Hyundai cars arrived in the UK in 1982 when the South Korean automaker began exporting its Pony model to Britain. The affordable Pony hatchback quickly garnered interest from buyers, although build quality was uncompetitive. By 1986, Hyundai had sold over 25,000 cars in the UK, establishing an importer and dealer network. 

Models like the Lantra and midsize Sonata followed over the next decade. Both offered low prices but failed to match the quality of Japanese rivals. By the mid-1990s, Hyundai’s UK sales declined as cheaper rivals like Daewoo arrived. Without a strong brand identity, Hyundai struggled in the small car market. 

A major turnaround came in 1997 when Hyundai signed top car designer Peter Schreyer. His arrival marked a renewed focus on styling and dynamics. By 1999, the contemporary Coupe and Accent models previewed Hyundai’s revived fortunes. The second generation Santa Fe SUV arrived in 2000, bringing new quality standards. 

Flagship models like the Trajet MPV and large Grandeur helped improve Hyundai’s image in the early 2000s. By offering lengthy 5-year warranties, Hyundai sought to change perceptions of low quality. The strategy worked with sales doubling by 2005. Hyundai cemented its transformation with sporty coupes like the Coupé and Veloster. 

Recent years have seen leading models like the i10 city car and i30 family hatchback become top 10 sellers. Hyundai has also committing to eco-friendly technology with hybrid and EV models. Its modern crossover SUVs like the Tucson and Kona combine value, equipment and style.

Concepts like the sharp Ioniq 5 point to an electric future, while sporty N brand models target driving enthusiasts. Oozing contemporary design and improved interiors, Hyundai now competes head-on with established brands.

 In summary, Hyundai's rise in the UK charts its development from a cheap emerging brand to a modern manufacturer respected for quality, style and value. By targeting changing buyer needs and investing in product, Hyundai has become one of Britain's most popular car marques. With cutting-edge EVs on the horizon, the future looks bright for Hyundai's continued success in the UK.

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