With fluctuating gas prices and talk of global warming, it seems that everybody is going green these days, and Hyundai is no exception. So green, in fact, that one year ago they vowed to become the leading manufacturer in fuel economy, and lo and behold, Hyundai is now the most fuel-efficient automaker in America, passing traditional leaders like Honda and Toyota. That’s right. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Hyundai cars, available at your Kansas City new car dealer, averaged 30.1 miles per gallon for the 2009 model year. The report also confirms Hyundai’s leadership in the race to achieve the government-mandated 2016 Corporate Average Fuel Economy standard of 35.5 miles per gallon.

At your Kansas City Hyundai Santa Fe you’ll find the fuel-efficient upgrades that provide mileage figures in the range of 20 mpg in the city and 26 to 28 mpg highway (based on the engine used). The 2010 edition of the Hyundai Santa Fe has a 175 horsepower 2.4-liter inline-four while the optional engine is a re-vamped 3.5-liter Lambda V6 now with 276 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are mated up exclusively with six-speed transmissions but only the four gets a manual option. The four bumps the EPA numbers from the 18/24 mpg of the old 2.7-liter to 20/28 while the 3.5 improves on the 17/24 mpg values of the 3.3 to 20/26 mpg.

Hyundai is also improving upon technologies such as direct injection, turbocharging, hybrid powertrains and lithium polymer batteries that will only increase its efficiency. And they have announced The Blue-Will, the first-ever plug-in hybrid from Hyundai. The Blue-Will is a four-seat sedan concept with a panoramic glass roof and solar cells for recharging batteries. The thermal generator converts hot exhaust gases into electricity. Hyundai promises an electric-only driving distance of up to 40 miles on a single charge and a fuel economy rating of more than 100 miles per gallon.

Get your Kansas City Hyundai 2010 Santa Fe today!