Hyundai Genesis gets on "World Car of the Year 2015" shortlist

Just when you thought there wasn’t more to learn about Hyundai, this little surprise gets sprung. The Hyundai Genesis has made the shortlist for the World Car Awards 2015. And not simply for its design. Which, yes, it was judged for. But there was more than that for this premium sedan. And the panel of five designers took into serious consideration the overall design and features because they understand these are some of the most important things drivers consider when shopping for their next car.



To get to this stage, a panel of five of the most highly respected designers in the industry had the formidable task of narrowing the field for the jury to vote for. Masatsugu Arumoto of Japan, Silvia Baruffaldi of Italy, Gernot Bracht of Germany, Tom Matano of USA, and Sam Livingstone of the UK. Each brings a unique strategy and strength to the task at hand as well as a passion for automotive design.



Each judge shared a little about strategy. Bracht had one approach: “At first, it is a spontaneous ‘like’ or ‘don’t like’ decision. There are cars you would never vote for because they are against your own design philosophy.” Baruffaldi had another: “I start deleting the less significant models first, in order to narrow the selections. Then comes the more difficult part, to pick up only five of the remaining nominees.”


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Smarter Tech: Hyundai Blue Link

There is now a better way to interact with your Hyundai. And you won’t need your keys or even your smartphone to do it. Now you can use Blue Link, an ingenious app that lets you remote start, lock or unlock your car. Blue Link is one of the latest smartwatch companion apps available through Google Play for Android Wear. Availability for Apple Watch is anticipated shortly.





The new app is easy to use. As long as the Blue Link smartwatch app is paired via Bluetooth your smartphone containing the Blue Link mobile app, remote functions can be executed nearly anywhere in the United States provided there are connections to Bluetooth and cellular or internet.

Blue Link Smartwatch features (which are all voice activated):

• Remote engine start

• Remote engine stop

• Remote door lock/unlock

• Remote flash lights/honk horn

• Car finder

• Call roadside

• Call Blue Link

The Blue Link smartwatch app works with first and next generation Blue Link equipped Hyundai models beginning with the 2012 Sonata, expanding across the lineup through 2013. The next generation Blue Link equipped models include the 2015 Genesis, Sonata and Azera.





Click here to visit Gurley Leep Hyundai and learn more about the 2015 Genesis, Sonata, and Azera. Have questions? Click here and we will get you the answers you need.

2015 Subaru Outback: For the Family

It’s hard to find a family that isn’t on the go today. And the 2015 Subaru Outback is specially tailored for the active family. Noted automotive authorities Kelley Blue Book have put out their list for 15 Best Family Cars and naturally the Outback made the list. It isn’t short on cargo space, has fantastic handling thanks to its all-wheel drive, and offers a host of features that are musts for any family.



The Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is probably the most popular feature on the Outback. Whether you live on backroads, live in snow country, or just want some extra assurance while driving in the rain, it is a welcomed feature. The Outback also leads its segment in build quality. While in the past, points would have been deducted for the interior and a frustrating head unit, that is thankfully no longer the case. The interior has been refreshed and is quite comfortable, a must for all occupants when getting around town or taking a road trip.



The reviewers at KBB continue with their accolades of the 2015 Subaru Outback, saying that “this new Subaru SUV-wagon is definitely an improvement over its predecessor. Clever touches include grille shutters that close at speed to improve fuel economy, and LED taillights. We also like the standard roof rails with their integrated stowable crossbars. Combine that with a starting price of $24,895 and standard all-wheel drive, the 2015 Subaru Outback stands out in a crowded segment.”


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2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Is Again "Family Car of the Year"

For the second year in a row, the Hyundai Santa Fe has won the acclaimed Cars.com “Family Car of the Year” award.



The 2015 Santa Fe was a consecutive winner for several reasons. First and foremost, the refinements that were made to the steering systems, cargo space and safety equipment stood out, making this an appealing SUV for families on the go. The 2015 Santa Fe also won Most Popular from Edmunds for several of the same features.



The upgraded interior and sportier exterior of the 2015 Santa Fe has been designed to provide optimal performance and comfort for families, features that were not overlooked. Editors rave over the spaciousness and family-friendly features, all at a wallet-friendly price. The Santa Fe continues to offer front- or all-wheel drive and is powered by a hefty 3.3-liter V6. A new feature (again, another way Hyundai thinks of their owners) is the Hands-Free Smart Liftgate, allowing the driver to access the cargo area simply by waiting within a few feet of the rear bumper.



“The 2015 Santa Fe has been upgraded to fit the active lifestyles of families, offering upgraded standard comfort and convenience equipment, raising the standards on the passenger experience for the front and backseat drivers,” said Michael O’Brien, vice president of corporate and product planning, Hyundai Motor America. “We’re pleased that Cars.com has once again distinguished as the optimal automotive choice for families in America.”...


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"Most Popular" SUV: 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe

Continuing to add to its award-winning lineup, Hyundai has made the list for Edmunds.com “Most Popular” with the Santa Fe. It had some pretty tough competition. But the three-row crossover has earned the praise of critics several times over for its stunning appearance, thoughtfully designed interior, technology and safety features and one of the best warranties. And of course the Santa Fe is highly recommended by Edmunds.com based on the strength of its overall excellence and value.


The spacious interior is generous, providing room for seven, and the third row is large enough for kids or teens – a must for families. The controls are simple and easy to use. Hyundai also provides the latest in optional entertainment and safety features.


New for 2015
The 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe got a few new upgrades including a new hands-free function for its power liftgate. This allows the driver to access the cargo area by simply waiting for the liftgate to open after standing within a few feet of the rear bumper. Perfect for when you get back to the car after shopping and your hands are full and you can’t find your keys.


One standout that the editors had for the Santa Fe was the cabin. Among its competitors, the Santa Fe had one of the better cabins—not just spaciousness, but quality of materials, placement of controls, and thoughtfulness of layout. The switchgear is well-organized and legible. The touchscreen menus and functions are intuitive. Hyundai had their owners in mind when designing the Santa Fe...


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