Here in the United States, we take a certain pride in the “American made” label on everything we buy. When it comes to buying a new car, there’s little distinction between an American car and a Korean car.
But there’s one huge difference between Hyundai and American cars in particular – is Hyundai American made?
What makes it an American car? Is it more efficient and durable than foreign cars? Read on to find many factors regarding the Hyundai Elantra and if it truly is an American car.
An Overview of the Hyundai Brand
Founded in 1967 by Chung Ju-Yung, Hyundai has grown to become the world’s third-largest automobile manufacturer. The brand is popular across Asia, particularly in countries such as South Korea and India.
Hyundai has also extended its reach with operations in the Middle East, Africa, South America, and the US. Hyundai Motor America established its corporate headquarters in Fountain Valley, California.
Hyundai has long provided the American automotive consumer with a range of vehicles, offering an option in almost every vehicle class, from small cars to luxury vehicles. Over the years, Hyundai has expanded its lineup and added more American-made offerings.
Is Hyundai American Made?
No, Hyundai is not American made but the majority of Hyundai’s vehicles are produced outside of the United States, with the majority of production taking place in countries such as South Korea, China, and India. Although there is an American subsidiary, Hyundai Motor America, most of the vehicles sold in the US are imported.
Where are the Hyundai Manufacturing Plants in the USA?
Hyundai manufacturing plants in the US are located in Alabama and Georgia. The two production plants located in Montgomery, Alabama, and West Point, Georgia specialize in the assembly of Hyundai and KIA vehicles.
Both manufacturing plants are state-of-the-art facilities complete with 5.3 million square feet of total floor space and the latest production technology. Both plants also contribute to the local economy, providing more than 10,000 jobs and investing billions in the local communities.
The Hyundai manufacturing plants in the US continue to make strides in providing American jobs and making a positive impact on the economy.
Which Hyundai Cars Are Made in the USA?
Although the Korean automaker has its headquarters in the US, the majority of cars are designed and manufactured at its facility in South Korea. As for the cars made in the US, the lineup consists of the Sonata Hybrid, Santa Fe Sport, Tucson, and Santa Fe.
Each of these is built at the company’s Montgomery, Alabama, assembly plant that opened in 2005. Some parts used in the cars may be of American origin, while the actual vehicles are not. To make sure you’re getting an American made car, always look beyond the name brand and check the country of origin.
How to Tell Where Your Hyundai Was Made?
When looking to determine if a Hyundai car was made in the United States, there are several things to consider. Here are the ways to tell:
Check the Hyundai Website
The Hyundai website has a great breakdown of where each model is built. It states that some of the Hyundai models may be assembled in American factories and have parts that are sourced from other countries like Japan, Korea, and Europe.
Some cars may be fully made in Korea and shipped to America. All of this information is provided on the Hyundai website and is readily available to those who need it.
Hyundai Badge or Sticker
Badges and stickers found inside the driver-side door, glove box, or trunk that includes the country of origin. The company has been placing them for years, including on the steering wheel, front grille, tailgate, rear window, exterior doors, and other locations. They usually feature the familiar Hyundai logo and often boast about the car’s features.
Car Manual
Hyundai vehicles are created in Korea and Japan, but they are sold in the United States. Most Hyundai vehicles come with a Korean or Japanese car manual, depending on where the car was manufactured.
The manual provides information on what to expect from the car, how to maintain and how to repair it. The country of origin should also be present in the manual that came with the car.
VIN Number
You can also look up the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) online, and it will provide information regarding the country and factory where your car was made. If the VIN starts with a “KM” for the Korean Market, then it’s probably made in Korea.
An “HM” prefix indicates India, an “H” prefix designates a China build, and “5N” refers to an American-made vehicle built in Alabama. It also pays to note that Hyundai vehicles assembled in the US are both imported and non-import, with the non-imports featuring the “5N” prefix.
Hyundai Dealership
Lastly, you can contact your local Hyundai dealership. They will be able to tell you the exact place where your car was made. At dealerships, customers can find a variety of new and used models, as well as certified pre-owned cars.
Hyundai dealership service departments offer quality repairs and maintenance services. Parts and accessories are typically well-stocked with everything a customer needs.
A Hyundai dealership also offers financing and leasing options to help customers buy or lease the car of their dreams. Even though Hyundai vehicles are not technically American-made, Hyundai of San Bruno still provides quality vehicles, services, and parts to US customers.
What Is the Best-Selling Hyundai Car?
The Sonata is considered to be the best-selling Hyundai car in America, with its sleek design, impressive performance, and competitive price point. The Sonata has consistently offered great value and reliable performance for its drivers, making it the choice of discerning American car buyers.
Hyundai vehicles continue to be embraced by American car buyers, demonstrating their commitment to building high-quality vehicles that offer superior performance.
Test Drive a Hyundai Car Today
Knowing the answer to the question, “Is Hyundai American made?” should give you a fair estimate of the brand is right for you. However, the company produces many cars in the United States, employs American workers, and invests in the economy. Therefore, it can still be considered an American car company.
If you’re in the market for a new car, consider looking into Hyundai. It may just be the perfect match for you.