HYUNDAI Asia Resources Inc. (Hari), the Philippines’s official distributor of Hyundai passenger and commercial vehicles, recently hosted a year-end conference and celebration dubbed as “Runaway to the Future.”
Attended by the members of HARI’s 42-strong dealer network, members of the media and bank partners, the celebration represented the company’s vast achievements this year and its strong visions for 2019. In line with the celebration, Hari also introduced three new edition vehicles plus a hybrid. The Korean automaker confidently rolled out one by one its newest front-runners for 2019 a facelifted compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV), an updated premium van, a hybrid car and an all-new version of the best-selling subcompact sedan.
First to be introduced was the facelifted version of the Tucson compact SUV. Minor changes where given while retaining its general fascia layout. The subtle changes are more in favor of further streamlining several elements to stay ignited and look as impeccable as it was when initially introduced. Aside from the minimal exterior upgrade, there were also changes made inside. With these upgrades, this dynamic crossover is deemed to join the ranks of the all-new Santa Fe and the Kona when it comes to bearing the mark of Hyundai’s new SUV family identity.
The second was Hari’s best-selling van—the Grand Starex Urban edition. Early this year, photos of its new look broke online with exterior upgrade notably the front end’s fresh and imposing look. When it finally rolled out, it bears Hyundai’s signature pronounced grille design united with sleek headlamps. This new look is now aligned to newer model’s design cues. Even the interior received several changes and upgrades highlighted by the new infotainment’s head up display. The van’s progressive refinements for the past 17 years convey Hari’s commitment in bringing delight to the most important market in the Philippines: the family. The new Grand Starex Urban will continue to offer a higher quality of driving experience as they indulge in its luxurious comfort, unparalleled craftsmanship and modern-premium style.
Capturing attention from the guests was Hyundai’s very own eco-friendly car—the Ioniq Hybrid. Displayed in numerous shows this year, this promising hybrid car represents what the Korean automaker has to offer when it comes to green solutions. Sculpted with a unique exterior design philosophy dubbed as “Visual Aero”, the Ioniq Hybrid exudes confidence with a futuristic look inspired by the beauty of flowing air. It has earned sterling reputation for its state-of-the-art technology in achieving competitive fuel economy and environment-friendly performance.
Taking center stage was the much-awaited debut of the manufacturer’s popular subcompact sedan—the all-new Accent. Donning a completely redesigned exterior, the new stunning appearance is exactly what everyone would want it to be. Indicative to its big brother Elantra’s look, the new generation Accent now shares Hyundai’s modern cars design cues. From the signature pronounced grille, keen-looking headlights, aerodynamic profiles, to the equally stunning rear end with stretched taillights, fanatics would surely love the new look even more. Even the interior was endowed with more refined dashboard and center console layout along with other elements.
Offered in turbo diesel and naturally aspirated petrol engine options, both are guaranteed to offer outstanding fuel efficiency and output. The 1.6-liter CRDi with VGT mill is capable to produce 126 horsepower and an impressive 260 N-m of maximum torque. On the other hand, the 1.4-liter MPI with CVVT gasoline engine generates 98 horsepower and 132 N-m of maximum torque. Both engine options are paired with a choice of a six-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission. Available in six variants, price may start at P725,000 according to Hari while the final price points are still being determined.
Summing up the celebration, Hari President and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo shared her message to the guests, “2018 brought extraordinary challenges in the marketplace, resulting from the tough economic environment that tested our capabilities. As such, we have remained focused by laying down the groundwork to ensure an unhampered and successful takeoff of our business for the brand in 2019.” Agudo also pointed out that Runway to the Future is Hari’s way of expressing its appreciation to the Hyundai dealership network, friends from the media and partners in the banking industry who inspired the company in braving this year’s challenges in the automotive industry. She added, “Given this backdrop, we look forward to take off and fly high towards more notable achievements, and set new records through innovative mobility, headlined by the Hyundai Grand Starex Urban edition, the Hyundai Tucson facelift, the Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid and the all-new Hyundai Accent, come 2019.”
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino