2011 Hyundai Sonata Awarded International Car of the Year-Preston Hyundai-Preston MD

Feb. 24, 2011 - PRLog -- Preston Hyundai of Preston MD is pleased to announce that the 2011 Hyundai Sonata was awarded International Car of the Year for 2011. Preston Hyundai (http://prestonhyundaiusa.com) sells a large selection of new Hyundais around Preston MD Easton MD Salisbury MD Denton MD.

Representatives from publications such as Kelley Blue Book, Consumer Guide, Auto Week, Cars.com, and more vote on US-sold models made in several countries to name the International Car and Truck of the Year. ICOTY is the largest, most professionally produced auto awards show in the automotive industry. "The ICOTY Awards are not about power and performance, but rather about personality and passion," said ICOTY Executive Producer Courtney Caldwell.

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata combines style and function in an incredible sedan. The exterior of the all-new 2011 Sonata is long, light and low. The high beltline allows for a long, sleek roofline accented by the third window. A monoform side profile includes flowing lines highlighted by a Hyundai signature chrome accent that spans the length of the car. Normally, this type of trim is only found around the windows. On the new Sonata, this trim extends out from the headlamps, juts up along the hood and through the beltline. The face is bold with a large powerful chrome grille and headlamps that integrate precise details. The stance is completed by 16-, 17- or 18-inch multi-spoke wheels.

The sophisticated look continues inside where Hyundai has created an upscale ambiance thanks to a flow-through center console and instrument panel. These flowing surfaces complement the exterior design and wrap around the driver and passengers.

The sleek design, combined with Hyundai’s expertise in interior packaging, has produced an interior that delivers class-leading comfort, functionality and practicality. A sleek roofline typically compromises headroom and interior volume but, at 120.2 cubic feet, the Sonata has the most interior volume of its key competitors. It is so spacious, Sonata continues to be classified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a Large car, truly a “class above” Camry, Altima, Fusion and Malibu (all are categorized as Midsize cars). Even in trunk room, the Sonata shines. Sonata’s 16.4 cu. ft. of trunk space gives it a 9.3 percent advantage over the Camry, and a 17.1 percent advantage over Accord.

Sonata delivers an impressive 22 mpg city/35 mpg highway fuel economy rating with the available six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC®. (When equipped with the six-speed manual, the Sonata achieves 24 mpg city/35 mpg highway fuel economy rating).

An advanced four-wheel independent suspension system combines a supple ride with precise handling and steering response for Sonata GLS and Limited models. Sonata uses MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems with increased travel for improved wheel control and a smoother ride. All four wheels are controlled by coil springs, fade-resistant gas-charged dampers and stabilizer bars. The suspension has been optimized to keep the vehicle flat during corning and provide quick turn-in response. The rear suspension uses aluminum components to reduce weight and improve suspension performance. The GLS and Limited models also use advanced low-rolling resistance tires to improve fuel economy while maintaining good ride and handling performance.

The Sonata SE is an even more exciting and willing partner for drivers who prefer sportier ride and handling dynamics. The sport-tuned suspension features stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars, resulting in a 20 percent increase in roll stiffness. Unique SE dampers, including monotube shocks in the rear are used to control the more aggressive suspension. Low profile 18-inch tires round out the unique chassis components of the Sonata SE.

All Sonatas have column-mounted, motor-driven electric power steering that adjusts instantly to changing driving conditions while improving fuel economy over a conventional steering system. A quick-ratio steering rack is used for crisp feel on turn-in. Sonata’s turning diameter of 35.8 feet is better than Camry, Accord, Altima, Fusion and Malibu.

To test drive the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, visit Preston Hyundai at 4313 Preston Rd.

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About Preston Motor: Based in Preston MD, the Preston Automotive Group sells a large selection of Ford, Lincoln, Hyundai, Nissan, Mazda, and preowned vehicles at multiple locations.