Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY) has outlined its business outlook and strategic direction for 2026, signalling a decisive push to strengthen its presence in the local market through a Smart Premium brand approach, enhanced aftersales support, and a wider nationwide network. The strategy underscores Hyundai’s long-term commitment to delivering a more seamless, confident, and rewarding ownership experience for Malaysian customers.

At the heart of Hyundai’s 2026 roadmap is its ambition to position the brand as a Smart Premium choice — balancing practicality, reliability, comfort, innovation, and modern design with attainable pricing. According to Managing Director Ms Jahabarnisa Haja Mohideen, Hyundai aims to become the smarter alternative for customers seeking premium-quality vehicles without the premium price tag.

To support this vision, Hyundai is accelerating its dealer network expansion. The company is on track to reach 25 outlets nationwide by the end of 2026, including stronger representation in East Malaysia. From its current 12 outlets, Hyundai has already signed letters of intent with five new dealer partners in 2025 and an additional partner earlier this year. This expansion is expected to significantly improve accessibility, service coverage, and customer convenience across the country.

Enhancing the end-to-end ownership journey remains a key pillar of Hyundai’s strategy through its myHyundaiCare programme. Initiatives include revised service and maintenance support to reduce total ownership costs, especially for existing and older models. Hybrid owners will also benefit from reduced battery costs, with a modular replacement approach that only replaces affected battery modules instead of the entire assembly.

Additional efforts under myHyundaiCare include free vehicle inspections, festive service campaigns, mobile technical support teams, service clinics, and owners’ workshops aimed at boosting confidence and product knowledge. Hyundai continues to offer an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty, while vehicle value protection is supported through the Hyundai Protection Plan in collaboration with major insurance partners. Parts availability has also been improved through Hyundai’s parts distribution warehouse in Glenmarie, Shah Alam, ensuring quicker access to high-demand components.

Hyundai’s product offensive continues as it refreshes and expands its portfolio to meet evolving market demands. The STARIA 10-seater was introduced earlier this year with enhanced features aimed at families, business users, and active lifestyles. Looking ahead, the locally assembled new TUCSON and the all-new SANTA FE are scheduled for launch in the second quarter of 2026, reinforcing Hyundai’s commitment to local production and long-term value.

A major highlight for enthusiasts is the confirmed arrival of Hyundai N in Malaysia. The high-performance IONIQ 5 N and IONIQ 6 N are set to debut in 2026, marking a new chapter for Hyundai’s performance-oriented offerings and bringing motorsport-inspired electric performance to local customers. Hyundai also plans to broaden its reach with the introduction of a new B-segment MPV, adding further versatility to its line-up.

Hyundai is also deepening customer relationships through initiatives such as the STARIA All-Star Referral Programme. Under this scheme, existing customers receive RM500 in service credits for successful referrals, while new customers enjoy RM1,500 in savings on top of existing promotions. Adding to its accolades, the Hyundai STARIA was recently crowned MPV ICE of the Year at the 2025 Malaysian Car of the Year Awards.

Reinforcing the brand’s long-term vision, President of Hyundai Motor Malaysia Mr Eric Lee emphasised the importance of meaningful customer connections, stating that Hyundai is here for the long run and committed to standing by its customers.

With a stronger foundation, a growing dealer network, and a more comprehensive ownership ecosystem, Hyundai Motor Malaysia is positioning itself for sustainable growth while continuing to deliver greater value, confidence, and innovation to Malaysian drivers.