Shah Alam, 23 May 2009 - Hyundai owners in North America placed the Hyundai Genesis and Sonata at the top of their classes in AutoPacific’s 2009 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards (VSA) research. Both models won in highly competitive segments. Genesis topped the Aspirational Luxury Car category for its affordable operating costs, value and extraordinary warranty. The Sonata was the highest ranked Premium Mid-Size Car, beating out the segment-defining Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. In addition, Hyundai’s overall brand satisfaction rating among Hyundai purchasers jumped 11 positions earning Hyundai 2009 Rising Star honours.  This positive move was more than any other manufacturer in the survey. Hyundai scored higher in 40 of 48 rating categories in 2009 compared with 2008.

“Having conducted this industry research since 1997, we see vehicles that score highest in AutoPacific’s Vehicle Satisfaction Awards have hit the mark delivering value and satisfaction with their buyers,” said Mr. George Peterson, President of AutoPacific. “This year’s results made it clear that Hyundai owners are extremely pleased with their new cars,” he added.

AutoPacific's annual VSA is an industry benchmark for objectively measuring how satisfied an owner is with their new car or light truck, and reflects the opinions of consumers nationwide. The awards summarised results from AutoPacific’s 2009 model year vehicle satisfaction research. More than 25,000 consumers around the country participated in the survey.

“It’s an honour to not only be recognised by a trusted automotive resource like AutoPacific for vehicles satisfaction, but also by our Hyundai owners as well,” said Mr. Michael Deitz, Product Manager for Genesis sedan and Sonata. “Also coming out of the survey as the most improved brand year-over-year only solidifies our dedication to continually providing consumers with safe, well-designed, quality vehicles,” he added.

In addition to identifying category winners, AutoPacific’s VSA establish numerical satisfaction ratings for virtually every passenger car and light truck in the North American market. Owner satisfaction is measured across specific areas related to a vehicle's operation, comfort, safety and the overall purchase/lease experience. The 2009 ratings reflect input from buyers and lessees of new vehicles acquired September through December 2008.

Hyundai’s Genesis sedan sets a new benchmark in the premium car category.  With a starting price of just US$33,000 (RM118,000), Genesis includes performance and luxury features typically found on vehicles costing thousands of dollars more.

The fuel-efficient Sonata combines refined design, proven dependability, spirited performance and an extensive list of standard features that increase its appeal to a broader range of customers.

In Malaysia, the sole distributor and prime mover of Hyundai vehicles is Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors Sdn Bhd. (HSDM). It distributes a wide range of imported and locally assembled Hyundai vehicles that includes the all-new i10, chic Getz 1.4, Pininfarina-designed Matrix 1.6, entry-level Tucson SUV, 7-seater luxurious Santa Fe, stunning Coupe, all-new feature-packed Grand Starex 11-seater MPV, Lorimas light truck and the heavy duty HD5000 5-tonner truck. Every model is attractively priced and feature-packed, offering real value for money buys. Through innovative and dedicated marketing efforts, HSDM has successfully place Hyundai vehicles among the most desired brands in Malaysia. A complete network of sales and after-sales service outlets looks after the motoring needs of Hyundai vehicle owners throughout the country.