Choosing the best Kia to buy in 2025 means looking at what you really need – whether that’s space for the whole crew, a zippy electric ride, or something budget-friendly for your daily commute. Kia has really stepped up their game, offering a fantastic lineup that blends eye-catching design with solid reliability and tons of features, often at a price that makes you do a double-take. If you’re hunting for a family-friendly SUV, the Kia Telluride or Kia Carnival are absolute standouts. For those thinking electric, the Kia EV9 is making big waves with its three-row capability and cool tech. And if you’re keeping an eye on your wallet, the Kia K4 which replaced the Forte or the ever-quirky Kia Soul offer great value. This guide is all about helping you sort through the options and find that perfect Kia that feels like it was made just for you. So grab a Car Buying Guidebook and let’s figure out your next ride!
The Best Kia SUVs for Families and Adventures
When it comes to SUVs, Kia truly delivers, whether you’re shuttling a big family around or hitting some lighter trails. They’ve got a range of options that are stylish, practical, and packed with features.
Kia Telluride: The Go-To for Large Families
If you’ve got a growing family or just need a lot of space, the 2025 Kia Telluride is probably at the top of your list – and for good reason. It’s been a crowd-pleaser since it first hit the scene in 2020, often seen as a near-luxury SUV without the luxury price tag. What I love about the Telluride is how genuinely spacious it is. You can comfortably fit adults in all three rows, which is pretty rare for a mid-size SUV. Plus, the cabin just feels upscale, especially in the higher trims with available Nappa leather and refined materials.
Under the hood, every Telluride comes with a reliable 3.8-liter V6 engine, giving you 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and you can get it with all-wheel drive, which is great for different weather conditions or if you like a bit of adventure. For those who need to haul stuff, the Telluride is a champ, offering up to 5,500 pounds of towing capacity on the X-Pro models and 5,000 pounds on others when properly equipped. This makes it perfect for towing a small travel trailer or a boat for a family getaway. Just a heads up though, some owners have mentioned a few recalls, so it’s always good to check the vehicle history. But overall, its generous standard features and refined cabin keep it a top pick.
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Kia Sorento: Versatility in a Mid-Size Package
Now, if the Telluride feels a bit too big, or you only need that third row occasionally, the 2025 Kia Sorento could be your sweet spot. It’s a mid-size SUV that still offers three rows of seating, but in a slightly more compact footprint. This makes it a great option for families with one or two kids, or those with older children who don’t mind a cozier third row. Best kindle to buy in 2025
What really makes the Sorento stand out this year is its range of powertrain options. You can get it with a standard 191-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder, or a more spirited 281-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder. But the real stars are the hybrid and plug-in hybrid PHEV versions, offering better fuel efficiency without sacrificing much space or performance. In fact, the PHEV model can even give you up to 32 miles of electric-only driving, which is fantastic for short commutes. Inside, the Sorento offers a practical cabin with available amenities like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of driver-assistance features. Owners love its smooth and quiet ride, and many appreciate the flexible seating, especially the two-seat third-row configuration which offers more comfort. It’s a really smart choice for those seeking a balance of size, efficiency, and features.
Kia Carnival: The “SUV-Styled” Family Hauler MPV
Don’t call it a minivan – Kia calls the 2025 Kia Carnival an MPV, or Multi-Purpose Vehicle, and it definitely rocks a more SUV-like style that helps it blend in with the crossovers. But underneath that sleek exterior, it’s still the ultimate family hauler. If you need serious space and comfort for up to eight passengers, the Carnival is arguably the best Kia model to buy right now. It simply has more interior room and comfort than many rivals, with huge amounts of space inside.
The 2025 Carnival gets some nice styling enhancements this year, with updates to its grille, headlights, and wheels, making it look even more sharp. You can choose between a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that makes 287 horsepower, or a new Carnival Hybrid with a 242-hp turbocharged hybrid powertrain, which gives you much-improved MPG. Keep in mind, it’s a front-wheel-drive-only vehicle, so no AWD option here. Inside, it’s designed for families, with smart sliding doors, multiple USB ports, and available dual 12.3-inch displays. While some owners mention high cabin noise on highways and paint quality issues, most rave about its luxurious feel and exceptional comfort. If you’re after practicality and comfort with a touch of style, the Carnival is a fantastic option, and a good car vacuum cleaner will help keep that spacious interior pristine.
Kia Sportage: A Stylish & Capable Compact SUV
The 2025 Kia Sportage is a compact SUV that really turns heads with its futuristic design. But it’s not just about looks. it offers above-average passenger and cargo space for its class, making it super practical for small families or individuals who need versatility. The interior also makes a strong impression with a snazzy design, often highlighted by a huge digital display that seamlessly connects the instrument cluster and infotainment system.
While the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower is described as “unremarkable” in terms of acceleration, the Sportage Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid PHEV truly elevate its game. The Sportage Hybrid combines a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with an electric motor for 227 horsepower, offering quicker acceleration and significantly better fuel economy up to 43 mpg with FWD, 38 mpg with AWD. The PHEV model ups the ante with 261 ponies and can drive for up to 34 miles on electric power alone. With its generous standard equipment, strong warranty, and available AWD, the Sportage is a compelling package. Best gold stocks to buy in 2025
Kia Seltos: The Agile Subcompact for Urban Life
For those navigating city streets or looking for a first-time buyer vehicle, the 2025 Kia Seltos is a fantastic choice. It’s a subcompact SUV, but don’t let that fool you – it offers surprising interior room and excellent cargo space for its size. The Seltos stands strong against rivals with its handsome design and good value. Plus, it looks more expensive than it actually is, which is always a bonus!
You get two engine options: a 146-hp 2.0-liter or a punchier 195-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. While the base engine is adequate, the turbo option offers a much more spirited driving experience. All-wheel drive is standard on most trims, which is great for added confidence, especially in varying weather. Inside, you’ll find a stylish and roomy cabin, with higher trims getting a large, integrated 10.25-inch touchscreen for infotainment and digital instruments. Owners praise its solid fundamentals and modern features. If you’re looking for an agile, feature-packed, and reliable compact SUV, the Seltos is definitely worth a test drive. And maybe a phone mount for your car for easy navigation.
Embracing Electric: Top Kia EVs for 2025
Kia has made a big splash in the electric vehicle EV market, offering some truly compelling options for those ready to ditch the gas pump. Their EVs combine bold design, advanced technology, and practical ranges.
Kia EV9: The Three-Row Electric Powerhouse
The 2025 Kia EV9 is a must, serving as Kia’s flagship electric SUV with three rows of seating. If you need to haul a family or a group of friends but want to go all-electric, this is one of the top contenders. Its design is bold and futuristic, really standing out on the road. Inside, you’ll find a spacious cabin with lounge-like comfort, and even advanced features like available massage function for the seats!
The EV9 offers different powertrain configurations, starting with a rear-wheel-drive Light trim 215 hp and a Light Long Range version 201 hp with a bigger battery. The all-wheel-drive models feature a dual-motor setup that delivers a combined 379 horsepower and a hefty 516 lb-ft of torque. This means it’s not just big, it’s also surprisingly quick, capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in just over five seconds with the AWD models. Range is solid too, with the Light Long Range model estimated at up to 304 miles per charge. Plus, its 800-volt electrical architecture allows for incredibly fast DC charging, getting you from 10% to 80% in as little as 24 minutes at a 350 kW charger. While some might find the interior design a bit “ho-hum” compared to its wild exterior, the comfort, tech, and real-world range make it a truly unbeatable electric SUV for families. You might want to invest in a home EV charger to make the most of it.
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Kia EV6: Sporty Electric Crossover Fun
For those looking for a more compact and sporty electric option, the 2025 Kia EV6 is a fantastic choice. This electric crossover is both practical and fun to drive, making it one of our favorites in its segment. It boasts an unmistakable design that really stands out, and inside, the cabin is spacious and modern, complete with a cool dual-screen infotainment system.
The EV6 comes with a variety of powertrain options, including rear-wheel-drive models 167 hp or 225 hp and all-wheel-drive versions 320 hp or a powerful 641 hp in the GT model. What’s impressive is that even the long-range models offer over 300 miles per charge. Just like the EV9, the EV6 benefits from Kia’s rapid charging capabilities, allowing for quick battery replenishment. Its agile handling and satisfying acceleration make every drive enjoyable, and it offers plenty of tech features and driver assistance to keep you connected and safe. The EV6 even earned a spot on Car and Driver’s Editors’ Choice list for 2025, solidifying its place as a top pick.
Kia Niro EV: Efficient Electric for Everyday Drives
If you’re after an efficient and stylish electric vehicle that’s perfect for daily commutes and city driving, the 2025 Kia Niro EV is a compelling option. It’s designed to be a bit more budget-friendly than its larger EV siblings while still delivering a solid electric experience. The Niro EV is known for its practicality and its ability to present a generously equipped package at an accessible price.
With an estimated range of around 253 miles, the 2025 Niro EV offers plenty of juice for most drivers’ needs. It combines a sleek design with a comfortable and well-appointed interior, making your everyday drives pleasant. It’s a great choice for those who want to go electric without needing the larger footprint or range of an EV6 or EV9, but still desire modern tech and a smooth ride. Best desktop to buy in 2025
Top Kia Sedans and Compacts for Budget-Conscious Buyers
Kia hasn’t forgotten about those who prefer a more traditional car or are looking for something that’s easy on the wallet. Their sedan and compact lineup offers style, efficiency, and surprising features for the price.
Kia K4: The Fresh Face of Compact Sedans
Say goodbye to the Forte, and hello to the 2025 Kia K4! This all-new compact sedan is stepping in with bold styling, tech-forward interiors, and a clear aim to compete strongly in its segment. If you’re a young professional or a budget-conscious family, the K4 is definitely worth checking out. Its sharp styling and spacious rear seat and trunk are big pluses.
Under the hood, you can get a base 147-hp four-cylinder engine, which some reviews say can feel a bit underpowered. But don’t worry, there’s also a more potent 190-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder available on the GT-Line Turbo trim, which gets paired with a conventional eight-speed automatic. This upgrade also brings a more sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, enhancing the driving experience. What’s really impressive about the K4 is the amount of standard tech you get, even on the base models, including a big 12.3-inch center touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a collection of driver-assist features. It’s a well-equipped compact car that offers significant value for its starting price, which is around $21,990 for the LX trim. A good car cleaning kit will help keep that sleek interior looking its best.
Kia Soul: Unique Style, Practical Space
The 2025 Kia Soul continues its tradition of offering unique, boxy charm combined with a surprisingly roomy interior. It’s often considered one of the cheapest Kia SUVs, making it a popular choice for urban drivers and small families who want something fun, practical, and dependable. The Soul’s distinctive design helps it stand out from the crowd, and its interior versatility is a major selling point. Best bike to buy in 2025 under 2 lakh
Despite its compact exterior, the Soul boasts impressive cargo space – up to 62 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This makes it incredibly useful for hauling groceries, luggage, or even small furniture. It comes standard with advanced driver-assist technologies and features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With pricing starting near $20,490, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on personality or essential features. Owners praise its simplicity in design and mechanics, contributing to its impressive reliability record. It’s a no-fuss choice for city dwellers and anyone looking for a reliable, quirky ride.
Kia Rio: The Most Affordable Entry
If your absolute top priority is getting the most affordable new Kia possible, then the 2025 Kia Rio is your answer. This subcompact car, available as a sedan or a 5-door hatchback, consistently holds the title of the cheapest Kia on the market. Starting at an MSRP of around $16,750 for the sedan and $17,690 for the 5-door, it offers incredible value for budget-conscious buyers.
The Rio might be entry-level, but it still provides a peppy 1.6L engine and a user-friendly infotainment system. It’s known for its affordability and reliability, making it a smart choice for first-time car owners or those who simply need dependable transportation without all the bells and whistles. While it doesn’t have the cutting-edge tech or spaciousness of its larger siblings, it delivers on its promise of economical and reliable driving. For the price, it’s hard to beat the Rio if you’re just looking to get from point A to point B efficiently.
Considering a Used Kia? Smart Picks for 2025
Sometimes, buying new isn’t the right fit, and that’s perfectly fine! Kia’s transformation into a brand known for reliability and value makes its used models incredibly appealing. If you’re looking for a pre-owned gem in 2025, here are some smart choices.
Best Used Kia Models to Look For
- Kia Seltos 2020-2025: The Seltos is a relatively new addition, but models from its introduction in 2020 up to 2025 are becoming more available as leases end. It offers modern features, available all-wheel drive, and strong reliability. It’s perfect for young professionals or small families seeking a modern compact SUV.
- Kia Forte Post-2019 Redesign: For value-conscious buyers, particularly commuters, post-2019 Forte models offer excellent fuel economy, an 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration, and surprising comfort. It’s a reliable compact sedan that’s great for city and highway driving.
- Kia Soul: The Soul’s versatile interior design and unique style make it a great used buy for urban drivers. It has a reputation for impressive reliability, making it a no-fuss choice that holds its value well.
- Kia Sportage: If you need a small family SUV with all-weather capability, a used Sportage is a solid bet. Look for models with hybrid powertrains for better efficiency. They offer a comfortable ride and above-average passenger and cargo space.
- Kia Telluride: For larger families, a used Telluride especially models from 2020 onward offers three-row seating, a premium feel, and strong towing capabilities. Its reliability ratings are consistently high, and it delivers a lot of SUV for the money.
- Kia Sorento: A used Sorento is a great mid-size family SUV, especially if you can find a hybrid model. It offers flexible seating and is a bit more maneuverable than the larger Telluride.
When buying used, always get a vehicle history report and consider a pre-purchase inspection to ensure you’re making a sound investment.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying Your 2025 Kia
Buying a new car is a big decision, and it’s about more than just picking a model that looks good. You want something that fits your life like a glove. Here are some essential factors to think about when you’re eyeing a 2025 Kia.
Budget and Running Costs
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a new car, but let’s be real, the price tag is just the beginning. Think about the total cost of ownership. This includes the initial purchase price, sure, but also things like insurance, maintenance, and, of course, fuel. For example, while the Kia Rio is the cheapest upfront, an electric vehicle like the Kia EV6 or Niro EV might save you a bundle on gas in the long run, even if their initial price is higher. Hybrid options like the Sorento Hybrid or Sportage Hybrid offer a great middle ground, balancing upfront cost with significant fuel savings. Don’t forget to factor in potential charging costs for EVs or the cost of a charging station installation at home.
Your Lifestyle Needs Family Size, Commute, Hobbies
This is where you really personalize your choice. Galaxy S25+ eSIM
- Family Size: A large family? The Telluride 8-seater or Carnival 7-8 seater are your best bets for spacious three-row comfort. For smaller families or those needing an occasional third row, the Sorento fits nicely.
- Commute: Mostly city driving? The compact Seltos, Soul, or K4 are agile and efficient. If your commute is long, consider a hybrid or EV like the Niro EV or EV6 for substantial fuel savings.
- Hobbies/Activities: Do you need to tow a boat or a camping trailer? The Telluride with its 5,500 lbs towing capacity is hard to beat. If you enjoy outdoor adventures, available AWD in models like the Sportage or Seltos will be a big plus.
Fuel Type: Gas, Hybrid, PHEV, or EV?
Kia offers a fantastic array of choices, so you can really pick what works for you.
- Gas: Traditional gasoline engines are available across most models, like the standard Telluride V6 or the base Sportage. They’re generally less expensive upfront.
- Hybrid HEV: Models like the Sorento Hybrid, Sportage Hybrid, and Carnival Hybrid combine a gas engine with an electric motor to boost fuel efficiency without needing to plug in. They offer a smooth transition between power sources.
- Plug-in Hybrid PHEV: The Sportage PHEV and Sorento PHEV give you the best of both worlds. You can drive for a significant electric-only range like 34 miles for the Sportage PHEV and then switch to gasoline power for longer trips. This is perfect if you have a shorter daily commute and can charge at home.
- Electric Vehicle EV: The EV9 and EV6 are fully electric, meaning zero tailpipe emissions. They offer impressive range and fast charging, but require access to charging infrastructure.
Reliability and Warranty
Kia has built a strong reputation for reliability, and it’s backed by an industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty or 5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty. This kind of coverage provides serious peace of mind. Models like the Seltos, K4, Sportage, Soul, and Telluride consistently receive high reliability ratings. Looking into current owner reviews on platforms like Edmunds can give you real-world insights into potential issues or celebrated features.
Technology and Safety Features
Kia is known for packing its vehicles with cutting-edge technology and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Most 2025 models come standard with Kia’s Drive Wise suite of advanced driver-assistance systems ADAS, which can include features like:
- Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
Many models also offer large infotainment screens often 10.25-inch or 12.3-inch, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital instrument clusters, and advanced voice recognition. These features not only make driving more convenient but also significantly enhance safety. Always check the specific trim level you’re interested in to confirm the exact features included, as some higher-end tech is often optional.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable Kia to buy in 2025?
When it comes to reliability, several 2025 Kia models stand out. The Kia Seltos is consistently praised for its durability as a compact SUV, and the Kia K4 replacing the Forte is designed for long-term dependability. The Kia Sportage and Kia Soul also have excellent reliability records, making them great choices. For a larger vehicle, the Kia Telluride has consistently received top ratings in dependability and comes with Kia’s industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, offering significant peace of mind. Rakuten Hand eSIM
What is the cheapest Kia to buy in 2025?
The absolute cheapest Kia you can buy new in 2025 is the Kia Rio, with a starting MSRP around $16,750 for the sedan model and $17,690 for the 5-door hatchback. Other budget-friendly options that offer great value include the Kia Forte now the K4 starting around $21,990, and the Kia Soul, which is one of the cheapest SUVs with a starting price near $20,490.
Which Kia SUV is best for towing?
If towing capacity is a priority for you, the 2025 Kia Telluride is your best bet. It boasts an impressive towing capacity of up to 5,500 pounds on its rugged X-Pro models and 5,000 pounds on other trims when properly equipped. This makes it ideal for hauling boats, campers, or trailers for those family adventures.
Are Kia hybrids worth it?
Yes, Kia hybrids are definitely worth considering, especially in 2025. Models like the Kia Sorento Hybrid, Kia Sportage Hybrid, and Kia Carnival Hybrid offer significantly improved fuel economy compared to their gasoline-only counterparts. They provide a smooth driving experience, often with a boost in power, and help you save money at the gas pump without the need for an external charger. The plug-in hybrid PHEV versions, like the Sportage PHEV, offer an additional benefit of electric-only driving for short distances, further reducing fuel consumption.
What’s the difference between the Kia Sorento and Telluride?
The main difference between the 2025 Kia Sorento and Telluride lies in their size and third-row spaciousness. The Telluride is a larger, full-size three-row SUV designed for maximum passenger and cargo space, comfortably accommodating adults in all three rows. The Sorento is a mid-size three-row SUV, making it a bit more compact and maneuverable. While it offers a third row, it’s generally better suited for occasional use or for children, and its cargo and towing capabilities aren’t as robust as the Telluride’s. Both offer great features, but the Telluride leans more towards a premium, spacious family hauler, while the Sorento is a versatile option for those who need a third row sometimes but prefer a slightly smaller vehicle.
Is the 2025 Kia K4 a good replacement for the Forte?
Absolutely! The 2025 Kia K4 is an all-new compact sedan that effectively replaces the Forte, and it brings a lot of improvements to the table. It features bold new styling, more tech-forward interiors, and a roomier cabin, especially for rear-seat passengers, making it a competitive option against rivals. While its base engine might feel a bit underpowered to some, the available turbocharged engine offers a good boost in performance. With generous standard features and an accessible starting price, the K4 is considered a strong and appealing replacement for the Forte, ideal for young professionals and budget-conscious families. Pixel 4 XL eSIM
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