuel economy numbers, and provides plenty of driving enjoyment. We do not hesitate in recommending this talented sedan to others, and we would even park a 2012 Elantra in our own garage.
Liz Kim, Vehix Contributing Editor, in the 2012 Hyundai Elantra Review
“Offering buyers greater bang for their buck is one of many attributes that have transformed Hyundai from what was once a problem-prone automaker posing a threat to no other company in the U.S. car market to a powerful brand consistently delivering on its promise of quality, efficiency and value. It’s a proposition more consumers are buying into, and a trend that’s bound to continue with the launch of the more powerful, more spacious, and better-equipped Elantra. And, for shoppers on the fence, Hyundai has tossed in the most contemporary styling currently offered in the compact class, not to mention fuel economy that reaches 40 mpg.”
The new Elantra, folks, is a bargain.
Thom Blackett, Vehix Contributing Editor, in the 2011 Hyundai Elantra First Drive
“Once Hyundai gets the mechanicals fine-tuned, the new Elantra will dominate its class through design, value, comfort, safety, dependability and driving dynamics. And it won’t even need a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty or a Hyundai Assurance guaranteed resale value program to sell.”
Christian Wardlaw, Vehix Managing Editor, in 2011 Hyundai Elantra is Honda and Toyota’s Worst Nightmare
Related posts:
- Review – 2011 Hyundai Elantra is Honda’s and Toyota’s Worst Nightmare
- 2011 Honda Accord vs. 2011 Hyundai Elantra (Vehix March Motor Madness)
- 2011 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2011 Chevrolet Volt (Vehix March Motor Madness
- 2012 Volkswagen Passat Named Motor Trend Car of the Year
- 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas Named Green Car of the Year
- First Drive Review – 2012 Hyundai Veloster Delivers 40 MPG in a Stylish Wrapper
- 2012 Ford F-150 Named Motor Trend Truck of the Year
- F-Cell World Drive Completes North American Tour
Tags: 2012 Detroit Auto Show, 2012 Elantra, 2012 Elantra North American Car of the Year, 2012 Hyundai, 2012 Hyundai Elantra, 2012 Hyundai Elantra North American Car of the Year, 2012 Hyundai Elantra Wins North American Car of the Year, 2012 North American Car of the Year, Detroit Auto Show, Hyundai, Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Elantra North American Car of the Year, North American Car of the Year
We have two(2) Hyundai vehicles–a Genesis and a Sonata both purchased last year.
The vehicles are First Class-in style, road handling ability, fit and finish-you name it they excell.
This is from someone who has owned virtually every trendy and expensive car there is!
And an “Old Guy Who Hates Everything”–even the dealer has been First Class.
No surprise to us about the Elantra.
Congratulations and keep it going!
Agreed 100%!
Paul put the pipe down, turn off the porn and get off the internet.
Good for you John, I hope it makes you feel just wonderful to be supporting another counrty by buying their vehicles while our economy is in the toilet. You are probably one of those guys who is first in line to say you are “proud to be an American”. I would have no problem putting any number of vehicles from American car copmanies up against yours.
looks must not be part of decision cause that is 1 ugly ass car
u said it paul. and who is the idiot that would name this “car of the year” and who is the idiot that would buy or drive it.
Connor your a fool.My uncle was a senior executive for ford and guess what einstein, There is no such thing as an all American car or truck. Your helping out the arab nations by driving gas guzzlers like your expedition,way to help out.Keep supporting the mid east. Oh and I own a hyundai that has over 250k miles, My Ford made it to a whopping 105k before dyeing. Like they say FORD=(found on road dead)Put away your bumper sticker mentality.American made hahaha. Your are funny.
jason.i have had 4 high mileage fords in my lifetime so i don’t know where the found on road dead thing comes from.79 stang 179,541.83 turbo coupe 223,467.88 turbo coupe 336,791.finally my 91 taurus sho i still have.276,849 and still running strong.never broke down with any.so show me some other manufacturer that can say this!!!!
Paul, did you know that those non American Hyundai’s that you are speaking of were made in Atlanta Georgia? Created over 10,000 jobs for our economy that you complain about being in the toilet. I’m sure you went and bought a Ford F-150, engines currently being made and assembled in Mexico. Good job Paul.
God Bless you Paul. I wish millions of people thought like you.
wife of a retired steelworker
Anthony, we wouldn’t own a Hyundai anything. My wife’s 99 Focus gets as much as 36 MPG avg…ummm…better than 35. There’s a reason Korean cars apre priced cheaper…they are cheaper. You pay more for a Zippo than you do a Bic. Zippo’s you keep…a bic you throw away after a short while. Get off of this page!
Hey idiot. The quality and design of automobiles made in US factories has nothing to do with whether their employees are unionized. Sole factor is managerial vision and decisionmaking. But if you would rather regurgitate political talking points rather than thinking before you type, well…. its still America, land of the free, and home of the right not to think.
We’ve recently purchased a 2011 Hyundai Sonata.Wouldn’t trade it for the world. It’s been an awesome car. We’ve driven it to florida twice, averaging over 35 miles per gallon. Looks great, drives great and looks good. As for buying american, if the unions weren’t so gready, maybe the american autoworkers could build a car that could compete and be more along te price of the imports. Cars built here in america are way tooo expensive and quite honestly, aren’t as reliable. So paul, there’s your answer to buy american. Everyone knew the economy was going to take a hit, with gas prices the way they were and the gas guxxling vehicles produced here at home. The american automakers, got caught with their pants down.
Maybe the Impala, with it known TSB documented Remote/Lock/Start issues that cost you $1000 to fix, give it up, if American car companies were serious, they would not allow stupid marketing blunders to derail them, they should be fixing these cars for at least cost, if not for free.
I agree. Ever notice most of the BEST VEHICLES posted on here are Japanese? I mean think about it…earlier there was a section titled “Best Used SUV’s”…all Japanese. I think Japan is paying these guys on here to post that for advertising…or these folks that reports this stuff hates AMERICAN VEHICLES. Maybe it’s just because they own Honda’s, Toyota’s etc. and had never owned an AMERICAN VEHICLE! C’mon man!
Jerry,
Thanks for your comment. Vehix receives no compensation or influence from any vehicle manufacturer. In terms of our “Used SUVs Built to Last” article, you’ll notice that we call out the fact that no European or American SUVs appear on the list. Editor Chris Wardlaw writes:
“You may be surprised to find no American or European SUVs on this list. The reliability data from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power and Associates confirms that over the past 10 years, domestic and European SUVs simply don’t provide the kind of bulletproof dependability that the Japanese models do. According to the data, the people who own domestic and European brands complain about them more than owners of Japanese brands. Of course, your own driving experience may prove otherwise.”
http://www.vehix.com/articles/top-10-list/10-used-suvs-built-to-last
Our list of dependable SUVs is based on reliability data from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power and Associates, who represent the voice of the consumer in their ratings. If you want to dig deeper into their ratings, we suggest you visit JDPower.com or ConsumerReports.org and dig through the reliability data to confirm our findings.
Jerry,
When you lose, you have two choices. You can point a finger at the team that beat you and accuse them of cheating, or you can practice and practice until you get better than them.
The facts show that Japanese cars (and now Korean cars) are simply better. Why do you suppose this is? Well, maybe American car manufacturers know people like you will continue to support them no matter how much better the competition is, so why should they bother spending money to improve their product to beat the competition when people like you make it so they don’t have to?
I used to buy exclusively American vehicles until I got tired of always having to make major repairs relatively early in the life of the vehicle. I switched to Japanese cars ten years ago and couldn’t be happier.
I agree 100%! But Korea sure does appreciate you!
Well, Paul, you’re wrong for several reasons.
First off, protectionism doesn’t work. American car companies sell a lot of cars in Asia. Millions and millions. If we stop buying Asian cars, they’re going to stop buying ours. There are about 300 million people in the USA and three billion in Asia, so it’s a big market to screw ourselves out of.
Second, you’re confused about the whole thing. Just because you buy a car that has an “American” name like Chevrolet or Ford, you think you’re supporting the American economy? Most of the so-called “American” cars are built overseas, or assembled here from systems manufactured and built overseas or in Canada or Mexico.
Third, when you go to the Hyundai dealership, who do you see working there? Salespeople, administrators, mechanics, clerks, IT people who are all AMERICANS. You’re supporting all those American’s jobs by buying a car at that dealership.
Fourth, If Americans all buy American cars simply because they’re American, what incentive would American car manufacturers have to improve? You want to go back to the old days when getting 100,000 miles out of a car was the exception rather than the rule, and if you were lucky enough to drive it that long, it usually needed more money’s worth of repairs than it cost to buy a new car–all while getting ten miles per gallon?
Your knee-jerk, emotional attachment to cars with American names is based solely on ignorance, and your only argument so far has been childish sarcasm. Perhaps you should educate yourself a little before you start spouting off about your silly misconceptions.
Bought a Santa Fe about 6 years ago. Liked it very much, but it was built on a truck frame, was noisy and had poor gas mileage. Have things changed? How is the ride and comfort and noise levels in the Elantra?
Gotta agree with you, John. I did not drive the Elantra, but must admit… it did appear to pack a lot of bang for the buck! I drove the Genesis and Sonata, and wound up in the 2011 Sonata SE in the spring of 2010… only to trade that in on my 2012 Sonata SE Turbo in November, 2011. I feel that they are all good values… depending on your feature and price desires. (Warranty and customer service are excellent, and I did like the fact that they were assembled in Montgomery, Alabama.) Oh… and this “old girl” has an ‘all-original’ 1964 Caddy Coupe DeVille in the garage… straight from Detroit! Pleasantly surprised at the Elantra’s accolades… I’d love to see my 20-something-yr-old kids in one!
I rented one while in LA. The car has no power, no acceleration heading into highway traffic, and no feel for driver safety; I didn’t feel safe if this thing were to get into an accident. Other than that, well, uh, um, it looks good.
Ha John; remember Korea 1953; remember Dec. 7, 1941; maybe you don’t we gave American lives so they could sell us their crap and put good hard working Americans out of work. I bet you support Obama also and you want to be like Europe. Broke and in debt up to your eyes so your grandchildern can suffer the fall out of your studidity.
You should keep helping the foreign governments John.
If you want to be taken seriously pick your battles buddy. Otherwise you just sound disgruntled…
I got to believe the VEHIX.COM is anti american. This is the worst auto media you can find on the internet.
1 the best of the best American cars is Chrysler 300
2 Cadillac ,Lincoln,and that is it
And the foreign is mercedes and bmw,Audi.toyota.honda,etc
and the last place is hunday ok .
VEHIX .COM GET REAL. STOP TO DREAM WAKE-UP
Ariel,
Thanks for your comment. The North American Car of the Year is chosen by a group of independent automotive journalists who drive and analyze the nominated vehicles and then vote based on their preferences.
Review our 2012 New Car Buying Guides and you’ll find that Vehix exhibits no bias since we recommend vehicles from Chrysler (including the 300), Cadillac, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Toyota, Honda and many other brands, including Hyundai.
You can read our entire set of buying guides here: http://www.vehix.com/articles/buying-guides
DO YOU BELIVE IN SANTA CLAUS ,YOU MAY BELIVE IN VEHIX.COM
these einstein’s are probably wondering why their neighbors and family cant find work,,,,see if any more japs need jobs
We have two Kia vehicles over 2 yrs now – sister comany to Hyundai – manufactured also in Atlanta GA.
Great vehicles to drive, inexpensive to own & operate, 30+ Hwy MPG, 100k drive-train warranty – smart buys!!
In 2005, my daughter bought a Hyundai Santa Fe. In 2006, my husband bought a Tucson. In 2008, my son bought a Sonata and in the same year my Sister and Brother-in-Law bought a used 2005 Santa Fe and a new 2008 Santa Fe. My neice bought a Sonata in 2008 as well. Also in 2008, my husband traded his Tuscon for the slightly larger Santa Fe. In 2010, my Daughter-in-Law bought a new Santa Fe.
Out of 8 Hyundai vehicles, there has not been a single problem. We do keep up with regular maintenance.
I drive a 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan and need a van for work inventory. I would LOVE to purchase another Hyundai and would have already done so had they not discontinued their van.
I currently own 2 Hyuandai cars, and have owned a total of three. We are a military family that has relocated across the country and made numerous cross country trips to visit family. Our Hyuandais have held up amazingly well. Skeptics needs to shut it, I’ve owned Crysler, Ford, Chevy, and Dodge, NONE of those cars lasted me a year, my USED Hyuandais are going on 7 and 8 years old, and running strong. The only reason we lost the third one is because someone hit us and it was totaled. One of ours is an Elantra, what an amazing affordable vehicle for a military family on one income, for our money, it’s more than worth it!! I wish I could send a personal congrats letter to the CEO of Hyuandai, they’re doing something incredibly right!
None lasted you a year?! Try changing the oil! Military family driving foreign cars?!
You have got to be kidding! Who decides these things anyway? With all the recesses and ribs hanging everywhere it looks like a dinosaur from the stone age.
I might not say it like George, but I agree. I am paranoid about the Hyundai. I owned a brand new Sonata in 1993 and by 1996 the car was done. Everything you can think of went wrong with this car. Engine, all gaskets, transmissin. the drive shift(after a month). Through the years my family members have bought the elantra and the sonata and it is the same thing. My son has one now and the subframe fell and distroyed several things. It seems like Hyundai would have it right by now.
What a bunch of bunk. You get what you pay for. Pay little, you get little, little reliability, little safety, little style, little residual value. Seems these idiots are mesmerized by the cars look as opposed to reality. Looks do NOT equate to “value”. Decent advertised gas mileage does NOT equate to “value”. Overall quality ratings are average at best. Residual value, a critical key in determining a good value… Not even on the list.
Summary of 2010 Residual Value Award Winners
Mainstream Brand: Subaru of America
Luxury Brand: Acura, a division of American Honda Motor Company, Inc.
Entry Compact Car: Honda Fit
Mid-Compact Car: Mazda 3
Midsize Car: Honda Accord
Fullsize Car: Nissan Maxima
Compact Utility Vehicle: Subaru Forester
Midsize Utility Vehicle: Subaru Outback
Large Utility Vehicle: Toyota Sequoia
Minivan: Honda Odyssey
Compact/Midsize Pickup: Toyota Tacoma
Fullsize Pickup: Ford F-150
Sporty Car: Mini Cooper
Near Luxury Car: BMW 1 Series
Luxury Car: Lexus LS
Luxury Sports Car: Audi S5
Near Luxury Utility Vehicle: Lexus RX
Luxury Utility Vehicle: Range Rover Sport
Hybrid/Alternative Powertrain: Toyota Prius
Dave,
Honestly, are you as dumb as you sound… The elanatra is a stylish compact sedan. It looks good rides good and hasa 5 star crash rating. Where does a dinasaur fit into this. Every car that you listed for residual value, are all imports. Not one was an actual big 3 automakers car. Get over yourself.
And this is the mindset that is messing up America. When you have a car that you can put 250k miles on, residual value isn’t an issue. The only people that worry about that are idiots who roll over their cars regularly and never get rid of the payments. Folks who are more intelligent about their car use don’t tend to worry about what they’ll get for it when they actually NEED replacing.
I have 2006 Sonata, I would never buy another. It rides like a truck, is noisy, and the gas mileage is terrible. Only have 7300 miles. Won’t drive it. My wife’s car
Just bought a Hyundai Santa Fe. It more than met my expectations. Great SUV.
Comrade Obama will now tax and regulate Hyundai and the NAIAS out of business. Michael Waterman will be sent to the gulag for not writing a scathing article denouncing the Elantra and praising Dear Leader’s GM Volt.
Glad to hear that you support our fuel independence (or should I say – fuel dependence) of mid-east oil. Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Why would we need to depend on foreign oil…Oh that’s right we aren’t able to use our OWN OIL!We have to buy it instead use produce it..THAT’S OUR DEPENDENCY ISSUE!!! We can’t even build a PIPELINE from Canada to have a steady supply..safer transport through the pipe line (not on highway or sea for those who worry about safety ore CARBON FOOTPRINT) Imagine if we produced and sold our own oil, we would have less or no deficit, lower taxes (puff puff here)…oh wait a minute if there is more money to spend we as nation would find more ways to spend it (we would still be in the hole). I wonder what the Saudi’s make on an average day of producing OIL! Being that they don’t collect taxes from their people.
At least the Volt is made by Americans in America
Wow way to support America I am glad the North American car of the year is not actually American. These cars a piece of junk that won’t last over 10 years. We have a 2009 Ford Expedition EL limited, a Ford Escape Limited, a Ford Edge Sport, Chevy Corvette, and Chevy Impala. DRIVE AMERICAN SUPPORT OUR ECONOMY!!!!!
my sentiments exactly….
Did you really go to war? Did we ever think that the sales and service staff at the dealership might be American? I agree with Brian about Hyundai having affordable and reliable cars and it’s time for us to stop complaining and get something done. At least other countries are creating jobs for Americans by creating a good product.
Hey JM, Went to war and saved these people? Better call your doctor and change your MEDS.
And we should pay top $$’s for your union auto workers to support that azz in the WH-FORGET IT!
Thanks Connor! Well Said! We have a Chevy Colorado and a Chevy Cruze. Extended family all own Ford and GM vehicles.
not a American car by any standard…..we went to war for these bastards our thanks for saving them, they take over our car business….BUY AMERICAN…..
Can you spell Xenophobe?
Congrats …. I own a 2005 Elantra ….. Love it great car ….. I always wanted to by American but a friend had an Elantra so I decided to get my own …….. America, wake and make a better affordable car
From a former 2001 F-150 Ford pickup owner. After doing a good bit of research & realizing gas prices were on the rise, I traded in my pickup for a 2011 Elantra (test drove only the Elantra, fell in love with it)!!! Handles great, peppy, moves out, gets close to the mileage expectations. I recommend giving it & other models a “GO”. you will not be disappointed. More car more your money than you think!
That 40 mpg, was that with the spare tire in the car or not. Warranty is not transferable like every other car manufacturer. Low resale value. Good luck with reliability…terrible used car! I would do more research than look at what is on this site. Read Motor Trend, Automobile and Consumor Report to make your own decision. Nice design, everything else going other way..too much to fast.
After owning several Chevrolets over the past 20 years, I realized that after 1 year the interior fell apart on each and every one. Then the air conditioner would stop working. My last car (a cobalt) would fill up with water every time it rained and smelled like death because of it. I traded that car for a 2010 Hyundai Genesis. I love this car so much. Not one problem in 2 years. America should make a better quality car if they want to compete with imports.
North American Car of the Year is…Japanese.
For all you complaining about support your economy make crap more affordable! Everything is so damn overpriced it’s terrible.
Japanese?? Hyundai and Kia (Hyundai’s sister company) are Korean (and mostly made in the good ‘ol U.S. of A.). If you are going to comment, at least sound like you did your homework. But don’t fret; 90% of these respondants didn’t do theirs either. Almost all get an “F” in research, an “F” in punctuation, and a “D” in grammar. Maybe you should have gone to school in “Japan”. You could have built next year’s car of the year. I love my country, but it is becoming harder and harder to deal with the “Idiocracy” trend of its people. (If you haven’t seen it, watch the movie “Idiocracy”. It is where the U.S. is headed if things don’t change soon.)
WHERE in “North America” is the North American Car of the Year Made? How many Americans were employed in designing and manufacturing it? Brought here on a foreign-flagged ship with an international crew (no Americans, I’m guessing). The history of this company is unsavory at best, regardless of the mpg claims. Now, we have just given S. Korea a sweetheart deal in a new trade treaty that will probably cost the U.S. even more jobs. That treaty was negotiated by G.W. Bush administation and left on Obama’s desk for him to sign. He held out 3 years, then kow-towed to the GOP, who love destroying American jobs. Oh, I won’t be buying ANY foreign made car.
i will buy a civic before an elantra. furthermore the design is too ugly for my taste. i don’t care who named the elantra car of the year. it’s just a tonka toy to me.
Cadillac SRX assembly in Mexico, remember buy American Hyundai Sonata and the Elantra 80% made and assembled in Alabama this is buying American..
Car of the year should be the Cadillac SRX. What a dream machine. This Fall drove from Georgia to Virginia then on to Michigan (toured the very nice Ford Museum), up to Canada, back to Chicago and down to Mississippi then home to Georgia. In my 58 years years of driving it was and is the most comfortable automobile I have ever driven. BUY AMERICAN YOU FOOLS.
and how much did that cadillac cost you??????? Dollar for dollar, american cars can’t compete with the imports… Autoworkers make way too much money and get way too many benefits, to be competitive.You are talking about a $60,000 car compared to a $19,000 car. Of course it should perform better and have more luxury, it’s just too bad you wasted all that extra cash.
Like my Impala (canada)Or My Z71 Suburban, (mexico)
Buy American? You mean the ones made in mexico and canada?
Hyundai is a well made vehicle. All makes have lemmons.
My impala is also an awesome car that has lasted me years without any problems.
The Hyundai is built in a plant in Alabama, by American workers. Go wrap yourself in a flag and back your Ford truck up over yourself, Rednecks.
If you actually believe there is a 100% american made vehicle..Well…I have some ocean front land to sell you in bakerfield.
And this amanda person you say you are a military family. who are you fighting for the Japp. koreans, or Chinese
Maybe we could pay our MILITARY UAW WAGES then they could afford a better home and car.
I am very interested in buying this little car. If the USA can start to build vehicles of this caliber may be we can buy it. Hyundai made huge strides in quality and style. If I want to buy something I don’t care where it was made. I want value, good consumption and quality. If you want to buy often buy Crysler, Ford or GM. Hyundai has the best warrenty in the business. If you watch Fox news you would know how Crysler employees smoke pot and drink beer during their lunch breaks. Look at the government spending and climate set by Obama if you want to know why our economy sucks!!
For all yu guys sitting on the side of the road in your Silverados and Caddy’s out of gas…..get a life…stop sending your $ to GM to bail out the unions….do you make $50./hr? In case you havent’t noticed….Toyota and others are building their cars here….due to low labor costs…but they are not union….and they are reliable.
How does a car from Korea get named “North American Car of the Year”…did Korea take over Mexico…or maybe Canada?
For all those Buy America fans look at your American car (really look) and see where the parts come from.
Hyundai Sonata and the Elantra were to be made 80% in the US but Americans bought so many Sonatas that the plant in Montgomery, Alabama, USA could not keep up with demand.
So tell our American brothers and sisters working OT in Alabama to buy American???
I am happy for Hyundai. To all those claiming that buying a foreign car is “un-American”, I say: “Why should American automakers feel entitled to our hard-earned money, without earning our business?” I have owned over a dozen American cars. I liked my 1965 Buick Le Sabre the best. All American cars I have owned since 1978 have had a few quality issues, but the biggest downfall was the way the dealers of American cars mistreat their customers and abuse their relationship. I earn my money working honestly, it is high time American automakers did the same; and if they can’t compete, then the writing is on the wall. I would not have bailed them out. There was once a time I recall when to buy American, meant you are buying the best in the world. Well, that was a long time ago. Now since what is most worshipped today is the almighty $$$, the over-burdened middle-class tax-payers are asked to support American companies that spit on them?? What is un-American is to kiss the $$ while stepping on your fellow Americans, that is un-American. As long as we behave as greedy self-absorbed money grubbing, back-stabbing, “all for me, none for you” Americans, this country has a bleak future indeed. Wake up and try to regain your humanity! Be an American the likes of which the whole world admired and wanted to be like.
I think that, rather than read the rag that the author writes for, I will buy a Japanese auto magazine to find auto news. And I encourage ALL OTHER Americans to do likewise. As a former (laid-off) employee of the American car industry, I’d like to see how the author feels about someone else exhorting Americans to buy foreign when it directly affects HIS job.
I think I will buy a Japanese Auto magazine and see what they say, since the Japanese magazines are better in quality and accuracy than the American magazines. As a former (laid-off) employee of the American auto industry, I wonder how the author of this article would feel if someone was exhorting the American public to do something that would undermine HIS job.
After test driving a number of cars both Foreign and American I bought a Hyundai Sonata. Loved the Elantra we test drove but settled on the slightly roomier Sonata. The car is solid and fun to drive. Don’t give me the argument about buy American. The Elantra And Sonata are both built in Alabama. Many of the foreign brands are now built in America. The warranty can’t be beat.
Buy American? Does that mean buy something from the Big three? Or, does it mean buy something made by Americans. I grew up in a auto family and my relatives worked for the “BIG 3.” Back in the day it was clear what “BUY AMERICAN” meant. Do you buy the GM, Ford, Dodge/Chrysler vehicles that have the majority of the parts from other countries (Brazil, Mexico, China) and where “final assembly” takes place in Canada or Mexico? Or can you say “Buy American” when you buy the Honda Accord made with 75% of American made parts and assembled in Ohio; or the Subaru Outback from Indiana; or the Toyota Trucks with the biggest majority of their parts from the US and assembled in San Antonio, TX or Freemont, CA? I think supporting American’s who work and spend their money, REGARDLESS OF THE COMPANY, is the way to go. If you want everything to be American made and owned 100%, then you need to do a reality check and look at everything you own and buy. Vegetables? Socks? Underwear? Sweatshirts?…. and tell me how I’m not supporting American by driving a Toyota Tacoma or a Toyota Camry. I haven’t been to the dealer enough with these to be on a first name basis with the service advisor, so I’m happy. I can’t say that about my Jeep, GMC, Chevy, Ford, Dodge or Pontiac that I’ve owned in my 42 years of life.
THE CAR IS MADE IN THE USA, BY AMERICAN WORKERS THAT PAY TAXES, BUY HOMES, FOOD, CLOTHING, SEND THEIR KIDS TO SCHOOL.
NOT LIKE SOME OF THE BIG 3 CARS MADE IN MEXICO SUPPORTING MEXICAN WORKERS, AND THEIR ECONOMY.
DON’T WAVE THE FLAG JUST WHEN IT SUITS YOU, LOOK AROUND YOUR HOUSE AND SEE IF EVERYTHING IN IT IS MADE IN THE USA.
I HAVE HAD 3 HYUNDAI’S THAT HAVE BEEN THE MOST TROUBLE FREE CARS I HAVE EVER OWNED, ALL 3 WERE BUILT IN ALABAMA WHICH IS STILL IN THE USA LAST TIME I LOOKED AT A MAP!!!!!
Vehix must be afraid of the truth since it deleted my comments. If you keep shilling for foreign car purchases, the profits go overseas. If you buy American, the profits stay here. How much of our currency (and debt) does China own now?
First of all Henry, Korea is not china!!!!! And second, the Elantra and Sonata are built here in the United States. So people are still buying american, they just aren’t lining the pockets of he american autoworkers union…Good for them..
Brilliant, Anthony. I know Korea is not China. Would you be in favor of Korea being in SECOND place in holding our national debt, or would you prefer to keep our money at home by buying a car who’s profits go to a U.S.company?
If we keep sending our money outside the country, they will own us.
So should we buy GM products, a so called American company bailed out by the Government with Chinese money,partially owned by the UAW which is already trning hte screws demanding stupid wage increases, assembling vehicles made with parts from companies also owned offshore? The “all american” Camaro? You mean the one built in Canada? The Hyundai is every bit as American built, if not more so than most of the not so big three, one of which is Italian owned and essentiall hasn’t been a so called American company in almost 15 years now.
I’ve driven the Elantra, Sonata, Genesis coupeandwe have had a Santa Fe for a month now while accident damage is repaired on my Audi. All of them are nice, feature packed good value for the money cars. Hyundai’s of the past 4 years or so now cannot be compared to previous generations of Hyundais, and I wouldn’t underatate the improvement in the construction of the Hyundai’s( and Kias for that matter) that are built in Alabama and Georgia, by Americans who from all acounts I have read, are very happily employed.
I’ve shopped Chevy, Buick and Ford. Fords across the board are far too expensive, Unless I want an SUV, Chevy still is questionable build quality, and the only buick I care for is the Regal,which ther eseems to be noticeable difference in build between the German and Candian built production. Most likely my current Passat will be replaced by an American built Passat, but I still have not ruled out Hyundai.
The point was to stop sending our money (in the form of PROFITS) to other countries. I know Hyundai is Korean, and I know they have auto plants here. Other car companies are willing to build plants here because they know the PROFITS are going to come to them in their home country. And we keep sending them the PROFITS because we are too stupid to understand the significance. If enough of our money and debt are in the hands of other countries, they will run our economy.
THE CAR IS BUILT IN THE USA BY AMERICAN WORKERS THAT PAY TAXES, BUY CARS, HOMES, FOOD, CLOTHING, SEND THEIR KIDS TO SCHOOL, SUPPORTING OTHER AMERICAN WORKERS.
A LOT OF THE BIG 3 CARS ARE BUILT IN MEXICO, SUPPORTING MEXICAN WORKERS AND THEIR ECONOMY.
DON’T WAVE THE FLAG WITHOUT LOOKING AROUND YOUR HOUSE, AND SEE WHERE MANY OF THE THINGS IN YOUR HOUSE WERE BUILT.
I HAVE HAD 3 HYUNDAI’S ALL BUILT IN ALABAMA, AND THEY HAVE BEEN THE MOST TROUBLE FREE CARS I HAVE EVER OWNED. ALABAMA WHICH IS STILL IN THE USA LAST TIME I LOOKED AT A MAP.
Have to disagree. Drove a Sonata rental, after our Ford was totaled. The Sonata was constructed cheaply in my opinion and seemed to have mechanical issues ( and no, it did not have many miles on it). Replaced our totaled vehicle with a 2012 Ford Focus….Love it!
Jason… usually the Sonata rentals are the LE package. They seem to be noisy and handle a little tight… not to mention that the two-toned, dizzying interior is a bit much. I like the Sonata SE Turbo that I have… but have to admit that the Ford Focus has turned my head. (Still like the Elantra better… but you have a winner!)
Jason obviously was mistaken that he had driven a Sonata. I’d drive a Sonata and do, before i’d drive a Ford Focus. You are obviously one of those people who will only buy one brand, because everyone in your family has bought that brand for years.
I rented one of these “cars” at LAX back in April, 2010. I hated it. It has no power. When stepping on the gas, it lunges forward which felt like going over a speed bump, then rattled, then slowly picked up speed. It had 1,500 miles on the odometer.
As the saying goes, “Looks are only skin deep”. This car is junk.
They make the best oil tankers in assemly line method faster than any other shipyard. So the carofthe year is of no surprise. Oh they were partners inthe Gulf Oil spill ( investors) . The deep water Subs usedere made by tyhem also Hmmm.
I had a list of things i was going to say but i’ve changed my mind. Myself try so hard only to by AMERICAN. and that everything that comes into my home. And stop blaming unions, all they want is a fair wage for a days work. Just look at all the friggin CEO’s salarys. Even after all the bail-outs they still took out our hard earned tax money. As far as cars and suvs i’ve always bought american.
I’ve always suspected this country was full of arrogant, moronic, hypocritical individuals and most of these posts confirms my suspicions. Millions have no clue where their cars are built and where parts for those vehicles are made, and you’re allowed to vote? Really?
Hyundai made an impressive turn around from the early days and good for them creating american jobs, i will definitely look into their cars when i buy new. remember the old jokes for hyundai and yugo they got rear window defroster to keep your hands warm when you push? well no longer the case.
I liked the REDNEcks comment best. The saying “you can’t write this stuff” applies.
More laughs than Jay Leno ever gave me!!
you all should be ashamed for judging others decisions and name calling. this post is about a car that was named car of the year, not about us individually.
So let’s see here, for everyone saying “Buy American”…Do you mean buy a Ford Fusion? Because Ford builds the Fusion in Mexico not America, how is that supporting this country. My Sonata was built in Alabama, my wife’s Subaru was built in Indiana, both built by American workers in American assembly plants. So for all you “Buy American” yahoo’s out there, get your head out of your ass…Hyundia, Toyota, Honda and VW build more cars in this country than your “American Big Three”. Hell even BMW opened a assembly plant in South Carolina.
Wow, only in America at the North American Auto Show would a Non-American built car win this award! Please people, keep buying non-American made products, and keep losing your homes, jobs, and everything else you have.
Hyundai limits production of their cars to realistic goals of profit,production,suppliers. American companies sell the product then ramp up production to meet demand and in the meantime cheapen the parts they produce. The end result is one company that makes a car the other is one that makes short term profit over long term goals. Hopefully they will not become too americanised.
What really counts is where the PROFITS go not where the vehicle was assembled. The cost of assembly is minimal compared who takes home the profits. Sure the people that work for the car company benefit; however, buying a foreign manufacturer’s product that is assembled in this Country still contributes to our loss in the balance of trade. Many of these foreign countries will not allow or limit the importing our vehicles into their country, and limit the manufacturing of our vehicles in their country as well.
Before I retired I drove 110 miles to and from work every day and in the 35 years I made that trip I went through several vehicles. Currently I am driving a 1995 Ford Ranger with just under 300,000 miles on it and it has seldom let me down. Prior to that I drove a Probe to 100k when I gave it to my daughter, and she drove it another 70k before it was in an accident .. and it protected her, I had an Aerostar for over a 100k and gave it to my son who took it to California and used it there, a 2004 Escape that has over 135k on it and still running, two Escorts with 150k on them.. both inherited and driven into oblivian by off-spring, a VW beetle I drove one winter in Michigan and sold to the first person that offered me money for it, a Nissan that I sold at 50k because was coming apart… I can see where you don’t think domestic autos don’t hold up…
Consumers Report … a number of years ago this magazine had an article on a car segment that included the Ford Probe and the Mazda 626… this article ust couldn’t say enough nice things about the 626; however, the Probe was just a marginal car. What they didn’t realize was the Probe and the 626, under the skin, was the same vehicle, made in the same assembly plant on the same assembly line.. Consumers Report made this same error on the Ford Ranger and the Mazda derivative, the Escape and it Mazda derivative, the Explorer 2-door, , and a couple of others… seemed the Mazda logo on the hood change a marginal American made vehicle in to a high quality Japanese vehicle…..
You hit the nail on the head.
I have a young neice with a new baby. She works at the Hyundai Plant just outside of Atlanta to support herself and new family. Yhese cars are built by Americans who are surviving and putting the money they earn, working at Hyundai plant, back into our (US)community!
Wow! Like an election blog. We are all Americans, why so nasty to each other. With any car purchase, DO YOUR RESEARCH. This is only one group of writers who pick this catagory vehicle every year in Detroit. It is OPINION, not fact. History of vehicles is the true test, get on line. This is why there are so many manufacturers and models, everybody likes what they drive and are not going to say they like what they didn’t buy. Budget and credit score sometimes MAKE people buy a brand. It becomes acceptable
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I love the way people take little blurbs of our current “media” news and don’t look further to get all the truth. Critisizing auto workers wages, profits going to foreign countries, improvements in big 3 quality ratings, current reliability problems and recalls for Toyota and Honda, etc. Anyone can pick a statistic and twist it to their advantage.
Buyers should research and drive multiple examples of cars they are considering before they settle on the purchase. Family lock-ins to brands they have always owned or just because you bought a certain brand and can’t bare to think that maybe someone makes something equal or better than what you bought are not thinking objectively about the issues being discussed. They are in the mindset that there’s is the only point of view-theirs- and all else be damned.
Hoping a more scientific way of evaluating purchases is developed rather that this constant bickering about where and by wo something is made.
By the way–some of the most argumentative replies posted should really learn the rules of capitalization and spelling. How did you ever get a diploma that says you are educated?
I have owned a Datsun B-210 wagon, Dodge (Caravan), Chevy Nova, Chrysler Duster, Plymouth Reliant (K-car), Volvo 740-GLE,and Ford Windstar (WORST VAN EVER OWNED – “FORD”)and the Volvo was the best car(owed for 16 yrs)in all. I now have a Honda Pilot(03), Honda Sports Fit(08) Subaru Forester(04)and recently added the Elantra Limited(2012)to my household. These cars were made in the U.S. except for my Elantra which came from Korea. I have NOT had any problems with these cars as I did us “American” made cars produced here in the U.S.. If the American automakers want Americans to buy their cars, built a better car with good MPGs and sell them at an affordable price! We “Americans” have bailed out the Big-3 automakers and in return, they have increased their auto price and given their CEOs millions of dollars in bonuses, courtesy of the American public.
MY opinion, after looking at them at the North American Auto Show in Detroit. You get a better bang for your buck with the Ford Focus or Ford Fusion. Drove all three and the elantra was the worse riding and you get less equipment for the money.
I will say this, I have a 2003 Santa Fe, took it to Florida twice, South Carolina, Virgina Beach twice. I also drive it to work, which is 30 miles a day 5 times a week and might I say it still runs smoothly. Every passenger that rides in my car says it runs nice. It grips the turns great. If American car dealers can make a suv of that quality and is affordable and give me the warranty of 10,000 miles then I would buy American. The cars that are of that quality are out of my pocket range. In the past we had, chevy,pontiac and plymouth. Did not last as long as my Santa Fe.
Just finished reading all of the comments posted. Truly amazing! One can discern the bias/opinion of each and whether they are democrat, republican, socialist, conservative, pro-union, capitalist, etc. The world economy is completely integrated and there is no “made in america” any longer. Erik M hits it correctly. Responders need to stop criticizing/attacking people for their opinions and widen their mental horizons. Do your own research and make an intelligent decision when purchasing anything!
money gone to China now to Korea.wonder where the jobs are??un-emplyment AROUND 9PERCENT.HHMMMMMMM
America is too greedy to make stuff here….even if ford and chevy were the top cars….greedy american companies would sell themselves out and have them made in china to pocket the money. Wake up everyone the people at the top do not care about us…only money!
You people can’t be that serious. This is a beauty or popularity or sales or mpg contest. It is a not a quality, reliability or real value contest. For those of you who have not had the pleasure or displeasure, sometimes of living in Korea and working with many manufacturers, the government subsidizes these chaebols (family companies) to help them with growth especially in international markets (like dumping). Also the U.S. costs including suppliers, dealers and manufacturing plants is factored in too. As far as warranty, is it real value and especially quality (even if it is paid) to keep bringing your vehicle to service for whatever if it costs you a great deal of your time, schedule disruption ? Maybe for some yes. But the Korean market mentality is, it is cheaper to pay for breakdown even replacements (even new autos) and service for initial market penetration than to put in the design and manufacturing reliability that most Americans are accustom to in all high price purchases. So is your time (you can’t get it back at any price) worth more than $4/gallon in gas? Mine is.
My sad story about a new Sonata I rented in Toronto. I had to drive it back to Chicago and somewhere south of the border I hit some old truck tire rubber on the road with a thump noise. When I stopped I noticed the left rear quarter panel had become partially bent and hanging loose flapping. When I eventually turned it in I had to have a rental car damage report completed with some additional payment.
So if you walmart shoppers want to buy Hyundai go for it because you will be coming back often at your expense the Walton’s or excuse me Kim, Hyun Jung’s and his sons will profit in Korean won.
Finding standard tune-ups may well audio like a big cost but believe me, acquiring a vehicle tune up should help retain your car in superior issue.
Where is Mercedes-Benz and BMW built?
As I read the posts here, admonishing those who have purchased a “non-American” vehicle I am watching my hard earned American dollar get sent to the Middle East for oil and to fund wars held in countries that hate the USA. I watch the value of my home decline to the point where I owe more on it than it is worth even though my tax dollars helped bail out the company that holds the mortgage. I try to buy a pound of coffee, a jar of peanut butter or a gallon of milk and find that I may have to take loan out to do so. So when America decides to stop supporting other countries and start supporting the American people, I might be able to help out. Until then, I guess I’m on my own and have to do what I have to do to survive.
i have had 3 hyuandai’s in the past now i’m on my 4th .the 1st was the excell gls 1987 had some problems with it but i hung in there next 1990 sonota keept it for 9 years ,then i got a 1999 sonota kept it until 2010 now i have a 2010 elantra i bought it in 2010 .ihave loved all my hyuandai’s.they have come a long way i’ve watched them grow and i am proud to be an owner. proper maintenance is the key to any car .as you can see my first one i only had 3 years but look how long i’ve kept the other ones .they are good inexpensive car that are good
SHAME ON YOU AMERICAN ,TO NOMINE THE BEST AMERICAN CAR OF THE YEAR A KOREAN MANUFACTURY CAR. THEY TEACH YOU HOW MADE THE BEST ? EVERYTHING IT IS A BOWL OF CRAP
I MADE THE BEST , GROW UP PEOPLE .THIS PEACE A S**T IS THE BEST?
I’ve had nothing but American cars my whole life…Fords and Chevy’s. Although each one gave me a thrill for a year or so, they didn’t last. Now I’m driving a 2003 Astro van, as my mechanic told me what a good engine they had. What he didn’t tell me was it gets 17 miles per gallon, and everything else that could go wrong, has. Not to mention the fact of how hard it is to get a job at an auto plant here in Detroit,, unless you know someone.
After reading all these comments, one thing is clear. Americans can’t spell or punctuate sentences correctly. Ever heard that proper nouns require capital letters?
I’m going to buy one today.
All mechanical things will eventually break down. Some cars have solid reputations. Though they are built in Atlanta, Hyundai’s profits still return to S.Korea, a country that has 100% literacy. Samsung’s product line is even more impressive and their reputation is unassailable. Competition is the name of the game in every industry. If your product is great, it’ll attract customers. My choice would be a 2012 Focus in that range, but I’m bias since I own a Windstar that is just getting broken in at 125K miles. The electric Focus unfortunately is too expensive for me. I think the new Focus would give not only Hyundai, but BMW a run for their money.
I read this article this morning. My brand new 2012 Elantra is sitting in my driveway this afternoon. It is AWESOME.
As a public school teacher in Suburban Detroit I can tell you the argument that foreign car companies build factories here so it is fine to support them is a tired one. Inevitably in my class every year I will have the children of execs, engineers, line workers, and suppliers to the Big 3. Go to TN or KY or wherever and you don’t see that kind of diversity. They come here and hire line workers and lower-paying jobs and the money goes back there. One thing our Big 3 has done a poor job of is communicating to the public just how much of each car’s revenue stays here. Also, something like 85-90% of each American car is made from domestic products regardless of the “we don’t make anything anymore” generalizations that people make.
the best automobile of the planet is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKj8BF4LemI , not a CARZILLAS AND VANZILLAS DESIGN BY KOREAN AND JAPANESE.
Wake up Americans!!!! American automobiles are the best in the world just like Americans are the best!!!
tim – the warranty certainly is transferable on hyundais. i have owned two tiburons since ’03 and bought them both used. the bumper to bumper warranty is good for any subsequent buyer for a full 5 yrs from manufacture date or 60k miles, whichever comes first. trust me, i have had a few things to repair every so often and none of them cost me a dime. i think what you are mixed up on is the ten yr power train warranty which is not transferable.
i can appreciate the “buy american” argument, but our poor country is so immigrant crazy any more that everything is just a blur of what we used to be. nothing will ever be pure ‘american’ ever again. and when it comes to my car, i got to have quality, no matter who makes it. and you can’t beat hyundai products for reliability, price, value or service. period.
Just a few thoughts…
If one were to purchase a new car strictly based on the amount it helped the U.S. economy, which would not be easy to calculate, there’s a good chance many would be surprised that it just might not be a Ford, GM or Chrysler product.
Another thought; Ever notice that the 3 big “American” companies really do make great quality cars? Next time you visit any country in Europe (or many other countries around the world), check the name on some of the sleek looking cars you won’t recognize & can’t find (or buy) in the U.S. – you might be surprised! They’re built to compete with the foreign competition and are quite good at it (when & where they want to be – or have to be).
Sorry I wont by a Hyundai or KIA.
Bought a 2004 Van had nothing but problems from day one with electrical and drivtrain,No Thanks.
And its not a good looking car Yuck
Anyway. If you like what you drive great, drive what you like. You all act like it really matters. You all have nothing better to do? Go out and do some community service or drive some elderly individual to the store or church with your beautiful car.
I like the Elantra. I’ve liked it since the previous generation was released. It’s like the Nissan Sentra, Honda Civic, and Toyota Corolla used to be before they tried to be “cool”: honest basic transportation, unpretentious in every way. They’re the cars that you respect for just doing their job day in and day out, never asking for anything besides some decent quality gasoline and the occasional oil change.
I don’t think it deserved to be NA COTY though. That honor should have gone to the Ford Focus. The Focus has better styling, and class-leading features. It really feels like an upscale car. The Hyundai just feels like it’s trying to be one.
If you are worried about helping the U.S. Trade Deficit what really counts is where the PROFITS go not where the vehicle was assembled. The cost of assembly is minimal compared who takes home the profits and where that “home” might be. Sure the people that work in the assembly plant for a foreign based car company benefit in wages, etc.; however, buying a foreign manufacturer’s product that is assembled in this Country still contributes to our loss in the balance of trade. Many of these foreign countries will not allow or limit the importing our vehicles into their country, and limit the manufacturing of our vehicles in their country as well.
Yet another example of comsumer stupidity. Every time someone in America buys a foreign product with your hard earned american dollar the profets (your money)leave this country. The real problem is with our lobbyists and congress who allow these foreign companies to import products with little or no restrictions. Smack a 30% import tax on all imports and lets see how many people want to buy foreign products…..
You want to jump start the american economy, theres the way to start……
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