Hyundai Sees Double At The Auto Express New Car Honours 2011

HIGH WYCOMBE, UNITED KINGDOM – Aug 3, 2011: Hyundai products have reigned supreme at the prestigious Auto Express 2011 New Car awards with the i10 winning Best City Car for the second consecutive year and the ix20 scooping Best Supermini MPV.

The Hyundai i10 fought off strong competition from the Kia Picanto and the Ford Ka while the ix20 triumphed over the Citroen C3 Picasso, Kia Venga and the Nissan Note.

Auto Express Acting editor, Graham Hope, said of the i10: “Competition in the city car sector is hotter than ever – and that makes the Hyundai i10’s second consecutive victory in this category even more impressive. The i10 has the feel of a big car inside, while its composed driving dynamics mean it’s as at home on the open road as on congested city streets.”

Of the ix20, Hope continued: “The ix20 shot straight to the top of the sector when it hit showrooms last year, and it fully deserves its class-leading status. Not only does this practical model look great, but it brings new levels of cabin quality and comfort to the supermini-MPV sector. Choose the ix20 and you also get the security of buying a car from one of the most highly regarded dealer networks in the country.”

Hyundai UK’s managing director, Tony Whitehorn said: “It’s always fantastic to receive positive recognition from the industry for our product offering. However, to be classed as the best in what are two highly competitive segments is tremendous and a true testament to the style, practicality, driveability and economy of these outstanding products.

“The Hyundai range has been completely revitalised over the last few years and we now have the strongest product line-up ever. This looks set to continue with the launch later this year of the all-new i40 Tourer and Saloon and the 1+2 Veloster coupe.”

The first half of 2011 has been successful for the Hyundai brand in the UK. Sales are up half year by 20%* and up 29.4% versus June 2010, and the company is looking forward to its best ever sales year. The award-winning i10 is the best-seller with nearly 10,000 sold year to date, up 22% on 2010.

Hyundai has also been recognised by Which? magazine as the Best Car Manufacturer 2011 and by Motor Trader as Best Car Franchise based on its products, dealership performance and customer satisfaction. Constantly improving Customer Service is a priority for the brand. 21 new dealers have been appointed to the network so far this year, the 5 year triple care package has now been extended to all passenger vehicles and Hyundai recently opened a one-stop Training Academy to ensure top-level and consistent training for all dealership staff over all disciplines.