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Rules of the Road

On May 26th, 2011 the GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test results were released to the public, and showed that 1 in 5 drivers on the road today cannot pass the written exam to receive a driver’s license.

The test is available for anyone to take at www.nationaldrivertest.com, and after taking the test I found a few inconsistencies based upon state differences. Truth be told I only scored a 75%. When I first started driving I took the written exam in Missouri, and some of the answers I provided on the test were correct for that state. For example a question was asked about “what does it mean when there is a solid yellow line on your side of the vehicle?” The answer according to GMAC is no passing allowed or do not pass. The problem I have is that most areas in Missouri use white lines instead of yellow. Therefore, I was penalized for a regional difference. I encourage you to take the test for yourself, but remember that the results may be a little skewed because of regional differences

GMAC Insurance has also provided 5 of the top driving mistakes that cause crashes.
1. Multi-tasking While Driving
a. I will admit fault on this one because I am guilty of talking on the phone while driving. However, we should all do what we can to limit distractions and focus on the road.
2. Following Too Closely
a. A good rule of thumb is one car length for every ten miles per hour, therefore sixty mph should put you six car lengths behind a vehicle. GMAC advises to give at least a two second cushion between the vehicles.
3. Failure to Yield on a Left-Hand Turn
a. Look at where you are turning to make sure you aren’t turning into another vehicle or pedestrian. Also on a personal note ALWAYS use your blinker when turning or merging.
4. Incorrect Merging
a. Yellow is for yield, and drivers who interpret yield as stop can cause accidents. Use ramps for merging into traffic correctly.
5. Backing Up
a. Take the time to look before you back up. We have mirrors on all of our vehicles, let’s actually use them.


What do you think of their survey? Can you come up with some driving mistakes that cause crashes? Tell us what you think by responding on our blog.

Give us a break!

Why is it that hard working Americans are being asked to pay over $4.00 a gallon for gasoline? Fortune magazine recently released its 2011 list of Fortune 500 companies, and, unsurprisingly, three of the top four companies are from the oil industry: Exxon Mobile, Chevron, and ConocoPhillips. In the first quarter of 2011, Exxon Mobil reported nearly $11 billion of profits, and their competitors also saw a huge increase in earnings. With no end in sight of lower gas prices, wouldn’t you want to lower how much gas you use?

Hyundai is doing everything it can to help ease the pain of customers when going to the pump. Customer pleas for improved fuel economy have been heard, and many if not all of the vehicles in the 2011 Hyundai lineup have received an increase of Miles Per Gallon (MPG). Some of the best examples are the Sonata Hybrid, Elantra, and the upcoming 2012 Accent. As hybrid technology has advanced over the years, it has finally reached a level to meet the standards in place at Hyundai. Hybrid efficiency and ground breaking performance come together in the 2011 Sonata Hybrid to provide 35 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway.

Considered to be a safe and stylish compact car, the 2011 Elantra is a force to be reckoned with among automotive sales. Starting well under $16,000, the 1.8L 4 cylinder engine puts out a solid 29 MPG city and 40 MPG highway. The Elantra has become one of the most popular cars in the compact segment with its stylish design and fuel efficiency, making it a sensible investment.

The 2012 Accent features an economically resourceful 4-cylinder engine that puts out a best-in-class standard fuel efficiency and horsepower. As an added value, the engineers included the Active Eco System, which according to Hyundai, “All Accent 4-door models with automatic transmission have an Active Eco System that modifies engine and transmission control for improved fuel economy. In fact, based on internal tests this system provides a 7% improvement in real-world fuel economy over vehicles without this feature.”

How do you feel about the price of gasoline, and the response from Auto Manufacturers? Tell us your thoughts in our comments section.

Family Cars of 2011 – Hyundai Sonata

Remember when the 2^nd generation Hyundai Tiburon was released. It was the coolest car on the road with its unique styling and a high powered V6. A little over a decade later Hyundai has brought back the thrill of driving with the redesigned 2011 Sonata. In that same amount of time a generation of people have started families, but are not ready to give up their cool car. With its style and sophistication the Sonata is an easy choice for drivers wanting to look great while having a vehicle large enough for a family.

As the cost of clothing, health care, college tuition, and gasoline increase the value of a hybrid Sonata is very appealing. Even more value is added when taking into account the many standard safety features used in this mid-size sedan. Safety features like Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, Active Front Head Restraints, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution. Another great benefit of a Hyundai is that the warranty is far superior to those of any competitor. The warranty covers the vehicle for 10 years or 100,000 miles.

Imagine yourself in a 2011 Hyundai Sonata, and how cool your kids will think you are while driving it. This car was built for those who need to shift from parent to professional and back again in one day—even if you don’t want to be a grown-up just yet.

What do you think of the 2011 Hyundai Sonata? Have you taken one for a test drive yet? Tell us what your opinions are on our comments section.

Why Dealership Service is King!

After purchasing a new or used vehicle many people wonder where they should go for service, a Dealership or an Independent? Several strong reasons can be presented why the service department at a dealership is far superior to that of an independent mechanic. Some of those reasons are found when looking at the areas of training, and warranty.

Training
Dealerships and automotive manufacturers spend a considerable amount of time and money to have technicians trained. New repair techniques are being developed on the ever evolving technology being placed in vehicles today, and your technician must be incorporating these techniques. Similarly, a dealership will specialize in a specific brand of vehicle even though they service all makes and models. Having this specialization and working with the same brand on a daily basis allows the technicians to learn more about the vehicles than anyone else.

Warranty
What happens if a problem arises with the vehicle while under warranty and you have not been using the dealership service department? Will the warranty be voided? The answer depends upon the situation. Typically, the warranty is still valid and should be used until expiration. However, the possibility of an independent mechanic altering something on your vehicle could expressly void the warranty. Each manufacturer has different terms and conditions regarding the warranty, which you should be able to find in your owner’s manual.

Patiently Awaiting a New Arrival – Continued

Performance

With the ever increasing gas prices, imagine being able to have highway fuel economy of an estimated 40-mpg. The all new Gamma 1.6 liter GDI four cylinder engine will do just that, and provide you with 138-hp making it a very peppy car. This is the smallest Hyundai engine to incorporate Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) technology which provides lower emissions, and increased reliability. GDI is only part of the advances made with the new Gamma engine, as it also features: Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing, an electronic throttle control, a roller timing chain, and several others.

Safety

Hyundai is committed to bringing more advanced safety features on their vehicles in order to protect customers. Many of these advanced features have been incorporated into the Veloster such as: Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system which optimally manages ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and the Motor-Driven electric Power Steering (MDPS). The VSM will help keep you in control of the vehicle during quick maneuvering, or when sliding. Another great safety feature is the six airbags which includes dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags.

A Brilliant Car That is Fun to Drive

Designed to keep you connected 24/7 by letting you share your location with friends, use hands-free texting, upload your favorite music and play videos through a USB port. The sport tuned electric power steering keeps you in control of the vehicle when switching between different driving conditions.

Are you as excited about the new 2012 Veloster as we are at Breeden Hyundai? Tell us about it in our comments section.

Patiently Awaiting a New Arrival

We’ve heard rumors, we’ve seen pictures, and we have even been able to see it up close. The 2012 Hyundai Veloster has been on our minds here at Breeden Hyundai since it was unveiled at the Detroit International Auto Show in January. Sadly we have to wait until this summer for its release to the general public. In the meantime, here are a few specs and highlights for this great looking hatchback that will dominate the competition.

Design

Dynamically inspired by the speed and power of motorcycles, the 2012 Veloster has a fluidic design similar to that of other Hyundai vehicles. Engineers were focused on this vehicle being affordable and practical while making it cooler than other cars in its class. Included in this new design is the functionality of a hatchback, but with a twist. The passenger side has an additional door for easier access to the rear seating. In the past, other vehicles have used a smaller rear-hinged door in order for occupants to reach the rear seating. Issues occurred with the use of rear-hinged doors due to the fact that the front door must be opened first. They proved to be tiresome for the driver and passenger, as well as difficult to operate in a tight parking condition. The brilliant new design not only provides safe access to the rear seating, but also maintains the coupe design by hiding the rear door handle.

What are some of your thoughts on the 2012 Veloster? Do you have plans to come in and test drive one? Let us know in our comments section, and continue reading about the Veloster in our next article.

Hyundai i40 Estate Revealed Ahead of Geneva Debut

Hyundai i40 Estate Revealed Ahead of Geneva Debut

Provided by Breeden Hyundai.

10 Steps for the First Time Car Buyer

Buying a new vehicle is an exciting moment in life. It should be celebrated instead of dreaded. Many people do not like purchasing a car because of several factors. Factors such as: bad experiences in the past, novice salespeople that use pressure tactics, and not enough information being provided. We are ready to bring the fun back to purchasing a car. No longer will you feel pressured, rushed, or uncomfortable with the buying process. Follow these steps to save yourself time, money, and be happy with your new vehicle.

Purchasing a Car: The Steps

• Step 1: Why do I want to buy a car? What need or desire are you trying to overcome? Ask yourself all of the preliminary questions before beginning to look for a vehicle. How will you pay for it, and how much can you afford?
• Step 2: What features do I want in the vehicle? Select a type of vehicle to purchase. There are many options available some for free, and some for an additional cost.
• Step 3: Research online because it is the best tool of the informed consumer. Now that you know what type of vehicle you would like, and what features you enjoy. You can do product comparisons, and see what the market value is for similar automobiles in that class.
• Step 4: Initial dealership visit. Get the feel for the environment, and the type of service the dealership is providing. How quickly are you greeted? What questions are they asking you, are they interested in getting you the vehicle that meets your needs?
• Use this visit to gather the information you need to make an intelligent buying decision. Decide whether or not you want to spend your money at this dealership or with someone else. If you are treated professionally, they respect your time, and are willing to value your business, then you should purchase from that dealership.
• Step 5: Research online. Now you are looking for reviews of the dealership itself, and not the vehicle. The best type of business transaction is one where both parties benefit. Creating a long lasting business partnership is valuable to both you and the seller.
• Also, if you have a vehicle to trade in have the estimated values from Kelly Blue Book, NADA, and Kelly Black Book if possible. These resources provide an approximate market value for your trade. As an informed customer you should have a realistic amount you would like for the trade. The salesperson should provide you with the current market value, as well as what the dealership feels your vehicle is worth.
• Step 6: Test drive. This should be done at least once if not multiple times. Make sure that you enjoy the drive, and have all of your questions answered.
• Step 7: Sit down to talk numbers. Be prepared with as much information as you can. Understand that you do not want this to be a long drawn out process, and are serious about purchasing the vehicle. If you have followed the previous steps in this article then you will already know the value of the vehicle before sitting down. At this point you should know the MSRP, and what the total amount the dealership is asking for after installed accessories. Costs typically include but are not limited to a destination fee, an administrative fee, dealer installed accessories, and processing fee.
• If you are negotiating a vehicle trade, understand that the dealership incurs many costs when taking in trades such as: Cleaning / Reconditioning, Advertising, and Vehicle Demand.
• If the demand for your vehicle is low, then do not expect to get very much for your trade.
• Several things affect the value of your trade.
• Step 8: Finalize the numbers. If the Salesperson or Sales Manager is not willing to negotiate price see if there are other perks they offer. Will they provide you with any free oil changes? Do they have a complimentary car wash whenever you stop by? DO NOT attempt to get everything in the store for free! Remember that the dealership is in business to make money, and that the sales person works on commission. Understand the value of your trade, and the value of new vehicle. Now come to an agreeable amount including perks. If they are a professional dealership they will not try to swindle you, and on that same token you should be a professional customer and do not try to swindle the dealership.
• Step 9: Purchase the vehicle. This will typically occur in the Finance Department even if you are not financing the new vehicle. By this point you are excited about your new purchase, and cannot wait to show it off!
• Step 10: Follow up. What perks did the dealership offer? Did they contact you within a week to make sure that you are happy? Are they making good on the things they promised you?

Overall the best advice is to be as informed as possible when making any purchase. Know how much you are willing to spend, and be sure that you are comfortable with the dealership. We pride ourselves on being focused on our customers, and value your business.

Hyundai January 2011 Sales Release

Hyundai January 2011 Sales Release

Provided by Breeden Hyundai.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA BEGINS VOLUNTARY MONTHLY FUEL ECONOMY REPORTING

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA BEGINS VOLUNTARY MONTHLY FUEL ECONOMY REPORTING

Provided by Breeden Hyundai.

The all-new 2011 Sonata. Looks like a million. Starts under 20K.

Sonata engineers decided they would simply get more power out of a better, fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine, instead of offering a 6-cylinder as an option.. The result is two of the most revolutionary engines available. Sonata dominates the competition in both horsepower and MPG. Whether you choose the 2.4L GDI or the 274-HP 2.0T Turbo, each delivers class-leading horsepower as well as MPG.

Endless tweaking transformed the Sonata into the sport-tuned SE. Modified suspension and steering deliver a sportier ride and increased steering response. Larger stabilizer bars reduce body roll and improve handling on curves.

The Proximity Key entry with push button start means you can go from admiring it to flooring it in seconds. Keyless entry and ignition let you keep your keys in your pocket or purse. Power-adjustable front seats with power lumbar support give you eight ways to create a perfect fit. Dual temperature controls, heated front seats and even heated rear seats make sure that customized comfort for you and your passengers is a constant.

The Sonata’s navigation system makes it easy to get from A to B with voice recognition or through the interactive touchscreen. The XM NavTraffic® and XM Data Services allow you to search for nearby businesses like gas stations, ATMs or restaurants, get a clear picture of the current traffic situations, and check the weather, stocks and sports scores, all in real time.

The driver seat is heated and has an eight-way power adjustment to make even long trips seem short. Lest your passengers get jealous, both front and rear seats are also heated, and have been shaped to provide extra leg support that reduces discomfort and fatigue.

The Sonata’s standard Bluetooth technology with phonebook transfer gives you hands-free access to your phone with a very handy voice recognition control. The AM/FM/XM®/CD/MP3 Audio System comes with 6 speakers and includes a subwoofer with an external amp. Plus the built-in iPod®/USB and auxiliary jacks let you access your iPod® through the audio controls.

Designed at Hyundai’s Southern California design center, the Sonata is a four-year labor of love. And yes, it performs even better than it looks.

Provided by Breeden Hyundai.

Hyundai puts on an Accent with 2012 Verna hatch at Guangzhou

Hyundai puts on an Accent with 2012 Verna hatch at Guangzhou

Provided by Breeden Hyundai.

Hyundai Reveals New Brand Direction & Statement At the 2011 Detroit Motor Show

Hyundai Reveals New Brand Direction & Statement At the 2011 Detroit Motor Show



Provided by Breeden Hyundai.

Texting Your Car a Reality With Hyundai Blue Link

Texting Your Car a Reality With Hyundai Blue Link

Provided by Breeden Hyundai.

Hyundai Tops Insurance Industry Safe Car List

On Wednesday, December 22, 2010 the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety released the list of vehicles to earn a “Top Safety Pick” award for 2011. Hyundai/Kia leads the pack with 9 winners across several automobile models. The Hyundai vehicles receiving this prestigious honor are the Genesis, Sonata, Santa Fe, and Tucson.

IIHS ratings help the consumer to pick vehicles that have more protection than federal safety standards mandate. Winners of the award are based on crash test ratings, and must have electronic stability control available. Each vehicle is rated on front, side, rollover, and rear crashes. Electronic stability control helps drivers to maneuver the vehicle in order to reduce the risk of crashes.

According to the IIHS, “More than 12,000 people died in frontal crashes of passenger vehicles in 2009 in the United States, more than 6,000 died in side impacts, and more than 8,000 died in rollovers, many of which also involved a front or side impact.” As a result of these accidents, Hyundai has improved the 2011 Tucson with a much stronger roof to reduce the risk of injury in rollovers. Improvements have also been made to the roofs of the Santa Fe, and the redesigned Sonata. Vehicles that are rated as good in rollover protection have at least double the strength of current federal safety standards.

We are particularly proud of the redesigned Sonata which also received the highest rating of 5 stars in the government’s crash test ratings. The Sonata is now "in a safety position unsurpassed in the industry," said John Krafcik, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America.

A complete list of the 66 vehicles of 2011 “Top Safety Pick” award can be found at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety website.

Provided by Breeden Hyundai.

Vote for Hyundai!

Which Superbowl commercials are you most looking forward to seeing? Hyundai's of course! Vote here: http://bit.ly/fI9rNC

Provided by Breeden Hyundai.

TCC Most Popular Reviews Sonata

TCC Most Popular Reviews Sonata

Provided by Breeden Hyundai.

Hyundai bringing Curb concept to Detroit Auto Show

Hyundai bringing Curb concept to Detroit Auto Show

Provided by Breeden Hyundai.

Video: Yes, this is a commercial for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata

Pretty unique commercial for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata.

Video: Yes, this is a commercial for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata

Provided by Breeden Hyundai.

Sonata Places 5th on KBB Most Researched List

Sonata Places 5th on KBB Most Researched List

Hyundai December 2010 Sales Release

Hyundai had a record month in December! Check out the official press release for all the details including;

• Record 2010 sales of 538,228 up 24 percent, shatters prior record
• December sales up 33 percent in total, 54 percent at retail
• Sonata retail volume grows 90,349 (113 percent) – greatest in the industry

Hyundai December 2010 Sales Release