Hyundai sets new annual sales record in 2012

Strong December sales driven by AJAC award-winning Elantra and Santa Fe models

MARKHAM, ON, Jan. 3, 2013 /CNW/ - Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. announced today that it had set a new annual record in 2012 with total sales of 136,283 units, an increase of 5.4% from the previous record set in 2011. The company's strong sales performance can be attributed in part to the introduction of award-winning new products like the 2013 Elantra GT and 2013 Santa Fe. Both were named Canadian Car of the Year category winners by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) in 2012.

December marked the company's 48^th consecutive month of year-over-year sales growth with an increase of 21.2%, to 7,863 units. At 3,182 units, sales of the Elantra line-up grew by 61.1% relative to the same month in 2011. The nameplate set a new annual record in 2012 with sales of 50,950 units, up by 13.3%, following the introduction of new two-door Coupe and five-door GT variants. December was also an impressive month for the Santa Fe with 1,971 units sold, an increase of 107.7% year-over-year. Both nameplates, along with the Sonata intermediate sedan, set new all-time December sales records.

"Despite facing a number of challenges in the past year, the strength of our product line-up has carried Hyundai to another annual sales record," said Steve Kelleher, President and CEO of Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. "Our continued growth is driven by products offering an unparalleled combination of style, performance, versatility, and value. Backed by a world-class dealer network and one of the best warranties in the business, Hyundai provides an ownership experience that truly resonates with Canadian car buyers."

Kelleher added that he was looking forward to the early 2013 introduction of the all-new Santa Fe XL, an extended-wheelbase version of the Santa Fe with three rows and space for up to seven passengers. "From fuel-efficient compacts, to versatile crossovers, to powerful luxury sedans and sports cars, Hyundai's broad product range has something for everyone."

The company's Certified Pre-Owned vehicle program sold 654 units for the month to bring the year-to-date total to 11,836, an increase of 175% from the total in 2011.

Quick Facts:

Certified Pre-Owned Sales

Hyundai Auto Canada, established in 1983 and headquartered in Markham, Ontario, is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout Canada by Hyundai Auto Canada and are sold and serviced through more than 200 dealerships nationwide.

SOURCE: Hyundai Auto Canada Corp.