It's hard to believe that less than a decade ago, vehicles from Korean manufacturers were not considered all that great. They were improving, for sure, but Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis have all surged in popularity, design, and amenities, to the point where they are not just contenders but winners in many segments. In fact, the Korean brands have pilfered some of the best engineers and designers from premium German brands, and the result has been nothing short of amazing. The 2022 model year should prove to be even better, and we've selected four of the most exciting models from the Korean automakers.
2023 Kia Sportage
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Best for the design conscious |
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The Sportage has taken some adventurous design directions in the past, but it looks like the 2023 Sportage will truly push the envelope. It loses the old and tiny Tiger Nose grille and opts for a more alien-like front end that we really like. Style-wise it sets itself apart from more mundane compact crossovers like the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross and the Jeep Compass.
Power will come in two forms: one gas, one hybrid. There's a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower, and then the hybrid will be released later on. Both models should get an eight-speed automatic transmission, and AWD will be optional. There will even be an off-road leaning X-Pro model. We're excited to see the Sportage look more consistent with the rest of the handsome Kia crossover line.
2022 Hyundai Elantra N
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Best for track hounds |
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Hyundai isn't messing around with their most driver-focused sedan. The Elantra N takes the edgy styling of the great Elantra sedan and dials things up several notches. Not only does it look the part of the track racer, but it also provides tremendous power in the form of 276 hp from its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
The Elantra N also benefits from a limited-slip differential, launch control, and an sonorous active exhaust system. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, but you can upgrade to an available eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The N also gets a the N Grin Shift function that temporarily boosts the power by 10 horses. It could very well be the most exciting Hyundai to come along in some time, and that's saying something.
2022 Genesis GV70
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Best for those who want it all |
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The Genesis GV70 has taken the premium crossover segment by storm, and we can attest to its awesomeness because we've driven it. Not only does it look better than the Porsche Macan, but it also happens to look and feel more premium inside. In top trim 3.3T Sport, the GV70 is truly powerful and athletic with 376 horsepower routed to all four wheels. Even the base 4-cylinder turbo engine emits a very healthy 300 horsepower that will rocket it to 60 mph in under six seconds.
Inside, the layout and materials are gorgeous. A huge touchscreen looks crisp and clean, knurled metal controls provide easy gripping (and beautiful aesthetics), and the climate control touchscreen is easily the best one we've used (and looked at) this year. This is the premium crossover to buy, and you can even get it in frosted matte paint.
2022 Hyundai Palisade
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Best for the family |
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The Palisade is an incredible 7-passenger SUV that shares a platform and powertrain with the popular Kia Telluride. We happen to think it could've used a boost in the looks department, and that's what Hyundai is doing for 2022 with an updated front fascia that borrows the scalloped grille from the brand's smaller Tucson. What the change does is improve the SUVs only real unattractive feature, making the styling look more unified.
Inside, the Palisade is roomy, luxurious, and very comfortable for a big family. The second-row seats offer a whopping 42.4 inches of legroom. Standard features like power-folding third-row seats, five USB ports, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional Nappa leather, a big 10.25" touchscreen, heated front and rear seats, and auto-leveling suspension make the Palisade truly luxurious. The 291 hp V6 is smooth and powerful, and the 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters provide great shifting duties without drama.
Why are Korean cars so great?
- Most impressive standard features in the auto industry.
- Design and engineering spearheaded by former BMW and Audi folks.
- Some of the most daring mainstream styling.
- Competitive pricing and excellent safety scores.