Hyundai is one of the top global car manufacturers with a rich history of over 50 years. Founded in 1967, this South Korean company is known for its constant innovation and design philosophy which has evolved over the years. Let’s take a look at how Hyundai’s design philosophy has evolved over the years.
Early years (1970s – 1980s)
Hyundai started its journey in the 1970s by making small cars in South Korea. The brand was known for its focus on simplicity and practicality since it understood that in order to succeed, it needed to build reliable and affordable vehicles.
Hyundai Pony (1975) was the 1st mass-produced car by the company which had a simple boxy style, typical of those days. What made it unique was its big front grille and bold headlights. Later in 1985, Hyundai entered the US market with the Excel (1985), which was an upgraded Pony but with a modern design and better interiors.
Going Global (1990s)
Hyundai started growing in the global market in the 1990s. This was the period when the brand started pushing its boundaries of innovation in tech and design. They started teaming up with famous designers and the result was the Hyundai Sonata (1985), a midsize sedan that set a new benchmark in its class for design. Praised for its elegant and sleek exterior, the Sonata with its smooth curves looked high-class like German luxury sedans. The interior felt modern too with better materials and new features. Overall, the Sonata was Hyundai’s pivotal launch in making the brand stand out globally among other big brands.
After Sonata, Hyundai teamed up with the famous Italian design company Giugiaro to make the Tiburon (1996). This sports car had a muscular and modern look with sculptured lines and a slimmer mid-size, making the car appear faster than it actually was.
The early 2000s
The early 2000s was a major point in Hyundai’s design philosophy with its new “Fluidic Sculpture” This design language captured the essence of nature’s fluid lines which proved to be ideal for the brand. The designs got bolder and innovative earning praise from both critics and consumers.
Hyundai Elantra (2000s) adopted this design language challenging Hyundai’s traditional design philosophies and was a big success for the brand. It won several awards and attention worldwide. This car had an aggressive exterior with sharp lines and a bigger front grille. The cabin also improved with more rooms and better technology. People fell in love with the change and it quickly rose to a top choice.
Hyundai Santa Fe (2000) was Hyundai’s 1st SUV showing their innovation towards design. From the outside, it had a modern and sleek look with a big grille and special headlamps. From the inside, it had many premium features and a spacious interior, making it a top choice in its segment.
Mid-2010s
This time Hyundai’s design evolved once more with the “Fluidic Sculpture 2.0” which represented a refined approach to the style. The Sonata (2010) was redesigned with a smooth and aerodynamic shape and the Genesis (2013) was Hyundai’s first fancy sedan proving the brand’s capability to compete with top brands. From the outside, the Genesis had a smooth and sophisticated look and from the inside, it had the latest tech.
Then came the Tucson in 2015 which featured a modern and premium look with high-class features. The new style and advanced tech made it stand out.
2020s: Pushing the boundaries of Design Innovation
With the start of the new decade, Hyundai’s design evolved more. It now introduced the “Sensuous Sportiness” design philosophy, characterized by the sharp curves and futuristic character of the vehicles while retaining an elegant look. This can be seen with the newer Hyundai Sonata, Palisade, Venue and the award-winning Ioniq 5, these cars are not only functional but also innovative, standing as a statement to the brand’s latest design philosophy.
Has Hyundai’s design Evolution reached its pinnacle?
Hyundai has continued to innovate and pursue excellence throughout the years, pushing the boundaries in terms of design and technology. With its design philosophies changing according to the trends and times, Hyundai has gone from “Simple and functional” to “Sensuous Sportiness” and continued to stand true to what it’s known for – pushing boundaries of innovation and it won’t stop anytime soon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Design Philosophy of Hyundai?
Hyundai’s Design philosophy is Sensuous Sportiness.
What is Hyundai’s Current Slogan?
“New Thinking, New Possibilities”
What is the first car from Hyundai?
The first car was the Hyundai Pony in 1975.
What country is Hyundai from originally?
Hyundai was originally a South Korean car manufacturer.
