Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Rising Above: The 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid Thrives Where Others Gasp

 

2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid

The 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid is designed for adventure, comfort, and efficiency, making it the perfect SUV for any journey—whether cruising through the city or ascending mountain roads. Packed with cutting-edge technology, premium comfort, and impressive fuel economy, this hybrid SUV is ready to take on the toughest terrain while keeping passengers relaxed here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis.

Performance That Excels at Any Elevation

For those seeking a versatile SUV that comfortably accommodates six or more passengers without the bulk or high cost of a full-size model, the 2025 Kia Sorento is a standout choice. Positioned between the compact Sportage and the larger Telluride, the Sorento offers a practical third-row seat ideal for occasional use. True to Kia’s reputation, it comes generously equipped with standard features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB charging ports, and lane-keeping assistance. 

Equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with a 47.7-kW electric motor, the Sorento Hybrid delivers a combined 227 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. Its 6-speed automatic transmission seamlessly adjusts to various driving conditions, offering smooth acceleration whether climbing steep inclines or cruising on the highway. With multiple drive modes, including Eco, Smart, Sport, and Snow, the Sorento Hybrid is engineered for control in any weather.

On long road trips, fuel efficiency is a game-changer. The Sorento Hybrid averages 34 mpg, keeping fuel stops to a minimum with its large 17.7-gallon tank. Over a 380-mile journey through steep mountain terrain, it effortlessly maintained an average of 32.7 mpg, proving its capability in real-world conditions.

Refined Interior for Maximum Comfort

Inside, Kia has streamlined the Sorento’s cabin with modern technology and premium materials. The dual 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment system offer a seamless user experience, with wireless smartphone connectivity for added convenience. A haptic control bar simplifies climate adjustments, while dedicated buttons for heated seats ensure quick access to comfort settings.

The SX Prestige trim takes luxury to the next level with heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and plush leather-trimmed upholstery. Second-row captain’s chairs provide first-class comfort, making long journeys a breeze, while the panoramic sunroof brings natural light and expansive views.

Confidence on Any Road

Mountain roads and winter weather are no match for the Sorento Hybrid’s AWD system. Snow Mode, combined with a center-locking differential, helps distribute power evenly between the axles for maximum traction on slippery surfaces. Engine braking features, combined with regenerative braking, ensure a controlled descent, even in icy conditions.

This intelligent all-wheel-drive system adapts seamlessly to changing terrain, giving you confidence whether you're navigating steep inclines or winding roads. With a smooth yet responsive powertrain, the Sorento Hybrid balances efficiency with capability, ensuring stability even in unpredictable conditions. Plus, the elevated ride height and advanced driver-assistance features provide extra security, making every winter drive safer and more controlled.


The Edmunds.com review team claimed after their test drive that: “The 2025 Kia Sorento is a standout choice. Positioned between the compact Sportage and the larger Telluride, the Sorento offers a practical third-row seat ideal for occasional use.” True to Kia’s reputation, it comes generously equipped with standard features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB charging ports, and lane-keeping assistance. 


Buyers can also opt for a turbocharged engine, delivering more power than most midsize SUVs require—but having that extra muscle on tap is always a welcome bonus.

The Perfect SUV for Any Journey

From rugged trails to winding mountain roads, the 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid is built for adventure. With all-wheel drive, impressive fuel economy, and plenty of cargo space for your gear, it’s ready to take on every destination—no matter how far off the beaten path.

Visit us today and take the Sorento Hybrid for a spin. Your next great adventure starts here!

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Current Events: The 2025 Kia EV6 Sparks 9 Game-Changing Updates

2025 Kia EV6

The 2025 Kia EV6 is on its way to us here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, bringing exciting updates that blend cutting-edge technology, refined style, and smart practicality — all while keeping the bold, futuristic look drivers already love. Kia has fine-tuned this electric crossover to make daily drives more enjoyable and long road trips even smoother. Here’s what shoppers can look forward to when the refreshed EV6 arrives:

1. Bold New Design Details

The 2025 EV6 sports sharper lines and eye-catching ‘Star Map’ LED headlights, giving it a stronger family resemblance to other new Kia models. At the back, redesigned three-dimensional taillights and a more sculpted rear bumper enhance its road presence. Each trim will feature its own distinct bumper styling, while new wheel designs — ranging from 19 to 21 inches — further emphasize its sporty character. And, for added convenience, pop-out flush door handles are now standard across the lineup.

2. More Range, More Capability

Drivers will enjoy longer journeys thanks to improvements in battery capacity. The upgraded 84 kWh battery pack now delivers an estimated 319 miles of range in rear-wheel-drive models. The EV6 also steps up its utility, with towing capacity increasing to 2,700 lbs, complete with automatic trailer weight detection that smartly adjusts range projections.

3. Smarter Infotainment

Inside, the EV6 features an ultra-modern curved dual 12.3-inch display that integrates both driver information and infotainment controls. The new Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) system boasts faster processing and the ability to receive over-the-air updates. Drivers can even customize the display with their favorite NBA team’s colors and logos, and in-car video streaming is available for entertainment on the go.

4. Easier Charging with NACS and V2G Capability

Kia has relocated the charging port (except on GT models) to the driver’s side rear fender and adopted the North American Charging Standard (NACS), granting access to Tesla’s vast Supercharger network. The 2025 EV6 is also expected to introduce vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capability, letting owners power their homes during outages or potentially sell energy back to the grid.

5. Quieter, More Refined Cabin

The cabin is even more serene thanks to new sound-absorbing materials. Kia has also redesigned the center console with a textured finish and added an improved wireless phone charger that prevents slipping, making daily driving feel more upscale and user-friendly.

6. Smoother, More Responsive Steering

A belt-driven steering system improves responsiveness, while a new D-shaped steering wheel with hands-on detection technology ensures safer, more confident driving. Electric tilt-and-telescoping adjustments add further comfort and convenience for drivers of all sizes.

7. Parking Made Simpler

The updated Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 makes navigating tight spaces a breeze. Additional forward, side, and reverse collision avoidance systems and improved highway driving assistance help make everyday driving and parking stress-free.

8. Convenient Digital Key 2.0

With Digital Key 2.0, drivers can unlock and start their EV6 using compatible smartphones or NFC smart cards — and even share access with others through a simple text message. No more fumbling for keys!

9. Built in the USA

The 2025 Kia EV6 (excluding the GT model) will be built at Kia’s West Point, Georgia facility. This not only helps ensure a steady supply but could also bring additional benefits for buyers in the form of eligibility for federal tax incentives.       

The wait is almost over — and there’s never been a better time to experience the future of driving! The 2025 Kia EV6 is rolling into showrooms with bold styling, smarter tech, longer range, and confidence-boosting features that make every trip — whether it’s a daily commute or a weekend road trip — feel exciting and effortless. 


From its sleek new design and customizable digital displays to smoother steering and parking assistance that practically does the work for you, this electric crossover is built to impress and engineered to perform. 


Ready to feel the difference for yourself? Stop by and take the 2025 Kia EV6 for a test drive — the road is calling, and this is one ride you don’t want to miss!


Monday, March 17, 2025

More Smooth Moves, Strong Grooves: The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid Hits the Road Right

2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid
Kia’s 2025 Carnival Hybrid is a prime example of how a family vehicle can blend comfort, style, and versatility without compromising on performance. Although it is billed a "multi-purpose vehicle" (MPV) instead of a minivan, one thing is clear: it’s designed to effortlessly move people and cargo, all while offering modern tech and great fuel efficiency here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis.

For 2025, Kia has significantly revamped the Carnival, making it more dynamic than ever before. From a fresh, SUV-inspired exterior to an upgraded, tech-heavy interior, the new Carnival impresses at every turn. The addition of a hybrid option, new exterior styling, and updated features for both the driver and passengers elevate the overall experience.

2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid: Smart, Stylish, and Spacious

One of the most striking updates to the 2025 Carnival is its bold, SUV-like exterior. Gone are the days of the traditional minivan look—this model features sharp angles, darkened accents, and sleek lighting, giving it a modern, rugged feel. When compared to the Sorento, the Carnival’s exterior design feels cohesive and sophisticated, helping it stand out in the crowded minivan market.

Inside, the Carnival continues to impress with its spacious and user-friendly design. The second-row seats, with a versatile 40/20/40 split, allow for easy reconfiguration depending on your needs. Whether you need to seat three people comfortably or create extra legroom for one lucky passenger, the Carnival accommodates all with its sliding seat system. The third-row seating is incredibly comfortable and folds flat when not in use, maximizing cargo space.

Speaking of space, the Carnival offers up to 40 cubic feet behind the third row—impressive by SUV standards. Fold the seats down, and you get a cavernous 87 cubic feet, perfect for hauling everything from luggage to furniture. Whether you're headed out on a family vacation or need to transport larger items, the Carnival delivers.

A Family-Friendly Interior Packed with Tech

Kia has also updated the interior with the latest tech and comfort features. The cabin now boasts a cleaner dash design, making controls easier to find and use. The infotainment system is faster and more responsive, offering seamless integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Plus, the dual sunroof option enhances the overall experience by flooding the cabin with natural light, making long trips more enjoyable.

Families will appreciate the Carnival’s comfort and convenience. The seats are cushy and spacious, especially in the second row, which is ideal for long drives. Kia has also reduced the use of piano-black plastic, addressing previous concerns and creating a more refined, smudge-resistant cabin. Although there are some minor design quirks, such as the climate control system's layout, the Carnival’s interior is still one of the most family-friendly in the segment.

Driving the Carnival Hybrid: Smooth, Efficient, and Fun

Behind the wheel, the 2025 Carnival Hybrid offers an exceptionally smooth and responsive driving experience. Powered by a new 1.6-liter hybrid engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, it delivers 242 horsepower—plenty of power to handle all your family adventures with ease. Despite the more efficient hybrid engine, the Carnival remains impressively agile, offering precise steering and minimal body roll. 

Whether you're maneuvering through city streets or cruising effortlessly on the highway, the Carnival Hybrid makes every drive a surprisingly fun and enjoyable experience. 

One of the standout features of the hybrid version is its impressive efficiency. Kia estimates up to 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, making the Carnival Hybrid an excellent choice for those seeking great fuel economy. Its efficiency is particularly remarkable given its size and versatility, offering an outstanding balance of performance and economy. 

The Verdict

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid is a triumph in its segment, offering an unbeatable combination of style, functionality, and advanced features. Whether you’re looking for a family vehicle that can handle the daily grind or a road-trip companion that offers both comfort and efficiency, the Carnival checks all the boxes. With its sleek new design, spacious interior, and hybrid powertrain, the 2025 Carnival Hybrid is a top choice for families seeking a versatile, tech-forward ride.

Versatility Meets Efficiency – Test Drive the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid at Jim Butler Kia! Whether it’s family road trips or daily errands, the Carnival Hybrid is ready to impress. Visit us today for a hands-on experience you won’t want to miss!


Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Smarter, Safer, Stronger: 8 New Perks in the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid

2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid

Kia has taken the impressive Sportage Hybrid to the next level with exciting updates for the 2026 model year. Packed with new features and enhancements, the latest Sportage Hybrid is designed to deliver improved performance, enhanced comfort, and greater convenience. Here are eight standout additions that Jim Butler Kia of St Louis buyers are sure to appreciate:

1. New Sportage Hybrid S & X-Line Trims

Kia is expanding the Sportage Hybrid lineup with two new trims: the sleek S and the rugged X-Line. The S trim brings a bold look with dark alloy wheels, gloss black accents, and essential comfort features like heated front seats and a power driver’s seat. 

Meanwhile, the adventure-ready X-Line trim adds a more aggressive aesthetic with gloss black grille, bumper, and badging, plus a smart power liftgate and 19-inch black alloy wheels. These new trims provide more choices for drivers seeking style or off-road capability.

2. Enhanced Turbo Hybrid Powertrain

The 2026 Sportage Hybrid gets a slight power boost thanks to an improved 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor. Together, they produce 231 horsepower—a modest increase that enhances acceleration and responsiveness without compromising fuel efficiency.

3. Upgraded Digital & Connectivity Features

The 2026 Sportage Hybrid now includes Kia's advanced Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) system, featuring a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard, making phone connectivity simpler than ever. In higher trims like the SX-Prestige, added features such as Wi-Fi, voice recognition, and over-the-air (OTA) updates further improve the user experience.

4. Head-Up Display (HUD)

For added convenience and safety, a 10-inch Head-Up Display is now available, projecting vital driving information like navigation prompts and speed directly onto the windshield. This feature allows drivers to stay informed without taking their eyes off the road.

5. New Terrain Mode for AWD Models

All AWD-equipped trims now include a versatile Terrain Mode, offering Snow, Mud, and Sand settings to enhance traction and stability in challenging conditions. Whether you're navigating icy roads or muddy trails, this system optimizes the Sportage Hybrid's performance.

6. Digital Key Technology

Select trims, like the SX-Prestige, now feature Kia's Digital Key, allowing drivers to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle using a compatible smartphone or smartwatch. This convenient addition makes carrying a physical key optional and simplifies access when hands are full.

7. Improved Interior Comfort

The 2026 Sportage Hybrid introduces thoughtful updates to its interior, including tread pattern stitching and exclusive synthetic leather seats in the X-Line trim. Features like power-folding mirrors with a memory function and heated rear seats add even more comfort, especially for those chilly winter mornings.

8. Advanced Safety Features

The 2026 Sportage Hybrid includes upgraded Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Direct Oncoming Detection for added protection. The new Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) system now features lane change assist, and parking is easier with the available Front/Side/Rear Parking Distance Warning system. These additions improve safety and boost driver confidence, particularly in urban and high-traffic settings.

More Comfort, More Capability: Kia’s Hybrid SUV Levels Up

With these exciting upgrades, the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid is more versatile, powerful, and tech-savvy than ever. From new trims and off-road capability to enhance comfort and safety features, Kia has refined the Sportage Hybrid to meet the needs of modern drivers. With its combination of practicality, efficiency, and innovation, the 2026 Sportage Hybrid is sure to turn heads when it arrives in showrooms.

Don’t just take our word for it — experience the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid for yourself. With its enhanced power, upgraded tech, and adventure-ready features, this SUV is built to impress. Stop by for a test drive and see firsthand how the Sportage Hybrid can elevate your daily drives and weekend getaways alike. The road is calling — are you ready to answer?