Hyundai introduces its all-new Sonata in the Middle East

• Hyundai has officially launched its All-New Sonata mid-size sedan in the Middle East. The Sonata is the second Hyundai model to feature the brand’s Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design concept, while also offering modern styling, excellent performance, and the practical application of the company’s latest technologies such as Smart Trunk function and Blind Spot Detection. The improved 7th generation model is the result of three years of research and development conducted by Hyundai in the Middle East and around the globe, in order to maximize product competitiveness and satisfy the diverse needs of the Middle East market. It is now on sale across the region. Unveiled at the Royal Automobile Museum of Jordan, the All-New Sonata is expected to continue the popularity of a model that has traditionally been one of Hyundai’s best-selling models in the Middle East. In 2013, the Sonata sold over 26,000 units across the Middle East — a region that is set to become Hyundai’s biggest market after the US. Since its introduction in 1985, cumulative global sales of the Sonata have reached almost seven million units.

• Renault Duster celebrates one million customers worldwide and provides attractive offers at very competitive prices for the all-new 2015 SUV. Monthly installments start from SR799 per month in addition to a 1.99 percent special finance rate, zero processing fee, free registration, and a three-year 100,000 km manufacturer warranty. This offer allows customers to own one of the most prevalent and best-selling cars in the world, which is efficient with impressive performance while retaining maximum comfort, luxury and safety. The Duster SUV has become one of the most successful 4X4’s to ever arrive in Saudi Arabia. It proved to be an excellent choice for a calm ride on Saudi roads and a comfortable experience in off-road and cross-country adventures. Renault Duster is a compact yet roomy SUV with great agility that contributes to its off-road performance. It is designed to accommodate five passengers and has 475 litres of boot space, which can go up to 1,636 litres when the back seat is folded. Renault Duster is equipped with driver and passenger airbags on a dashboard furnished with a radio CD/MP3 player, USB/jack plug with Bluetooth, featuring extraordinary audio streaming capabilities.

• As part of its strategy to further grow its brands in the Middle East, General Motors has announced the appointment of Jeroen Barwegen as its new regional sales and marketing director for Chevrolet and GMC. Barwegen has spent 10 years with General Motors, most recently heading up the sales operations for Chevrolet Russia. Prior to this, he was based in Budapest for GM Eastern/Central Europe, leading sales and marketing operations for Chevrolet in 11 countries. He also spent nine years with the Ford brand in Europe in finance and sales operations roles. His appointment to the newly created role is part of GM Middle East’s strategy to change the way it focuses on its brands.

• Ferrari Chairman Luca Cordero di Montezemolo will receive a combined severance package worth 26.96 million euros ($34.89 million) when he leaves the company next month, with nearly half to be paid in a lump sum by early next year. Fiat, which owns 90 percent of Ferrari said that Montezemolo will leave the company on Oct. 13, the day the newly merged Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) is due to be listed in New York. Sergio Marchionne will add responsibility for Ferrari to his role as Fiat Chrysler CEO.