As opposed to the Hyundai? Nissans are awesome, my mom has one. Kia's I know nothing about. I do, however, know 4 people who've bought Hyundai's and not one of them would again.
I wouldn't get a Hyundai or Kia either, but they're at least priced more reasonably than GMs.
I'm a VW man myself...
Interesting. Me, I had a 1987 Hyundai and that car was the best bargain I ever had in my life. I rode that thing hard for 16 years and, apart from putting in a new clutch in 1994, the car never required anything beyond minor maintenance. Gas mileage was outstanding, car handled well, and passed smog every time. I only gave it up to donate to charity for an appreciable tax break to offset a decent windfall in 2003.