• Blaise Alexander Hyundai

Hyundai SUV parked in front of a building

When it comes to keeping you and your family safe on the road, new Hyundai models continue to set the standard. The team at Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College is proud to share that Hyundai earned seven 2026 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK awards from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), including six at the highest TSP+ level. Here’s a closer look at how Hyundai vehicles are so lauded for their safety excellence.

Which Models Made the List

Six new Hyundai models earned the 2026 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation: the IONIQ 5, IONIQ 9, Sonata, Kona, Tucson, and Santa Fe. The Elantra earned a 2026 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK. That’s a strong showing across sedans, SUVs, and electric vehicles, which means no matter what kind of vehicle fits your lifestyle, there’s a safe choice waiting for you.

Tougher Standards, Same Results

These awards carry extra weight this year. IIHS raised its testing criteria for 2026, placing greater emphasis on back-seat passenger protection and requiring stronger performance in pedestrian crash prevention and higher-speed collision avoidance evaluations. Hyundai met those tougher benchmarks across seven models.

SmartSense™ Comes Standard

A big part of the story is Hyundai SmartSense®, the suite of safety technologies that comes standard on every 2026 Hyundai vehicle. That includes Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist™ with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Occupant Alert, and High Beam Assist™. These systems work together to help you stay aware, avoid hazards, and protect everyone in the vehicle.

Test Drive New Hyundai Models in State College, PA

Seven IIHS awards across the lineup speak for themselves. Our team at Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College can walk you through the safety features on every new Hyundai model in our showroom. Stop by and find the one that fits your needs today!

*2026 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK and TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards. Visit www.iihs.org to learn more.

Man driving a Hyundai and using driver assistance safety features

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and at Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College, we think it is a good time to look at how your vehicle can help keep you safer when a moment of inattention happens. No technology replaces focused driving, but the Hyundai safety features built into the Hyundai SmartSense™ suite act as a dependable second set of eyes when you need them most.

Features That Watch the Road with You

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist™ with Pedestrian Detection monitors the space ahead and can automatically apply the brakes if it senses an imminent collision with a vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist. If you drift out of your lane without signaling, Lane Keeping Assist provides gentle steering corrections to guide you back. And Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist can intervene with braking if you attempt an unsafe lane change while a vehicle is in your blind spot.

Technology That Reads Your Attention Level

Driver Attention Warning is one of the most helpful features for preventing distracted driving. It monitors your driving patterns, including steering input and vehicle placement, and alerts you with a sound and on-screen message if it detects signs of fatigue or distraction. On select models, Forward Attention Warning uses a driver-facing camera to determine whether your eyes are on the road, adding another layer of awareness during long commutes through central Pennsylvania.

Standard Across the Lineup

What makes these Hyundai safety features especially practical is their availability. SmartSense™ comes standard on the 2026 Hyundai Tucson, Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Palisade, and more, so you do not have to move up to a higher trim to get meaningful protection.

Test Drive a New Hyundai Model in State College, PA

The right safety technology helps bridge those brief moments when attention slips. Schedule a test drive to experience how Hyundai SmartSense™ works in real time on the roads you drive every day. We are here at Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College to help you find the right Hyundai for your family.

Technician pouring oil into an engine

Winter in central Pennsylvania puts your vehicle through a lot. Between pothole-riddled roads, salt-covered highways, and freezing temperatures, the cold months take a quiet toll on the components that keep you safe. The service team at Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College recommends tackling these three Hyundai maintenance tasks before spring settles in.

Check Your Brakes

Cold-weather driving means more stop-and-go on slippery surfaces, and that extra strain wears brake pads and rotors faster than you might expect. Hyundai recommends inspecting brake pads, rotors, calipers, and fluid levels every 15,000 miles, but post-winter is a smart time to get a closer look regardless of mileage. If you’ve noticed any squeaking, grinding, or a soft brake pedal, don’t wait. Addressing brake wear early prevents costlier repairs down the road and keeps your stopping power where it needs to be.

Get a Wheel Alignment

Potholes are the unofficial mascot of late winter, and even one solid hit can knock your wheels out of alignment. Signs include your vehicle pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, or a steering wheel that doesn’t sit centered. Hyundai recommends an alignment check at least once a year, and spring is the ideal time after months of rough road conditions. Proper alignment extends tire life, improves handling, and helps your Hyundai track straight and predictable through rain and everything else spring throws your way.

Schedule an Oil Change

Fresh oil is the simplest way to protect your engine heading into warmer months. Hyundai recommends an oil and filter change every 7,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first. Clean oil reduces friction, prevents overheating, and keeps internal components running smoothly as temperatures climb.

Get Spring-Ready at Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College

These three Hyundai maintenance tasks give your vehicle a strong foundation for the miles ahead. A little attention now saves time, money, and headaches later. Schedule your spring service at Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College and start the season with confidence.

2026 Hyundai Palisade cargo area with gear and instruments

A good road trip vehicle does more than just get you there. It keeps everyone comfortable, entertained, and relaxed along the way. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade checks all of those boxes, and then some. Learn what makes the Hyundai Palisade perfect for your next journey at Blaise Alexander Chrysler Jeep® Dodge RAM of State College.

Room for Everyone and Everything

With seating for up to eight and a longer wheelbase than the previous generation, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade gives every row real breathing room. Second-row captain’s chairs are available if you want a more lounge-like setup, and the third row is genuinely usable for adults, not just kids. Behind it all, there’s enough cargo space for luggage, coolers, and whatever else the trip demands.

Comfort That Lasts

Long drives reveal a vehicle’s true character, and the 2026 Hyundai Palisade is built for the long haul. Available Relaxation seats with leg supports in the first and second rows let passengers stretch out during the trip. Tri-zone climate control keeps everyone at their preferred temperature, and a 14-speaker Bose® sound system makes the miles feel shorter.

Tech That Keeps Things Easy

A curved dual 12.3-inch display setup puts navigation, music, and vehicle info right where you need it. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ come standard, so everyone can take a turn as DJ without fumbling for cables. USB-C ports in all three rows keep devices charged from start to finish, as well, so nobody is left without entertainment.

Confidence Behind the Wheel

Hyundai SmartSense® comes standard with features like Smart Cruise Control, Lane Following Assist, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist. On a long interstate stretch or an unfamiliar two-lane road, that extra layer of awareness makes a real difference.

Explore the 2026 Hyundai Palisade in State College, PA

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade turns a road trip from something you endure into something you look forward to. The team at Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College can help you find the right trim and features for how your family travels. Stop in or schedule a test drive — your next trip starts here!

person using a tire iron on a flat tire

Nobody plans for a flat tire, but it happens. Maybe you’re heading out of State College for the weekend when something suddenly feels off. The good news? Learning how to change a flat tire is simpler than most people think — and it’s a skill every driver should have. Here’s a rundown of the tire-changing process, so you’re not caught flat and uninformed.

Before You Start

Get to a safe spot: Slow down gradually and pull onto a flat, stable surface away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights, shift into park, and set the parking brake.

Gather your tools: Most Hyundai models store the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench beneath the trunk floor panel. Some newer Hyundais include a tire mobility kit instead of a spare, so it’s a good idea to check your owner’s manual beforehand.

Swapping the Tire

If your vehicle has wheel covers, remove them to expose the lug nuts. Use your lug wrench to loosen each nut about a quarter turn counterclockwise. Don’t remove them completely yet — breaking them loose while the tire is still on the ground makes the job easier.

Place the jack under the designated jack point near the flat tire. Your owner’s manual will show the exact location. Raise the vehicle until the tire sits about six inches off the ground.

Now remove the lug nuts, pull off the flat tire, and set it aside. Align the spare with the bolts, slide it into place, and hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure the wheel seats evenly.

Getting Back on the Road

Lower the vehicle so the spare touches the ground, then tighten the lug nuts fully — again using a star pattern for even pressure. Lower the vehicle completely and give each nut one final check. Remember, temporary spares are designed for short distances and speeds under 50 mph.

Visit Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College for Tire Service

A flat tire doesn’t have to ruin your day when you know how to handle it. If you need tire repair or replacement, our service team is ready to help. Stop by Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College or give us a call to schedule a service appointment.

Man holding cash in front of a red car

We all know that doing your taxes can suck, but a nice refund check can make it all worthwhile, especially if you are thinking about buying a new vehicle. In recent years, the average American has received a refund between $2,000 and $3,000, according to the IRS, which is more than enough to supercharge your Hyundai financing options. Learn more about the strategic moves you can make with your tax refund from our team at Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College.

Lower Your Monthly Payment

One of the smartest things you can do with a sizeable tax refund is to apply it to your down payment. By boosting your down payment with it, you can seriously shrink your monthly payments and make your vehicle more affordable. This also means that you can potentially pay less interest over time and fully own your car sooner. But this isn’t the only benefit of using your tax refund to boost your down payment.

Strengthen Your Financing Application

The other great benefit of a large down payment is a stronger financing application because it is less risky to the lender. While a down payment is not the only thing that lenders look at, it can seriously help you with the approval process if you have a shorter credit history or other issues. It can also help you secure more favorable loan terms.

Secure Better Loan Terms or Rates

Finally, one of the best things your refund can help you do is secure better terms on your car loan. A larger down payment may help you get lower rates, shorter loan terms, or lower total financing costs, all of which allow the buyer to have greater flexibility when choosing a loan structure.

Talk to Our Hyundai Finance Team in State College, PA to Learn More

If you are interested in a new Hyundai vehicle, tax season might be the time to act by using your refund to supercharge your Hyundai financing options. Your refund may help you secure better rates, a lower monthly payment, or just financing itself. To learn more about your options, contact our team at Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College today!

2026 Hyundai Tucson in Deep Sea Blue

There are three engine options available on the 2026 Hyundai Tucson: gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. Each of these engine options has its own benefits, and the right one for you depends on your needs. Our dealers at Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College are here to help you understand the differences and choose the right option.

The Differences: Engine Options

The gas-powered 2026 Hyundai Tucson is equipped with a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive comes standard, with all-wheel drive available for added traction. This setup delivers a balanced blend of everyday performance and efficiency for daily driving needs.

The hybrid version comes standard with all-wheel drive and features a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. Together, they generate a combined 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, offering stronger acceleration and enhanced overall efficiency compared to the gas-powered model.

The plug-in hybrid model of the 2026 Hyundai Tucson uses the same turbocharged engine and electric motor but boosts output to 268 horsepower. It also provides an all-electric driving range of up to 32 miles, making it well-suited for short commutes and local trips. While each powertrain offers a distinct driving experience, all three Hyundai Tucson models share an impressive lineup of standard features.

The Shared Features

Regardless of the engine option you choose, there are many standard safety and technology features on every 2026 Hyundai Tucson. One of which is a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that comes equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. There is also a suite of safety features, including Blind-Spot Monitoring, Lane-Keeping Assistance, Forward Collision-Avoidance, and more. These features, combined with America’s Best Warranty, make any option of the 2026 Hyundai Tucson a great choice.

Test Drive 2026 Hyundai Tucson Models in State College, PA

Whether you are looking for the affordability of the gas option, the fuel efficiency of the hybrid, or the flexibility of the PHEV, there’s a 2026 Hyundai Tucson model for you. Our team at Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College is here to help you find the right one to fit your lifestyle. Visit us today to test drive them all!

Woman behind the wheel of a Hyundai Tucson, close-up of tech.

The 2026 Hyundai Tucson puts serious safety technology and seamless connectivity within reach of Pennsylvania drivers. At Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College, this compact SUV backs up its bold styling with protective systems that respond when milliseconds matter. Whether merging onto Route 322 during rush hour or backing out at the Nittany Mall, the sensors stay alert.

Standard Safety Features That Protect Every Journey

Every model comes equipped with Hyundai SmartSense®, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies that watch for hazards you might miss. Standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist monitors the road ahead and detects pedestrians in crosswalks, cyclists in bike lanes, and vehicles during junction turns.

When danger appears, the system applies automatic braking. Lane Keeping Assist provides steering corrections if you drift toward lane markers, while Driver Attention Warning picks up drowsy driving patterns. Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go functionality holds a set following distance, even bringing you to a complete stop.

Available Advanced Protection Systems

Higher trims add Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), covering zones your mirrors can’t reach. The available Surround View Monitor stitches camera feeds into a 360-degree overhead view showing curbs, parking lines, and obstacles on your touchscreen. Remote Smart Parking Assist on the Limited trim lets you stand outside with your smartphone while the vehicle inches into tight spots.

Connected Technology That Keeps You in Command

A standard 12.3-inch touchscreen anchors the dashboard, running wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto without the tangle of charging cables. Blue Link® connected car services let you start the engine and set the climate from your smartphone before you leave the house on winter mornings. Available Digital Key® technology works with compatible smartphones or smartwatches, eliminating the traditional key fob—tap your phone to the door handle to unlock, then press the start button.

Test Drive the 2026 Hyundai Tucson in State College, PA

Visit Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College to see how these systems respond in real driving conditions. Our team will demonstrate the Surround View Monitor, Digital Key® operation, and forward collision system. Schedule your 2026 Hyundai Tucson test drive and experience excellence firsthand.

2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 parked in Savannah, Georgia

The moment you buckle your child into the back seat of your new Hyundai, you trust that advanced safety systems will protect everyone equally. In 2025, Hyundai Motor Group earned 21 IIHS Top Safety Pick awards, the most of any manufacturer. Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College offers vehicles with 18 Top Safety Pick+ designations, proving that comprehensive protection drives every innovation. Learn what sets Hyundai apart as the number one automaker with your safety in mind.

Record-Breaking Achievement Under Stricter Standards

The 2025 evaluations arrived with tougher criteria. Testing now includes rear-seat crash-test dummies representing smaller occupants like children and petite adults, ensuring back-seat passengers receive equal protection. Despite heightened standards, Hyundai Motor Company led all automakers with 10 total awards, including eight vehicles earning the coveted IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating.

Your Favorite Models Deliver Top-Tier Protection

The Hyundai Tucson, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Hyundai Kona each earned Top Safety Pick+ recognition after achieving good ratings in every crashworthiness evaluation. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 and Hyundai IONIQ 6 electric vehicles proved that zero emissions don’t mean compromising safety. The Hyundai Elantra and Hyundai Sonata sedans joined the winner’s circle with Top Safety Pick+ designations, offering sophisticated protection for daily commutes.

SmartSense Technology Raises the Bar

Hyundai SmartSense® technology creates layers of active and passive protection throughout each vehicle. Enhanced seat belt systems, rear occupant alerts, and strategically positioned side airbags work together to safeguard back-seat passengers. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist™ and Lane Keeping Assist help prevent accidents before they happen, while structural engineering absorbs crash energy to protect occupants.

Test Drive a New Hyundai Model in State College, PA

These IIHS Top Safety Pick awards validate what Central Pennsylvania families already know about dependability and innovation. Schedule your test drive at Blaise Alexander Hyundai of State College to experience how comprehensive safety features create confidence behind the wheel. Our team will demonstrate the SmartSense® technologies that earned recognition from the industry’s most rigorous independent safety evaluators.