Kia SUVs

Sport-utility vehicles and crossovers are the most popular types of vehicles in the USA at present, and Kia offers an SUV range that comprises some really appealing options. All are purposed for casual, family-friendly commuting but don’t deliver any real level of off-roading potential or workhorse capabilities. Instead, this specialization means there’s a focus on comfort and luxury, centered around the driver and passengers, with a decent array of creature comforts and conveniences packaged into all new Kia SUV models.

New Kia Models: SUVs and Crossovers

There’s a wide selection of nameplates within the Kia SUV lineup, presenting a variety of unique models, types, and sizes to choose from:

• Soul: This small subcompact is praised for its peppy acceleration and hatch-like handling characteristics, which are accompanied by a novel, cutesy design, and a surprising amount of practicality. Under the boxy hood is a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that, through a choice of transmissions, powers the front wheels. A 201-horsepower 1.6-liter turbo-four unit is optional for all five trims in the line.
• Seltos: Another, slightly adapted subcompact, the Seltos brings distinct appeal in the form of a spacious interior and added livability. It also delivers more of a high-riding feel though its 146-hp 2.0L motor does feel somewhat lackluster and the cabin can get noisy. It is otherwise a pleasant commuter and the available 186-hp 1.6L turbo-four is enjoyably punchy.
• Sportage: A unique, stylish exterior sets the Sportage apart in the compact segment, and a wide array of advanced driver-assist technologies, a contemporary infotainment setup, and an upscale interior work in its favor. These perks, along with its selection of sedate powertrains and relaxed demeanor, make it an ideal family runabout, also affirmed by its out-and-out crashworthiness scores.
• Niro: Proffered in both pure-electric and hybrid versions, this compact cruiser packages a competitive and impressive amount of advantages. Frugal, refined, contemporary, and practical are just some of the qualities that characterize the Niro. Though not quite as fun to drive as its counterparts and some rivals, it gets just about every other factor right. Downsides include no all-wheel-drive setup and no accredited hauling capability.
• Sorento: With a 3rd row of seating, this midsize cruiser can be outfitted as either a 7-seater or a six-seater with the second-row captain’s chairs. It’s spacious on the inside and offers plenty of entertainment in the form of several smartphone functionalities in the comprehensive infotainment system and many connectivity points for all occupants. There are many optional features, too, including wireless charging, radar-based cruise control, and front cross-traffic alert. There’s also a hybrid variant of the Sorento on the market.
• Telluride: This full-size brute is rated as one of the best Kia SUVs at its price. It’s a V6-powered 8-seater lounge on wheels with an expansive, first, second, and third row of seating. An eight-speed auto gearbox keeps things easy-going with standard FWD, while an AWD setup is selectable at extra cost. It is most at home in the urban environment but can tackle some unbeaten paths, it is just not quite as capable as rivals in comparison.

Best 2021 Kia SUV Models and Prices

What to Consider Before Buying a New Kia SUV or Crossover

Before buying any new or used automobile, shoppers should browse through CarBuzz’s shopping tools tab and locate the review section. Here, there are reviews on every Kia SUV and core rivals for sale in the US.

Here are just some benefits and disadvantages associated with the brand’s latest gamut of high-riding cruisers:

Pros

• Consummate daily runabouts with loads of practicality
• High-quality, well-appointed, and commodious cabins
• Top-notch build, reliability, and safety standards
• Comprehensive list of advanced driver-assist tech
• Each is relatively affordable in its respective classification

Cons

• Standard and available features are typically limited
• Overall performance is bland and acceleration sluggish
• No genuine 4x4 off-road types of Kia SUVs
• No V8-powered, capable workhorse variants
• Ride composure is generally subpar

FAQs