Five Hyundai Models Named a 'Best Bet' in The Car Book 2005

Hyundai's Accent, Elantra, Santa Fe, Sonata and Tiburon Earn Distinction in Automotive Consumer Expert's New Book

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., March 10 -- Five Hyundai models -- the Accent, Elantra, Santa Fe, Sonata and Tiburon -- earned the title "Best Bet" in Jack Gillis' The Car Book 2005. The Car Book, in cooperation with the Center for Auto Safety, selects vehicles for this distinction based on how well they respond to the safety and performance needs of today's consumer.

"Having five Hyundai models identified by The Car Book as 'Best Bets' demonstrates how well Hyundai vehicles are fitting the needs of the American consumer," said John Krafcik, vice president of product development and strategic planning. "I'm particularly pleased that Hyundai is earning recognition for our industry-leading standard safety features, like side-impact air bags and Electronic Stability Control. This recognition from The Car Book validates what our customers are asking us to do -- to make safety equipment standard, not optional."

The Car Book has analyzed new vehicles each year for the past 25 years to identify vehicles that have made a significant contribution to bettering the market. "Best Bets" is The Car Book's list of highest-rated cars in each of the size categories. Ratings are based on expected performance in 10 important categories: crash tests, safety features, fuel economy, rollover, overall maintenance and repair costs, warranties, insurance costs and complaints, with the heaviest emphasis on safety.

"I congratulate Hyundai on its achievement of providing the market with fine products that are truly meeting the needs of consumers," said Mr. Gillis. The Car Book author, and one of America's most well known car consumer experts, Jack Gillis, informed Hyundai of its addition to the book.

Jack Gillis will appear on NBC's Today Show to share information from The Car Book 2005, in a segment scheduled for March 10, 2005.

About Hyundai Motor America

Hyundai Motor America, based in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai cars and sports utility vehicles are distributed in the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 660 dealerships nationwide. For more information, visit www.hyundainews.com.