Hyundai Motor and Kia win Best Cars for the Money awards

Hyundai Motor's Santa Fe was awarded the 2022 Best 2-Row SUV for the Money by U.S. News & World Report. [HYUNDAI MOTOR GROUP]

Hyundai Motor and Kia cars have been honored as 2022 Best Cars for the Money by U.S. News & World Report, with Hyundai Motor winning more awards than any other automotive brand in the world, the carmakers said on Sunday.

Hyundai Motor and Kia won in six of 11 categories in total — Hyundai Motor five and Kia one.

The Best Cars for the Money awards are given to "cars, SUVs and minivans that represent the best combination of long-term value and excellent ownership experience," according to U.S. News & World Report.

It takes into account various factors, such as the quality of the new cars and the cost incurred from maintaining the car for five years, as well as the price of the models when they are sold as used cars.

Hyundai Motor's Santa Fe was recognized as the Best 2-Row SUV for the Money, Tucson as the Best Compact SUV for the Money and Kona as the Best Subcompact SUV for the Money.

Elantra Hybrid and Tucson Hybrid each took home the awards for the Best Hybrid and Electric categories for Cars and SUVs.

Kia's Telluride was awarded the Best 3-Row SUV for the Money.

"A Best Cars for the Money award represents a strong value at the dealership and over the course of ownership," said Jim Sharifi, managing editor of U.S. News Best Cars.

"These vehicles also provide a rewarding ownership experience, with comfort, features and performance that buyers will appreciate."

BY YOON SO-YEON [yoon.soyeon@joongang.co.kr]