SCOOP: Hyundai still open to reintroducing sedans in the Philippines

Hyundai Philippines recently launched the 2024 Hyundai Custin and the 2024 Hyundai Stargazer X in a joint event, strengthening its lineup of 7-seater vehicles in the country. 

Aside from this, the South Korean brand also launched a new 9-seater version of the Hyundai Staria and a 6-seater version of the regular Hyundai Stargazer. 

AutoFun Philippines likewise got more information about Hyundai’s future plans in the country. We were able to ask someone with intimate knowledge of the company's operations about the brand’s possible re-entry into the sedan market.

When Hyundai Motors took over distributorship in the Philippines, it axed a few popular models, such as the subcompact Hyundai Accent and the compact Hyundai Elantra.

And while other markets received newer versions of these vehicles, the South Korean automaker has focused on growing its lineup of crossovers and MPVs locally.

However, if the brand's sales department thinks a market is available for sedans in the Philippines, Hyundai Philippines is open to bringing these in again. This is according to our source, who spoke to AutoFun Philippines under the condition of strict anonymity.

No model names or any specific timelines were mentioned. Still, it's nice to know that Hyundai is open to entering more market segments and is game to give sedan models another go.

What sedan models could enter the Philippines?

Looking at what other ASEAN markets offer could explain what Hyundai Philippines could bring in.

One of the first models that the South Korean automaker could bring into the country is the Hyundai Accent, which was a hit back in its time thanks to its turbocharged diesel engine.

The turbodiesel's return may be unlikely because of tightening emission standards, but the 1.4-liter inline-4 version of the sedan from Vietnam is a viable option. This produces 100 PS and 132 Nm of torque, which is enough to go against its longtime rival, the Toyota Vios.

Another option is the Hyundai Grand i10 sedan, also available in Vietnam. It will go against the likes of the Honda Brio and Toyota Wigo, as it comes with a 1.2-liter gasoline engine that produces 83 PS and 113 Nm of torque. 

The Hyundai Elantra is another option that could come back with its two engine choices.

The 1.6-liter motor makes around 123 PS and 154 Nm of torque, while the 2.0-liter produces 149 PS and 179 Nm of torque. It will also open up the brand to bringing in its N lineup of performance vehicles.

The Hyundai Verna could also be another possibility. However, it has yet to enter the ASEAN region.

It ticks all the right boxes for the local market with up-to-date technology, a futuristic interior and a turbocharged gasoline engine with 160 PS and 253 Nm of torque. The sedan could easily dominate the segment, especially as its engine displacement exempts it from certain taxes.

While nothing is confirmed yet, it would be nice to see more Hyundai sedans plying the roads of the Philippines once more.

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