Hyundai and sister company Kia have announced today that the stated mileage for their 2010 to 2012 models is exaggerated, and that the models will likely be less efficient than officially stated. Hyundai chalked up the false fuel consumption figures to “human error” and “honest mistakes”.
After several complaints to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the firm decided to do some investigating and found the issue. As a result, Hyundai and Kia have admitted to the error and are now offering to compensate over a million North American owners who bought a vehicle with the untrue fuel efficiency figures.
“We are very sorry about the errors and we are committed to making sure the owners of every affected Hyundai vehicle are fully compensated,” Hyundai Canada CEO Steve Kelleher said.
“Kia Canada deeply regrets that this situation has occurred and will ensure all affected Kia customers will quickly receive fair compensation,” Kia Canada CEO William Lee added.
One of Hyundai’s aggresive marketing strategies was boasting that 4 of their models acheived 5.9 L/ 100 kms (40 MPG) but that is no longer true. Now the 2013 Hyundai Accent, Veloster and Elantra will now have their estimates to be in the 6.2 to 6.3 range.
I found that my mileage with Hyundai press cars such as the Elantra coupe I recently reviewed was unimpressive considering the numbers on paper. Now, I know at least partially the reason why.
I have a feeling that Hyundai/Kia will be feeling this one for a while.
[CBC]
