Now I say that, but I also think I can answer my own question.
Mainly, I would say I'm hilariously confused by how Hyundai positions Kia and Hyundai. Like on paper it I thought that Kia is supposed to be the sportier one, and Hyundai (nominally) luxury. But when I was shopping, both had really confusing trim levels, and Hyundai was especially odd because you really had to trim up to get what I would call a luxury car, leather upholstery was the big one.
The marketing seemed to try and paint Hyundai as like refined style, but the actual car features of the two brands just made me hella confused. I think it's safe to say Hyundai/Kia made a lot of strides, they could use some work there.
Your average consumer will only drive a few cars before buying one, 3-5 maybe? So if you can own two of those slots with cars that are practically the same but somewhat different, you increase the chances that a consumer will buy one of your products because they are less likely to look at competitor's products.
Curious what others think on this. Seems like a smart business strategy.
Of note drive an Optima so not a super Kia hater just what they have done with the release of this model