The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has awarded its most prestigious rating to two of our favorite vehicles: The 2018 Kia Soul, when equipped with high-intensity discharge headlights, and the 2018 Kia Sportage, when equipped with new HID headlights. For the Soul, the needed feature is available on the Primo Lit Package, and the SX Turbo trim is what is needed for the Sportage. To qualify for this honor, the testing procedures require that a vehicle earn “Good” ratings in five crashworthiness tests: these are small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength, and head restraints. There also needs to be an “advanced” or “superior” rating for front crash prevention, as well as “acceptable” or “good” rating in headlight testing and performance.
All of us here in sales and service at Jim Butler Kia are also happy to see four other Kia vehicles receive the TSP+ rating from the IIHS: the Forte, Optima, Cadenza, and Sorento are all other proud recipients of honors. What the IIHS focuses on is how well a vehicle protects its occupants during a crash, and crash avoidance: the technology that can be used to prevent a crash or lessen the severity of the impact. This can all be very useful information when shopping for a new car, as your family and any other passengers with you will want to know that they are constantly safe. Many buyers we talk to use this data in conjunction with Consumer Reports, to assure that they are looking at a car that can keep them safe and well-repaired in the long run.
This is the Soul's fifth model year, and it is known for its fun and outside-of-the-box approach to getting around every day. The 2018 model sees the addition of the innovative infotainment system to the Base Convenience Package, and the Soul Plus as now standard equipment. Ask us about the Soul Plus Primo Package, which now adds Smart Cruise Control and Autonomous Emergency Braking. One of the deciding factors on the IIHS rating, the Soul Plus Primo “Lit” Package includes HID headlights and LED positioning lights to enhance driving on the road at any hour.
The Kia Sportage was just introduced last year, and offers advanced technology and varied options across three trim levels: LX, EX, and SX – while offering customers a prime choice in the subcompact utility category. Every trim level is available with optional Dynamax full-scale all-wheel drive, and the SX level adds an electronic parking brake. We are especially proud of the premium craftsmanship in every detail, and you'll love the upgraded seats that have scientifically calibrated touch points. Truly built for adventure, the Sportage stands out with its coupe-like roof, extended wheelbase, and satin silver touches. Getting away to the lake for the weekend or just the movie theater with the entire family for the day is a snap with the Sportage, and any professional or growing family will fall in love with its luxurious and sophisticated vibe.
