Hyundai vehicles are among the most popular on the market today, but this wasn't always the case. During the 1980s and 1990s, they were considered cars that you bought if you were a college student on a budget. Let's take a closer look at the company's history and how they became such a respected brand.
The Early Days
In 1986, the Excel was released in the United States, and customers and critics alike warmly received it. However, it became apparent that the car was more likely to need a mechanic than others. By the early 1990s, the company invested more money into research and development and increased its warranty to ensure that it paid for necessary repairs.
The Rise to Respectability
By the early years of the 21st century, Hyundai was closing in on the likes of Honda and Toyota in initial vehicle reliability rankings. It was also making its way into the top five brands most respected by consumers by 2006. In 2012, the Elantra was named Car of the Year after selling more than 200,000 units.
Hyundai Today
The Hyundai brand sells more than 400,000 vehicles per year, and the Accent, Elantra, and Sonata are among the most popular models. Electric vehicle offerings, such as the Kona and IONIQ, are also available for those who want to limit their carbon footprint.
If you are in the market for a Hyundai, come see us today! We will be happy to discuss our available inventory or schedule a test drive by contacting us online. We'll also be happy to evaluate your trade or help you apply for financing.
