The investigation found evidence that the automakers misrepresented mileage and fuel economy ratings for a number of their 2011-2013 vehicles, a violation of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, according to a press release.
“Hyundai and Kia intentionally falsified fuel economy ratings in order to mislead and deceive Texas consumers,” said Paxton. “This settlement will help deter future false advertising, protect consumers, and ensure fairness in the marketplace.
Texas and 32 other states accused Hyundai and Kia of deceiving unsuspecting consumers and profiting from false mileage claims that were advertised during a period of high gasoline prices.
In addition to Texas, the multistate group includes Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Maine, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin and the District of Columbia.