Hyundai plans to flood its lineup with new SUV models

Reacting to the continuing consumer shift away from cars, Hyundai says it plans to release eight new or re-engineered crossover utility vehicles in the U.S. by 2020.

The rollout officially begins with the launch of the Kona small crossover SUV in March.

The company said Wednesday the offerings will include a range of vehicles — electric, diesel, entry-level, eight-passenger midsize and a fuel cell crossover SUV. They will debut at upcoming auto shows in Los Angeles and New York as well as the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. 

Korean cars named s top quality vehicles, Japan autos drop: J.D. power

Korean cars are the top quality vehicles by a growing stretch. Japanese brands on the other hand are slipping down the rankings table, falling below the industry average for the first time in 29 years.

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Reflecting a broader industry trend, the South Korean automaker has taken a sales hit in the U.S. because of its vehicle mix. Hyundai's total U.S. sales were down more than 15% in October compared to the same month a year ago, but that was attributable to its cars, which were down almost 30%. Sales of its SUVs were up by more than 12%.

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Officials hope to rectify that with the lineup plans announced during a media event Wednesday at the Hyundai America Technical Center near Ann Arbor, Mich.

Mike O'Brien, a Hyundai vice president, said the lineup is "aimed squarely at the sales leaders in each segment and will emphasize Hyundai's continued focus on sustainability and efficiency without compromising performance."