Tellu-Ranked #1: Kia’s SUV Earns the Throne in Quality Study

Here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, we’re excited to share some big news: the 2025 Kia Telluride has been named the #1 Upper Midsize SUV in the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS). This means drivers are reporting fewer problems in the first 90 days of ownership than with any other vehicle in its class—something that speaks volumes about Kia’s ongoing commitment to quality.

Space, Style, and Sophistication

Built in West Point, Georgia, the Telluride continues to impress with its spacious, upscale interior, cutting-edge tech, and head-turning design. This recognition from J.D. Power comes at a time when the Telluride’s popularity continues to soar—sales are up nearly 17% over last year, and Kia’s overall momentum is just as strong, with a more than 10% increase across the lineup.

The IQS report gathered insights from nearly 93,000 real vehicle owners, rating everything from driving comfort to engine performance and any issues they experienced. The Telluride’s strong showing in this study isn’t just a win for Kia—it’s a win for families, commuters, and anyone who wants an SUV that delivers on style, substance, and reliability.

Award-Winning Quality You Can Feel Behind the Wheel

It’s one thing to read about accolades, but it’s another to feel them every time you drive. The 2025 Kia Telluride earning the top spot in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study is no fluke—it’s a reflection of real-world satisfaction from thousands of drivers just like you. 

This SUV has continued to impress since day one, and with every mile, it proves why it’s the top-rated three-row midsize SUV in America. From its smooth ride to its intuitive tech, the Telluride goes beyond expectations—and that’s exactly what owners across the country are saying.

Room for Everyone, Luxury for All

In a segment where many promise comfort, the Telluride actually delivers. With adult-friendly seating in all three rows, families no longer have to draw straws for who gets stuck in the back. Premium materials, thoughtful layout, and high-end options—like Nappa leather, dual sunroofs, and a Harman/Kardon audio system—bring a touch of luxury without the luxury price. 

Whether you’re commuting through St. Louis or heading out for a cross-country road trip, the Telluride creates an experience that feels refined, capable, and remarkably comfortable. Every detail is designed with real-life usability in mind, making everyday errands and epic adventures equally enjoyable.

More Than Just a Pretty Face

It’s easy to be wowed by the Telluride’s bold exterior, but this SUV backs up its style with serious substance. Every model comes equipped with a 291-horsepower V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers power with poise. Towing up to 5,500 pounds and offering off-road-ready trims like the X-Pro, the Telluride adapts to any lifestyle—whether you're hitching up a trailer or venturing off the beaten path.

Why Owners Keep Choosing Telluride

The numbers speak for themselves. With Telluride sales climbing nearly 17% year over year, more and more drivers are turning to Kia’s flagship SUV for its unmatched combination of space, safety, and sophistication. And thanks to its segment-leading warranty, advanced safety features, and seamless infotainment system, it’s clear the Telluride isn’t just winning awards—it’s winning long-term trust.

A True Chameleon on Four Wheels

What sets the 2025 Kia Telluride apart is its remarkable versatility. It’s equally at home navigating busy city streets as it is winding through scenic backroads or tackling weekend getaways. With multiple trims that range from refined and family-focused to rugged and adventure-ready, there’s a Telluride for every lifestyle. 

Whether you're dressing it up with chrome accents and ventilated seats or choosing a more outdoorsy X-Line or X-Pro variant with all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance, the Telluride proves that practicality and personality can go hand in hand.

See Why Everyone’s Talking About Telluride

Sure, the trophies look good, but the Telluride feels even better in motion. With its smooth ride, premium features, and bold performance, it’s clear why it leads the pack. Don’t take our word for it—test drive the 2025 Kia Telluride at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis and find out what makes it the smartest SUV choice on the road today.

Plugged and Persuasive: Kia EV4 Makes a Bold Play for the Hearts of Tesla Devotees

Kia has already carved out a name for itself in the electric SUV world with models like the EV6 and EV9. Now, the brand is aiming to electrify the smaller end of the spectrum with the all-new 2026 Kia EV4—a sleek and unconventional electric sedan poised to compete directly with the Tesla Model 3. While the future of the smaller EV3 in the U.S. is still uncertain, the EV4 looks ready to make a serious impression when it hits the lot here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis. 

Designed to Disrupt the Status Quo

The EV4 arrives with standout styling and a distinct personality that sets it apart in a market full of minimalist designs. Created as a direct response to today’s most popular EV sedans, it blends smart engineering with head-turning good looks. It’s a fresh take that shows Kia’s design team isn't afraid to push boundaries in both form and function.

Pricing Unknown, But Stakes Are High

While official pricing for the Kia EV4 hasn’t been announced yet, its U.S. debut is set for early 2026, and anticipation is already building. Given Kia’s proven track record of offering exceptional value in the electric vehicle space, the EV4 is expected to follow suit. Positioned to compete in the heart of the electric sedan market, it’s shaping up to be a smart, compelling choice for drivers seeking innovation and style without compromise.

What Sets It Apart Mechanically

The Kia EV4 is designed with everyday practicality and smart efficiency in mind. Built on a 400-volt architecture, it delivers quick and convenient charging, reaching 80% in just about 30 minutes with a DC fast charger. Plus, with its integrated NACS charging port, the EV4 is already set up for seamless use with Tesla’s expansive Supercharger network.

Buyers will have two battery options to choose from: a standard 58.3-kWh pack and a larger 81.4-kWh long-range version. With an estimated range of up to 335 miles, the EV4 stands strong among today’s most capable electric sedans, offering flexibility for both daily drives and weekend getaways.

Front-Wheel Drive Comes First

When the EV4 first launches, it will come with a single motor powering the front wheels. All-wheel drive is expected to follow in later versions. The motor delivers 201 horsepower, which is sufficient for everyday driving, though performance-minded shoppers may want to wait for the AWD variant. During testing in South Korea, the front-wheel setup showed a bit of torque steer under hard acceleration—something likely to be refined in the U.S.-tuned version.

Ride quality leans soft, making for a smooth and calm commute, though there’s noticeable lift and dive under sudden throttle or braking. That will likely be fine-tuned before the car arrives stateside, as Kia tends to adjust suspension setups to match regional driving preferences.

A Surprisingly Plush and Spacious Interior

The 2026 Kia EV4 shines once inside. Despite being classified as a compact sedan, the interior space feels much larger than expected, especially in the rear. Passengers will find excellent legroom, and the roofline design avoids the typical coupe-like slope that robs taller riders of headspace in competitors like the Model 3 or Polestar 2. Back seat comfort is a clear win here.

Kia’s creative use of materials adds a splash of character. The example shown during testing featured a striking cream and dark brown interior theme that looked upscale and inviting. Details like soft-touch surfaces, clever storage, and the same ultra-comfy headrests from the EV9 show Kia’s attention to comfort carries over, even in its more budget-conscious offerings.

Tech That Keeps You Connected

Technology in the EV4 continues Kia’s streak of user-friendly, feature-rich infotainment systems. A wide, side-by-side digital display layout is familiar from other Kia models, offering quick access to navigation, media, and vehicle data. Apple CarPlay connects seamlessly, and transitions between smartphone apps and native systems are smooth and intuitive.

One-pedal driving is also available with three levels of regenerative braking to choose from—perfect for tailoring the EV4’s driving feel to your preferences. Among mainstream EVs, Kia still sets the bar when it comes to how well this feature works.

Will the EV4 Catch On?

The EV4 isn’t built to blow past high-performance rivals in 0–60 times or cornering prowess—but that’s not the mission here. Instead, it focuses on nailing the fundamentals: comfort, range, smart design, and everyday ease of use. As an electric sedan designed for real-world driving, it checks the right boxes.

It’s not just about the numbers—it’s about how the EV4 drives. Kia’s latest electric sedan is ready to shake up the market, and it’s time to see if it lives up to the hype. Come take the wheel and feel the difference.

2026 Kia Seltos: Proof That Practical Can Still Be Packed with Personality

At Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis,  we’re always excited to showcase vehicles that check all the right boxes—and the 2026 Kia Seltos is one of them. This subcompact SUV isn’t trying to be flashy or over-the-top. Instead, it focuses on what matters most: smart design, interior space, solid efficiency, and just the right amount of fun behind the wheel.

From its sharp exterior lines to its impressively roomy cabin, the Seltos makes a strong case for anyone shopping in this competitive segment. Even the base model comes loaded with useful features, and for those looking for a little extra excitement, we recommend exploring the available turbocharged engine that delivers 195 horsepower. All-wheel drive is also available, giving you more control when Missouri roads turn slick.

Trim Levels: Find the Right Seltos for Your Lifestyle

The 2026 Kia Seltos offers a well-rounded lineup of trims, each tailored to meet different needs and preferences. Whether you're after the essentials, extra comfort, or a touch of performance, there’s a Seltos that fits.

• LX – A solid entry-level option with must-have features and Kia's signature reliability.

• S – Adds style-forward touches and additional technology for an upgraded everyday drive.

• EX (Our Recommended Pick) – Strikes a great balance between premium features and practicality. Expect comforts like a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and wireless charging.

• X-Line – Designed with a rugged aesthetic and more advanced tech, perfect for drivers who want a bold look and added capability.

• SX – The top-tier trim with nearly every available feature, including upgraded infotainment, interior lighting, and the more powerful turbocharged engine standard.

No matter which Seltos trim you choose, you’re getting a stylish, versatile SUV packed with value and backed by Kia’s outstanding warranty coverage. 

We highly recommend the EX trim. It offers a fantastic mix of premium features like a 10-way power driver’s seat, faux-leather seating, heated front seats, a power liftgate (with AWD), a wireless charging pad, and a high-end dual-screen infotainment system. If performance is a priority, both the X-Line and SX trims include the peppy turbo engine as standard.

Engine Options and Driving Experience

Under the hood, the Seltos offers two engine choices:

• 2.0L 4-cylinder (146 hp) with a smooth CVT

• 1.6L Turbocharged 4-cylinder (195 hp) with an 8-speed automatic

The turbo setup delivers a noticeably more spirited drive and is definitely worth considering if you want more zip in your commute. In testing, the turbocharged model hit 60 mph in just 6.9 seconds, which is quick for this class.

Fuel Efficiency

While official 2026 EPA numbers aren’t out yet, the previous year’s model gives us a good idea of what to expect:

• 2.0L FWD – ~28 city / 34 highway / 31 combined MPG

• 2.0L AWD – ~27 / 31 / 29 MPG

• 1.6L Turbo AWD – ~24 / 27 / 25 MPG

In real-world testing, the turbo model even exceeded expectations, managing 32 MPG on the highway.

Interior & Cargo Space

Inside, the Seltos feels larger than you'd expect. The materials and layout make it feel like it belongs in a higher price bracket—especially in upper trims. Ambient lighting (standard on the SX) adds a stylish touch and can even sync with your music.

Storage is a strong point, too. In our cargo tests, the Seltos fit eight carry-on bags with the rear seats up and twenty when the seats were folded down.

Technology & Connectivity

The Seltos offers a modern, tech-forward dashboard. Higher trims feature a panoramic glass panel with a digital gauge cluster and a central touchscreen infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all models. SiriusXM radio and an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot are available upgrades.

Safety Comes Standard

Every 2026 Seltos includes key safety features, with optional upgrades for even more peace of mind:

• Standard: Forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control

• Available: Highway driving assist and enhanced semi-autonomous features

Crash test results from the NHTSA and IIHS are expected to mirror previous strong showings.

Kia’s Industry-Leading Warranty

Kia continues to offer the best warranty coverage in the business:

• 5-year / 60,000-mile basic warranty

• 10-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty

That kind of long-term coverage is rare and gives you real peace of mind for years to come.

Got places to go? The 2026 Kia Seltos is built for drivers who live for the weekend—and every day in between. With available AWD, a zippy turbo engine, and surprising cargo space, it’s the perfect mix of fun and function. Swing by Jim Butler Kia and take it for a spin. Your next adventure might start right here.