Hyundai was once the butt of many jokes in the automotive industry. The name was at one time known as “Hope you understand nothing’s drivable and inexpensive.” The South Korean Auto maker was originally part of the Ford family back in the late 1980′s, when they debuted in the United States with their Excel hatchback. Because of the Excel’s affordability it was rewarded one of the “Best Products” by Fortune Magazine. Unfortunately that “affordable” factor the vehicle, along with many of Hyundai’s future models, have been called “cheap” and touted for unreliability.

Hyundai shadiness and speculation of its quality are both things of the past. Over the last few years the motor company has moved over to Kia/GM ownership, and has won countless awards for performance and safety. Consumer reports ranked them with Honda as most reliable vehicles in 2003. In 2006 JD Power and Associates the Hyundai brand ranked 3rd in quality, just behind Porsche and Lexus, and beating Toyota. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, a US based company, has given many Hyundai vehicles their “Gold Top Safety Pick” nod. Also in 2008, Hyundai Santa Fe and Hyundai Elantra won Consumer Reports “Top Pick,” which was among the top 10 vehicles for 2008. And it looks that 2009 will be even better for Hyundai, as they prepare to unveil their new i-Mode engine and a line of sex, and most importantly of all, reliable vehicles.