This is a guest post written by Blanchard Hyundai dealer, located in Asheville, North Carolina.

Opening the doors of a new car dealership in April 2009 in the middle of the country’s worst economic downturn since the great depression was risky.

We received the news we would be awarded the Hyundai franchise in Asheville, after a year of applications, interviews, and planning, we were excited. At the time we were, Asheville Dodge. Looking at the future of the Chrysler brand, we opted to sell the Dodge franchise to the local Chrysler Jeep dealer and focus completely on Hyundai.

Our doors opened with nothing, but a repainted facility and a quick sign banner stating Blanchard Hyundai was in business. With no previous Hyundai customer base or product recognition in the marketing it was an uphill battle.

We advertised in every media possible: TV, radio, newspaper, internet, giveaways and social media outlet.  Other than the fact we had no factory signage until 6 months after the doors opened, our biggest sales obstacle was educating the consumer about Hyundai.

When I started my career in the late 90’s Hyundai was considered the cheap alternative for the customer who could not afford to buy a Honda or Toyota. Our goal was to introduce the public to the Hyundai of the 21st century.

Hyundai has completely surpassed my expectation. The complete product line up exudes quality, style and reliability and Super Bowl 2010 gave the consumer a reason to as they say “Think about it.”

Ad after ad continued to state the luxury, new design, style and quality of Hyundai. I think it got people thinking and we got calls. The Monday after the Super Bowl we had a record day at Blanchard Hyundai, record sales, record calls, and record internet inquiries. The millions Hyundai spent on the Super Bowl ads helped this small town local dealer get the message out. We are excited about the future of Hyundai.

I think this difficult economic time in our country has taught us all a new way of living. I remember growing up dreaming of the big house with the BMW or Mercedes in the driveway, but my opinion has changed.

I call it “Conservatively Chic.” To be able to boast in the quality product you purchased, not lacking in style and comfort, and still be able to take your family on vacation and out to dinner a few nights a week, because you made a smart financial decision. It’s not about the expensive label these days, it’s about getting the best product for the best price. Hyundai has the BEST product at the BEST price.

Thanks Hyundai for standing behind your product and supporting your local dealers with the Super Bowl Ad campaign.

Blanchard Hyundai dealer is located in Asheville, North Carolina.  To learn more about the dealership you can visit their www.blanchardhyundai.com, friend us on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter Candace Blanchard @autosavvy and Rhett Blanchard @bhyundai.