Quote:
Originally Posted by Rochard
I think think the truth is some companies were on the cutting edge but modern technology has leveled the playing field in a huge way.
Need an example? Hyundai, which I thought was a joke of a car, now has heated mirrors that fold in when you turn your car off. That kind of stuff used to be reserved for much nicer cars like BMW and Mercedes.
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Hyundai and Kia produced what they called 'grocery-getter' cars - bland pieces of disposable junk.
But that all changed when they hired Peter Schreyer from Audi and basically gave him a blank cheque to re-design their entire lineup.
I drive a Kia Optima EX Lux. Aside from the Infinity premium soundsystem, it has features like rain-sensing wipers (heated), auto-dimming rearview mirror (with digital compass built-in), heated and cooled seats (front and rear). Dual climate control, built-in NAV, 6-speed auto/manual transmission. Heated side mirrors. Dual moon-roof (retractable sunroof). Hell, even has a cooled glovebox for keeping drinks chilled.
Sounds crazy...but I have no qualms parking it next to an Audi A4-A5 or a Jag.
They've come a long way.
