I transitioned to car journalism in the late 2010s, just as two seismic automotive industry shifts began. Electric vehicles evolved. What were eccentric curiosities became compelling options for mainstream buyers. The period also saw the rise of Hyundai Motor Group. The previously maligned Hyundai and Kia brands, along with a new luxury arm, Genesis, produced flashy, award-winning EVs and distinctive, commercially successful family crossovers.
My wife and I were both ready for new cars in 2024. At my “expert” urging, we made what seemed like the savvy, car journalist play: getting the best value in the market by going all-HMG and all-electric. I found a too-cheap-not-to take-it offer on a 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 SEL AWD and traded in my aging Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen. Meanwhile my wife wanted a luxurious, efficient three-row crossover to replace her Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid. We decided to risk first-year production with a 2024 Kia EV9 GT-Line.
