At the country’s first virtual auto show, MIAS Wired, Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI) is flexing nearly two decades of being an automotive force to reckon with. The company is showcasing its stellar vehicle lineup with fresh mobility options, under the ‘CONNEXT’ banner.
CONNEXT is HARI's new campaign for 2021
“The theme CONNEXT is only fitting since the Hyundai brand has really forged deep ties with its consumers through its impressive lineup of vehicles and services,” explains HARI President and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo. “Also, the theme underscores the digital revolution happening in HARI and the entire industry.”
Starting out with four dealerships in 2001, HARI now has 42 passenger car outlets, earning accolades along the way. As the specter of dramatically altered lifestyles looms because of the COVID-19 pandemic, HARI is stepping up to the plate in meeting the challenges of the new normal. The company wants to do this by enabling safe and better journeys, through its roster of versatile and capable best-sellers.
A powerful 2.5L CRDi engine makes the Starex one of the most capable vans in the market
The Hyundai Starex has become the van of choice for the Filipino family, powered by a 2.5L common-rail direct injection (CRDi) diesel engine for long drives. It features dual sliding doors for easy access to and from the cavernous interior, while a myriad of seating configurations provide utmost flexibility while combining comfort and style.
Since its introduction, the Accent has become the definitive mass-market diesel sedan
Diesel power is also present in the Hyundai Accent subcompact sedan. The top-of-the-line variant is equipped with a 1.6L CRDi mill capable of 126 hp and an impressive 260 Nm of torque, linked to either a manual or automatic transmission with six forward gears each.
Hyundai claims a rated fuel consumption of 29.4 kilometers on just a liter of diesel, citing results of its internal testing.
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The Kona combines youthful aesthetics with serious performance
For more leisure-oriented pursuits, the Hyundai Kona fits the bill, sporting a globally-acclaimed design and features. The heart of this SUV beats as a 2.0L gasoline powerhouse churning out 147 hp and 179 Nm of torque. Three drive modes (Normal, Eco, Sport) strike the ideal balance between performance and efficiency on everyday drives.
>>> Related: 2021 Hyundai Kona: Expectations and what we know so far
The Reina sets a new standard for affordability and practicality
First-time car buyers will appreciate the value that the Hyundai Reina subcompact sedan brings, with a practical design and a spacious cabin that can seat five occupants in comfort. Its trunk provides 475 liters of capacity for both work and play, all easily moved by the 1.4L gasoline engine that makes 94 hp and 132 Nm of torque. Dual front airbags and anti-lock brakes ensure peace of mind, even at the Reina’s price point.
Hyundai bolsters its lineup of best-sellers with the Venue subcompact crossover
This range of successful models is now joined by the Venue, Hyundai’s newest and smallest crossover. What the Hyundai Venue lacks in size, it makes up for with an outgoing personality and loads of practicality. The space-efficient design hides ample seating for five that can also be configured for cargo, while an 8-inch floating type touchscreen is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Venue's small size belies its flexibility
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Under the hood, a 1.6L Gamma gasoline engine packs 121 hp and 151 Nm of torque, working with a 6-speed automatic transmission sending power to the front wheels. Three traction modes (Snow, Mud, Sand) work with the 2WD Drive Mode System’s three settings for optimum control even under less-than-ideal road conditions. Complementing the Venue’s Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS) chassis is an array of six airbags on the range-topping GLS trim.
All Hyundai models are backed by the carmaker’s award-winning aftersales service, featuring the Fast Track quick preventive maintenance program, as well as the pioneering five-year unlimited warranty package.
Asked about HARI’s staying power in the industry, Agudo reveals this secret. “It’s our power to connect with consumers, dealerships, business partners, employees, and stakeholders with our top-of-the-line legacy products.”
With connection as the company’s strength, Connext represents its next move in 2021, bridging HARI’s past achievements with a more promising future.
Hyundai Philippines new models for 2021
HARI also announced that it will be bringing four new models next year. Based on the teaser released during the 2020 MIAS Wired, Hyundai Philippines will introduce two facelifted models, which would most likely be the Kona and the Santa Fe. Hyundai also confirmed that it will be launching the all-new Tucson as well as the new Starex in 2021.
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