2008 Chicago Auto Show: Hyundai

Korean automaker Hyundai introduced two production vehicles and a new alternative-fuel concept vehicle at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show.

2009 Hyundai Sonata

2009 Hyundai Sonata

The 2009 Sonata midsize sedan receives a round of mid-cycle enhancements, including a mild styling facelift, interior refinements, and revised suspension tuning. USB/iPod auxiliary inputs are now standard, and a touch-screen navigation system joins the options list.

Both Sonata engines are upgraded: The 2.4-liter four-cylinder gets a 13-horsepower boost, to 175; the 3.3-liter V6 is up 15 horsepower, to 249. Despite the horsepower increase, Hyundai says both engines' fuel economy improves slightly. The 2009 Hyundai Sonata is scheduled to go on sale in February 2008.

2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring

2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring

The 2009 Elantra Touring is a five-door hatchback version of the Elantra 4-door sedan compact. Hyundai claims the Elantra Touring has the most interior volume of any five door in its class at 125.5 cubic feet. Standard safety features include six airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction/stability control. USB/iPod inputs and XM satellite radio are also standard.

The 2009 Elantra Touring is slated to hit dealerships by the end of 2008.

Hyundai i-Blue Concept

Hyundai i-Blue Concept

Hyundai's i-Blue Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) concept illustrates the company's intent to reach mass production of hydrogen-powered fuel-cell vehicles between 2012 and 2015. The i-Blue is powered by a 100kW electric engine/fuel cell stack that runs on compressed hydrogen. Hyundai claims a top speed of more than 100 mph, and a cruising range of more than 370 miles before refueling.

The i-Blue's swoopy crossover architecture is sized like a midsize SUV and offers seating for four. Futuristic features include an aircraft-like steering wheel that integrates touch-scroll control pads, a full-surround camera system that assists in lane changing and parking, and a 3D heads-up display (HUD) system. Expect to see elements of the i-Blue's design trickle into future Hyundai production vehicles.

2008 Chicago Auto Show