AWD is an option on more than just Kia crossovers and SUVs. When it was introduced in 2018, the Kia Stinger became the first AWD sedan in the series. It continues to combine AWD and performance with a 365-hp, 3.3L twin-turbo V6 that is capable of 376 lb-ft of torque and a 0-60 mph pace of in 4.7 seconds.
In This Article...
What Kia vehicles come with AWD?
What Models from Kia Have All-Wheel Drive?
- Kia Sportage: Any trim level of the new Kia Sportage is available with AWD.
- Kia Sorento: Every trim level of the new Kia Sorento is available with all-wheel drive.
- Kia Telluride: The new Kia Telluride comes with a 3.8L V6 engine, several AWD settings, and optional AWD.
Which Kia SUVs are AWD?
Kia Sportage: Trenton drivers will be happy to learn that the Kia Sportage is a consistent Top Safety Pick as recognized by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. AWD is available on every trim level of the Kia Sportage. Kia Sorento: Every trim level of the Kia Sorento has AWD as an option.
Do Kias have 4WD?
Currently Available All-Wheel Drive Models from Kia Kia Telluride 2020 (Full-Size SUV) Kia Sorento 2020 (Mid-Size SUV) Kia Sportage 2020 (Small SUV) 2019 Kia K900 (Luxury Sedan)
Does Kia AWD work well?
The Kia Sportage’s 6.4-inch ground clearance restricts how much bumpier of a ride you’ll have compared to rival cars with higher clearances, and its all-wheel-drive system helps it operate well in snowy conditions.
This car does have certain limits, though. Its 6-inch height limits its grip and stability control capabilities, which can make it tricky to maneuver through more difficult terrain like gravel roads or steep hills coated in ice/snow.
With features like ABS/ESP systems (Antilock Braking System/Electronic Stability Program) and Driver Assist Technology, which warns drivers if they attempt to change lanes without using turn signals, the Kia Sportage is an affordable car that offers excellent traction control in winter weather conditions like rain or sleet. It also ensures safety when moving at speeds greater than 20 mph.
The Kia Sportage’s all-wheel-drive (AWD) model is better suited to navigating icy terrain than its front-wheel-drive equivalents. All-wheel drives increase traction on surfaces slippery with snow or ice by distributing power evenly across all four wheels and even to individual tires when necessary.
Additionally, front-wheel drive (FWD) variants have higher traction in slick driving conditions thanks to the heavy engine mounted above the rear axle. The fact that AWDs are built expressly for performance in winter weather gives them an advantage.
See the Sportage in action in the following video:
Do Kias handle snow well?
The Kia Sportage is a reliable option for winter travel, with the all-wheel-drive model being the best. The Sportage performs admirably in the winter thanks to its traction control, stability control, ABS, and Driver Assist Technology features, but its 6.4-inch ground clearance places some restrictions on it.
Kia Sportage is it 4WD or AWD?
You might be curious as to which Kia Sportage trims offer all-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is an option across the board for the LX, S, EX, and SX trim levels. To have all-wheel traction, you must upgrade from the front-wheel drive system that comes standard.
An intelligent all-wheel drive system is DynamaxTM All-Wheel Drive. This implies that it continuously checks the wheels to see when slippage occurs. Although the system typically drives the front wheels, it has the ability to transfer torque to the back wheels when necessary.
Also keep in mind that every Sportage comes standard with Electronic Stability Control. It gives you more control and aids in keeping you moving in the direction you wanted.
Styling and Presence
Hyundai and Kia have extremely comparable vehicle lineups. Though it’s important to note that Hyundai has established a luxury branch named Genesis that largely addresses those gaps, Kia does provide a few vehicles that Hyundai doesn’t. Hyundai’s aesthetic is generally much more restrained and understated, with slender curves and unobtrusive round forms making up the majority of the design elements. However, compared to their Hyundai cousins, Kia vehicles have sportier style that gives them a more aggressive and dynamic appearance. In a similar vein, compared to the Hyundai model, Kia SUV vehicles have a more robust, off-road oriented look. In general, Hyundai automobiles are more likely to blend in with the crowd, but Kia styling is more angular and futuristic, designed to grab attention and make a statement.
Performance and Handling
Although Hyundai and Kia share platforms and drivetrains, we already established that each company maintains its own independent engineering divisions. This is significant because it enables individual ride and handling characteristics to be tuned for each brand of car. It’s risky to generalize given the large range of vehicles available, including hatchbacks, sedans, crossovers, and vans. In contrast, a comparable Hyundai vehicle is probably going to prioritize a smoother, but disconnected-feeling ride, whilst you will probably find that Kia vehicles provide more dynamic, engaging handling qualities. Both have advantages and disadvantages, but in our opinion, Kia automobiles’ special chassis tuning significantly increases fun.
Price and Value
Kia automobiles are typically less priced than their Hyundai counterparts. The comparable Hyundai Elantra starts at $19,850, while the Kia Forte starts at $17,890. Although the Forte is less priced, Kia didn’t scrimp on quality or features. Like Hyundai, Kia provides one of the best warranties in the industry, which is ten years and 100,000 miles. Both companies offer quality that is unmatched in the industry and stand behind their products. In the J.D. Power U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study*, Kia placed third for 2021, ahead of brands like Toyota, Chevrolet, and even Mercedes-Benz. Even Hyundai’s luxury division, Genesis, ended behind Kia. Only Porsche and Lexus were ranked higher among mass market brands in terms of quality than Kia. At the top of that list, Kia is, in our opinion, in good company. It’s also important to note that J.D. Power named the Kia Optima, Sorento, and Sportage as the top models in each of their respective classes.
The Kia Advantage
In conclusion, Kia cars offer greater value and better quality, with bolder style and a more dynamic driving experience, even though Kia and Hyundai offer comparable vehicles. Simply put, no matter what you value most in a car, Kia automobiles are better overall. Of course, it is ultimately up to you to decide. We recognize that purchasing a new car is a significant investment. We advise you to test drive both brands since we are certain that you will ultimately decide on a Kia. Any way you look at it, it’s unquestionably the better option. Please forgive me, Hyundai.
Is an all-wheel-drive Kia Sorento available?
Sale of the Kia Sorento: All-wheel drive is available on all trim levels of the Kia Sorento. The 2019 Sorento offers standard third-row seating, while the 2018 model offers available third-row seating for people searching for a family vehicle. Both models can accommodate up to seven passengers.
Kia Sportage is it FWD or AWD?
The now-iconic compact SUV Kia Sportage is in its fifth generation. The design objective of developing a city-dwelling SUV that can operate offroad or in difficult situations hasn’t changed throughout those generations. This all began with the first-generation Kia Sportage, which was offered with front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
The only Sportage built with a four-wheel-drive (4×4) option was the first generation model, which was sold in the US from 1995 to 2002. Since then, Kia has made the Sportage available with all-wheel drive.
The Sportage has had an AWD version in all four of the models that have come after it. This is always available as an alternative to front-wheel drive as standard. An excellent example of this is the brand-new 2022 Kia Sportage.
There are four trim levels for the 2022 Kia Sportage: LX, Nightfall Edition, EX, and SX Turbo. All four grades provide an AWD option, according to the model year’s specs comparison page. AWD for all four wheels is a feature that calls for an upgrade from FWD.
As a result, Kia decided to replace the Sportage’s 4×4 option with an AWD model. But ultimately, was this a wise move? Let’s examine the differences between the two drivetrains and how AWD contributes to the Sportage’s uniqueness.
What’s the Difference Between a 4×4 and AWD?
Despite working toward the same objectives, 4×4 and AWD drivetrains are not interchangeable. Four-wheel-drive (4WD), commonly known as a 4×4, is typically employed in off-road situations at low speeds.
All four wheels of a 4WD vehicle receive the same torque and power to move the vehicle forward. This occurs no matter how much traction is present, and it will carry on even if one of the tires lifts off the ground.
All four tires spin to move the car forward when it has an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, but the system is more sophisticated. In the event of a loss of traction, AWD systems monitor the traction of each wheel and modify the torque levels in other wheels.
AWD systems often operate with regular driving, such as on the highway, and are typically always on. Although they make driving safer, they occasionally add extra weight to a car. Combining that with the additional power required to move four tires as opposed to two, as in a front-wheel-drive system, might result in a reduction in fuel efficiency.
What does AWD Mean on Kia Sportage?
As a result, a Kia Sportage with the letters AWD beside it indicates that the SUV has all-wheel drive. This contrasts with the common FWD found on many Sportage models. Front-wheel drive, or FWD, is the most typical drivetrain configuration for automobiles. Additionally, AWD will be displayed in place of 4WD or 4×4, as mentioned above.
What 4×4 vehicle is the least expensive?
The 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer’s true starting price is a little bit lower than what is stated below, but all-wheel drive is only available with the ES trim level or higher. The high-performance Evolution model of this small, five-passenger sedan is no longer offered, but the all-wheel drive Lancer nevertheless provides commendable driver-focused dynamics. In spite of the fact that the Lancer is one of the least expensive 4-wheel drive vehicles, some passengers may be surprised by its ability to make sharp turns and take rough corners.
What makes four-wheel drive superior to all-wheel drive?
The Function of Four-Wheel Drive Similar to AWD systems, 4WD is made to distribute torque to all four wheels of a vehicle to improve traction as necessary. However, 4WD systems are typically more durable and capable of navigating more difficult terrain than AWD systems. They also come in full-time and part-time varieties.