Hyundai vehicles are among the most popular on the market today, but this wasn't always the case. In the 1980s and 1990s, they were seen as budget-friendly options, particularly for college students. Let's delve into the company's history and understand how it transformed into a respected brand.
The Early Days
In 1986, Hyundai introduced the Excel to the United States, receiving a warm welcome from both customers and critics. However, it soon became evident that the car was more likely to need mechanical repairs than others. By the early 1990s, the company responded by increasing its investment in research and development and extending its warranty to cover necessary repairs.
The Rise to Respectability
By the early 21st century, Hyundai was approaching the reliability rankings of Honda and Toyota. By 2006, it was recognized as one of the top five brands most respected by consumers. In 2012, the Elantra was named Car of the Year after achieving sales of over 200,000 units.
Hyundai Today
Today, Hyundai sells more than 400,000 vehicles annually, with models like the Accent, Elantra, and Sonata being particularly popular. Hyundai offers electric vehicles such as the Kona and IONIQ for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
If you're in the market for a Hyundai, visit us today! We are happy to discuss our available inventory or schedule a test drive for you. You can also contact us online to evaluate your trade-in or apply for financing.
