It's so difficult for me to get excited over Kia, despite their success in the US market.  The Korean manufacturer has made huge head way in gaining consumer confidence in the US and hope to capitalize even more on Toyota's latest recall woes.  Of course, the latest Consumer reports for top cars of 2010 doesn't hurt either.

Hyundai-Kia took one of the largest jumps in rankings over 2009, going from #9 to #5 for 2010.  Kia scored 73 out of 100 points, based on rankings of reliability, performance, comfort, and utility.  Quite an honor considering there were 280 vehicles in the survey by Consumer Reports.

If you are looking to buy a Kia, based on Consumer Reports review, they recommend the Avante, Genesis, Santa Fe, and Optima.  Kia has controlled the top pick for compact car over the past 3 years, with the Avante routinely taking the top of the list.

The 09 Honda Insight has made Consumer Reports most reliable new car of the year.  Oddly enough the hybrid wasn't alone on the list, where 5 of the top 8 most reliable cars for 2009 were a hybrid.

It's good news for Honda and definitely something to brag about, except for Consumer Reports makes the statement that just because it's most reliable doesn't mean it's recommended.  Specifically the Insight's underpowered demeanor was sighted as an example.  Seems like a nod to Honda on what to work on to create the perfect hybrid, which can be recommended for purchase.

Lastly, I just feel like the string of hybrids being listed on the most reliable list is a bit suspicious.  Granted, this is most reliable 'new' car, but where will these vehicles be 5 years from now.  As a consumer that's what I'm most concerned with, longevity and total cost of ownership.

Honda Insight LX HYBRID 2010 HONDA INSIGHT LX HYBRID ONLY 1K BRAND NEW CAR WOW    US $17,900.00

Honda Insight 2002 HONSDA INSIGHT Reliable Gas Miser New Tires    US $3,150.00

Honda Insight HONDA INSIGHT    US $3,700.00