Although Kia manufactures automobiles with an emphasis on value, the company has recently tried to improve the look, features, and performance of their goods. Even though the carmaker currently produces some vehicles that are genuinely elegant or enjoyable to drive, it still competes in the entry-level market.
The Rio sedan, which has a starting price of $17,000, is the least priced Kia currently on the market. The hatchback version of the Rio is also offered, although it costs roughly $1,000 extra.
Most Expensive: The maximum price for a new Kia has drastically decreased now that the K900 is no longer offered in the U.S. range. A Niro EV EX Premium can be yours for just under $46,000. A Stinger may also be optioned up for more than $50,000.
The name of this vehicle sums it up best. The Stinger feels poised and prepared to attack thanks to its RWD chassis, turbocharged engine choices, and sport-tuned suspension. It is also somewhat practical because to its unusual hatchback load space.
Best Fuel Economy: Up until the arrival of the fully electric EV6, the Niro hatchback is the most fuel-efficient Kia, scoring up to 50 mpg combined. A plug-in hybrid version of the Niro with a range of 560 miles and an EPA-rated 105 mpg-e is also offered.
As soon as a car is released, we want to test and rank as many of them as we can. We’ll rank new models as we periodically update our rankings and we might even change the scores for some models. Vehicles with insufficient testing data, however, are not scored.
In This Article...
What does a basic Kia cost?
Soul LX Kia The base model, which costs $19,190, has a continuously variable automatic transmission and a four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower (CVT).
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.
KIAs still affordable?
The South Korean automaker Kia did not enjoy the same reputation or level of popularity in the 1990s as it has today. Most people’s eyes would roll into the back of their heads at the mere concept of purchasing a Kia. Today, Kia continues to dominate the automotive industry with top-selling vehicles like the Telluride, Sportage, and Sorento.
Because they produce high-quality cars with lots of entertainment and safety amenities, Kias are very well-liked. But as we all know, Kias’ high popularity is mostly due to their affordability, particularly when compared to that of their rivals.
Evidently, if you produce affordable, high-quality cars with plenty of features, people will buy them. Who could have imagined? Seriously, why are Kias so inexpensive? Let’s look at some of the possible explanations for why Kias, despite their generally outstanding quality, are offered for less.
Why Are Kias So Cheap: The Main Reasons
Due to their significant cost advantage over the rest of the competition, Kia vehicles are less expensive than equivalent models from other manufacturers. In case you were unaware, Kia was acquired by the Hyundai Motor Group in 1998 in order to keep it afloat. Hyundai now holds a 33.88 percent stake in Kia Motors. However, it’s important to keep in mind that Hyundai and Kia are two separate automakersyou may think of them as corporate sisters.
This is significant because the only automakers having their own foundries are Hyundai and Kia. The cost of metals increases because all other automakers must purchase them from metal producers. Naturally, this enables Kia and Hyundai to produce the metals needed for their automobiles. As a result, Kia is able to produce automobiles for less money and charge less than its rivals.
Furthermore, there is just one assembly factory in the United States and the majority of Kia’s facilities are in South Korea. As a result, Kia is able to import vehicles duty-free into the United States.
Furthermore, Kia uses fewer expensive metals and polymers to construct their vehicles. Kia is highly clever when it comes to production, even though the materials used are of poorer grade than those used by other manufacturers. Many of Kia’s interiors appear and feel luxurious since some of the less expensive plastics are used sparingly, but the company nevertheless managed to reduce production costs and pass the savings on to the customers.
You want to find the best bargain on the car you want, not actually purchase it. If a comparable vehicle is offered locally for less money, the CoPilot app will let you know, so you can be sure you received the best bargain.
Do Kias Hold Their Value?
Why are Kias so inexpensive? We’ve been studying Kia closely, and another factor contributing to its vehicles’ low cost when compared to brands like Honda and Toyota is their average resale value.
Iconic Japanese automakers with a reputation for producing high-quality, durable, and dependable vehicles include Honda and Toyota. At least not yet, Kia doesn’t have that kind of reputation. Actually, the majority of people seem to link Kia with its less than stellar history. Only a few years ago did Kia finally succeed in the mass market and enjoy some measure of consumer favorability.
Unfortunately, Kia is among the brands that hold value the least well. MotorTrend places the Kia at the bottom of the list with an average value retention of just 47.7%. This shows that Kia still has a long way to go even if the South Korean automaker has done a lot to revive the Kia brand by distributing enticing goods and a substantial standard warranty.
For instance, a Kia Rio that costs $15,841 brand-new will only be worth $8,395 after five years due to a 47 percent depreciation rate. The Kia Optima, which costs $25,000 at launch but will cost $11,887 after 5 years, can be compared in this way. It’s not enjoyable to lose $14,000 after half a decade of ownership.
You’re looking to buy a used car, then. We have already prepared a list of crucial inquiries to make while purchasing a secondhand car.
Is Kia a Reliable Brand?
Why are Kias so inexpensive? Is it the fact that they are unstable and prone to failure? Kia, on the other hand, is one of the more dependable brands out there, according to experts.
Kia receives the highest overall rating for vehicle dependability in the most current 2022 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study by J.D. Power. With a third-place overall reliability ranking in 2021, Kia has been improving the dependability of its vehicles. Buick and neighboring South Korean automaker Hyundai are listed after Kia.
We can find a comparable account of Kia’s dependability on RepairPal. According to RepairPal, Kia is rated as having a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating, placing it third among all 32 auto brands. Additionally, compared to the $652 average across all models, Kia owners are likely to spend $474 less annually on repairs.
Because Kia owners are only anticipated to visit the mechanic 0.2 times a year for unexpected visits, they visit less frequently. Furthermore, compared to the average of 0.4 times for all makes and models, just 10% of all Kia repairs are deemed severe.
There are many things you may criticize Kia cars for, but dependability is not one of them.
We have a selection of quick two-seaters if you’re in the market. See our ranking of the top two-seater vehicles available today.
Is It Worth It to Buy a Kia?
Kia automobiles certainly have some obvious flaws and are far from flawless. Customers are wary of Kias because of these problems, especially when they are sold for significantly less money.
Because they provide outstanding value, Kia has managed to win over customers. Although its reduced pricing has helped to increase its appeal, Kia isn’t just well-liked because of this. Kia has done an excellent job of paying attention to client feedback and incorporating it into their upcoming models. As a result, Kia continues to advance, win accolades, and set sales records.
With a car that is reasonably priced, you get good performance, excellent safety ratings, eye-catching designs, and a substantial standard warranty. Is it worthwhile to purchase a Kia? Today, you’ll be less likely to regret purchasing a Kia than in the past.
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Which Hyundai model is the least expensive?
Hyundai’s smallest vehicle is the Accent subcompact sedan, which, like its Kia Rio platform counterpart, is powered by a four-cylinder engine and an optional CVT. This combination achieves a combined fuel economy of 36 mpg. The SE’s base comfort features include power windows and locks, a 60/40-split, folding rear, Bluetooth, and steering-wheel-mounted radio controls. Higher trim levels also offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility. Unfortunately, if you want automated emergency braking, you have to move up two model levels.
How durable are Kias?
People used to love to despise Kia as a brand. Although Kia is now known for producing high-quality cars like the Telluride, the South Korean carmaker has had a difficult past. You may have be aware that Kia has turned the corner and is now one of the most well-known brands on the international market.
There are undoubtedly plenty of Kia models available if you’re interested in purchasing one. However, some individuals may still remember Kia’s previous reputation for being unreliable, leading them to wonder: How long do Kias last?
In this article, we’ll examine the typical lifespan of Kia automobiles. How many miles should your Kia last? Is it a dependable, enduring brand? Which Kias have the longest lifespan and are the most dependable? These inquiries and others will be addressed.
How Far and Long Can You Drive a Kia?
What’s the real scoop on how long Kias last? Kia vehicles are predicted to last up to 200,000 kilometers when driven responsibly. Owners that provided their Kias with the necessary TLC report that they were able to get 200,000 to 250,000 miles out of them and keep them on the road for ten years or longer.
Of course, each driver’s experience with car longevity will be different (pardon the pun). Numerous elements, such as ownership maintenance and driving conditions, have an impact on longevity.
While the more modern Kia lines can clock 200,000+ miles on the odometer, the earlier Kias from around 20 years ago won’t win any medals for dependability.
These figures are competitive with brands like Honda and Toyota. For instance, Reader’s Digest claims that the Kia Rio subcompact sedan can reach 250,000 miles, while J.D. Power rates its dependability well.
You can always be sure that you got the greatest value possible since CoPilot scans your neighborhood and notifies you if there is a better deal on a comparable vehicle nearby. The best approach to purchase a car is through the CoPilot app.
Kias Reliability Ratings
The general reliability of a vehicle is one of the most important variables affecting its longevity. This raises the issue, are Kias trustworthy? How durable are Kias?
In a nutshell: Kia is a trustworthy company. Please, though, don’t take our word for it; instead, let us direct you to the professionals.
Kia has a reliability score that is above average. Although Kia first gained a reputation for being unreliable when it entered the American market, the South Korean manufacturer has since gotten its act together and is now one of the most dependable companies.
It currently ranks as the third most reliable car brand on the market with a RepairPal dependability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0. Only Honda and Acura, two businesses renowned for their legendary dependability, can surpass Kia.
With a low yearly repair cost of $474 as opposed to the country’s average of $652 for all models, Kia also received top marks for cost of ownership. Kia vehicles stay on the road longer than many brands thanks to 0.2 times as many unscheduled maintenance visits per year and a 10% likelihood of significant repairs.
Which Kias are the Most Reliable?
Kia sells premium automobiles for reasonable pricing. Like many automakers, Kia has some models that are better engineered than others. A vehicle has a better probability of remaining on the road and traveling farther if it is more dependable. Some of the most dependable Kias that will last you a long time are listed below:
Kia Rio
As basic a mode of transportation as you can find is the Kia Rio. The Rio won’t blow anyone away, but it provides adequate comfort, usefulness, and acceptable fuel efficiency at a fair price. The base Rio models are quite basic, but the higher trims are fully equipped cars that do the job admirably.
The Kia Rio will last you for a very long time with the right care and maintenance thanks to the combination of Kia’s top-tier guarantee and excellent safety ratings. As previously noted, some Rio owners asserted that their tiny car had logged 250,000 miles.
A quick check of RepairPal reveals that the Rio ranks 6th out of 21 subcompact cars with a dependability rating of 4.5 out of 5.0.
Until you use the CoPilot car shopping app, you won’t understand how out of date other car search applications are. CoPilot does the legwork for you by scanning through every listing in your region and smartly compiling a customized list of the best deals that fit your criteria.
Kia Soul
The boxy sheet metal Kia Soul is a big-hearted vehicle that usually draws attention. The Soul, however, is more than simply a quirky SUV since it has great utility, great fuel economy, and a ton of contemporary technology. Although many individuals find the base trim to be a little too basic, the Soul’s low price is undoubtedly its biggest selling point.
The Kia Soul requires proper care and maintenance, just like any other vehicle. The Soul may travel up to 200,000 miles and even more if you give it the proper care. The Soul will reward you with 1013 years of dependable service if you maintain your oil changes and dealership servicing.
Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage belongs in the classy subcompact SUV category. If you’re searching for a chic and versatile suburban SUV, the Sportage is a good choice. It’s not just one of the more visually appealing subcompact SUVs on the market; it’s also lavishly furnished with contemporary features and cutting-edge safety technologies. The Sportage is an SUV that will last even though it doesn’t have a powerful performance.
Again, assuming the Sportage is well-maintained, it should have no issue reaching 200,000 miles or more. Many Sportage owners with more over 200,000 miles on the odometer can be found if you visit some well-known automotive forums. Kia offers 5-year/60,000-mile standard and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranties, so you can drive more miles with greater confidence.
According to RepairPal, the Sportage is ranked sixth out of 26 compact SUVs with a dependability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0.
Make Your Kias Last
How durable are Kias? Actually, as the owner, it will also depend on you. It would be beneficial if you drove carefully and responsibly, in addition to adhering to your routine maintenance plan and taking care of repair concerns as soon as they arise.
You might not be particularly knowledgeable about your car’s brakes unless you’re a mechanic or a super-committed auto enthusiast. How much time do they usually last? How frequently should brakes be replaced? We have solutions.