Check out these motorcars made in South Korea!
The establishment of Kia in 1944 essentially marked the beginning of South Korea’s automobile manufacturing sector. However, the company didn’t begin manufacturing motorcars until 1970, releasing the Brisa as its first model in 1974.
Founded in 1967, the Hyundai Motor Company is currently the biggest automobile manufacturer in the nation. Originating in the early 1950s, SsangYong, which translates to “Double Dragon,” is currently known as KG Mobility.
Before its demise in 1999, Daewoo, which was also established in 1967, was the world’s sixth-largest automobile manufacturer and seventh-largest exporter. Together, these businesses have created some of the world’s most well-liked luxury automobiles, adding one or two high-end models to the mix. Curious about which motorcars we are talking about?
Sit comfortably because we have quite a list of motorcars made in South Korea that might make you buy one.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Are you a Blade Runner all-time fan? Then you will absolutely love the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which brings to the table the retro futurist kind of vibe. This car is one of the motorcars made in South Korea that makes even the most casual driver go cuckoo bananas about it.
A minimalist interior that evokes a modern art gallery, lightning-fast charging speeds, and a pixelated design language are all combined in this all-electric, compact crossover. Your camping equipment can be powered by the car, and the back seats can be reclined. I think that’s awesome.
Hyundai Sonata
Hyundai debuted the first-generation Sonata in 1985. The 2023 Sonata Hybrid is the current model of the mid-size family sedan, currently in its eighth generation.
Hyundai N Vision 74
Okay, you can’t buy this one yet (sadly), but the Hyundai N Vision 74 deserves a spot simply for existing. Inspired by the 1974 Pony Coupe, this hydrogen-electric hybrid concept resembles a cyberpunk DeLorean on steroids. From design nerds to auto enthusiasts, everyone fell in love with it when it first came out. More people were drawn to this concept car than to a Lamborghini.
Genesis G90
After Genesis separated from Hyundai to establish its own luxury brand, the G90 immediately became the company’s most prized possession. With its combination of traditional luxury and cutting-edge technology, the G90 is designed to compete with other luxury vehicles such as the BMW 7 Series and the Mercedes S-Class.
Seats that massage? Assumed. In a hushed cabin? In a word, yes. What about a V8 or a twin-turbo V6 engine? Indeed, it is. One of the coolest motorcars made in South Korea is the Genesis G90, which feels like a Rolls-Royce without the price tag of six figures.
Hyundai Equus
Hyundai’s high-end five-door sedan, the Equus, was renowned for its quiet, comfortable handling because of its air-ride suspension system. After its introduction in 1999, Hyundai released the second generation in 2009, aiming to compete with vehicles like the Lexus L8 and the BMW 7 Series. But in the end, Hyundai decided to stop producing the model in 2016.
Kia Stinger
Another car that’s awesome in both looks and performance is the Kia Stinger. With its 3.3L twin-turbo V6, the Kia Stinger GT can go from zero to hero in a matter of seconds. It has fun rear-wheel drive, European styling, and a price that won’t break the bank. Your insurance won’t be upset with you even though it looks like a Gran Turismo vehicle.
Kia EV9
The Kia EV9 is the big, brazen cousin who pilots a spaceship, if the Ioniq 5 is the sleek younger sibling. Three rows of seats, cutting-edge autonomous driving technology, and an incredibly futuristic design make this full-size electric SUV stand out. What’s not to adore about this electric SUV that appears to have been transported from another world?
Hyundai Veloster N
With its distinctive three-door design and roaring exhaust, the Veloster N provided hot hatch enthusiasts with a cause for celebration. This car, which was tuned by Hyundai’s N division (imagine it as Mercedes’ AMG or BMW’s M), is incredibly fun to drive and surprisingly reasonably priced. You get crazy corner-carving and rev-matching in a car that can still hold your groceries.
When the Veloster made its debut in 2011, it was able to successfully combine the practicality of a hatchback with the aesthetics of a chic coupé. Production continued until 2022.
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Hyundai Grandeur
We can’t seem to get over how awesome Hyundai cars are! Hyundai debuted a stunning redesign of the Grandeur (marketed as the Azera in some markets) in 2023, fusing ultra-modern luxury with vintage cues. It bears a striking resemblance to a concept car and a time machine from the 1980s. You know that bar of lights across the front? Immediately gain respect on the street.
Ssangyong Tivoli
Among the coolest motorcars made in South Korea is the SsangYong Tivoli. A small SUV with a lot of personality, the SsangYong Tivoli is a compact vehicle. The 2015 launch of the SsangYong Tivoli, with its bold styling, respectable performance, and surprisingly luxurious interior for the price, marked a significant shift for the brand.
The Tivoli is an affordable option that doesn’t feel cheap thanks to its front-wheel or all-wheel drive, gasoline and diesel engine options, and abundance of safety technology. It is built to handle everyday life with ease and is both stylish and practical.
SsangYong Rexton
The Rexton has its fans, even though SsangYong cars might not be well-known outside of Asia. This full-size SUV has a solid reputation for being tough, reasonably priced, and capable of off-roading. It’s tough as nails, but it’s not glamorous. It’s the straightforward option for budget-conscious adventurers.
Genesis Essentia Concept
In the meantime, everyone is watching Genesis to see if its high-performance, all-electric concept car will ever be put on the road. Many speculate that Genesis may develop this concept into a potential production car. However, Genesis currently applies the brakes to any additional movement.
In my opinion, motorcars made in South Korea are both awesome and practical, and durable cars as well, and the Genesis Essentia Concept won’t be an exception!
Daewoo
Lastly, don’t forget about Daewoo, which was established in 1967 and was once the second-biggest conglomerate in South Korea, behind the Hyundai Group. Among the vehicles produced was the Lanos SX (shown), which was designed by the renowned car designer Giorgetto Giugiaro. Giugiaro was named Car Designer of the Century in 1999 and inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in 2002.
The Lanos SX was produced from 1997 to 2002. In 1999, Daewoo went bankrupt, with debts of roughly US$50 billion (or $88 billion in 2022–2023).
Bottom line:
The car industry in South Korea has changed a lot for the better. It used to be known for being cheap and useful, but now it makes some of the coolest, boldest, and most futuristic cars on the planet.
If you’re new to Korean cars, no worries, because I am sure there’s a South Korean car for everyone, whether you love electric vehicles, speed, or just want to look good driving down the highway.
Now, I am super curious to see which one is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below.
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