Understanding Car Specifications

Understanding Vehicle Specs

When you’re shopping for a new vehicle, you’ll hear a lot of industry buzzwords, terms, and turns of phrases like “impressive agile handling,” “potent 200-horsepower engine,” and “slick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission.” Seeing these things will either get you excited about taking the car for a spin or make you scratch your head, wondering, “Is 200 horsepower good for an SUV?” If you’re in the latter camp, you are far from alone. Automotive jargon can be hard to parse, but we’re here to help you understand the jargon and decipher the spec sheets so you can make informed car-buying decisions. Keep reading for 10 definitions and explanations of crucial car specs to pay attention to. Once you’ve brushed up on the lingo, visit us at Tuscaloosa Hyundai to find a vehicle that matches your needs.

Car Specs You Need to Know

1. Horsepower (HP): This is a measure of a car's power. One horsepower equates to the power needed to lift 550 pounds one foot in one second. A vehicle with a higher horsepower can typically accelerate faster. For example, Hyundai's Sonata N Line boasts 290 horsepower, offering a spirited driving experience.
2. Torque: Measured in pound-feet (lb-ft), torque represents the force that propels your car forward. It's essential for quick starts and pulling power. For instance, Hyundai’s Tucson offers a commendable amount of torque, ensuring it can carry hefty loads or ascend steep roads with ease.
3. Miles Per Gallon (MPG): A measure of fuel efficiency, MPG tells you how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. A higher MPG means more savings at the pump. Hyundai is known for producing efficient vehicles; the Hyundai Ioniq, for example, often has MPG ratings rivaling other competitors in its class.
4. Transmission: This controls the power flow from the engine to the drive wheels. Transmissions can be manual (where the driver controls gear changes) or automatic. The term "slick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission" refers to an automatic system with eight-gear ratios, providing smoother transitions between gears. We have several eight-speed automatic vehicles on our lot.
5. Drivetrain: This specifies which wheels receive power from the engine. Common terms include:
• FWD (Front Wheel Drive)
• RWD (Rear Wheel Drive)
• AWD (All Wheel Drive)
• 4WD (Four Wheel Drive)

FWD is the most common drivetrain configuration, while RWD is most commonly found in performance-oriented vehicles. Vehicles with AWD are great for areas that get lots of snow or rain, causing less than optimal road conditions, 4WD is great for off-roading. Hyundai offers vehicles in various drivetrain configurations to fit all needs, from city commuting to off-road adventures.

6. Deciphering Engine Descriptions: Here’s where many people get stumped. You might see a description like “2.0L I4 16V GDI DOHC Turbo.” Let's break this down:
• 2.0L: Refers to the engine’s size. In this case, it’s 2.0 liters. Generally, a larger number means a more powerful engine.
• I4: Indicates the engine has four cylinders arranged in a straight line (Inline-four).
• 16V: Suggests that the engine has 16 valves, enhancing the car's efficiency and power.
• GDI: Stands for Gasoline Direct Injection, a type of fuel injection system.
• DOHC: Stands for Double OverHead Camshaft, a configuration that can improve engine performance.
• Turbo: This signifies that the car has a turbocharger, boosting engine power.

Hyundai consistently offers engines optimized for a balance of performance and efficiency. For instance, Hyundai's Elantra offers various engines, including turbocharged options, ensuring there’s an ideal fit for every driver.

7. Curb Weight: This refers to how much a vehicle weighs when it's resting on its wheels, not loaded with passengers or cargo. Lighter cars tend to be more agile and efficient, while heavier cars might offer a smoother ride.
8. Wheelbase: The distance between the centers of the front and rear wheels. A longer wheelbase typically results in a smoother ride and more interior space, while a shorter wheelbase can enhance maneuverability.
9. Cargo Volume: This measures how much luggage or gear you can fit in the back. Hyundai's Santa Fe, for instance, provides ample cargo space, ensuring you never have to leave anything behind on your adventures.
10. Safety Features: Always look for terms like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), or Lane Keep Assist. Hyundai prioritizes safety, and many of its models come with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced safety features designed to keep you protected on the road.

Now, with your newfound knowledge, you're better equipped to understand vehicle specifications and make an informed decision. Visit us at Tuscaloosa Hyundai in Tuscaloosa, AL, and find your perfect ride today. Whether you crave power, efficiency, space, or safety, Hyundai has a car tailored for you.