Back in 2011, we had a guest post by Top Rider highlighting the top 7 Korean Cars in terms of horsepower. A surprise victory over the Equus was by Oullim Motors’ Spirra EX Tempesta.
We’re back today with a new and refreshed list of Korea’s finest automobiles. This time we are not just looking at horsepower figures, but other factors as well such as performance, design and efficiency, three areas that have become more top of mind for car buyers and enthusiasts in 2013. Join us as we look at some of the top performing Korean cars for every taste.
1) For the Eco-Minded Family: 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
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First up on our list is the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. With increased fuel efficiency and the ability to operate in all-electric mode for long spans of time, this car is as eco-friendly as it is well designed. It has a large capacity 10.5 kW Hybrid Starter Generator (HSG), a higher output 35 kW electric motor, a more powerful 47 kW Lithium Polymer battery pack and an optimized hybrid operating strategy. With these enhancements, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid can go farther distances for longer and the best hybrid offering from Korea at the moment.
2) For the High Rolling Executive: 2013 Hyundai Equus
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Back on our list this year is Hyundai’s flagship Equus, which has been revamped to compete on the same level as better known luxury sedans from companies with European names. The Hyundai Equus runs on a very powerful 5.0-liter Tau V8 engine that puts out 429 horsepower. In addition to what’s under the hood, the engineers behind the Equus have spent time revamping the exterior design of the car. In particular, the Equus has HID headlights with LED turn-signal indicators and sculpted front fog lights which differentiate this model from rivals. Moreover, the 2013 edition has a unique color offering: a new White Satin exterior with Saddle interior… very classy! The Equus earns top points with us for its smooth cruising and spacious cabin.
3) For the Newlyweds: 2013 Kia Optima
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The Kia Optima is on our list thanks to its good fuel efficiency, safety scores and upscale features. In its mid-size sedan class, the 2013 Kia Optima provides great value with its powerful four-cylinder engines. The interior is comfortable and includes innovative features usually found in upscale mid-size cars such as Bluetooth, satellite radio and Kia’s Uvo infotainment system, push-button start and dual-zone automatic climate control. This model is also available in a hybrid version.
4) For the Trendy Soccer Mom: 2013 Hyundai Sante Fe
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With many people looking towards buying SUVs, it made sense for us to look at some of the best SUVs made in Korea. On our list is the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe which comes in four different levels: Santa Fe Sport and Sport 2.0T, and Santa Fe GLS and Limited. The Santa Fe Sport models seat five and the Sante Fe is slightly larger, seating seven. All models come with a ‘Driver Selectable Steering Mode’ which offers options including Comfort, Normal and Sport.
5) For the Adventurous Family Man: 2013 Hyundai ix35 /Tucson
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The New ix35 is our other favorite SUV made by Hyundai. This model has greater fuel efficiency due to its new ‘Nu’ 2.0-liter Gasoline Direct Injection engine. Other technological advanced include Hyundai’s FLEX STEER system which is available on the C‑SUV model for the first time. Like Hyundai’s Santa Fe, the ix35 has three driving modes which the driver can adjust to their particular needs. There’s even a special hydrogen fuel cell version of the ix35 that Hyundai is building for a number of municipalities across Europe.
6) For the Cool Jock or Class Rep: 2014 Hyundai i30 Three-Door
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Introduced at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the New Generation i30 three-door looks similar to its 5-door model but is a sportier (and slightly cheaper) option that appeals to younger crowds. It is designed with a distinctive, sporty style, which incorporated Hyundai’s fluidic design language. Hyundai has also touted that this model deliver the best power-to-efficiency ratio in the segment.
7) For the Recent Graduate: 2014 Kia Pro_cee’d
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This hot new hatchback by Kia was recently unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show. Not only has the three-door car gotten a facelift, it now comes with Kia’s 1.6-liter GDI engine that delivers 201 horsepower. Its sportiness is sure to be attractive for younger crowds. In particular the new design includes a front bumper with larger air intakes, new LED headlamps, a honeycomb grille, larger side skirts and a redesigned rear bumper.
Any questions about these great Korean cars? Drop us a question in the comments.
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