Wednesday, August 6, 2025

EV9 Ownership: Easy Charging, Big Savings, and Room for the Whole Crew

2026 Kia EV9

Here at
Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, the Kia EV9 has become a favorite for good reason. It brings together the bold spirit of an SUV with the clean power of electric driving, no compromises needed. From its commanding road presence to its spacious three-row interior, this all-electric Kia was clearly built for real families and real adventures.

Power and driving range depend on how you build it, but no matter the configuration, the EV9 delivers strong acceleration and smooth, responsive handling. When it’s time to plug in, charging is quick and easy, and future-ready, too. Starting in 2026, every EV9 will be equipped with the Tesla-style NACS plug, opening up even more charging options across the country.

For drivers who want the capability of a full-size SUV with the benefits of going electric, the EV9 nails it. Whether you’re loading up for a weekend float trip or running errands around St. Louis, it gives you the space, comfort, and tech to get there confidently, and with zero tailpipe emissions.

Built to Perform and Built to Last

The EV9’s dual-motor models offer even more get-up-and-go, and when equipped with the upcoming GT trim, you’re looking at 501 horsepower and a 0–60 time around 4.3 seconds. That’s serious performance in a family-friendly package. With features like adaptive suspension, electronic limited-slip differential, and bold 21-inch wheels, it’s the kind of EV that gets your heart racing and your kids to school on time.

Add in a long-lasting battery backed by Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, and it’s clear this isn’t just a smart choice, it’s a long-term one.

Room for the Whole Crew

Three rows. Thoughtful tech. Tons of cargo room. The EV9 was designed with families and explorers in mind. Its comfortable, modern interior is built to handle road trips, daily drives, and everything in between with ease.

When folks come by our lot and ask how the Kia EV9 drives, we’re happy to say, it’s as smooth and confident as it looks. While every trim level delivers a refined ride, the upper models really bring the heat when it comes to acceleration. In fact, one of our test vehicles, a GT-Line, launched off the line with the kind of punch you’d expect from a much sportier machine.

Around town or out on the open highway, the EV9 feels grounded and sure of itself. Handling feels tight and composed, especially when cornering, and the braking is strong and reassuring if you ever need to come to a quick stop.

Stress-Free Cruising: Let Adaptive Tech Handle the Highway Hustle

Daily drives feel effortless thanks to its silky-smooth acceleration and customizable regenerative braking. You can even take advantage of one-pedal driving, just lift your foot off the accelerator, and the EV9 will slow to a stop on its own. It’s intuitive and makes city driving feel even easier.

The 2026 Kia EV9 also nails it when it comes to visibility. The large windows and smart design give you a clear view of the road, and for extra confidence in tight parking spots, the available 360-degree camera system gives you eyes all around.

On the highway, features like adaptive cruise control help you keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, while lane centering tech helps the EV9 stay steady between the lines. From road trips to school drop-offs, driver-focused safety features like the attention monitor and safe exit assist add that extra layer of peace of mind, especially for families.

Power That Surprises, Comfort That Lasts

With up to 501 horsepower in the upcoming GT trim and smooth handling across every model, the EV9 isn’t just about utility; it’s about enjoyment. Come feel it in motion with a test drive today. You’ll see why it’s turning heads and redefining what an electric SUV can be.

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

Comfort is the New Quick: 2026 Kia Sportage Impresses Where It Counts

2026 Kia Sportage

At
Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, we’re excited to welcome the refreshed 2026 Kia Sportage, a small SUV that continues to raise the bar for design, comfort, and technology. Since its latest generation launched just a few years ago, the Sportage has been a standout in its class, and the 2026 update only enhances its appeal with sleek new styling and an impressive range of advanced features.

A Fresh Look with Bold Presence

The Sportage has always turned heads, but the 2026 refresh takes its modern design to the next level. New LED-accented headlights with a vertical theme give the front end a more commanding SUV presence, while subtle updates to the taillights, bumpers, wheel designs, and paint colors add a fresh, upscale feel. It’s a look that fits right in with Kia’s growing family of stylish SUVs while still standing out on the road. Plus, the available contrasting roof and unique X-Line trim touches give drivers even more ways to express their personality on the road.

Next-Level Technology and Comfort

Step inside, and you’ll immediately notice the upgraded 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, now standard across all trims. Kia’s new Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (CCNC) system offers faster processing, a modernized interface, and enhanced over-the-air update capabilities. It’s designed to keep you connected seamlessly with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The dashboard and interior design feel clean and contemporary, blending intuitive controls with a high-quality fit and finish. From the available panoramic sunroof to the ventilated seats and premium audio system, the Sportage delivers comfort and convenience at every turn. Rear passengers also benefit from generous legroom and available heated seats, making it just as appealing for family road trips as it is for solo commutes. Thoughtful storage spaces, USB-C ports for every row, and customizable ambient lighting only add to the everyday usability.

Smarter Driver Assistance

Kia continues to lead the way with advanced driver-assist technology. The 2026 Sportage now comes standard with front and rear parking sensors, plus a refined adaptive cruise control system. Lane-keeping assist is now more intuitive, thanks to a new capacitive touch steering wheel, making highway drives more effortless than ever.

Other smart features like Blind-Spot View Monitor and Safe Exit Warning provide peace of mind when navigating tight traffic or busy parking lots. It’s all about helping you stay focused and feel secure on the road, no matter the conditions.

Everyday Comfort, Anytime Adventure

The Sportage is built to deliver a smooth, confident ride whether you’re navigating St. Louis city streets or heading out on a weekend adventure. The X-Pro model, with its all-terrain tires and unique suspension tuning, offers an extra dose of comfort and capability. No matter which trim you choose, you’ll enjoy a cabin that’s quiet, roomy, and thoughtfully designed for your everyday needs.

Thanks to smart suspension tuning and noise-canceling insulation, the 2026 Sportage remains calm and composed even over rough pavement. Whether you’re picking up groceries or taking the scenic route to your favorite hiking trail, it feels ready for anything.

Exceptional Value, Outstanding Quality

The 2026 Kia Sportage delivers a premium experience with upscale features and thoughtful design. Even in its most capable trims like the X-Pro, you’ll find a 360-degree camera, premium audio, and a range of luxury-inspired touches that elevate everyday driving. Kia’s commitment to quality shines through in every detail, from the solid door seals that quiet the cabin to the plush, supportive seating that ensures comfort on every journey.

Add in Kia’s industry-leading warranty and commitment to reliability, and it’s clear this SUV isn’t just about flash, it’s built to last.

Ready to Experience the 2026 Kia Sportage?

As the longer days of summer thoroughly sizzle the pavement, we invite you to take the Sportage for a test drive and feel its refined blend of style, comfort, and innovation firsthand. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly SUV or a tech-savvy commuter, the 2026 Kia Sportage is ready to impress.

Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Throwback Vibes, Future Tech: The Kia K4 Hatchback Is Back and Better Than Ever

2026 Kia K4 Hatchback

Here at
Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, we’re thrilled to welcome back something we haven’t seen in a while—a fresh, tech-savvy hatchback that’s built for more than just the daily commute. After the Forte bowed out of the U.S. hatchback game, we’ve been waiting for Kia to bring the five-door practicality back to the lineup. And now? It’s here—with the all-new 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback.

Familiar Face, Fresh Function

From the front, the K4 Hatchback shares the same bold and futuristic design as its sedan sibling. Think vertical EV9-style LED headlights, T-shaped running lights, and a sleek gloss black front fascia. But once you move to the side profile, it’s clear this isn’t just a sedan with a new badge. The hatchback is noticeably shorter in overall length but rides on the same wheelbase—giving it a unique stance and surprising cargo space without compromising cabin comfort.

And that space? Impressive. With the rear seats up, you get over 22 cubic feet of room—plenty for gear, groceries, or road trip essentials. Fold the seats down, and you’re looking at nearly 60 cubic feet. Whether you’re headed to Forest Park or loading up for a weekend float trip, the K4 hatch has you covered.

Design with a Purpose

Around back, the K4 Hatch carries over the signature swooping light bar from the front, finishing with a subtle roof spoiler. And yes—there’s a hidden rear wiper tucked under that spoiler, ready for unpredictable Missouri weather. The GT-Line trim adds sportier accents, including a standout exterior finish and blacked-out trim details that really turn heads.

Power That Fits the Mission

Under the hood, the K4 Hatchback offers two proven engines. The standard model runs on a 2.0L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, designed for fuel efficiency and smooth day-to-day driving. For those craving more punch, the GT-Line Turbo delivers with a 1.6L turbocharged engine, pushing out 190 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque through an 8-speed automatic transmission.

While it's not aiming to out-muscle track-ready hot hatches, the K4 is tuned for balanced, responsive performance—ideal for St. Louis city driving, suburban highways, or a winding route through the Missouri backcountry.

Tech Where It Matters

Step inside, and you’ll find a modern, driver-focused interior that’s anything but basic. Dual 12.3-inch screens stretch across the dash, offering crisp visuals and smooth interaction. A separate 5-inch panel handles climate settings—right where you want it. Thankfully, Kia didn’t go full touchscreen-only. You’ll still find physical buttons for key functions, so you’re not digging through menus while navigating I-64 or dodging STL traffic.

The flat-top/flat-bottom steering wheel isn’t just stylish—it’s packed with smart controls, from media toggles to drive mode selectors. Paddle shifters give you a little more control when you want to play.

Safety Tech That’s Actually Useful

As expected, the 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback includes Kia’s full suite of driver assistance features. Standard systems like Lane Keep Assist and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go are joined by available tech like Evasive Steering Assist and Highway Driving Assist 2, designed to reduce stress during longer drives or packed highway commutes.

Coming Soon to St. Louis

The 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback is expected to land at our dealership in late 2025, and trust us—you’ll want to see it in person. Between the versatile cargo space, modern tech, and sleek styling, this hatchback feels tailor-made for St. Louis drivers who want something efficient, fun, and functional.

Skip the guesswork and be among the first to test drive the tech-forward Kia K4 Hatch. It’s smart, stylish, and built for your lifestyle.

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Affordable, Capable, Unshakable: The 2026 Seltos Stuns Again

2026 Kia Seltos

At
Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, we know drivers want more from a compact SUV, and the Kia Seltos continues to deliver. Twice recognized in the Affordable SUV Challenge, the Seltos stands out for its refined interior design, smooth driving dynamics, and a long list of features that come standard across the lineup. After a significant refresh in 2024 that introduced sharper styling and an upgraded turbocharged engine, the 2026 model keeps that momentum going. 

Refreshed and Refocused: The 2026 Seltos Is Built to Fit Your Life

While the X-Line trim is no longer part of the mix, the rest of the lineup sees subtle shifts that make the Seltos more appealing than ever. The 2026 Kia Seltos is set to arrive later this year, and drivers can expect the same smart packaging and efficient powertrains that have made this model such a strong contender in its class. The trim lineup includes LX, S, EX, and the performance-ready SX. Each trim level builds on the one before, giving buyers plenty of flexibility depending on their needs, from practical commuting to sporty weekend escapes.

Even in its most streamlined form, the Seltos LX offers a well-rounded experience with must-have tech like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a confident stance on 17-inch wheels and LED exterior lighting. The S trim adds more flair and function with upgraded lighting, heated mirrors, a larger touchscreen with built-in navigation, and advanced safety enhancements like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

From Smart to Sport: The Seltos SX Brings Heat to the Highway

Moving up to the EX brings more sophistication. You’ll find full synthetic leather seating, heated front seats with power adjustments for the driver, and a digital instrument display that elevates the cabin’s premium feel. Wireless phone charging and satin-chrome exterior details help distinguish it even further.

At the top of the lineup, the SX trim comes loaded with performance and technology. With a turbocharged engine, standard all-wheel drive, and upgraded suspension, the SX handles with authority. A flat-bottom steering wheel, Bose premium sound system, adaptive cruise control, and Kia’s Highway Driving Assist round out a long list of premium features that make this trim a favorite among those who want it all.

Proven by Praise: A Winner on Every Front

The Kia Seltos isn’t just turning heads—it’s racking up recognition. This standout crossover has consistently earned top marks from industry experts for safety, value, and design. It’s been recognized by trusted names like Kelley Blue Book and U.S. News & World Report for its exceptional balance of quality and affordability. With accolades highlighting everything from its tech-forward cabin to its standout reliability, the Seltos continues to prove it’s not just a smart buy—it’s an award-winning one.

Versatility and Vigor: Why the Seltos Stands Out

Under the hood, most Seltos models come powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a smooth CVT, delivering balanced performance and fuel efficiency. Front-wheel drive comes standard, but all-wheel drive is available for those who want extra confidence on slippery roads. For those craving more punch, the SX trim features a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine mated to an eight-speed automatic and standard AWD, offering brisk acceleration and composed handling.

With flexible space, smart safety features, and head-turning style, the 2026 Kia Seltos is built to keep up with life’s daily adventures. Whether it’s daycare drop-off or a family road trip, Seltos makes every mile smoother and more enjoyable. Visit Jim Butler Kia and explore why families across St. Louis are loving it!

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

The Fast and the Fashionable: K5 GT Puts Power in One Package

2026 Kia K5


At Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, we know our customers want a midsize sedan that brings more to the table than just good looks—and the 2026 Kia K5 delivers. With its sleek profile and generous list of standard features, the K5 offers excellent value without compromising comfort or convenience. It might not be the most thrilling sedan on the road, but it certainly shines when it comes to smooth ride quality and upscale cabin design.

What’s New for 2026?

After a major refresh last year, the 2026 K5 rolls into the new model year with just a few updates—expect a fresh exterior paint option or added standard feature. While changes are minimal, the K5 continues to stand out in a competitive segment that includes heavy-hitters like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Hyundai Sonata.

What helps the K5 hold its own is a strong emphasis on value and design cohesion. Even without significant new updates, it remains one of the most visually compelling options in its class. The sedan’s aggressive front fascia, fastback-inspired roofline, and LED lighting signature make a lasting first impression.

Design That Turns Heads—Performance That Plays It Safe

The K5’s aggressive styling suggests sporty performance, but looks can be deceiving. The new AWD base model doesn’t offer the same pep as previous versions, especially in acceleration tests. While the standard 2.5L four-cylinder gets the job done, it can sound strained under pressure, and the transmission isn’t always quick to respond.

However, if you're looking for extra excitement, the K5 GT offers a 290-hp turbocharged engine that delivers real performance—but it’s only available in one specific trim. Even so, the rest of the lineup impresses with intuitive controls, a roomy trunk, and a well-laid-out interior that feels a notch above its price point.

Kia also deserves credit for its consistent commitment to interior ergonomics and build quality. Soft-touch materials, smart storage compartments, and excellent outward visibility help elevate the daily driving experience.

Fuel Economy and Powertrains

Under the hood, the standard 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine offers 191 horsepower and pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel ratings come in at 25/36 mpg (city/highway) for front-wheel drive and 24/33 mpg with all-wheel drive.

For drivers who crave more muscle, the available turbocharged 2.5-liter engine bumps power to 290 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, clocking 0–60 mph in as little as 5.4 seconds. However, this version sees a fuel economy dip to 23/33 mpg. Compared to rivals like the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima—both of which offer more efficient options, including hybrids—the K5 isn’t the segment leader in gas mileage, but it still performs respectably.

Smart Safety for Peace of Mind

Safety comes standard in every K5. Each model includes features like blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking (front and rear), adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and lane-keeping assist. Step up to the GT-Line trim and you’ll unlock additional safety upgrades, including Highway Driving Assist and a 360-degree camera system for easier navigation in tight spaces.

Also notable is Kia’s driver attention warning system, which helps prevent fatigue-related mishaps on long road trips—a thoughtful addition for commuters and families alike.

Interior Room and Cargo Space

Inside, the K5 provides ample comfort for five passengers. Front-seat legroom is especially generous, and while rear space isn’t class-leading, it remains comfortable for adults. With 15.6 cubic feet of trunk space, the K5 holds its own against the Altima and comes close to the class-leading Honda Accord.

Kia’s seats strike a nice balance between support and comfort, making the K5 an ideal choice for daily drives, weekend errands, or longer highway journeys.

Next-Level Tech Comes Standard

Drivers will appreciate the K5’s standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complete with built-in navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air software update capability. You’ll also find thoughtful features like wireless charging and USB-C ports for front and rear passengers. 

Premium upgrades include a digital driver display, phone-as-key technology, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system for audiophiles. Kia continues to push the envelope with user-friendly tech that doesn’t require a learning curve, proving once again that affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing innovation. Sleek on the outside, sharp on the inside—the 2026 Kia K5 delivers head-turning looks and brains to match. Visit Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis today and get behind the wheel in style!