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Hyundai has pulled a 180-degree turn in brand image over the past few years, but alas, no one is immune to the threat of recalls. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in USA has recently begun a preliminary investigation of the new Hyundai Sonata for an issue with the steering system. Approximately 16,300 of the Alabama-built units could be affected, although there have been no official complaints, injuries, or accidents yet. According to the NHTSA, the intermediate steering shaft assembly upper universal joint could potentially fully detach and a cross-threaded pinch bolt could strip upper universal joint connection threads. Both these issues could lead to a loss of steering control. Regulators also mentioned the steering problem could lead to a compromised brake system, a case in which the shaft drops out and could hinder brake application. Thankfully, this is being caught and handled early on. At the moment, it is not confirmed if only US-built Hyundai Sonatas are affected.

Hyundai is declaring its ambition to be a tree-hugging company. The Korean automaker announced that it will continue its efforts to be the most fuel-efficient automaker in America through the next two decades, with plans to achieve a Corporate Average Fuel Economy rating of 50 miles per gallon by 2025 for its entire vehicle lineup. The cornerstone of Hyundai's approach is its Blue Drive strategy, which incorporates a range of engine technologies from turbocharging to direct-injection, lightweight materials and plug-in hybrids to reduce consumption and improve overall efficiency. Hyundai points to the 2011 Sonata as the first wave of new products to utilize its new and improved drivetrains, available with either hybrid, turbocharged or naturally aspirated engines. The latest 1.6L GDI engine in the new Avante is also a shining example of Hyundai