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Hyundai Buying Guide

Get the best online car shopping experience with expert reviews of Hyundai Read more to learn about the most important features and important factors to consider when researching Hyundai.

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Hyundai Overview

Hyundai began selling cars in the U.S. in 1986, when the budget-friendly Excel first rolled into showrooms. Though plagued by quality issues in its early years, the South Korean company has remade its image in the last decade. It’s now regarded as a top-tier manufacturer, a reputation it backs up with industry-leading new car warranty coverage. Hyundai sells a wide selection of models, ranging from entry-level hatchbacks to luxe three-row SUVs, including numerous hybrid and all-electric models. Among its top sellers are the Tucson, a compact SUV, and the Elantra, a compact sedan.

Noteworthy Features

Popular SUVs
Hyundai's SUVs are among the country's most popular, and as of December 2018, Hyundai enjoyed its highest SUV sales month throughout its history. Hyundai sold 35,058 units, which was a 42% increase over the prior year. At the time, it was the fifth month in a row that the carmaker saw a new monthly SUV sales mark. Buyers fell for the Kona, which sold more than 8,000 units. Hyundai proved that it has mastered its SUV design.

Increased Customer Confidence
During the last decade, Hyundai has increased customer confidence in its products by offering buyers long warranties. The car company has worked to increase the quality of its vehicles by becoming a good value in a crowded market. Hyundai vehicles come with a lower price point than vehicles made by many other manufacturers. They are also reliable. The Hyundai Elantra and the Tucson have both received high scores for their reliability.

Good Overall Fuel Economy
Hyundai vehicles tend to do well when it comes to fuel economy. For instance, the Elantra gets 29 miles per gallon in the city and 38 miles per gallon on the highway while the Ioniq Blue gets 57 miles per gallon in the city and 59 miles per gallon on the highway.

Additional Considerations

Takata Air Bag Problems
Hyundai got caught up in the Takata air bag recall. More than 34 million vehicles in the U.S. and millions more around the world have been involved in the recall. Problems with the air bags started for Hyundai back in 2011. The car company is making the situation right by replacing them. Vehicle models that have been affected include the Sonata and the Sonata Hybrid.

Limited Vehicle Lineup
An issue with the car brand is that it has a limited vehicle lineup. While they continue to add to their SUV line as well as hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles, you are limited when it comes to sedan options.

Less Comfortable Base Model Interior
Some base-model Hyundais are lacking in the category of interior comfort. For instance, the 2020 Accent offers basic comfort, but the car model's front seats are relatively flat. They could use a bit more support and bolstering. Also, the seats absorb heat, which could make long trips during hot summer days more challenging than if you were in a different vehicle model. This is where you might consider upgrading to a higher trim level.

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