Hyundai gives recession-fearful buyers a way out

Those who finance or lease a new vehicle in the next 12 months can return it if they 'experience an involuntary loss of income' within a year.

Los Angeles Times, January 6, 2009 — A big reason auto sales have tanked in recent months is the sharp rise in unemployment. Folks who are worried about losing their jobs aren't likely to take on the added risk of a five-year car loan.

Hyundai Motor America unveiled a novel approach to the problem over the weekend. Dubbed the Hyundai Assurance Program, the South Korean automaker said people who finance or lease a new Hyundai during the next 12 months could return the car if they "experience an involuntary loss of income" within one year of the purchase date.