Volunteers from Hazelwood Central High School from Saturday, May 4, 2013

For the past few years, Mungenast Hyundai has had fantastic success raising money for local non-profits and charities through an event we call Goodwill Grill. Our dealership provides hot dogs for volunteer representitives from local charities to grill, and for each one served, we donate $1 to their charity. Most charities also accept donations, as well as sell chips and soda or water to go with the hot dogs, which are free.

Here’s a list of this year’s event lineup:

April 27th – North County Warriors Baseball
May 4th – Hazelwood Central High School Project Graduation
May 11th – Friends of Lutheran North
May 18th – Relay for Life
May 25th – Whirlwind of Praise Church
June 1st – Kwanas
June 8th – Friends of Lutheran North
June 15th – Huntington Swim Club
June 22nd – North County Warriors Baseball
June 29th – Holy Center Church
July 6th – Girl Scout Troop #2639
July 13th – Shekinah Glory Dance Ministry
August 3rd – Alzheimer’s Association
August 10th – Shekinah Glory Dance Ministry
September 18th – Samoyed Dog Rescue
October 5th – The Daughters of Zion-Christian Family Cure (Domestic Violence Month)

Come out on Saturdays around 11am-2pm during the fair-weather months to help us support these great local causes!

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In an effort to broaden appeal to who Hyundai calls “Lifestyle Buyers”, the company is expanding Hyundai Assurance to include telematics on the heels of Blue Link connected cars.  It’s called Hyundai Assurance Connected Care, and it was announced during the debut of the 2014 Hyundai Equus at this year’s New York International Auto Show.  Features of the new program include:

• Automatic Collision Notification (ACN) and Assistance
• SOS Emergency Assistance
• Enhanced Roadside Assistance
• Vehicle Diagnostics with Monthly Vehicle Health Report
• Maintenance Alert
• Automated Diagnostic Trouble Code Notification
• Recall Advisor
• Service Scheduling (Service Link)

All of these advanced features are explained in an official press release from Hyundai, which can be read here.  Hyundai Assurance Connected Care features will available on Blue Link-equipped vehicles for the first three years for the original owner.

Source – Hyundai

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DealerRater, the world’s premier car dealer review web site, recently announced the winners of the 2013 Dealer of the Year Award Program.  Through this award program, 38 manufacturer categories were represented honoring top U.S. and Canadian Dealers. Included in this year’s winners was Mungenast Hyundai.

Being recognized as DealerRater’s #1 Hyundai Dealer in Missouri for the second year in a row is a result of our staff consistently achieving excellent customer satisfaction in both sales and service, and recognizing that satisfied customers are more likely to recommend us to a friend or family member.  Sites like DealerRater.com not only allow customers to rate and share their experiences with participating dealerships, but they also give prospective buyers insight on what they can expect on their own visit to one dealership versus another.

Anyone who has done business with us knows firsthand the Mungenast difference – A friendly, courteous staff that is knowledgeable, dedicated to delivering a no-pressure buying experience focused on your complete satisfaction.

Source: DealerRater.com

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Nearly three years ago when the Hyundai Equus first threatened to take the luxo-barge segment by storm, we knew that its reputation would ultimately be determined by its spec sheet, and its success would be determined by its value.  Now that Equus has proven itself as a worthy competitor in today’s marketplace, Hyundai is ready for an encore, giving their top of the range executive sedan a thorough makeover for 2014.

Although Hyundai has not yet officially announced the changes for the 2014 model year, we can tell by looking at the new (Korean-spec) Equus that it will offer substantially more content than the current model.  Features like LED headlights and fog lights, a larger LCD infotainment screen with Blue Link, restyled dash and center console with new electronic gear shift lever, updated steering wheel design with new controls, and a revised rear passenger area that features dual LCD screens for redundant control over entertainment and climate control are all new for 2014.

We’ll have much more once an official announcement is made sometime next year, but for now, take a look at our exclusive high-resolution photo gallery of the 2014 Hyundai Equus.

Source – BobaeDream.co.kr

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It’s impressive to think about automotive technologies that will undoubtedly go unnoticed by most drivers, yet improve industry standards as a whole.  Hyundai‘s innovative 8-speed automatic transmissions were developed in-house and are stringently manufactured by the automaker ensure maximum reliability and comparability.  In addition, efficiency studies performed during research and development reveal significant increases in fuel economy with eight forward gears versus six, which is what’s typically used by other luxury and non-luxury makes alike.

Hyundai‘s innovative design incorporates the use of over 130 new transmission technologies.  The transmission uses four independent internal clutches for smooth operation when shifting between gears, and is mated to the engine via a single clutch mechanism, versus a dual clutch system.

Hyundai‘s 8-speed automatic is optional on the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe and standard on the Genesis and Equus luxury sedans. To experience the latest in driving technology for the most luxurious driving experience, visit Mungenast Hyundai at 649 Dunn Rd in Hazelwood, MO, 63042.

Source: Hyundai

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For 2013, Hyundai is testing the waters of America’s on-again-off-again love affair with the hatchback.  Does the new Elantra GT Deliver?  Why, yes. Yes, it does – and to be honest, we’re not that surprised, either.  Although Hyundai hasn’t been known for their killer hatchbacks here in the United States, one thing’s for sure, and it’s that Hyundai has a winning formula for producing high-value hatchbacks from sales experience in Europe.  The Elantra GT we get here in the U.S. for 2013 is the same as the Hyundai i30 that is sold in Europe and South Korea – a vehicle that has been hugely popular overseas.

Probably the first thing that you’ll notice when you see an Elantra GT in the flesh is how different it really is from the Elantra sedan and Elantra Coupe.  It’s a shorter car – by nine inches in fact – but when you climb inside the vehicle, you get the same feel as you do when you’re in the Elantra sedan.  The interior specs for hip room, leg room, and head room are nearly identical in every dimension, yet the cabin feels more open and airy – and there are two culprits for this illusion.  The first being the available panoramic sunroof that spans across both rows of seating, and the second being the simple fact that hatchbacks’ cargo areas naturally expand the interior space.  While the standard cloth seats are very comfortable and stylish, those who opt for the Style Package will be rewarded with supple leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel (and it’s the same grade of leather found in the Azera – much higher-grade than what’s found on the Elantra sedan and Elantra Coupe), leather door inserts and door arm rests, larger 17” wheels, LED turn signal indicators on the side mirrors, and a sport tuned suspension.

In terms of features, the Elantra GT is packed to the gills – even more so than the award-winning Elantra sedan.  It’s borderline ridiculous how much content you can get on the Elantra GT, not to mention it’s the first Hyundai to come equipped with Driver Selectable Steering Mode – a feature normally found on high-end performance cars – that lets the driver choose from Comfort, Normal, and Sport modes.  The difference between these modes is very noticeable, with “Comfort” mode offering little feedback, like what you’d expect from the Elantra sedan, then a “Normal” mode that offers a more acceptable amount of feedback, and “Sport” offering the most driver feedback, allowing the Elantra GT to offer amounts of feedback that driving purists only expect to find in sports cars.  Best part about it?  It’s a standard feature.  Other features include BlueLink, projector beam headlights, fog lights, a six-speaker AM/FM/XM/CD/iPod/Aux audio system with Bluetooth phone connectivity, a standard cooled glove box, three 12v power outlets, available sport-tuned suspension, and a 6-speed manual transmission is standard.  What’s nice about this is if you want to add the Style Package or the Technology Package, you don’t lose the manual, and are thus not required to upgrade to the 6-speed automatic (a $1,000 premium over the manual).  The tech package adds 7-inch navigation screen, features like XM Data (Weather, Traffic, Sports, and Stocks), keyless access with push button start, and a rear backup camera that’s hidden in the rear emblem – just pops open when you need it.

While our time behind the wheel of the 2013 was very brief (as the car had not been through its pre-delivery inspection), we can attest that the driving characteristics of the Elantra GT differed dramatically from those of the Elantra sedan.  While the Elantra sedan is no slouch, the Elantra GT offered a more engaging experience, which was further enhanced by the six speed manual transmission in our subject car, which was a base vehicle with no option packages.  While we had units available to showcase on the lot that came equipped with many more options, we felt that the amount of equipment on the base vehicle was so impressive that we took the opportunity to evaluate one.  Granted, when it comes time for a video review, we’ll likely get one that’s all optioned-out to give you an impression of how awesome the Elantra GT can be.

Source – Hyundai USA
Image Credit – Mungenast Hyundai

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For the Hyundai Tucson, changes are on the way for the 2013 model year in the form of more standard equipment – and who wouldn’t love that?  For a small CUV that already stacks up well against the competition, Hyundai plans to sweeten the deal with consumers by adding things that they actually want – namely, premium features that you wouldn’t expect to find in a non-luxury vehicle in sub-$30,000 territory.

The Tucson GLS (the volume trim that sits between the base GL and premium Limited trim) receives the majority of the upgrades for 2013, which include:

-          Heated front seats (GLS)

-          Fog lights (GLS)

-          Automatic headlight control (GLS)

-          Proximity key with push-button start (Limited)

These subtle, yet valuable upgrades help strengthen Hyundai’s commitment to the philosophy of “Modern Premium” – giving customers more of what they really want.  No official on-sale date has been given for the 2013 Tucson, but we’ll give you a more in-depth look at it once it arrives here at Mungenast Hyundai.

Source – Hyundai

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Summer is in full swing, and if it’s one thing we know about Midwestern summers, it’s that they’re unpredictable!  Whether you find yourself under a scorching hot sun, or under a monsoon – here’s five things you can keep handy in your vehicle for when you’re ready to have fun in the sun!

Sunscreen:   With all the scientific evidence out there regarding sun damage and skin cancer, keeping a spare bottle of sunscreen in the glove box is an easy way to keep you and your family safe this summer.  Pay close attention that the lotion you’re using will protect you from harmful UV-A and UV-B rays.

Umbrella:  You never know when a storm might pop up, so you really can’t go wrong by keeping an umbrella inside the vehicle (and somewhere within reach).  Why not go the extra mile and keep a couple rain ponchos in the car, too?

Beach Towels:  These handy items just aren’t for poolside lounging – they’re actually great for a couple of different things.  Keeping a towel draped across your seats will not only protect you and your kids from the sting of a hot leather seat, but it will also help protect your upholstery from wet and muddy kids and pets.

Insect Repellent:  The mild winter we had means that insects have come back with a vengeance this summer.  Keep a can of insect repellent handy so that you don’t get eaten alive!

First-Aid Kit:  Not just for those of us with kids – keeping some bandages and antibiotic ointment on hand is a must, especially if you enjoy keeping active through running, hiking, biking, skateboarding, etc.

Is there anything else you would suggest keeping in your car this summer?  Tell us in the comment section below!

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There’s no denying that Hyundai’s product line has done an about face maneuver over the past several years, with commitment to creating engaging, more luxurious models while keeping the overall value in check.  With each new product launch, Hyundai brings themselves just that much closer to achieving global domination (add maniacal laugh here).  It seems that each model in the lineup has received prestigious honors from just about every reputable automotive body, and the new Azera is no exception.  In a bold attempt to claim the top spot in the near-luxury large vehicle segment, Hyundai has really outdone themselves on the Azera – and its competition – when it comes to sheer content, style, and luxury.  But the question remains:  Is it enough to drive customers into showrooms?

Back when Hyundai first introduced the XG300, it was, admittedly, slightly misunderstood.  The Hyundai that we all thought we knew showed us their more personable side – more importantly, it showed us that maybe Hyundai had an appreciation for the finer things in life – wood grain, leather, an Infinity sound system… etc.  Back then, everyone was getting their Hyundai for a nice price (and we still are, all things being relative) – but “Nice Hyundai” hadn’t made its way into anyone’s vocabulary.  That wouldn’t happen for a few more years, until a total rebirth of the brand was announced and launched back in 2008 with the Genesis sedan.  Hyundai was about to bestow us with some really nice cars that featured an unbelievable amount of content given their price point and competition.  And every vehicle that our favorite South Korean chaebol has launched or redesigned since then – namely, the Equus and now the new 2012 Azera – simply ooze luxury for their respective price.

Back in January when we first posted about the new Azera (read that post here), we knew it would be several months before we’d get to experience one here at our dealership.  Our hopes were high, but as usual – Hyundai delivered.  Perfectly proportioned in every conceivable way, the new Azera is utterly stunning in person.  The leather is rich and supple and every last detail is intricately executed.  What’s cool about this is how the features of this car harken back to what we saw at the Hyundai Press Conference back in November of last year.   Just a few months ago, when we got to see the new Azera for the first time, Hyundai Vice Chairman E.S. Chung gave us a glimpse into the philosophy behind “Modern Premium” when it comes to the content that Hyundai chooses to outfit their vehicles with.  He points out that it means “to give the customer what they want and nothing more.”  After seeing the car in person, you begin to realize that this car has everything you’d ever want – and nothing you don’t.

While the Azera is quite handsome to look at from the outside, the real story is inside the car.  There are high-grade soft touch materials everywhere, all the buttons and controls feel really good (for those of us who notice what kind of feedback/resistance/weight buttons tend to give and impression of), and the overall layout of the instrumentation is well thought out and very elegant in execution.

To experience the ultimate in front wheel drive Korean luxury, visit Mungenast Hyundai and experience all that the new Azera has to offer.

Source – Hyundai USA
Image Credit – Mungenast Hyundai Facebook Page

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You’ve seen a year’s worth of spy shots and teaser photos, some of which we fed you.  But here’s the real thing live in the flesh.  The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe has been vastly improved over the previous (current?) model, and features a very stylish and aggressive exterior that surrounds perhaps the most luxurious interior found in the non-luxury midsize CUV segment – so luxurious, it looks like Hyundai lifted it right out of the new 2012 Azera.  Even more noteworthy is the seating capacity.  Remember a few weeks back when Hyundai CEO John Krafcik said that the company would soon play a larger role in the seven-passenger crossover segment?  We do.  And Hyundai has delivered – well, sort of.  Point is, you can get the 2013 Santa Fe in either a five or seven passenger seating configuration, designated by trim level.  The Santa Fe will offer seating for seven, while the Santa Fe Sport offers seating for five.  Some of the most noteworthy comfort and convenience features in the 2013 Santa Fe include available heated front and rear seats, available heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, power seats for the driver and front passenger, and an available third-generation Hyundai navigation system with an eight-inch display.

Under the hood, the three-row Santa Fe will be powered by Hyundai’s new 3.3-liter direct-injection V6 with 290 horsepower (again, practically lifted right out of the Azera).  But the fun doesn’t stop there.  The five-passenger Santa Fe Sport can come equipped with either a base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 190 horsepower or a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces a hefty 264 horsepower.  Perhaps even more impressive are the fuel economy numbers for the Santa Fe Sport – 2.4-liter equipped models will achieve an estimated 33 mpg on the highway, while the 2.0T will achieve an estimated 31 mpg on the highway when equipped with FWD and an automatic transmission.  The Santa Fe Sport also has a maximum estimated towing capacity of 3,500 lbs.

Pricing and availability have not yet been announced, but our guess is that the Santa Fe Sport will start somewhere in the mid-$20k’s while a fully loaded Santa Fe AWD model will top out well below the $40k mark.  We’ll bring you more information on the 2013 Santa Fe as it becomes available.

Source – Hyundai News

Image Credit – Hyundai News

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