Hyundai

The Upside of Hyundai: Where the Brand Shines

Hyundai's strengths lie in its value proposition, offering well-equipped vehicles at competitive prices. The brand has made significant strides in design, with its recent models featuring bold and modern styling. Hyundai has also been a leader in adopting new technology, including advanced safety features and user-friendly infotainment systems. Furthermore, Hyundai offers an industry-leading warranty, including a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, providing exceptional peace of mind to owners. They have also made great strides in reliability in recent years.

The Downside of Hyundai: Where it Falls Short

Despite its progress, Hyundai still faces some challenges. While its newer models have shown marked improvement, some older models suffered from inconsistent reliability reputations. While Hyundai offers upscale features, the overall brand perception is still catching up to its improved quality and design. Resale value, while improving, may not always match that of top competitors like Toyota and Honda. There have also been reports of subpar dealership experiences in the past, though this is an area of high focus for improvement for Hyundai.

Hyundai's Model Lineup: Notable Cars

Hyundai offers a comprehensive lineup of vehicles, including sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, and a growing number of electric vehicles. The Elantra, a compact sedan, and the Sonata, a mid-size sedan, are known for their value and fuel efficiency. The Tucson and Santa Fe are popular compact and mid-size SUVs, respectively, while the Palisade is a larger, three-row SUV that has been well-received for its spaciousness and upscale features. The Kona is a stylish subcompact SUV available in gas and electric versions.

Hyundai's N Line: Adding a Dose of Performance

Hyundai's N Line models inject a dose of sportiness into the brand's lineup. Inspired by Hyundai's full-blown N performance division, N Line vehicles like the Elantra N Line, Kona N Line, and Sonata N Line feature sportier styling cues, upgraded suspensions, and more powerful engine options (though not as powerful as the full N models). They offer a taste of performance without the higher price tag and more intense driving dynamics of the dedicated N cars.

Hyundai's N Brand: Serious Performance Contenders

Hyundai's N brand is making waves in the performance car world. Developed with input from Hyundai's World Rally Championship team, N models like the Veloster N (now discontinued but available used), the Elantra N, and the Kona N offer exhilarating performance at surprisingly affordable prices. These cars boast powerful turbocharged engines, track-tuned suspensions, sharp handling, and aggressive styling. They've earned praise from automotive journalists for their fun-to-drive nature and have quickly gained a following among enthusiasts. The Ioniq 5 N is set to continue this trend in 2024.

Hyundai's Electric Push: Leading the Charge

Hyundai is rapidly expanding its electric vehicle lineup, demonstrating a strong commitment to electrification. The Kona Electric offers a usable range in a compact SUV package. The Ioniq 5 is a critically acclaimed EV known for its futuristic design, spacious interior, and fast charging capabilities. The Ioniq 6 is a sleek, aerodynamic electric sedan with an impressive range. Hyundai's EVs have been praised for their efficiency, technology, and value, positioning the brand as a leader in the growing EV market. They are also routinely praised for their performance, with the Ioniq 5 N set to join the stable in 2024 as one of the fastest accelerating EVs on the market.

Buying a Used Hyundai: Things to Consider

When considering a used Hyundai, it's essential to research the specific model and year for any known reliability issues. While Hyundai's overall quality has improved significantly in recent years, some older models had a less stellar reputation. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is always recommended. Service records are helpful in determining how well the vehicle has been maintained. Pay attention to the warranty coverage, as Hyundai's generous warranty may still be partially in effect for newer used models.

The Hyundai Dealership Experience

Hyundai dealerships have generally improved in recent years, though experiences can still vary by location. Expect a mainstream sales approach, with the potential for negotiation on most models. Be prepared for the usual upsells in the finance office.

Clutsh's Take on Hyundai

Hyundai has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a budget-car brand to a serious competitor in multiple segments. Its vehicles offer a compelling combination of value, technology, and increasingly, performance. The N Line and N models demonstrate Hyundai's commitment to driving enthusiasts, while its growing EV lineup positions the brand as a leader in the electric revolution. While brand perception is still catching up to the improvements in quality and design, Hyundai is a brand that deserves serious consideration, particularly for buyers seeking a well-equipped, stylish, and potentially fun-to-drive vehicle at a competitive price.

Hyundai's Closest Competitors

Hyundai competes with a wide range of automakers. In the mainstream market, its primary competitors include Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Ford, Chevrolet, Mazda, and Subaru. Its N performance models face off against vehicles like the Honda Civic Type R, Volkswagen Golf R, and Subaru WRX STI. In the EV space, Hyundai competes with Tesla, Ford, Chevrolet, Nissan, and a growing number of other brands entering the electric vehicle market.