"I'm very proud, that only in 1980s we launched our product in the U.S.," said Brandon Yea, senior vice president of product planning for Hyundai, as the company's vice chairman, H.S. Lee, held the prestigious trophy for photos by the throngs of international automotive journalists. "If American customers accept this car really as 'Car of the Year,' really, it's much more than we expect. Of course, we want it. But it takes a long time to get this kind of award."
Hyundai's luxury offering made history by being the first vehicle from a South Korean automaker to even be a finalist for the award. The winners of this prestigious award are chosen by automotive media from around the world.
The rear-wheel drive, five passenger sedan boasts an upscale interior that many have compared with the original 1990 Lexus LS, the car that made Toyota a success in the luxury market.
Price: starts at $37,250
Ford Wins Again
The Ford F-150 was named North American Truck of the Year this morning at the Detroit North American International Auto Show, in the 16th Annual award juried by the automotive media.
Critics praised the quiet comfortable ride of the redesigned F-150, a model that Ford expects to maintain its spot as the best-selling vehicle in the country. Before being named a finalist for truck of the year, the 2009 F-150 had won several accolades. Specialty Equipment Market Association named it the most accessory-friendly pickup. The F-150 was expected to be named the best redesigned vehicle of 2009 by Kelley Blue Book.
Price: Starts at $21,565
