In the recent past, Hyundai customers in South Korea have been questioning the build quality and overall standard of the models sold locally. A survey conducted showed that 74 percent of the customers were of the opinion that versions sold abroad would be much better in terms of quality and safety. To clarify and prove that the quality and build is consistent in all markets, Hyundai organised a crash test for a KDM (Korean Domestic Market) and a US-spec 2015 Sonata Turbo, as it was the most doubted car by customers.
The KDM Sonata Turbo painted in Venetian Red against the US version painted in Lakeside Blue, were programmed to go for a full frontal crash at 56kph. The test was conducted in the presence of automotive industry experts and car bloggers. Following the crash, it was clear that there was no difference in the two versions. The crash test dummies in both the cars sustained similar injuries. Further checks revealed that both the Sonatas displayed the same level of damage on the steel chassis, and showed equal stiffness in the chassis construction. The results proved that Hyundai focussed on delivering the best products, regardless of the market they are aimed at.