Originally Posted by Shamu

I dont think anyone is not agreeing that Hyundai makes a decent value product. Aside from terrible Hyundai resale values , which do add to total cost of ownership, its a fairly decent car in the econo box market. But even FWD MazdaSpeed 3 beats this car out in terms of handling and cost effectiveness which is sort of embarrassing for Hyundai. The Mazda is cheaper. performs better and has more room and has better resale values. About the only thing I think Hyundai has is looks hence my original statement about pigs in lipstick applies pretty well.

Give Hyundai another decade and they might get in realm of well built premium cars. Which might include a Lexus competitor. They are a big company with expanding operations regionally and are trying to make their mark in more premium segments. I really dont think they are there yet but they will eventually get there. The Equus line is definitely a good start in going after more premium segment dominated by Lexus and Infiniti. I sat in one at Pebble Beach Concours and it was ugly looking beast of a 4 door but it was nicely made.

And hey maybe someday there will be several race tracks, sports car culture, in Korea. ...probably not LOL! Japanese still have advantage of a big sports car market, motorsports culture , etc.