Because they offer better quality at lower prices for the things car buyers care about than Japanese and American manufacturers. Long term maintenance and 50k m

Because they offer better quality at lower prices for the things car buyers care about than Japanese and American manufacturers. Long term maintenance and 50k mile warranty isn't that big of a deal for people leasing cars for 3 years. Say you want to buy a hybrid or PEV with modern creature comforts (heated steering wheel, heated/ventilated seats, car play, wireless charging, etc). If you want a Japanese car with those features you're paying for middle trim Acura or Lexus. There are not many Toyotas or Hondas that fit the bill, and the ones that do cost 5-10k more than Kia and Hyundai. And with interest rates where they are right now, if you're leasing or financing a car that's under 5 years old you get a lot more for your money with a new Hyundai or Kia than you do Toyota or Honda.