Korean cars
Japanese cars came to the American market slowly, first with underpowered rustbuckets and imitations of American and European vehicles, then with underpowered, efficient, and reliable vehicles. As Japanese cars moved upscale, though, a gap opened at the bottom, and Korean automakers happily filled it, starting with the Pontiac LeMans (Daewoo), Ford Aspire (Kia), and Hyundai Excel. Now, Hyundai and Kia are joined and offer similar vehicles with the best warranties in the business, while Daewoo is owned by General Motors.
The Korean manufacturers, while they don't have a massive market share - yet - have come a long way. Their gains in technology, quality, and "feel" are astounding. Hyundai in particular now beats a number of Japanese and European brands in quality ratings.
Korean automakers
- Hyundai Azera (2006) - Lexus feel in a Camry-priced sedan
- Hyundai Elantra (2007) - luxury car feel and economy car price
- Hyundai Tiburon - racy looks and feel, low price Celica killer (literally, it seems!)
- Kia Amanti (2006) - refined, quiet, and large, with Jaguar looks and an out of proportion thirst for fuel
- Kia Optima (2006) - cushy and quiet, but engine lag hurts
- Kia Sorrento - off-road capability, optional luxury look and feel, and an unbeatable price
- Kia Spectra5 - nimble, fun little hatchback that shames the 2005 Honda Civic with best-in-class interior space, a plush ride, and a quick engine
No longer made
- Daewoo Leganza - inexpensive but upscale sedan (2000)
- Hyundai Accent - nice entry-level (2000)
- Hyundai Elantra - sensible family sedan (2000)
- Hyundai Tiburon - much more fun than it ought to be! (2001)
- Hyundai XG350 - looks and feels luxurious, doesn't cost much, great warranty (2003)
- Kia Optima - luxury feel, low price (2002-2004)
- Kia Rio - sporty little car (2001)
- Kia Spectra - nice entry level (2000)