Hyundai Motors Nigeria has again demonstrated an uncommon magnanimity as it presented prized Hyundai iX35 Sport Utility Vehicle, SUV, to reggae and dancehall music sensation, Patoranking, winner of the Next Rated commemorative plaque at the 2014 Hip-Hop World Awards, popularly called Headies.

Patoranking defeated rival nominees Runtown, Orezi, Skales and Yemi Alade to emerge winner in the Next Rated category, arguably the most coveted grouping in the Headies since 2006.

Previous winners are Asa, Wande Coal, Omawumi, Wizkid, Davido and Sean Tizzle.

Headies is Nigeria’s adaptation of the prestigious Grammy Awards, where outstanding local and potentially inspiring and upcoming artistes are honoured.

The Next Rated category of the award is traditionally sponsored by Hyundai Motors, a subsidiary of the Stallion Group since 2011, to encourage upcoming and outstanding artistes in the local music industry.

Presenting the car keys to Patoranking at Eko Hotel and Suites, venue of the show, Mr. Jatin Nadkarni, Head, Sales and Marketing said Hyundai was pleased to be associated with the Headies and Nigerian youths, remarking that music had become one of the most effective media to communicate and reach out to world most potent population.

He said: “We will continue to use this platform to raise the profile of Nigeria evolving hip-hop music, which has lately become a tonic for socio-cultural emancipation.”

The Hyundai Head of Sales and Marketing said the gesture was in line with Hyundai Motors’ global youths’ sponsorship programmes that essentially seek to reaffirm Hyundai corporate social responsibility initiative.

He described Hyundai as stylish, sleek and sporty vehicle with dynamic curves that help to improve performance and lower air resistance for outstanding fuel economy and quiet cabin space.

Adding that the iX35 is a 2.0-litre SUV with uncommon passion for performance, Mr. Nadkarni said the vehicle is powered by direct-injection petrol engine that enhances performance and reduces fuel use, while lowering Co2 emission.

The interior of the iX35 is crafted with new seat upholstery and soft-touch front and rear door trims with appreciable 60/40-split rear seat.

Hyundai iX35 comes equipped with new projector headlights and LED driving lights that enhance night travels, just as the steering wheel audio control and USB auto input with iPod compatibility and aux input jack makes the car fun to drive, Mr. Nadkarni explained.