One factor contributing to the increasing presence of Hyundais on LA streets is that all the models now feature Hyundai’s concept of “Fluidic Sculpture.” Thus, eye candy has been added to the equation of value, impressive mileage, and exceptional warranty. On January 8, Hyundai Motor America announced that its Azera, Santa Fe Sport and Veloster models had all earned GOOD DESIGN™ Awards in the Transportation category for their innovative and unique designs.
The GOOD DESIGN Awards are presented annually by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design together with The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies. GOOD DESIGN confers international recognition upon the world's most prominent designers and manufacturers for advancing new, visionary, and innovative product concepts, invention and originality, and for stretching the envelope beyond what is considered ordinary product and consumer design. For 2012, The GOOD DESIGN Awards were judged in New York by an international jury of design professionals, architects, experts, and cultural leaders. The jury selected more than 700 product designs and graphics from more than 38 nations.
“At Hyundai, we want to show consumers that high style, fuel efficiency and affordable pricing can all be found in one vehicle,” noted Chris Chapman, chief designer, Hyundai Design Center. “Azera, Santa Fe Sport and Veloster Turbo all stand out from the crowd with stylish yet functional design. We’re honored that GOOD DESIGN is recognizing the beautiful design and unique personality of these cars.”
The Azera (Base MSRP $32,250) is less familiar than some other Hyundai models such as the mid-sized Sonata. It lies midway in price and luxury features between the Sonata and Genesis. Hyundai notes that Azera’s design takes inspiration from the mechanics of flight. It is empowered by Hyundai’s design concept known as “Grand Glide.” Hyundai explains that the grandeur of the Azera and its beautiful design distinguishes it from other full-size sedans. The exterior of the all-new Azera is long, light and low and the unique, undulating beltline allows for a long, sleek roofline accented by the third window and wraparound LED taillights. The Azera separates itself from competition by combining luxury features with advanced technologies and bold design philosophies.
The all-new Hyundai Santa Fe Sport (MSRP $24,450) features its own design concept called “Storm Edge,” which according to Hyundai captures the strong and dynamic images created by nature during the formation of a storm. Featuring sophisticated and refined lines, which are in harmony with its bold and voluminous surfaces, Santa Fe presents a more masculine and more aggressive SUV appearance than its predecessor.
For younger and young-at-heart drivers, the Veloster three-door coupe (MSRP $17,600) is garnering a devoted following. Hyundai notes that the Veloster Turbo’s playful, high-efficiency, and “own-it” attitude are all characteristics of the young demographic target; it offers a “modern premium” look and feel. The Veloster Turbo bridges the gap between a versatile interior space and the strong appeal of a sports car; it is designed to bring added emotional appeal to the Hyundai brand, tailored to a younger generation. Hyundai notes that it offers progressive buyers a sleek and distinctive design in an innovative three-door coupe form that provides practicality and flexibility as well as driving pleasure.
All winning designs for GOOD DESIGN 2012 can be viewed at this link.
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