An anecdote to counter your anecdote - I've owned 4 Hyundais and 3 Kias over the last 23 years and have yet to have a major issue with any of them. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

My first new car, a 2000 Elantra was an affordable and reliable car that I sold to a teen for a decent amount. Probably the best financial deal on a car I'll ever get.