The Korean Automotive Journalists Association has selected the All-New Santa Fe from Hyundai as the Car of the Month for September 2023.
The Car of the Month is announced based on evaluations conducted throughout the previous month by the Association’s Car of the Year selection committee, aimed at assessing newly launched models and mid-cycle updates that were released between the first and last day of the month.
The evaluation criteria consist of five categories: ▲ interior/exterior design and emotional quality ▲ safety and convenience features ▲ dynamic performance ▲ energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions ▲ marketability and purchase intent.
Among the new models unveiled last month, the candidates for Car of the Month included the Kia The New Sorento, Mercedes-Benz The New GLE, Porsche’s New Cayenne, and the All-New Santa Fe (listed in alphabetical order). After intense competition, the All-New Santa Fe was ultimately selected, scoring 28 points out of a possible 50.
The All-New Santa Fe received a score of 6.3 out of 10 for energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions, 6 points for safety and convenience features, and 5.7 points for interior/exterior design and emotional quality.
Chairperson Jeong Ki-yeon stated, “The completely revamped All-New Santa Fe has transformed into a versatile vehicle capable of outdoor adventures, building on Hyundai’s authentic SUV heritage that includes the Galloper and Terracan. It offers a comfortable and spacious experience with its large tailgate and the most spacious interior in its class.”
The Korean Automotive Journalists Association has been selecting and announcing the Car of the Month since 2019. Last month, the Mercedes-Benz The New EQE SUV received the honor of Car of the Month.
The association announces the Car of the Month results on its official website (www.kaja.org). The vehicle selected as Car of the Month receives a special pass that allows it to proceed directly to the final round of evaluations without going through the preliminary and subsequent rounds for Car of the Year.
Currently, the Korean Automotive Journalists Association comprises 55 media members including major daily newspapers, broadcasting companies, news agencies, online platforms, and automotive publications, with over 200 journalists active within the member companies.
The association was established in August 2010 with the aim of contributing to the development of the automotive industry, promoting proper automotive culture, enhancing the qualifications of automotive journalists, and fostering exchanges among members.
Additionally, the association annually selects and announces the ‘Car of the Year’ (COTY), engages in discussions and presentations on automotive-related issues, and hosts various events such as symposiums, seminars, and tech tours seeking alternatives.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr