Hyundai isnt the same company they were 10-15 years ago and neither are their cars. The company has a big hold in Europe and as a result the technology and advancements they are putting in cars, all throughout their price range has grown to suit.
In 2015 I went car shopping for a family member for a small/medium SUV. Things not to have were CVT, double clutch, turbo petrol or diesel, a dash that didn’t have a super-glued tablet, and a shape that didn’t look as it had been pre-dinged in a car-park
Last two remaining on the list were a Trax and a Sportage, and the Trax was a far distant second.
The sales lady, after telling me how great the Korean built Sportage was, was disbelieving when I pointed out it was designed by Europeans and built in Slovakia. I would not describe the interior as cheap and plasticky. Only one thing, it is nearly as big as our Territory, and the Territory was not on the list as it was ‘too big’. Visual perception ??!
So Kia have got their **** in one pile very quickly during the last few years and seem to take the Australian market very seriously.
A lot of Kia negativity on here, just like it was to Toyota during the 1970's. If Falcadores were still around, I would have to agree, but as 426Cuda said
“ But, it is what it is.” and the end of Oz manufacturing is nearly here. We will just have swallow the sour grapes and get over it.
PS ...... I have not voted because even though I may be 'happy' in a Kia, I would not be 'happier' (compared to a proper Holden).