Its really hard to pick a new car these days as even if you're willing to spend the extra up front, the German cars have the downside of extremely expensive repairs once out of warranty compared to everything else on the market.
The old stigma that North American cars are crap is fading away, I'd say they're now near or on par with the Japanese in terms of quality. I still prefer the German cars but my next purchase will likely be Japanese. That being said I think Ford has some great product out these days. I used to love all things GM (think 80's) but can't see myself buying another one again. For whatever reason, to me they look like junk. Compare to in the 80's where I thought Fords were junk, now I think they're great.
As for the Korean cars, they've made huge strides in the last 10 years, and by offering excellent warranties, are breaking their stigma. I can't say I've ever sat in a Kia, but they get the styling right, at least. I don't think I'd ever buy one, as just because its a Kia and I can't break out of my brand-conscious stigma against them. Same goes for Hyundai, which has been around much longer, but still, can't see myself ever buying one.
I also find the OP's original comparisons a little odd, I wouldn't compare an Acura with a Kia at any time, but then again that's brand stigma for you. I don't even know what an Acura ILX is.
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