Hyundai India Appoints Tarun Garg as First Indian MD & CEO

Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), a leading automobile company, has appointed Tarun Garg as its new Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This marks the first time an Indian has been appointed to lead Hyundai India. Garg’s tenure will begin on 1 January 2026. Currently, he serves as HMIL’s Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer (COO). He will succeed Unsoo Kim, who is returning to Hyundai Motor Company in South Korea for a strategic role.

Extensive Experience and Strong Management Skills

Tarun Garg brings over 20 years of experience in the automotive industry. According to an official statement, Garg has in-depth knowledge across key areas such as sales, marketing, distribution, financial management, product strategy, and brand communication. For the past two years, he has worked with Hyundai’s Global Management Team, further strengthening his leadership capabilities.

Founded 29 years ago, Hyundai Motor India has grown to be one of the top car manufacturers in India, consistently launching new products and services to strengthen its presence in the market.

Company Statement on Garg’s Appointment

Hoje Munoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor India, said that Tarun Garg is the first Indian to lead HMIL in its nearly three-decade history. Under his leadership as COO, the company recorded record sales and profits. He also played a key role in the company’s largest IPO in India.

Former MD of Hyundai India, Unsoo Kim, praised Garg, saying he has worked with him for several years and is well-acquainted with his capabilities and dedication. Kim added that Garg has made a significant contribution to the company’s growth journey, expressing full confidence that under his leadership, HMIL will reach even greater heights.

Who is Tarun Garg?

Currently serving as Whole-Time Director and COO, Tarun Garg has over 20 years of experience in the automotive sector. He joined Hyundai in 2007, steadily rising through the ranks by managing sales, branding, and dealership operations effectively. Prior to Hyundai, he worked with Maruti Suzuki, where he gained deep industry knowledge.

Under Garg’s leadership, Hyundai India has become the second-largest car company in India. His tenure saw the launch of popular models like Creta, Venue, and i20, and he also promoted electric vehicles like Kona and Ioniq 5. Additionally, new services such as Hyundai Promise and subscription plans for used cars were introduced.

Tarun Garg holds an engineering degree from Delhi Technological University (DTU) and an MBA from IIM Lucknow. He has extensive experience in sales, marketing, and operations, including senior leadership roles in logistics, marketing, parts, and accessories.

Positive Market Reaction

Following Tarun Garg’s appointment, HMIL shares saw a positive reaction. The company’s stock traded at ₹2,439.20 on BSE, up 1.15%. The stock’s 52-week high is ₹2,889.65, and the low is ₹1,542.95. Analysts and investors view this leadership change as a positive sign for the company’s future.

Tarun Garg’s appointment is seen as the beginning of a new era for Hyundai India, with expectations of further growth and success under Indian leadership.