When it comes to the automotive industry, each region has its own unique set of preferences and tastes. In Europe, Citroen is a well-known brand famous for its quirky and innovative vehicles. In the US market, Hyundai has emerged as a brand that shares many similarities with Citroen. From unique designs to cutting-edge technology, Hyundai vehicles have captured the hearts of American car buyers. In this article, we will explore why Hyundai vehicles are to the US market and what quirky Citroen vehicles are to Europe.

Similarities Between Hyundai and Citroen

Hyundai and Citroen are two automotive brands that share many similarities that make them stand out in their respective markets. Both brands are known for pushing the boundaries of design and innovation, offering unique vehicles that are stylish and technologically advanced. In terms of design, both Hyundai and Citroen have distinctive styles that set them apart from their competitors. Hyundai’s design philosophy, called “Sensuous Sportiness,” focuses on creating vehicles with a sleek and dynamic appearance. Similarly, Citroen’s design approach emphasizes bold and unconventional shapes, with a focus on aerodynamics and fluidity.

Both Hyundai and Citroen have invested heavily in technological advancements, particularly in the realm of connected car technology. Hyundai has developed its Blue Link system, which allows drivers to remotely start their vehicles, set climate controls, and track their location. Similarly, Citroen has introduced its ConnectedCAM system, which allows drivers to record and share their driving experiences, as well as providing additional safety features.

Citroen’s Quirky Designs

Citroen has a reputation for producing unique and unconventional vehicles that experiment with materials and features. The company’s design philosophy is all about creating cars that stand out from the crowd and offer something different. One of the key elements of Citroen’s design philosophy is its focus on aerodynamics and fluidity. Many of the company’s cars have smooth, rounded shapes that are designed to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency, resulting in some of Citroen’s most iconic designs, such as the DS and the CX.

Another hallmark of Citroen’s design philosophy is its use of unconventional materials and features. The company is known for incorporating unique elements into its vehicles, such as hydraulic suspension systems and innovative lighting designs. Citroen also has a history of experimenting with materials, including the use of plastics and fiberglass in car body construction. Overall, Citroen’s quirky designs have helped to establish the brand as a pioneer in the automotive industry and a symbol of innovation and creativity.

Hyundai’s Unique Designs

Hyundai has developed a reputation for producing unique and eye-catching designs that are innovative and forward-thinking. The company’s design philosophy, called “Sensuous Sportiness,” is all about creating vehicles that are sleek, dynamic, and expressive. One of the key elements of Hyundai’s design philosophy is its use of a “parametric design” approach, which involves using geometric shapes to create unique and dynamic forms that capture the attention of consumers.

Hyundai has applied this approach to a range of vehicles, from the compact Kona SUV to the high-performance N-Line models. Hyundai has also incorporated a range of unique design features into its vehicles, such as its signature “Cascading Grille” and innovative lighting designs. For example, the “hidden lighting” system on the Tucson SUV uses light to create a seamless and dynamic appearance. Overall, Hyundai’s unique designs have helped to establish the brand as a leader in the automotive industry, with a focus on style, innovation, and forward thinking.

Citroen’s Technological Advancements

Citroen has a long history of technological innovation and advancements, with the company being at the forefront of many key developments in the automotive industry. Starting from the 1960s, Citroen was known for introducing advanced technological features into its vehicles that were ahead of their time. The company’s iconic DS model, which was introduced in 1955, was a prime example of this, featuring hydraulic suspension, power steering, and automatic leveling systems that were revolutionary for their time.

Over the years, Citroen has continued to push the boundaries of technological advancements, introducing new features and systems into its vehicles that improve safety, performance, and comfort. One notable example is the introduction of the Citroen SM in 1970, which featured advanced aerodynamics and a unique suspension system that combined hydraulic and mechanical elements to provide a smooth and comfortable ride.

In more recent years, Citroen has continued to invest heavily in technological advancements, particularly in the realm of connected car technology. The company’s current lineup features a range of advanced features and systems, including its ConnectedCAM system, which allows drivers to record and share their driving experiences, as well as provides additional safety features. Citroen has also introduced innovative safety features, such as its Grip Control system, which optimizes traction control in difficult driving conditions, and its Active Safety Brake system, which can detect obstacles and apply the brakes if necessary to avoid a collision. Overall, Citroen’s long history of technological advancements and innovations has helped to establish the brand as a leader in the automotive industry, with a focus on safety, performance, and comfort.

Hyundai’s Technological Advancements

Hyundai has been at the forefront of technological advancements in the automotive industry, continually introducing new features and systems that enhance the driving experience. One notable example is the company’s focus on developing alternative fuel vehicles, with Hyundai introducing its first hybrid model in 2009 and its first all-electric model in 2016. The company’s current lineup includes a range of advanced features and systems, such as its Blue Link system, which allows drivers to remotely start their vehicles, set climate controls, and track their location.

Hyundai has also invested heavily in developing advanced safety features, such as its SmartSense system, which includes a range of driver assistance technologies, such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The company’s vehicles also feature advanced materials and construction techniques, such as the use of high-strength steel and hot stamping technology to improve structural integrity and passenger safety.

In addition to these advancements, Hyundai has also focused on improving the overall driving experience, with features such as its Sound Mood System, which adjusts the car’s audio system to match the driver’s mood and preferences, and its Smart Parking Assist system, which can automatically park the vehicle in tight spaces. Overall, Hyundai’s commitment to technological advancements and innovations has helped to establish the brand as a leader in the automotive industry, with a focus on safety, sustainability, and driver experience.

Affordable Pricing

Both Citroen and Hyundai are known for offering affordable vehicles without sacrificing quality or features. Citroen has a reputation for offering stylish and innovative vehicles at a reasonable price point, with models such as the C3 and C4 Cactus being popular choices for budget-conscious buyers. The company also offers a range of financing and leasing options that make its vehicles even more accessible to a wider range of consumers.

Similarly, Hyundai has made affordability a key aspect of its brand identity, with a focus on providing vehicles that offer a high level of quality and features at a competitive price point. The company’s lineup includes a range of affordable models, such as the Hyundai Accent and Elantra, which offer a balance of performance, comfort, and technology without breaking the bank. In addition, Hyundai offers a range of financing options, including low-interest rates and special offers, to make its vehicles even more accessible to consumers on a tight budget.

Overall, the affordable pricing of Citroens and Hyundais has helped to establish both brands as popular choices for consumers who want a quality vehicle without having to spend a fortune. With a focus on value and accessibility, both brands have been able to appeal to a wide range of consumers and establish themselves as leaders in the affordable car market.

Citroen’s Brand Image

Citroen has a strong brand image that is synonymous with innovation, quirkiness, and style. The company has a long history of pushing the boundaries of automotive design, resulting in some of the most unique and unconventional vehicles on the market. This has helped to establish Citroen as a pioneer in the industry, with a reputation for creativity and originality.

In addition to its focus on innovation, Citroen has also developed a strong brand identity through its marketing and advertising efforts. The company’s campaigns have often featured bold and unconventional themes that showcase the brand’s unique personality and appeal to a younger, more progressive audience. This has helped to cement Citroen’s reputation as a brand that is unafraid to take risks and break away from the status quo.

Finally, Citroen’s strong brand image is also reflected in its customer service and dealership experience. The company has a reputation for providing a high level of customer service and support, with dealerships that are often described as welcoming and friendly. This has helped to establish a loyal customer base and further enhance Citroen’s brand image as a company that cares about its customers and is committed to providing a positive ownership experience. Overall, Citroen’s strong brand image is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation, creativity, and customer satisfaction.

Hyundai’s Brand Image

Hyundai’s brand image has undergone significant transformation in recent years, moving from a budget-focused brand to a leader in the automotive industry. This shift has been driven by the company’s focus on innovation, quality, and customer experience, which have helped to establish Hyundai as a premium brand with a strong reputation for value and reliability.

One of the key factors behind Hyundai’s brand image is its commitment to quality and reliability. The company’s vehicles are known for their high level of build quality, durability, and performance, which has helped to establish a sense of trust and confidence among consumers. Hyundai’s vehicles are also backed by industry-leading warranties, which further enhance the brand’s reputation for quality and reliability.

Another factor that has helped to shape Hyundai’s brand image is its focus on innovation and technology. The company has made significant investments in developing advanced features and systems that enhance the driving experience, such as its Blue Link connected car technology and SmartSense safety features. This focus on innovation has helped to establish Hyundai as a forward-thinking brand with a commitment to the future of the automotive industry.

Overall, Hyundai’s brand image is a reflection of the company’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer experience. By focusing on these core values, Hyundai has been able to establish itself as a premium brand that is trusted and respected by consumers around the world.


In conclusion, the similarities between Hyundai and Citroen are clear, as both brands have established themselves as leaders in their respective markets through a commitment to innovation, style, and affordability. Both brands have a reputation for pushing the boundaries of design and technology, offering unique vehicles that stand out from their competitors.

Despite their many similarities, however, Hyundai has emerged as the “quirky Citroen” of the US market, with a focus on unique and eye-catching designs that set it apart from other brands. Through its Sensuous Sportiness design philosophy and innovative features such as the Cascading Grille and hidden lighting system, Hyundai has established itself as a leader in automotive design and a brand that is unafraid to take risks and push the boundaries of what is possible.

By embracing its quirkiness and pushing the boundaries of design and innovation, Hyundai has been able to carve out a unique niche for itself in the highly competitive US market. With a focus on affordability, quality, and forward-thinking design, Hyundai has become a popular choice for consumers who want a vehicle that is not only stylish and technologically advanced but also affordable and reliable.

Overall, the similarities between Hyundai and Citroen make them both stand out as unique and innovative brands in the automotive industry. While Citroen has a reputation for quirky designs and innovation in Europe, Hyundai has become the quirky, innovative brand of the US market, pushing the boundaries of design and technology to offer consumers a unique driving experience.