The Microsoft Sync wireless communication system has been a huge hit for Ford. This is especially true on the Focus model line, as sales of Sync-equipped models have jumped off the charts. As a result expect to see more vehicle brands to offer similar units, and the first being Hyundai.

Hyundai has just struck up a deal with Microsoft, to offer a infotainment system much like what Ford is offering.

Steve Koenig, director of industry analysis at the Consumer Electronics Association, said that "demand is omnipresent" for the Microsoft Auto operating system and the features it offers consumers.

"We see demand manifest across all income levels, all age levels," Koenig said. "It's really resonating with consumers' digital lifestyle. ... We're starting to see consumers beginning to demand it and expect it."

Full story here.

Here's Inside Line's take: Microsoft and Hyundai-Kia Pair Up on In-Car Infotainment System Development

By now you know that today's the day Hyundai introduced the much-anticipated Genesis coupe at the 2008 New York Auto Show. The official announcement is that the rear-wheel-drive 2+2 will be available in three flavors: Base, SE with a turbo four-cylinder and SE with V6 power.

But we've also learned that Hyundai is thinking about a fourth model called the Spec R. (Maybe it's still working on the name.) It'll be a tuner special with the SE's four-cylinder turbo power, six-speed manual transmission and Brembo brakes, but little else. Hyundai will strip the car of other unneeded content to lower the coupe's weight and price.

"It'll be the Genesis coupe for the tuner crowd," said a Hyundai source close to the project. "Light, cheap and powerful."

We told them to build the thing. What do you think? -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief

Although its official unveil is scheduled for the 2008 New York Auto Show later this week, photos of the 2009 Hyundai Genesis Coupe have already leaked out. No big surprises here as it looks much like the Genesis coupe concept shown at the Los Angeles auto show late last year. Look for full details in our show coverage from New York starting Wednesday.





Continue reading...

The always the much anticipated Consumer Reports 2008 Annual Auto Issue is about to hit the news stands, and this year there are some surprises.

Hyundai has two top picks: The Elantra SE ousted last year's winner, the Honda Civic, as the best small sedan. Their Santa Fe also took top honors in the mid-size SUV category. Last year the Toyota Highlander hybrid won this class.

In terms of full-size pickups, the Chevy Silverado 1500 Crew Cab won. The Toyota Tundra actually outscored the Silverado, but did not get the CR top recommendation due to recent quality glitches.

Full story here and here.

As to the 11 worst vehicles? Not many surprises, other than Jeep had three models listed, and Toyota and Chevy both had two listed.

Here's Inside Line's take: Consumer Reports Issues List of Top Vehicles for 2008

The new must-haves are tech features like navigation, premium audio, satellite radio and live traffic -- many of which the otherwise adequate Hyundai Sonata lacks. Not for long. For 2009 the Sonata gets a nav system, a USB port so you can play music through an iPod or memory stick plus a revised and more interesting XM radio interface including a voice command. Tech geeks will know that both the Accord and Altima have similar options but the voice control for XM is an interesting addition -- that Microsoft Sync system's got 'em all thinkin. -- Brian Moody, Road Test Editor

Hyundai's been selling a wagon in Europe, but this is the first time the Korean company will offer a wagon based on the current-generation Elantra in the U.S.

Under the hood is a 141-horsepower DOHC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox.

For fun, Hyundai also showed a customized version of the new Elantra wagon done-up by K-Daddyz Kustomz in Bakersfield, California. -- Kelly Toepke, News Editor

Having made its world debut at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show last September, Hyundai's i-Blue fuel-cell concept isn't exactly breaking news at the Chicago auto show.

Nevertheless, the Hyundai concept's aerodynamic form still looks cool enough to post a couple of new photos from the show floor. -- Kelly Toepke, News Editor

Hyundai used the Chicago auto show to unveil its updated 2009 Sonata, touting the fact that the midsize sedan is gaining popularity in a highly competitive segment. 

Offered with a 175-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or 249-hp 3.3-liter V6, the Sonata is a nice alternative to your friends' Toyota Camry or Honda Accord.

A starting price of $18,795 makes the 2009 Sonata even more attractive. -- Kelly Toepke, News Editor

You may have noticed the new TV spots for the Hyundai Genesis, comparing it to a BMW 7-series, but priced like a 3-Series. I believe their is also one comparing it to an S-Class Mercedes-Benz, but being priced like a C-Class. This all raises the question: Is the car market ready for a premium Korean auto brand?

AutoObserver is also raising that same question: Genesis: A New Beginning for Hyundai, But Is the World Ready?

The best part about the Big Game when your team is not involved (um, go Eagles?) are the commercials.

Those 30-second spots that are usually your chance to run to the bathroom or throw some nachos into the microwave, morph into multi-million dollar mini movies. And the car companies compete every year in hopes that theirs will be the one that everyone is talking about the next day.

This year expect masterpieces from Audi, Cadillac, Ford, GMC, Hyundai and Toyota.

Super Bowl XLII will be broadcast live on the Fox network on February 3 at 6:18 p.m. Eastern Time.

So, enjoy the Big Game but check back on Inside Line to watch your favorite ads again and again on our Super Bowl car commercial page.

Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor