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MIAS 2018: Hyundai PH’s “The Greatest Show” highlights new, updated models

By Randy
.
April 6, 2018

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), the exclusive distributor of Hyundai vehicles in the country, has pulled all the stops to bring out its greatest show ever at this year’s Manila International Suto Show (MIAS). Case in point, it showcased 2 freshly updated models and 2 new names to spice up the local motoring market.

First on the list is the all-new Santa Fe crossover slated for the 2019 model year. Taking it all in at face value, the vehicle sports vastly improved design both inside and out. This is due to the heavy design influence from the Kona. Under the hood is the tried and true 2.2L inline 4-cylinder turbodiesel mill that puts out 200 hp and 441 Nm of torque.

Prior to the 2018 MIAS launch, the all-new Santa Fe already made its global grand entrance. With that said, here’s our news about its international debut which delved into the more intricate details about this Korean crossover.

Next in line is the first of HARI’s newest offerings; the Kona. The thing about the Kona is that it’s Hyundai’s first small crossover contender. It’s sporty, edgy, and has one of the most aggressively-designed bodies out there. The unit featured here sports bright metallic yellow paintwork, paired with a blacked-out roof, all in all giving the vehicle a rather youthful look.

Of note, HARI has not given any substantial details with regard to its local specs. But based on global accounts, the vehicle may run with a choice of 2 gasoline engines; a 2.0L mill that delivers 147 hp and a 1.0L version rated at 118 hp. It’s likewise worth noting that a turbocharged 1.6L diesel-feeder is also available.

Following the Kona is yet another of HARI’s new offering; the Ioniq. As it stands, the Ioniq is HARI’s first contender in the emerging electric/plug-in hybrid segment. As such, it’s motivated by a 1.6L gasoline engine, boosted by a Li-ion battery-powered permanent magnet synchronous motor. This is connected to a 6-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox.

HARI is confident that the Ioniq will hit the market strong as it being a hybrid means that it’s free of related taxes, thanks to the government’s new Tax Reform Law, exempting electric and hybrid vehicles from being taxed. This would make the Ioniq an affordable choice.

Lastly, HARI also brought in the 2019 Veloster Turbo. This gem underwent a heavy face-lifting inside and out. As a result, it’s now more aggressive-looking than its predecessor. It boasts a redesigned front end, a profile with more distinct silhouette and character lines, and an improved rear design. Inside, the Veloster beckon occupants with a more refined interior decor, especially on the dash.

HARI didn’t say anything about a performance update for this one. But it’s most likely that this 2019 model will still feature the previous model’s peppy1.6L turbocharged power plant that gives 2.4 hp and 265 Nm or torque.

Photos by Paolo Lesaca and Sabina Cruz

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About the Author

Randolph de Leon
Randy is a person with disability (PWD), a partially-blinded person with only his left eye functioning. Since childhood, the automobile has always been his passion, and is able to express it through photography and most recently, through writing as well. Outside the motoring beat, Randy spends time manning the media aspect of his business which he co-founded with his sister/college classmate. It's called Dragonlight Wellness and Solutions, a multi-business venture centering on improving peoples' lives through earning.