Hyundai i30 and iMax Prove Inexpensive

SYDNEY – July 14, 2011: Hyundai vehicles are providing savings for motorists according to the latest 2011 Vehicle Operating Costs Survey conducted by Australia’s Motoring Clubs including the RACV, RACQ, RAA, RAC W.A. and RACT.

The i30 SX 2.0-litre petrol automatic and iMax 2.4-litre petrol automatic topped their respective classes, whilst four other Hyundai models placed in the top five of their segments.

While the operating costs of motor vehicles continue to burden budget conscious families and businesses alike, Hyundai Motor Company Australia leads the way by offering a range of vehicles designed to deliver outstanding efficiency and economy without sacrificing performance or business and lifestyle requirements.

The small car class was the most tightly fought in this year’s survey, however, Hyundai’s i30 SX 2.0-litre automatic five-door hatch took the honours with operating costs of $157.30 per week*, and the Hyundai i30 SX 1.6-litre turbo diesel automatic five-door hatch taking third position in the category at $160.48 per week*.

In the all-important People Mover category, the Hyundai iMax 2.4-litre petrol automatic delivers a combination of economy and practicality for business and families in need of a larger capacity transport, came in top of the people mover class, costing only $231.51 per week.

According to the survey, motorists are now paying an average of approximately 1.6% less to own and operate their vehicles in 2011 compared to 2010. At approximately 39%, depreciation continues to take the largest share of costs. Lower interest rates on vehicle loans and slightly lower servicing expenses have helped in the overall drop despite increased petrol prices which account for only 15% of total annual costs; leaving purchase price, tyres, service and maintenance, insurance, registration and parts making up the balance of the cost and ownership schedule.

“With six models recognised in the top five of their respective categories, these results are further confirmation of Hyundai’s commitment to deliver a winning combination of design, safety and quality with an affordable service and maintenance schedule,” said Nick Aravanis Hyundai Motor Company Australia’s Director of Aftersales.

Calculations for the Vehicle Operating Costs Survey are based on a five-year ownership period and average operating costs for private motorists, including an average driving distance of 15,000km. The data was collected in the period leading up to early June 2011.

Comprehensive results of the 2011 surveys are available at the RACV, RACQ, RAA, RAC W.A. and RACT websites