Korean marques are value for money if bought as 2nd hand. U save on the taxes and depreciations.

A 2002 Kia Carnival is around RM 35k now. Previously, it was RM 170k. And many are well kept (mostly 2nd or 3rd car in the house).

I used to owned the 1997 Kia Sportage 2.0 A/T for about 5 years before selling it off. Man, parts are expensive, a full tank goes for 280km, slow and everything rattles after 5 years.

The newer Kia Sportage is based on the Hyundai Tucson or Santa Fe and built quality is a lot better. Engine is much more refined. However, it is still a fuel guzzler when compared to Xtrail or CRV but they cost more.