You can customize a Hyundai online before you buy, but the process and what you can change depends on which model and which Hyundai tool you use

Hyundai offers two main ways to build a vehicle online: the Hyundai Build and Price tool on their official website, and the inventory search function that shows you actual vehicles already built and sitting at dealerships. The Build and Price tool lets you choose colors, trim levels, and add-on packages in real time, then shows you the estimated price. It does not let you order a custom vehicle directly from the factory — instead, it generates a configuration you can take to a dealer or use to search for matching inventory.

The actual ordering process depends on whether you want a vehicle that is already on a dealer lot or whether you want to special-order one. If you find a configuration you like using Build and Price, you can either search for that exact setup in nearby dealer inventory, or you can work with a dealer to place a factory order. Hyundai does not sell directly to consumers; all purchases go through franchised dealers.

Key Takeaways

  • The Hyundai Build and Price tool on their website shows you trim levels, colors, wheels, and package options with live pricing, but does not place an order.
  • Once you build a configuration you like, you can search dealer inventory for that exact setup or ask a dealer to special-order it from the factory.
  • Not all options are available on all trim levels — some packages and features are restricted to higher trims or specific models.
  • Dealer inventory changes constantly, so a configuration you see today may not be in stock at your local dealership.
  • Special factory orders typically take 8 to 12 weeks from the time the dealer submits the order, though timing varies by model and current production schedules.

How to use the Hyundai Build and Price tool

Start at Hyundai.com and look for the "Build and Price" or "Build Your Hyundai" link, usually in the top navigation or under a specific model's page. Select your model — Elantra, Tucson, Santa Fe, Ioniq, or whichever interests you. The tool then walks you through choices in this order: trim level, exterior color, interior color or material, wheel design, and available packages or add-ons.

Each choice updates the price in real time. You can see the base price, the cost of each option you add, and the final total. The tool also shows you images of your configuration from different angles. Once you have built a vehicle you like, the tool gives you a summary page with all your choices and the final price. You can save this configuration, email it to yourself, or print it.

Keep in mind that the price shown is the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) before any dealer discounts, incentives, taxes, or fees. The actual price you pay will be different depending on what your dealer negotiates and what rebates or incentives Hyundai is currently running.

Finding your configuration in dealer inventory

After you build a vehicle, you have two paths: search for it in existing inventory, or ask a dealer to order it from the factory. To search inventory, use the "Find Inventory" or "Search Inventory" tool on Hyundai.com or on individual dealer websites. Enter your zip code, the model, and the trim level and color you want. The tool shows you vehicles currently on dealer lots within a certain radius.

Dealer inventory updates frequently, sometimes daily. A vehicle that matches your configuration may appear today and be sold tomorrow. If you find one you like, contact the dealer directly — do not assume it is still available just because it shows online. Ask the dealer to hold it or to send you more photos and details.

If no dealer near you has your exact configuration in stock, ask them whether they can special-order it. Most dealers can place a factory order with Hyundai, though some smaller dealers may have limits on how many custom orders they handle at once.

What you can and cannot customize

The Build and Price tool shows you only the options that are actually available for the trim level and model you selected. You can usually change exterior color, interior color or material, wheel design, and add packages like technology packages, safety packages, or convenience packages. Some models offer different roof colors or two-tone paint, which the tool will show if available.

You cannot customize the engine, transmission, or drivetrain through the Build and Price tool — those are locked to each trim level. For example, if you choose the base Elantra, you get the standard engine; you cannot upgrade to a larger engine without moving to a higher trim. Similarly, you cannot mix and match individual features — you buy packages as a unit. If you want a specific feature that is only available in a package you do not otherwise want, you have to buy the whole package.

Some features are trim-exclusive. A sunroof might only be available on the mid-level trim and above, or all-wheel drive might only come on certain trims. The Build and Price tool will not let you add those options to a trim that does not support them.

Understanding trim levels and what each includes

Every Hyundai model comes in multiple trim levels, usually named SE, SEL, Limited, Ultimate, or similar (names vary by model). The base trim is the cheapest and includes the fewest features. Each higher trim adds more standard features — better infotainment systems, more safety technology, nicer interior materials, or additional convenience features.

The Build and Price tool shows you what comes standard on each trim. Before you add packages, read the standard features list for each trim to see whether a higher trim might already include something you want. Sometimes paying more for a higher trim is cheaper than buying a lower trim and adding a package that includes the same feature.

Hyundai also offers special editions or limited trims on some models, which may have a unique color, package, or feature set. These appear in the Build and Price tool if they are available for the model you selected.

Special factory orders and how long they take

If you cannot find your configuration in dealer inventory, you can ask a dealer to place a factory order. The dealer submits your configuration to Hyundai, and the vehicle is built to your specifications at a Hyundai manufacturing plant. You then pay for it when it arrives at the dealer.

Factory orders typically take 8 to 12 weeks from the time the dealer submits the order, though this varies. During periods of high demand or supply chain disruptions, wait times can stretch longer. The dealer can usually tell you an estimated delivery window when they place the order, but exact timing is not may provide.

When you special-order a vehicle, you usually pay a deposit to hold the order. The amount varies by dealer, but it is typically $500 to $1,000 and is applied to your final purchase price. Once the vehicle is built and shipped to the dealer, you are notified and can complete the purchase.

Pricing, incentives, and what the Build and Price number means

The price shown in the Build and Price tool is the MSRP — what Hyundai suggests dealers charge. It is not the price you will actually pay. Dealers often negotiate discounts off MSRP, and Hyundai frequently runs rebates or incentives that reduce the effective price. These incentives change monthly and depend on the model, trim, and sometimes your location or credit profile.

The Build and Price total also does not include destination charges (the cost to ship the vehicle from the factory to the dealer), taxes, registration fees, or dealer fees. These add several hundred to several thousand dollars to your final bill depending on your state and dealer.

When you take your Build and Price configuration to a dealer, use it as a starting point for negotiation. The dealer can tell you what current incentives explore and what they are willing to discount the vehicle. Do not assume the MSRP is the final price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a Hyundai directly from Hyundai, or do I have to go through a dealer?

You must go through a franchised Hyundai dealer. Hyundai does not sell directly to consumers. The Build and Price tool helps you decide what you want, but a dealer handles the actual order and sale. You can use the tool to find a dealer near you or to prepare your configuration before visiting one.

If I build a vehicle in the tool, does that reserve it or put me on a waiting list?

No. Building a vehicle in the tool does nothing except show you the price and appearance. It does not reserve anything, place an order, or put your name on a list. You must contact a dealer separately to actually order or purchase a vehicle.

What if the color or option I want is not showing up in the Build and Price tool?

It may not be available for that trim level, or it may be out of stock at the factory. The tool only shows options that are currently available. If you want something that is not showing, contact a dealer — they can tell you whether it is a trim restriction, a temporary shortage, or a discontinued option.

Can I change my order after the dealer submits it to the factory?

It depends on how far along the build is. Early in the process, dealers can sometimes cancel or modify orders. Once the vehicle is in production or has shipped, changes are usually not possible. Ask your dealer about their policy and the status of your order before assuming you can change it.

How do I know if a dealer has my exact configuration in stock?

Use the inventory search tool on Hyundai.com or the dealer's website, filtering by model, trim, color, and any specific features you want. Call the dealer directly to confirm the vehicle is still available and to ask about additional details like mileage, exact features, or whether it has any dealer-added packages.