Hyundai Motor Malaysia officially established, set to introduce three new SUV and MPV models

Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) has officially established a new entity, Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY).

This move marks the evolution of the Hyundai brand from a distribution model run by Sime Motors to a principal-based operational approach that eliminates intermediaries.

With this initiative, Hyundai will assume full responsibility for branding, marketing, sales, and direct customer experience.

A dedicated local team will be formed and empowered to make faster and more relevant decisions within the new headquarters located at Menara Affin @ TRX.

Simultaneously, HMY will introduce three new models in the SUV and MPV segments for the local market.

Hyundai will also establish a local assembly operation in Kedah starting in the third quarter of this year (Q3 2025) through a partnership with Inokom Corporation Sdn Bhd.

The facility is expected to produce up to seven vehicle models over a five-year period, integrating Malaysia into the brand’s global production network.

In the short term, Hyundai’s production operations will focus on internal combustion engine (ICE) models and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) to meet Malaysian demand, with 30 percent of production expected to be exported to neighboring countries.

According to Jahabarnisa Haja Mohideen, Managing Director of Hyundai Motor Malaysia, “Malaysia is a highly potential market, with the highest demand for passenger vehicles in ASEAN at 35 percent.

“The stable GDP growth rate of 4.3 percent reflects strong consumer confidence and increased purchasing power. This situation will drive innovation and long-term investment.

“Through collaboration with local stakeholders, Malaysia is an ideal location to expand Hyundai’s presence and establish a key hub in Hyundai’s growth strategy in the Asia Pacific region.”

Meanwhile, Sime Motors will continue to be part of the Hyundai dealership network.

In addition, Hyundai plans to enhance its service network by opening up to 25 new branches by 2030 and upgrading its after-sales system.

Existing customers can update their information via THIS LINK to ensure HMY can provide continuous support under the new management.

Hyundai has been a well-known name in the Malaysian market since the early 2000s.

A variety of models have been introduced, covering diverse powertrains (ICE, HEV, BEV) and segments (sedan, SUV, MPV) such as the Elantra, Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, Ioniq Hybrid, Palisade, Santa Fe, Sonata, Starex, Staria, and Veloster.

Overall, Hyundai has recorded sales exceeding 147,862 units, demonstrating an increasing market acceptance.