Kia and Hyundai are two automakers with a lot in common: both are based in Korea, and both have recently gained prestige in the U.S. market. That’s why we aren’t surprised when customers ask us about the difference between Kia and Hyundai, and whether the two brands are actually the same company! In fact, Kia and Hyundai are independent brands — but they do share some common history. Read below to learn a little more about how Kia and Hyundai are connected, and then browse our inventory to find your favorite Hyundai models for sale in Anderson and Yorktown!

Are Kia and Hyundai the Same Company?

Kia Motors and Hyundai Motor Group are separate companies, but their finances are linked. The Asian Financial Crisis forced Kia into bankruptcy in 1997, and Hyundai stepped in to purchase a portion of the company. So what’s the story: Kia and Hyundai, sister companies or Kia vs. Hyundai, fierce competitors? 

It’s a bit of both. At the time of the buy-in, Hyundai owned half of Kia. That stake now stands at about one third. Despite the crossover, Hyundai and Kia continue to operate their own marketing team, design team, sales team and distribution centers.

Kia vs. Hyundai Models 

Their lineups may feature some similar models, but the difference between Kia and Hyundai comes down to a few key points:

• Model Types — Each brand has its own focus when it comes to model types. Kia doesn’t have a sporty hatchback coupe to match the Hyundai Veloster, and Hyundai doesn’t offer a family minivan like the Kia Sedona.
• Kia vs. Hyundai Pricing — Both brands strive to provide great value for the price of models, but they target slightly different buyers. When you compare Kia vs. Hyundai entry-level model pricing, the Kia Rio comes with more features and a higher price tag than the Hyundai Accent.
• Technology — Features like Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility are common to both brands, but each offer their own proprietary tech systems as well. For Hyundai, that’s Hyundai Blue Link Connected Car Telematics. For its part, Kia offers innovations like the R.E.A.D. Real-time Emotion Adaptive Driving System.

Explore the Hyundai Lineup in Muncie 

There’s certainly a lot of overlap between the two brands, but Kia and Hyundai appeal to different buyers thanks to differences in pricing, styling, and overall ethos. In fact, you might say that the biggest difference between Kia and Hyundai is the driver! If you’re curious about the Hyundai lineup, our team of auto experts is happy to help you find the one that best matches your lifestyle in Marion. Apply for financing online, and contact Greg Hubler Hyundai today to get started!