When you access our website, we store information about your visit in a small text file called a “cookie” on your hard disk. This helps us to identify you and remember your preferences the next time you visit us. Only information that you have provided will be stored in the cookie, and only the website which created the cookie can read it. This does not allow it access to the rest of the computer. You can configure your Internet browser not to accept cookies, or to alert you every time a cookie is offered, letting you decide whether or not to accept it. However, some features of our website may not be available if you prevent the use of cookies.
Understanding Grey Market Vehicles: FAQs and Guidance
At Hyundai, our commitment to safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction doesn’t end at the showroom. Every vehicle we officially sell through our authorized distributors in Saudi Arabia is backed by rigorous testing, region-specific tuning, and dedicated after-sales support tailored to the Kingdom’s environment and standards.
Recently, we’ve seen a rise in Hyundai vehicles entering the Saudi market through unofficial channels. These vehicles are sourced from outside the GCC and are not built or configured for the KSA required certification (SASO).
While these vehicles may appear similar, they are often not built to withstand the GCC’s harsh climate, lacking essential adaptations like enhanced cooling systems and sand protection, which can lead to faster wear and performance issues.
In addition, grey market vehicles may not be covered by Hyundai’s manufacturer warranty and may not receive the same level of service support, software compatibility, or parts availability.
As a result, owners of these vehicles may face unexpected repair costs, feature limitations, and a lack of recourse when issues arise. We want to ensure that our customers have the full picture before making a purchasing decision.
When you choose to buy through our official network, you’re not just buying a car, you’re gaining access to a complete ownership experience: o Trained technicians and genuine parts o GCC-compliant safety and performance standards o Regular updates and service support o Peace of mind
We urge our customers to speak to one of our authorized distributors before purchasing. If you’re unsure about the origin of your vehicle or want to confirm coverage, our teams are ready to assist.
Protect your investment. Buy smart. Buy officially.
A parallel import vehicle—also known as a grey market vehicle—is one that has been imported into a country or region through channels not authorized by Hyundai or its official distributor in that territory.
These vehicles were typically manufactured for sale in a different market and may therefore: • Not comply with local safety, emissions, or certification standards. • Lack compatibility with regional diagnostic systems or service tools. • Not be eligible for warranty or service support, except where required by local law.
Authorized service centers may, at their discretion, accept grey market vehicles for servicing.
However: • They are not obligated to provide service or warranty support for such vehicles. • Warranty coverage is not guaranteed, and any provision of warranty shall be subject to local mandatory laws and regulations. • Parts compatibility or diagnostic support may be limited due to differences in vehicle configuration and market specifications.
In markets such as Saudi Arabia, service support may depend on SASO certification and related regulatory compliance.
• Limited availability of spare parts. • Potential incompatibility with local fuel, emissions, or software standards. • The navigation system, telematics, and infotainment system depend on the vehicle's origin and cannot be updated to meet GCC specifications • Resale value may be lower than vehicles sold through official channels.
Look for: • A VIN or specifications that do not match local market standards. • Missing official service records from regional dealers. • An owner’s manual or labels in a foreign language. • The original destination country listed on the build sheet.
We are always happy to guide you on your Hyundai journey, for more information on where and how you can have the best Hyundai experience, reach out to the authorized distributors in your region.
In most cases, no: • OTA (Over-the-Air) updates and connected services (such as telematics or infotainment updates) may not function properly or may be region-locked. • The vehicle may not be eligible for future software updates or improvements.
• Manufacturers and authorized distributors do not recommend the purchase or import of grey market vehicles due to associated risks and lack of support, as these vehicles are not necessarily designed according to regional specifications.
Images, engine specifications and information posted above may differ from region to region. All information and illustrations are based on data available at the time of publication and subject to change without notice, Please visit our regional homepage or dealer for more information.
