The APEAL Study measures owners’ emotional attachment and level of excitement with their new vehicle across 37 attributes, ranging from exterior, driving feel, and powertrain.

In receiving high marks for its exceptional consumer appeal and satisfaction in its segment, Hyundai said, “This achievement highlights the Santa Fe’s bold, rugged design, spacious interior, and smart tech that deeply resonate with the community. Its standout aesthetic and family-friendly features reflect our commitment to blending style, innovation, comfort, and safety.”

Hyundai’s line-up showed strong performance overall, with the Hyundai Kona securing second place in its respective segment and demonstrating significant improvements across various categories.

Meanwhile, as a brand, Hyundai climbed three places to achieve fourth place among mass-market automakers with a score of 846 out of 1,000. They outrank the likes of Honda (836), Nissan (835), Mazda (832), Toyota (831), Subaru (828), and Mitsubishi (821).

Vehicles with a higher APEAL performance retain their value at a greater rate than do those with lower APEAL performance. In addition, vehicles, and brands with a higher APEAL score are more likely to be promoted and recommended to family and friends, further illustrating the long-term effect that a highly appealing vehicle has on the marketplace.

The 2024 U.S. APEAL Study is based on responses from 99,144 owners of new 2024 model-year vehicles who were surveyed after 90 days of ownership. The study was fielded from July 2023 through May 2024 based on vehicles registered from April 2023 through February 2024.