Latest news with #KiaMotors
Auto Blog
5 hours ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Hyundai Leads, But Kia Gains In May 2025 Sales Race
Kia Narrows The Gap To Hyundai, But Not In America Kia and Hyundai have released global sales figures for May 2025, and the results indicate that the gap in sales between the two automakers is slowly closing. Hyundai has typically outsold Kia globally, and that hasn't changed, but the two brands moved in opposite directions in terms of global growth. Last month, Hyundai's global sales reached 351,174 units, a year-on-year drop of 1.7%. Kia went in the opposite direction, selling 269,148 units in May 2025, a 1.7% increase compared to the same month a year ago. In the United States, the sales race between the two is a lot closer. 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback — Source: Kia Kia And Hyundai Neck And Neck In America In the United States, Kia and Hyundai continued to grow at a rapid rate last month. Hyundai moved 84,521 units in May, an increase of 8% compared to May 2024, while Kia hit 79,007 units, up by 5%. These numbers indicate that both brands are growing at a much faster rate in America than they are globally. Kia has now sold 352,656 units in the USA in the first five months of the year, while Hyundai is on 369,578 units over the same period. Hyundai has been able to maintain its lead over Kia in America for a few reasons. One is a focus on affordable hybrids like the Elantra and Sonata. Kia has its fair share of hybrid crossovers, but it has no hybrid sedans. Furthermore, Hyundai competes in the compact pickup segment with the Santa Cruz. Not only is this the smallest truck in America, but it's another model for which Kia has no equivalent. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Several Bold New Models Bolster Kia's Global Sales It's been a busy few months for Kia, with a number of key product launches that have contributed to its overall growth in May. Many of these models are either not coming to America at all or are not available here yet, such as the EV3 SUV, EV4 sedan, and the oddly styled Tasman pickup. Hyundai currently does not have an EV4 alternative; the related Hyundai Elexio will share the EV4's architecture, but it's designed exclusively for China and hasn't yet gone into production. Alongside these new launches, the brand's core SUVs continued to thrive, with the Sportage, Seltos, and Sorento all selling strongly in May. 2025 Kia EV3 — Source: Kia The Future Looks Bright For Both Korean Brands For two brands that share multiple platforms and powertrains, Kia and Hyundai have grown into distinct automakers and not merely clones of one another. Hyundai continues to have the edge in terms of performance, with a dedicated N performance division. Kia, meanwhile, has a greater emphasis on affordability and a more aggressive aesthetic. Both now have an extensive range of electrified models, especially in the United States, where they've left Japanese brands like Nissan and Honda scrambling to catch up. While Kia has occasionally outsold Hyundai in individual markets, the latter remains the clear leader on the global stage, but the gap appears to be closing. Last year, Kia fell over a million units short of Hyundai globally, but a series of exciting new Kia launches – including a 2025 World Car of the Year award for the Kia EV3 – could see that gap shrink considerably six months from now.
Auto Express
15 hours ago
- Automotive
- Auto Express
New Kia Sportage breaks cover and it's sleeker than ever
Kia's plan of staying on top of the UK's sales charts is showing no sign of letting up, with a heavy update of its top-selling Sportage SUV having now been revealed in its full UK trim. More than 124,000 units of the current-generation Kia Sportage have found homes in the UK since its 2022 launch, often topping monthly SUV sales, and on one or two occasions even the overall UK sales chart. Advertisement - Article continues below This new one isn't re-writing the rulebook, but it will be launched with an updated selection of electrified powertrains that Kia knows customers will love, paired with a slick new interior and exterior design. The manufacturer will continue to only offer the Sportage in its Euro-centric short-wheelbase form – Sportage models in the domestic Korean, American and Australasian markets actually feature a longer wheelbase and slightly different D-pillar design. To help simplify the buying process, Kia will launch the Sportage in a new line-up of trims, defined by three clear lines, called Pure, GT-Line and GT-Line S. Each of these comprises is a range of electrified powertrains made up from petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrids, with automatic, manual, front and all-wheel drive all available. All Sportages feature the same fundamental set of upgrades, starting with new exterior styling inspired by Kia's more eccentric EV models. This includes a set of new, more vertical LED headlights with stylised 'star-point' daytime running lights that bleed into the grille. GT-Line models then feature a blockier lower bumper graphic with integrated foglights. Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below The rear lights are the same shape as before, but feature a new all-LED interior with star-point graphics. Under these is a restyled bumper, with the GT-Line models once again receiving chunkier design features. The exterior updates are finished off with some new colour options, plus a range of fresh 17-19-inch wheels. Advertisement - Article continues below While subtle, the exterior design's updates help align the Sportage with its newer and more dramatically-styled ICE and EV range mates. This is arguably more evident inside the cabin, because while the Sportage might look pretty similar outside, it's a completely different story inside. Kia has fitted a brand new and much sleeker dashboard, listening to customers in order to ensure that the bits they like stayed put, but the bits they didn't were replaced. This starts with the upper dash, which is more streamlined, thanks to the loss of the large air vent that previously framed the screen housing. Smaller bezels and a thinner casing make the screens look sleeker and more hi-tech, despite being largely identical to before in terms of size and operation. All models get a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, but it's only GT-Line S models that, for now, get a second digital display in front of the driver. Entry and mid-spec models will replace this with a smaller 4.3-inch centre screen and rudimentary digital instruments on either side. Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below The touchscreen's interface is updated to the latest system and integrates new functionality, such as the ability to connect multiple Bluetooth devices. This will allow you to do things, such as run Google Maps or Apple CarPlay from one device and stream music from another. There's also a new shortcut function – activated by swiping down from the top of the screen – that gives quick access to commonly used features. Advertisement - Article continues below Kia has also rolled out a new AI-powered voice-control function that, as in other cars, enhances both the functionality and understanding of your voice commands, and can be used to do everything from set complex navigation routes with stops or point-of-interest information, to recommending music. For even more tech, high-specification models feature a 10-inch head-up display, which is now capable of receiving information from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for things such as navigation prompts and music information. Below the main touchscreen is the same variable set of touch-sensitive switches for the media or air-conditioning, but there's still the same two knobs on both sides for that tactile touch. Between the front seats is a similar arrangement of knobs and switches that control the gearbox and heated steering wheel and seats, but crucially, the surround is now a brushed metal-effect, rather than gloss black. This was requested by customers and should avoid scratching and smudging. Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below The steering wheel has also been brought over from newer models, and features a futuristic two-spoke design, with GT-Line models picking up a white contrasting insert that matches the trim on the seats. A large part of the reason the Sportage has been such a huge success in the UK is its relative spread of powertrain options. All share a fundamental 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine at their core – the difference is how much hybridisation each variant receives. Advertisement - Article continues below The entry-point of the range includes a 48V electrical system that helps streamline elements of the ICE engine by powering some of the ancillaries, plus extends the engine's start-stop functionality. It's available with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which powers the front wheels and produces 148bhp. Next up is the full hybrid, which in this generation has been upgraded by 28bhp to 235bhp, thanks to a more powerful electric motor. This is paired to a six-speed manual automatic transmission that drives the front wheels, or an optional all-wheel-drive system in the top-spec GT-Line S. Finally, Kia's PHEV powertrain has received the biggest upgrade, thanks to a 42bhp lift in power to 283bhp combined. Kia hasn't spilled all the technical beans, though, so there's no confirmation of any improvements to the existing car's 40-mile electric range. This was already only average for the class in terms of range, but as VW's Tiguan now capable of up to 77miles, with a range of Peugeot and Citroen PHEVs with similar ranges just around the corner, this might well be one of the new model's Achilles' heels, it won't quite qualify for the full tax benefits of some rivals. This is where Kia's biggest threats lie, because the cars it's up against in 2025 are very different to its initial release three years ago. These days Volkwagen's new Tiguan and its Cupra Terramar cousin offer considerable uplifts in hybrid technology, and completely outdo the Kia in terms of interior tech and quality. Both are likely to be more expensive than the Kia, but this is less certain when considered on a PCP or finance option. The Hyundai Tuscon offers a very similar combination of traits, and forthcoming all-new interpretations of Japanese rivals such as the new Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5 will also be tough competitors when they arrive. But for now, Kia's Sportage is sure to retain a very large share of the huge C-segment in the UK; how long that lasts is the question. Click here for our list of the best mid-size SUVs ... BUY A NEW KIA SPORTAGE NOW Find a car with the experts Car Deal of the Day: Super sci-fi Kia EV6 for an exceptional £260 per month Car Deal of the Day: Super sci-fi Kia EV6 for an exceptional £260 per month Our Deal of the Day for 31 May is an extremely attractive price for this extremely capable electric family car Car Deal of the Day: new Omoda 5, with all the kit you might need, for less than £200 per month Car Deal of the Day: new Omoda 5, with all the kit you might need, for less than £200 per month The Omoda 5 is one of the newest arrivals to the family SUV market, and now it's our Deal of the Day for 1 June Audi A3 Sportback 35 TFSI long term test: premium hatch is a joy to live with Audi A3 Sportback 35 TFSI long term test: premium hatch is a joy to live with First report: premium hatch joins our fleet, and its bright metallic paint has already earned it a nickname Long-term tests 1 Jun 2025
Motor Trend
17 hours ago
- Automotive
- Motor Trend
2026 Kia Niro EV Review: Expert Insights, Pricing, and Trims
Reviewed by Zach Gale As Kia's EV lineup continues to grow, will there be room for the Niro EV? The current Niro EV is still offered alongside hybrid and plug-in hybrid Niro variants that share the same versatile body. Should the 2026 Kia Niro EV return to the U.S., it's prime competitors will include the Chevrolet Equinox EV, Nissan Leaf, and Tesla Model 3. What's New Few changes are expected for the 2026 Kia Niro, but the 2027 model may have updated styling and upgraded interior tech. The big question is whether the Niro EV will remain in Kia's lineup or if the Kia EV3 (small electric SUV) or EV4 (small electric sedan) will take its place as an affordable electric car. What We Think The Kia Niro EV makes a sensible entry point for those new to electric vehicles, offering solid build quality, a well-organized cabin, and a hatchback design that adds everyday practicality. Its powertrain offers more grunt and polish than either of the other Niro powertrains (though it's not especially torquey like many EVs). The biggest problem with the 2026 Niro EV is that since this model originally debuted, the Chevrolet Equinox EV arrived with more range at a far more affordable price. As for the Kia, it's packed with standard features and sized well for city driving. Limiting appea is its occasionally firm ride, modest performance, and slow charging speed. Though its range is adequate for daily use, the Niro EV struggles to stand out against more affordable and more capable electric options, leaving it without a competitive advantage. A price cut could strengthen the Niro EV's draw, but we're just as curious for the electric model's viability given the incoming arrival of the EV4. As the older model on older architecture, the Niro EV may not be long for this world. MotorTrend Tested The Niro EV's single-motor FWD electric powertrain produces 201 hp and 188 lb-ft of torque. It's enough to accelerate the Niro EV to 60 mph in a MotorTrend-tested 6.5 seconds. That makes it quicker than the Niro PHEV or standard Niro hybrid models. EV Range and Charging Every pre-2026 Niro EV comes equipped with a 64.8-kWh battery, which delivers an estimated driving range of 253 miles. Its maximum charging speed of 85 kW lags behind the faster 150 kW and 350 kW DC fast chargers commonly found at public stations, making recharge times longer than many competitors. Expect these figures to carry over to 2026. To put this another way, the less expensive Chevrolet Equinox EV has a 307-319 mile range depending on trim, and a maximum charge rate of 150 kW. Kia's Newer Electric Cars Should the Niro EV retire, consumers looking for another all-electric Kia will have a good selection to choose from. The brand might be a little more advanced in its EV adoption plans than some other carmakers, already offering the larger EV6 crossover and EV9 three-row SUV and revealing even more are in the pipeline. The next wave of Kia's electric push should include the EV5, a two-row SUV that's like the Sportage of electric crossovers. The EV3 could be the likeliest replacement for the Niro EV, as it's a small two-row ute. However, at this point, it's unclear if the EV3 will arrive in the U.S. The EV4 is a compact entry the U.S. will see in sedan form and, as part of the larger picture, illustrates Kia's drive to legitimize the company's EV prowess. Safety Ratings and Features Although the Niro EV hasn't been safety rated, the 2025 Niro hybrid has been tested by NHTSA. In that government agency's testing, the 2025 Niro only got four stars overall out of a possible five. Driver assists should include two levels of blind-spot monitoring, the available more advanced version delivered with steering intervention. Standard features: Forward and reverse automatic emergency braking Lane keeping A driver focus monitor Automatic high beams Traffic sign monitor Adaptive cruise control Rear parking sensors Self-parking should come with the higher trim level. Technology Look for the Niro EV's dual 10.3-inch screens to return, one for the driver display and the other as an infotainment interface. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay will be standard, as will remote start, a power driver's seat, heated front seats, rear AC vents, and rain-sensing wipers. Six speakers are standard on the base model and an eight-speaker Harman Kardon system comes with the upgrade. Phone-as-key, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-folding side mirrors, ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel are also available. Other Electric Cars:
Car and Driver
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview The 2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid is exactly what its name implies: Kia's popular three-row SUV with a choice of two fuel-saving hybrid powertrains. The conventional hybrid delivers an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in combined driving, while the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) is rated for 74 MPGe with a fully charged battery. Plus, it can travel up to 30 miles on electricity alone. Otherwise, the Sorento Hybrid doesn't stray too far from the standard version, offering handsome contemporary styling and an impressive amount of technology and features for the price, even in the base model. Interior space is abundant in the first and second rows, but the third row is best reserved for children or packages. What's New for 2026? The Kia Sorento Hybrid carries over with no changes. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid is expected to start around $41,000 and go up to $55,000 depending on the trim and options. EX $41,000 (est) SX Prestige $49,000 (est) EX PHEV $50,000 (est) SX Prestige PHEV $55,000 (est) 0 $10k $20k $30k $40k $50k $60k $70k $80k $90k We like the EX. Although it's the base model, it comes standard with faux-leather upholstery, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and remote start. It's also significantly less expensive than the SX Hybrid and the PHEV variants. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The Sorento Hybrid is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder gas engine and an electric motor that combine for 227 horsepower. Front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission are standard; all-wheel drive is available as an option. The plug-in hybrid powertrain consists of the same basic setup, but a more powerful electric motor brings combined horsepower up to 261 ponies; all-wheel drive is standard on the plug-in. The Sorento Hybrid's road manners are composed, if a little bland, but compared to the base nonhybrid model its acceleration is noticeably perkier. Get on the throttle heavily in front-drive models, though, and you'll feel a little torque-steer tug through the steering wheel. 0–60-MPH Times At our test track, the Sorento Hybrid managed a 7.2-second run to 60 mph. Not bad for a three-row family SUV, but acceleration bragging rights belong to speedier rivals such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. Despite its extra power, the plug-in hybrid was slightly slower in our testing, hitting 60 mph in 7.6 seconds. View Photos Kia Towing and Payload Capacity While the nonhybrid Sorento can tow up to 3500 pounds, the hybrid variant offers only a 2000-pound capacity. That spec also lags behind the Jeep, which is rated to tow up to 6000 pounds. Range, Charging, and Battery Life The plug-in hybrid model carries an 11.8-kWh battery pack which is rated to deliver 30 miles of electric-only driving per charge. The extra weight associated with this battery, however, is likely the cause of the PHEV model's pokier acceleration time. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 Sorento Hybrid yet, but the 2025 model earned ratings of 36 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 36 mpg combined with front-wheel drive. The plug-in hybrid has a combined rating of 74 MPGe, but its city and highway estimates are listed at 33 and 34 mpg, respectively. MPGe stands for miles per gallon of gas equivalent, an EPA metric that estimates PHEV and EV vehicle fuel efficiency. The PHEV is also rated to travel up to 30 miles on electricity alone on a single charge, so you won't need gas when you drive locally and recharge regularly. On our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, we recorded 31 mpg in a Sorento Hybrid EX and 25 mpg in the SX Prestige PHEV. For more information about the Sorento Hybrid's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo The Sorento's interior has an attractive layout, nice materials, and solid build quality. The dashboard is bookended by two upright air vents but is otherwise simple in its design. Ambient lighting is smartly incorporated into the cabin and stitched surfaces on the door panels and seat inserts provide an upscale appearance. A variety of cubby storage spots and cupholders contribute to the Sorento's family-friendly mission. Second-row captain's chairs and a two-place third-row bench are both standard. Adults will have no trouble finding a comfortable position in the front and second-row seats, but the third row is snug for riders larger than a teen. View Photos Kia Infotainment and Connectivity With infotainment and connectivity features at the forefront of new-car technology, the Sorento supports all of the most desirable content. The hybrid model comes standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker stereo, in-dash navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Upgrade to the SX Prestige trim and you'll get a 12.3-inch digital gauge display and a 12-speaker Bose stereo. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Basics such as blind-spot monitoring and automated emergency braking are standard on the Sorento Hybrid. Kia also equips each trim with adaptive cruise control and its Highway Driving Assist feature, which helps center the Sorento Hybrid in its lane while using the adaptive cruise system. For more information about the Sorento Hybrid's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Available adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Kia has one of the most impressive warranty plans in the industry. However, it doesn't offer the complimentary maintenance that its corporate counterpart, Hyundai, does. Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles Hybrid components are covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance Specifications Specifications 2022 Kia Sorento PHEV Vehicle Type: front-engine, front-motor, all-wheel-drive, 6-passenger, 4-door wagon PRICE Base/As Tested: $46,405/$49,960 Options: Prestige package (perforated leather seats, 14-way-adjustable driver's seat and 10-way-adjustable passenger's seat, heated rear seats, 12.3-inch gauge cluster display, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, Bose stereo), $2900; snow white pearl paint, $445; carpeted floor mats, $210 POWERTRAIN turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 1.6-liter inline-4, 177 hp, 195 lb-ft + AC motor, 90 hp, 224 lb-ft (combined output: 261 hp, 258 lb-ft; 11.8-kWh lithium-ion battery pack; 3.8-kW onboard charger) Transmission: 6-speed automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 12.8-in vented disc/12.8-in vented disc Tires: Continental CrossContact LX Sport 235/55R-19 101H M+S DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 110.8 in Length: 189.4 in Width: 74.8 in Height: 66.7 in Passenger Volume: 142 ft3 Cargo Volume: 13 ft3 Curb Weight: 4490 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 7.6 sec 1/4-Mile: 15.8 sec @ 89 mph 100 mph: 21.5 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 7.8 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 3.9 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 5.0 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 127 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 162 ft C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 26 MPGe 75-mph Highway Driving, Hybrid mode: 25 mpg Highway Range, Hybrid mode: 310 mi EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 34/35/33 mpg Combined Gasoline + Electricity: 79 MPGe EV Range: 32 mi 2021 Kia Sorento EX Hybrid Vehicle Type: front-engine, front-motor, front-wheel-drive, 6-passenger, 4-door wagon PRICE Base/As Tested: $37,765/$38,210 Options: Runway Red paint, $445 POWERTRAIN turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 1.6-liter inline-4, 177 hp, 195 lb-ft + AC motor, 59 hp, 195 lb-ft (combined output: 227 hp, 258 lb-ft); 1.5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack Transmission: 6-speed automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 12.8-in vented disc/12.8-in vented disc Tires: Nexen Roadian GTX SUV 235/65R-17 104h M+S DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 110.8 in Length: 189.4 in Width: 74.8 in Height: 66.7 in Passenger Volume: 143 ft3 Cargo Volume: 13 ft3 Curb Weight: 4095 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 7.2 sec 1/4-Mile: 15.6 sec @ 92 mph 100 mph: 19.0 sec 120 mph: 30.9 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.4 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 7.9 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 4.1 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 5.1 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 122 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 181 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.81 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 33 mpg 75-mph Highway Driving: 31 mpg Highway Range: 540 mi EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 37/39/35 mpg C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs
Hans India
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Hans India
Kia Launches Premium ‘Clavis' Variant of Carens MPV in India
Kia Motors has unveiled the premium 'Clavis' variant of its popular Carens MPV at CAR Kia Showrooms in Hyderabad. Featuring a futuristic design with 17-inch alloy wheels and a dual-tone navy-beige interior, the Clavis offers modern comforts like a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, panoramic sunroof, and ventilated seats. It comes in six- and seven-seater layouts with eight color options. Safety is prioritized through Level-2 ADAS, six airbags, and a 360-degree camera. Powered by versatile 1.5L petrol and diesel engines with multiple transmission choices, the Clavis is now available for test drives in Jubilee Hills, Gachibowli, and Financial District.
