Kia is a South Korean automaker which, together with Genesis, is an offshoot of the parent company, Hyundai. Founded in 1944, Kia has grown from humble beginnings to become a globally recognized brand – the 5th largest automaker in the world as of 2022.
Kia established operations in the US in 1992, positioning itself as an affordable, value-focused brand. While still maintaining competitive pricing, Kia has invested heavily in design, technology, quality and the overall ownership experience in recent years. This combination of value and strong products across multiple segments has fueled incredible growth for Kia in America. Their diverse model lineup has something for just about any new car buyer.
Kia Sedans: Compacts to Performance
Kia currently offers sedans across three segments – compact, midsize and performance:
Kia Forte – Compact Value
The Forte is Kia‘s long-running compact sedan, offering a balance of affordability, efficiency and comfort. Completely redesigned for 2019, the current generation Forte delivers attractive styling and ample features for the segment.
Key specs and pricing:
- 2.0L 4-cylinder, 147 horsepower
- 6-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission
- Up to 36 mpg combined fuel economy
- Starting MSRP: $18,990
The Forte provides excellent passenger and cargo room for a compact sedan. Active safety tech like automatic emergency braking comes standard. Overall, it‘s a smart-value choice over other compacts like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
Kia K5 – Style & Substance
Replacing the Optima nameplate in 2020, the all-new K5 brought head-turning looks to the midsize segment. Beyond design, the K5 boasts an upscale interior, potent turbo engine options and generous standard equipment.
Key specs and pricing:
- Base 1.6L turbo-4, 180 horsepower
- Optional 2.5L turbo-4, 290 horsepower (GT model)
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Up to 32 mpg combined (1.6L)
- Starting MSRP: $25,490
Whether opting for the efficient base turbo-4 or potent 2.5L optional on GT trims, the K5 outperforms most rivals including the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. Combine that with sharper looks and quality cabin materials, and the K5 is among the best overall midsize sedans.
Kia Stinger – Performance Flagship
When launched in 2018, the Stinger was an instant hit by bringing European-inspired performance and luxury to mainstream prices. Offering up to 368 horsepower from its available twin-turbo V6, the rear-wheel drive Stinger provides true sports sedan handling plus practical hatchback cargo flexibility.
Key specs and pricing:
- 2.5L turbo-4, 300 horsepower
- Optional 3.3L twin-turbo V6, 368 horsepower (GT2 model)
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Up to 28 mpg combined (2.5L)
- Starting MSRP: $37,135
With its gran coupe style, potent engines and refined chassis tuning, the Kia Stinger rivals premium competitors like the Audi S5 Sportback for tens of thousands less. Representing the pinnacle of performance in the lineup, the uniquely styled Stinger remains a compelling option after several model years unchanged.
Kia SUV Lineup: Find Your Fit
With Americans flocking to the SUV and crossover segments, Kia has grown their utility vehicle offerings substantially. The model range covers compact to midsize to 3-row family haulers:
Kia Soul – Boxy Charmer
Change leaves many feeling uneasy. Luckily, the iconic box-on-wheels Kia Soul retains its funky shape year after year, even as technology progresses by leaps and bounds. The Soul combines space efficiency and cargo practicality with zippy driving dynamics, playful personalization options and strong value.
Key specs and pricing:
- 2.0L 4-cylinder, 147 horsepower
- CVT automatic transmission
- Up to 33 mpg combined
- Starting MSRP: $21,085
Don‘t let the compact exterior fool you – the Kia Soul provides impressive passenger and cargo space compared to rivals like the Hyundai Venue or Nissan Kicks. Combined with an inexpensive starting price, fun personality and solid MPG, it earns a top spot among subcompact crossover SUVs.
Kia Niro – Electrified Efficiency
Kia groups both hybrid and all-electric vehicles under the Niro sub-brand. With a choice of hybrid, plug-in hybrid or pure battery-electric powertrains, the compact Niro crossover provides ultra-efficient transportation with hatchback utility.
Key specs and pricing:
Niro Hybrid
- 1.6L hybrid 4-cylinder system, 139 total horsepower
- 6-speed dual clutch transmission
- Up to 52 mpg combined fuel economy
- Starting MSRP: $27,785
Niro EV
- 201 horsepower electric motor
- 239 miles max driving range
- DC fast charging capability
- Starting MSRP: $41,525
Praised for refined driving dynamics and impressive mpg from its gas-electric powertrain, the Niro Hybrid and Plug-in outperform all rivals except the Toyota Prius lineup. The all-electric Niro EV may offer less range than a Mustang Mach-E or Kia‘s own EV6, but it delivers a more affordable entry point to battery-electric driving.
Kia Seltos – New Subcompact SUV
As one of Kia‘s newer models, the Seltos subcompact SUV entered the US market for model year 2021. With head-turning styling and personality, the Seltos provides excellent passenger and cargo space in a city-friendly package.
Key specs and pricing:
- 2.0L 4-cylinder, 146 horsepower
- IVT automatic transmission
- Up to 31 mpg combined
- Starting MSRP: $23,110
Slotting below the popular Sportage as Kia‘s entry-level utility vehicle, the Seltos competes directly with the Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30 and other subcompact crossovers. Its athletic proportions, standout styling, and user-friendly technology make it among the most appealing options in a crowded segment.
Kia Sportage – Ideal Two-Row SUV
Entering its fifth generation for the 2023 model year after a full redesign, the Kia Sportage midsize SUV continues improving on a proven formula. With a bold new design direction, tech-laden interior and efficient powertrain choices, the Sportage remains highly competitive among fellow compact SUVs.
Key specs and pricing:
Gas models:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder, 187 horsepower
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Up to 25 mpg combined
Hybrid
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1.6L turbo + electric motor hybrid system, 226 total horsepower
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6-speed automatic transmission
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39 mpg combined
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Starting MSRP: $27,205
The 2023 Sportage modernizes both the exterior and interior over its predecessor, with a huge curved display screen and the latest infotainment tech. The new hybrid model promises big fuel economy gains without sacrificing performance. Versus top rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, the Sportage checks all the boxes for shoppers wanting style, efficiency and value.
Kia Sorento – 3-Row Crossover Appeal
Billed as an SUV with sedan soul, the midsize Kia Sorento capability crosses over with car-like comfort and quality. Completely redesigned for 2021, this 3-row CUV provides more space, luxury, and standard driver assistance technology.
Key specs and pricing:
Gas models:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder, 191 horsepower
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Up to 28 mpg combined
Plug-in hybrid:
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1.6L turbo + electric motor PHEV system, 261 horsepower
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6-speed automatic transmission
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79 MPGe combined rating
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Starting MSRP: $30,590
Among its most popular 3-row crossover competitors, including the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, the latest Sorento stands above with more dramatic styling and luxury touches. Family buyers benefit from expansive passenger and cargo room, while performance and tech are also standouts.
Kia Telluride – Family SUV Excellence
In only its second model year, Kia‘s range-topping 3-row SUV has already collected myriad awards – including 2020 World Car of the Year. Combining premium design and luxury with Kia‘s signature value, the midsize Telluride instantly won over family hauler buyers.
Key specs and pricing:
- 3.8L V6, 291 horsepower
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Up to 25 mpg combined (FWD models)
- Starting MSRP: $36,690
With cavernous seating for up to eight passengers plus potent V6 muscle, the Kia Telluride rivals premium alternatives that cost thousands more. High-end features like a 1200-watt Harman Kardon audio system, quilted Nappa leather seats, and an available rear-seat entertainment system reinforce that this proudly wears a Kia badge.
Kia Minivan/MPV: Room for the Whole Crew
While the SUV category hogs the spotlight, Kia still caters to large families needing maximal passenger and cargo capacity in one package – the humble minivan.
Kia Carnival – Sedona Successor
For 2022, Kia‘s long-running Sedona minivan transitions to the Carnival – the name used in overseas markets. More than just a name change, the Carnival doubles down on refinement, convenience and cutting-edge style.
Key specs and pricing:
- 3.5L V6, 290 horsepower
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Up to 22 mpg combined
- Starting MSRP: $33,275
Cloaking itself in SUV styling cues, the Carnival drops the old-school minivan visual tropes for a sleeker aesthetic. But it still offers family-friendly sliding doors, fold-flat seats, available rear entertainment screens and all the flexibility expected in this class. Upscale options include lounge-style second row seating and dual rear climate controls.
Kia‘s Electric Movement: Niro EV, EV6 and More
As part of their bold "Plan S" strategy, Kia is aiming to capture over 6% global EV market share by 2025. Expanding on the success of their Niro EV crossover, exciting new battery-electric models are leading this electrification shift.
Kia EV6 – Electric Crossover Star
The inaugural model built on Kia and Hyundai‘s dedicated BEV platform, the medium crossover EV6 brings a sleek silhouette, futuristic touches and game-changing 800V charging.
Key specs and pricing:
- 77.4kWh battery, 300+ mile max range RWD models
- Up to 320 horsepower, 446 lb-ft torque
- 800V ultra-fast charging (10 – 80% in 18 min)
- Starting MSRP: $42,115
Catapulting from 0-60 in as little as 3.4 seconds courtesy of the GT Performance model, the EV6 delivers sports car acceleration in a practical crossover package. Signature light bars front and rear combined with a distinctive side profile help this electric vehicle stand out from any angle.
More Kia EVs Arriving Soon
Beyond the existing Niro EV and all-new EV6, Kia‘s product pipeline includes additional battery-electric models touching new segments:
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Soul EV: Confirmed to return with the next generation boxy hatchback, likely for 2024 model year
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EV9 SUV: Kia‘s largest utility vehicle to date – targeting 300 miles of range plus 350 kW charging from its high-capacity battery
As part of their Plan S ecosystem, expect Kia to embrace electrification across their entire lineup over the next 5-10 years. Combining EVs with connectivity, mobility and autonomy advancements, the brand is transitioning from automaker to "sustainable mobility solutions provider."
What‘s Next: Kia‘s 2023-2025 Model Plans
Building on their impressive momentum, Kia heads towards the second half of the decade with a strong product portfolio only growing stronger. Buyers can anticipate updated styling, fresh standard technology, and new nameplates.
Here‘s a preview of anticipated refreshes, redesigns and additions:
- 2023 Sportage Hybrid – freshly launched for the model year
- 2023 Sorento PHEV – new plug-in hybrid with estimated 79 MPGe
- 2023 Telluride – includes new off-road focused X-Pro trim
- 2024 Sedona/Carnival – next-gen with potential EV model
- 2024 Seltos – next generation with electric variant
- 2024 Soul – fully redesigned with EV version likely
Further out, expect new electric models, an even stronger SUV lineup, and continued growth for Kia here in North America.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Kia stand for?
A: Kia is derived from the Korean words "to arise or come up out of Asia to the world."
Q: Does Kia have advanced driver assistance technology?
A: Yes, all new Kia models come standard with forward collision warnings with automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist. Higher trims add extras like highway driving assist, parking sensors and surround view cameras.
Q: How long is the Kia factory warranty?
A: Kia still offers an industry-leading 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty on new vehicle purchases. Their basic bumper-to-bumper coverage spans 5 years/60,000 miles.
Q: Does the Telluride have 3 rows of seating?
A: Yes, the Kia Telluride has room for up to 8 passengers with standard three row seating. It offers impressive cargo room and fold-flat seats as well.
Q: How long will my electric Kia vehicle battery last?
A: Kia backs their lithium-ion batteries with a 10 year/100,000 mile limited warranty. After the warranty expires, moderate range loss is expected but most batteries will still function.
Whether you seek style, technology, efficiency or performance innovations, Kia has a model to match. This overview of the current lineup plus a glimpse towards the future makes it easy to find your perfect fit. As Kia expands their sustainable mobility vision, expect leading-edge EVs plus fresh styling and tech improvements across their full showroom.
