– Hyundai has given its Santa Fe sport-utility an upgrade for midyear by adding a power sunroof as a new option ($595 on GLS and LX models). Other changes made at no added cost include moving the clock from the header to the dash, adding larger air-conditioning vents, adding gas-powered struts for the hood, illuminating power window switches and glove box interior and adding chrome interior door handles and parking brake knob.
– To boost demand and respond to incentives from rivals, Toyota and Honda have initiated low-interest financing on Camry and Accord. Accord rates start at 2.9 percent, and Honda is offering dealers $750 incentives before it introduces the new Accord in September. Toyota is offering rates as low as 3.9 percent on Camry.
People
– Ford Motor Co. has named Peter Horbury executive director of design for its Premier Automotive Group. He will oversee product design strategy and processes for Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo, the automaker says. His appointment is effective immediately. Horbury has been design director of Volvo Car Corp. since 1991, overseeing studios in Sweden, Spain and California.
FYI
– General Motors Corp. will buy a 34 percent stake, for $30 million, in SAIC-Wuling Automotive, a Chinese minivan and mini-truck maker, moving into the largest sector of China’s auto market. GM makes Buick sedans in a joint venture with Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp. and Chevrolet SUVs in a joint venture with another Chinese carmaker.
Calendar
– Bloomington Gold Corvettes will hold its 30th anniversary show June 13 through 16 at Pheasant Run in St. Charles. More than 2,000 cars will be on display at the show, the first time it is being held outside downstate Bloomington. There also will be a swap meet, live auctions and judging events. Visit www.bloomingtongold.com or call 815-568-1960.
