Easterns Blog

Hyundai Motor America had a good 2021. Riding the wave of the post-pandemic surge in car sales, the Korean-based auto manufacturer enjoyed a 19 percent year-over-year increase of American auto sales. Out of 738,081 Hyundai vehicles sold in 2021, Americans showed a preference for the Tucson, Elantra and Santa Fe, which were the top-selling Hyundai models of that year.

Hyundai’s present-day popularity comes after years of striving to redefine their own brand. No longer saddled with a collective image of cheap unreliability, Hyundai has made its mark in today’s competitive and versatile auto market.

Hyundai’s Difficult Beginnings

Although the carmaker has been around since 1967, Hyundai didn’t make its American debut until 1986 when it launched the Excel. Unfortunately, the subcompact car didn’t excel at much other than affordability. It had a reputation for lacking quality and reliability.

In 1991, Hyundai reluctantly recalled almost 900,000 Excel models based on faulty engine parts that could have led to a fire. Drivers also reported stalling and other drivability issues. After the Excel fiasco, Hyundai’s auto sales and image continued to plunge until 1988 when the manufacturer acquired Kia, beginning their redemptive journey toward success.

To stay afloat while figuring out a new and improved strategy, Hyundai refocused their efforts on manufacturing high-quality vehicles. In the late 1990s, Hyundai and Kia introduced a generous 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which covered issues with a vehicle’s engine and transmission. Consequently, auto sales and consumer attitudes shifted upward, allowing Hyundai plenty of time to make long-term improvements to its vehicles.  

Nowadays, Hyundai produces a wide range of Hyundai and Kia vehicles—from sedans and hatchbacks to crossover SUVs and pickup trucks, catering to almost every demographic. Regardless of which make and model you choose as your next vehicle, you can rest assured it’ll embody a balanced mix of affordability, style and practicality.

Why Choose Hyundai

Apart from the versatility in models and designs, there are several other benefits to driving a vehicle manufactured by Hyundai. These benefits include:

• The best warranty standard on the market, including a 10-year/100k-mile powertrain warranty and 8-year/80k-mile federal emission defect and performance warranty on new cars.
• Hyundai has gained a reputation as one of the safest vehicles to drive according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The top models to get near-perfect scores are the Palisade, the Sonata and the Kia Forte.
• Hyundai is passionate about philanthropy and bettering the community. The Hyundai Hope on Wheels organization has donated over 200 million dollars to pediatric cancer research since 1998.
• If you’re interested in driving an alternative-fuel vehicle, Hyundai offers several hybrid and electric versions of their top-selling models, including the Kona, the Tucson and the Elantra.

Most Popular Hyundai and Kia Models in the U.S.

Hyundai Tucson

The Tucson is a compact crossover SUV that has been around since 2004. It’s considered one of the most reliable SUVs and is currently the top-selling Hyundai SUV model.

Hyundai Sonata

The Sonata is a mid-size car known for its fuel efficiency, elegant interior design and smooth riding experience. The Sonata has been manufactured since 1985 and has undergone several improvements in performance and reliability over the decades.

Hyundai Palisade

The Palisade is one of the youngest members in the Hyundai family. This mid-size crossover SUV made its first appearance in 2018 but already earns high ratings for engine power, comfort and abundant cargo room.

Kia Forte

The compact Kia Forte is an excellent option for drivers looking for a reliable, no-frills vehicle. Despite its small size, the Forte boasts a large trunk and spacious cabin. It offers excellent fuel-economy for an affordable price.

Kia Soul 

Known for its unconventional boxy exterior, the Kia Soul offers much more than just a quirky look. The Soul is a subcompact SUV that boasts plenty of cargo room, affordability and great safety features, like blind-spot monitoring and collision-avoidance assistance.

Kia Optima

The Kia Optima is a mid-size car offering an abundance of benefits, including an excellent safety score, smooth ride, large trunk and rich infotainment system.

Explore Affordable Pre-Owned Hyundai and Kia Models at Easterns Automotive

Are you in Maryland, Virginia or the DMV and looking for a reliable and affordable vehicle? Consider getting your next car from Easterns Automotive. We offer a diverse inventory of pre-owned Hyundai and Kia models, as well as a variety of other makes and models to meet your unique needs.

We’ll never sell you a vehicle unless it’s passed our rigorous safety inspection. When you purchase from Easterns Automotive, you can rest easy knowing your vehicle is certified, reasonably priced and ready to serve you and your family for years to come.

To inquire about our inventory or schedule a test drive of a pre-owned vehicles, call (877) 867-0641 or visit one of our dealerships.