Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Adventure Ready. Luxury Loaded. Family Approved. The 2027 Kia Telluride Is the Total Package.

2027 Kia Telluride

When a vehicle earns the kind of reputation the Kia Telluride built over its first generation, the challenge of following it up is enormous. The original Telluride won awards, developed a fiercely loyal ownership community, and consistently demonstrated that luxury-level comfort and family-friendly practicality could exist in the same vehicle without requiring a luxury-brand price tag here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis.

For 2027, Kia chose not to simply update what was already working. Instead, the team went back to the drawing board, rethought everything from the ground up, and delivered a second-generation Telluride that is bigger, more capable, more refined, and more loaded with technology than anything that came before it. The result is one of the most compelling three-row SUVs ever offered at any price point.

An Exterior That Commands the Road Before It Even Moves

The 2027 Telluride arrives wearing a design that is immediately more substantial and more purposeful than the outgoing model. The front end makes a confident first impression with a bold upright stance, a massive black grille, and vertical LED lighting elements that give the truck a modern, premium identity day or night. The X-Pro trim adds bright orange front and rear recovery hooks that signal genuine adventure capability rather than just off-road aesthetics.

Along the sides, flush door handles, black roof rails, black lower body cladding, and 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires complete a profile that reads as both rugged and refined simultaneously. The squared-off silhouette gives the Telluride a more premium presence than many crossovers in its class, and the clean tailgate and vertical taillights around back tie the whole look together with a confident, cohesive finish.

The available Terrain Brown Matte paint is particularly stunning in person, delivering a rugged upscale appearance that stands apart from anything else currently offered in the midsize SUV segment.

A Powertrain That Delivers More Than the Numbers Suggest

Under the hood, the 2027 Telluride runs a new turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 274 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. What makes this powertrain impressive in practice is how it delivers its power. The torque arrives early and builds smoothly, making everyday driving situations like merging onto a highway, accelerating through an intersection, or passing slower traffic feel effortless and confidence-inspiring.

The X-Pro package elevates the capability story considerably beyond the powertrain itself. An electronic limited-slip rear differential, purpose-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, a standard tow hitch, and 9.1 inches of ground clearance combine to create an SUV that is genuinely prepared for destinations beyond the pavement. With 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, the Telluride X-Pro is equally at home pulling a boat to the lake, hauling a camper to the mountains, or towing a utility trailer across town.

A Cabin That Redefines What a Family SUV Interior Can Be

Opening the door on the 2027 Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige reveals an interior that immediately communicates a level of thought and quality that exceeds what most buyers expect at this price point. The dashboard layout is clean, horizontal, and genuinely functional, anchored by dual 12.3-inch displays that handle instrumentation and infotainment with crisp graphics and fast, intuitive menus.

The SX-Prestige trim brings a long list of features that feel more at home in a dedicated luxury vehicle than a family SUV. A Head-Up Display projects key information directly into the driver's line of sight. A Harman Kardon premium audio system fills the cabin with exceptional sound quality. The Ergo Motion driver's seat provides heating, ventilation, and massage functions that transform long drives into something genuinely restorative.

Heated and ventilated second-row captain's chairs ensure that rear passengers enjoy the same level of comfort as the people up front. Dual sunroofs, a Digital Rearview Mirror, a smart power liftgate, a heated steering wheel, dual wireless charging pads, and a Digital Key round out a feature set that covers every comfort and convenience base thoroughly.

Three Rows of Genuine Comfort for Every Passenger

One of the areas where the 2027 Telluride genuinely separates itself from the competition is in the quality of its passenger accommodations across all three rows. The second-row captain's chairs are wide, well-cushioned, and individually adjustable, with their own climate controls, charging ports, and storage compartments that make the middle of the cabin feel like a premium destination rather than an afterthought.

Access to the third row through the center pass-through is smooth and easy. The third row itself is where the Telluride continues to earn its reputation as the benchmark of the segment. Adults fit comfortably back there, with enough headroom and legroom to make longer journeys genuinely manageable.

Visibility from the third row is excellent, and the seat design ensures that passengers of all sizes feel accommodated rather than tolerated. This is something the midsize SUV segment has historically struggled to deliver, and the Telluride continues to do it better than virtually anyone else.

Cargo Space and Utility That Work as Hard as the Family Does

Behind the third row, the 2027 Telluride provides 22.3 cubic feet of cargo space, a number that handles the weekly grocery run, sports equipment, and travel bags without requiring any creative packing strategy. Folding the third row expands that to 48.7 cubic feet, and with both rear rows folded flat, the total cargo volume reaches an impressive 89.3 cubic feet that turns the Telluride into a genuinely capable hauler for larger loads and longer adventures.

The cargo area itself reflects the same attention to real-world usability found throughout the rest of the vehicle. Conveniently placed third-row seat fold controls, tie-down points, side storage compartments, a household-style 110-volt power outlet, and a flat load floor all combine to create a cargo space that works the way owners actually need it to.

And in a detail that is increasingly rare across the industry, Kia includes a full compact spare tire rather than an inflator kit, a decision that provides genuine peace of mind for families who cover long distances or travel in areas where roadside assistance may not be immediately available.

Safety Technology That Watches Out for the Whole Family

The 2027 Telluride arrives with one of the most comprehensive standard safety suites in its class. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Highway Driving Assist, Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control, Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, and a Surround View Monitor work together to create an industry-leading safety net.

Small touches throughout the vehicle add to the overall sense of confidence and awareness behind the wheel. The seamless remote start system activates with the key fob and recognizes when the key is on the driver's person, bringing the vehicle to life automatically the moment they sit down. A forward traffic alert gently notifies the driver when traffic ahead begins moving, the kind of low-key, practical feature that makes a meaningful difference in the flow of a busy day.

The Telluride Experience: Ready to Impress From the First Drive

On the road, the 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige delivers a driving experience that is remarkably composed and refined for an SUV equipped with all-terrain tires and genuine off-road hardware. The suspension absorbs road imperfections with ease, the turbocharged engine provides smooth and responsive power delivery in every situation, and the cabin stays impressively quiet even at highway speeds.

Steering is natural and communicative, visibility from the driver's seat is excellent thanks to the upright seating position and generous glass area, and the overall sense of refinement and capability makes every drive feel like exactly the right choice for the occasion.

Whether the destination is the school pickup line, a weekend campsite, a highway road trip, or a trail that requires every inch of that 9.1-inch ground clearance, the 2027 Telluride approaches it with the same calm, capable confidence.

A three-row SUV that delivers genuine luxury, real cargo capacity, and dependable performance without an inflated price tag is worth a closer look, not just a passing glance. Come in and see exactly what is included before assuming it costs more than it does. The Telluride tends to surprise people in the best way!

Wednesday, June 24, 2026

All the Range. None of the Premium Price Tag. The Kia EV3 Just Won the EV Value War

2027 Kia EV3

There is a moment when a car just clicks, and the
2027 Kia EV3 tends to create that moment fast. It brings together the kind of range that eliminates range anxiety, technology that feels genuinely modern, and a design that looks anything but entry-level. For drivers exploring EVs for the first time and those looking to upgrade, the EV3 is a delightfully easy vehicle to fall for here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis.

A Fresh Face With Serious Street Presence

Kia has always had a talent for design, and the EV3 carries that tradition forward with confidence. The exterior takes clear inspiration from the larger EV9, translating its bold and sophisticated design language into a smaller, more nimble form. Sharp front-end styling, angular LED daytime running lights, and distinctively styled wheels give the EV3 an athletic presence that stands apart from anything else in the subcompact segment.

The rear of the vehicle continues Kia's design story with S-shaped LED taillights and a sculpted roof spoiler that ties the whole look together. Black roof pillars and body cladding add a layer of visual drama, while the aerodynamically refined body helps the EV3 slice through the air with impressive efficiency. For buyers who want to make a statement without sacrificing practicality, the EV3 delivers on both fronts beautifully.

Five trim levels are available, including Light, Wind, Land, GT-Line, and GT, giving customers the ability to choose exactly the level of style and performance that suits them best. The top-of-the-line GT trim adds distinctive green accents that give it a sporty, head-turning identity all its own.

Step Inside a Cabin Built for the Future

Open the door on the 2027 EV3 and the interior immediately communicates that this is something special. Nearly 30 inches of screen real estate greets driver and passenger alike, made up of dual 12.3-inch displays for the gauge cluster and infotainment system, plus a dedicated 5-inch climate touch display. The overall effect is one of a thoughtfully connected, technology-forward cabin that still manages to feel intuitive and welcoming.

Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity come standard, as does built-in navigation, keeping drivers informed and connected without the need to dig through complicated menus. Available surround-view and blind-spot-view monitors add extra awareness and confidence during everyday driving situations. The GT trim takes the interior experience even further with front bucket seats and striking neon-green accents that give the cabin a genuinely sporty personality.

Space is another area where the EV3 earns high marks. Full-size adults sit comfortably in both rows, making longer trips genuinely pleasant for everyone on board. Thoughtful design choices throughout the cabin maximize every inch of available room, resulting in an interior that feels far larger than the vehicle's subcompact footprint might suggest.

Range That Goes the Distance, Literally

One of the most compelling stories the 2027 EV3 tells is its range capability. With the available 81.4-kWh battery, the EV3 achieves an estimated range of up to 320 miles on a single charge, a number that puts serious distance between the EV3 and many of its competitors in this class. Even the standard 58.3-kWh battery delivers an estimated 220 miles of range, making it a strong everyday option for commuters and weekend travelers alike.

Two battery options combined with a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive give buyers the flexibility to configure the EV3 around their specific needs. AWD models are available in GT-Line and GT trims, delivering 261 and 288 horsepower respectively for drivers who want a more spirited driving experience. The GT AWD is expected to sprint to 60 mph in approximately six seconds, putting genuine performance credentials behind its striking appearance.

Charging Made Simple and Seriously Fast

The 2027 EV3 makes charging easier than ever by coming standard with a built-in NACS charging port, which provides direct access to the Tesla Supercharger network without the need for any adapter. Plug and Charge functionality is also included, meaning drivers can simply pull up to a compatible charger and let the vehicle handle the authentication automatically.

Charging speeds are genuinely competitive for this class. The standard battery replenishes from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 29 minutes, while the larger battery accomplishes the same task in just 31 minutes. For busy drivers who need to get back on the road quickly, those numbers represent a real convenience advantage.

The EV3 also introduces vehicle-to-load capability as a standard feature, allowing the vehicle to function as a portable power source for external devices. Whether powering tools at a job site, keeping devices charged at a campground, or handling a home power need during an outage, the EV3 brings a level of versatility that goes well beyond simple transportation.

Cargo Space That Works as Hard as Its Owner

Subcompact vehicles sometimes sacrifice practicality in the name of size, but the EV3 refuses to follow that path. With the rear seats in use, the EV3 provides an estimated 26.1 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to an impressive 56.5 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded flat. Those are strong numbers for any vehicle in this segment, and they make the EV3 a genuinely capable hauler for groceries, gear, luggage, or anything else that needs to get from point A to point B.

A small front trunk, commonly known as a frunk, adds an additional storage compartment that comes in handy for keeping items secure and out of sight. Every available space in the EV3 has been considered and put to good use, reflecting Kia's commitment to making every inch count.

A Warranty That Backs Up Every Promise

Kia has long been recognized for offering one of the most comprehensive warranty packages in the automotive industry, and the EV3 benefits from that same commitment to long-term ownership confidence. Buyers can drive knowing that Kia stands behind the vehicle with industry-leading coverage that protects their investment well into the future.

The EV3 Is Ready. Are You?

The 2027 Kia EV3 represents a genuine leap forward for the subcompact electric SUV segment. With its striking design, spacious and tech-rich interior, class-leading range options, fast charging capability, and flexible powertrain lineup, the EV3 offers a level of value and capability that is hard to match at any size.

Going electric has never felt this good or this smart. The EV3 delivers the range, the technology, and the everyday practicality to make clean driving a genuine upgrade rather than a compromise.

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Every German Sedan Just Got a Letter From the Kia K5 GT. It Was Not Friendly.

2026 Kia K5

For years, drivers who wanted a sporty, well-equipped sedan with a refined driving experience felt like they had to reach deep into their budget and come back with a German badge. Audi and BMW built that expectation carefully, and for a long time, the premium sedan conversation began and ended with them.

The Kia K5 GT has something to say about that.

This is not a budget sedan making excuses for itself. This is a genuinely capable, thoroughly refined, and seriously quick sports sedan that happens to cost considerably less than the European competition. For drivers willing to look past the badge and focus on what actually matters behind the wheel, the K5 GT makes a compelling case that is very difficult to argue with here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis.

More Power Than the Germans Brought to the Fight

Start with the numbers that matter most to anyone who actually enjoys driving. The K5 GT's turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four produces 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, channeled through a smooth and responsive 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.

For context, the Audi A4 produces 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The BMW 330i delivers 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The K5 GT outpunches both of them in every meaningful output category, and it does it from a larger displacement turbocharged engine that delivers genuinely satisfying performance in everyday driving situations and weekend canyon runs alike.

The zero to sixty time? Right alongside the A4 and quicker than the 330i. The top speed? Higher than either of them. The K5 GT does not just keep pace with the German competition on paper. It leads it.

A Driving Experience That Earned Serious Respect

Numbers on a spec sheet only tell part of the story. What truly sets the K5 GT apart is how it translates those numbers into an actual driving experience. The suspension is tuned for genuine firmness without crossing into harshness, meaning body roll in corners is well controlled and the GT feels composed and confident on demanding roads without beating up passengers on the commute home.

The steering deserves particular attention. It delivers the kind of pinpoint accuracy that drivers associate with rear-wheel-drive German sports sedans, which is a remarkable achievement for a front-wheel-drive platform. Kia's engineers clearly prioritized driving feel when developing the GT, and that effort shows every single time the road gets interesting.

The 8-speed dual-clutch transmission shifts with the kind of smoothness and precision that rivals Audi's celebrated S Tronic system. Paddle shifters mounted on the flat-bottom GT steering wheel let drivers take direct control whenever the mood strikes, and the response is immediate and satisfying.

An Interior That Competes at a Higher Level

Slide into the K5 GT and the first impression is one of genuine quality. The GT embossed SynTex upholstery, flat-bottom leather-wrapped steering wheel, and available 12.3-inch curved instrument display give the cabin a premium feel that punches well above the K5's segment positioning.

A 10-way power adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support keeps the driver comfortable on long hauls. Heated front seats come standard, with ventilated front seats available for warmer climates. Rear passengers benefit from dedicated climate vents, a feature that the K5 GT shares only with the top trim in the lineup and one that many competitors in this price range simply do not offer.

For drivers who want a truly immersive audio experience, an available Bose 12-speaker sound system transforms every drive into something considerably more enjoyable. Quad-tip dual exhaust and 19-inch gloss black alloy wheels make sure the K5 GT looks every bit as serious from the outside as it feels from behind the wheel.

The Cost of Ownership Changes the Entire Conversation

Purchase price is only the beginning of the financial story. What a vehicle costs to own over time matters just as much, and this is where the K5 GT's advantage over the German competition becomes genuinely significant.

Independent research shows the K5 GT carries maintenance and repair costs over a ten-year period that come in below the industry average for popular sedans in its class. The probability of needing a major repair within that same timeframe is lower than comparable vehicles in the segment. For drivers who put real miles on their vehicles and want reliability without anxiety, those numbers matter enormously.

Compare that to the ten-year maintenance picture for the Audi A4, which runs significantly higher, and the BMW 3 Series, which still runs higher by a considerable margin. The performance gap between these vehicles at the track may be minimal. The cost gap in the service bay is anything but.

Depreciation Tells an Equally Compelling Story

Resale value is a factor that every smart car buyer considers, and here again the K5 GT holds its own remarkably well against the European competition. Independent depreciation analysis shows the K5 loses less of its value over the first five years of ownership than the Audi A4, and considerably less than the BMW 3 Series.

For a vehicle that already costs less to purchase, holding its value better than pricier alternatives is the kind of financial advantage that compounds over time and makes the overall ownership proposition even more attractive.

The K5 GT Is Built for Real Drivers Living Real Lives

J.D. Power awarded the 2026 K5 an initial quality and reliability score that reflects the genuine care and engineering precision Kia has brought to this platform. RepairPal gives the Kia brand an impressive reliability rating that consistently surprises drivers who last formed an opinion about Kia many years ago. That reputation has changed substantially, and the K5 GT is one of the clearest examples of how far the brand has come.

This is a sedan built for drivers who commute during the week and want something genuinely entertaining on the weekend. It delivers both without compromise and without the premium pricing that German alternatives demand.

The Question Is No Longer Whether the K5 GT Can Compete

It already has. It already does. The Kia K5 GT offers more power, lower ownership costs, stronger value retention, and a driving experience that stands comfortably alongside vehicles costing significantly more. The German sedans set a high standard for what a sporty, refined, well-equipped sedan should feel like. The K5 GT met that standard and then quietly raised it.

The Best Kept Secret in the Sedan Market Is Sitting Right Here on Our Lot.

Why pay significantly more for a German badge when the 2026 Kia K5 GT delivers more power, lower ownership costs, and a driving experience that holds its own against vehicles costing considerably more? Smart shoppers have already figured this out. Come see the K5 GT today and keep more of your hard-earned money where it belongs!

Tuesday, June 9, 2026

Big Family. Small Fuel Bills. The 2026 Kia Sorento PHEV Delivers Both.

2026 Kia Sorento PHEV

Finding a three-row SUV that genuinely delivers on comfort, technology, and fuel efficiency all at once is no small feat. The 2026 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid does exactly that, and it does so with a level of refinement and practicality that makes it one of the most compelling family vehicles on the road today. Whether the daily routine involves school drop-offs, weekend adventures, or the occasional longer road trip, the Sorento PHEV is engineered to handle every scenario with confidence and ease.

What truly sets this vehicle apart in a crowded segment is its ability to operate on electricity alone for up to 31 miles. For families whose daily driving stays within that range, the fuel savings begin immediately and add up quickly over time. And when longer journeys do come along, the Sorento PHEV transitions seamlessly into hybrid mode, continuing to deliver outstanding efficiency without skipping a beat here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis.

Fresh Updates Make a Great SUV Even Better for 2026

Kia has not rested on its laurels with the 2026 model year. The top SX Prestige trim now comes standard with the X-Line appearance package, bringing blacked-out exterior trim and sharp black wheels that give the vehicle a bold, sophisticated look straight from the factory. Every all-wheel-drive model also gains a new Terrain drive mode, adding an extra layer of capability and confidence for drivers who occasionally venture off the beaten path.

A new dual-compatible charging cable that supports both Level 1 and Level 2 charging is now included as standard equipment, making the plug-in ownership experience more convenient from day one. These updates reflect Kia's ongoing commitment to improving the Sorento PHEV ownership experience in ways that matter to real families living real lives.

Power and Performance That Inspires Confidence on Every Road

Under the hood, the 2026 Sorento PHEV pairs a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with two electric motors, producing a combined output of 261 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. All that power flows through a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system, giving the vehicle sure-footed capability in all weather and road conditions.

Acceleration from a standstill to highway speed is responsive and confidence-inspiring, making merging and passing feel effortless in everyday driving situations. In full electric mode, the Sorento PHEV moves quietly and smoothly, delivering a refined driving experience that feels composed and capable whether navigating city streets or cruising at highway speeds. Around town, the vehicle feels lively and eager, while longer highway stretches reward drivers with a relaxed, comfortable ride quality that makes the miles disappear.

Efficiency Numbers That Make a Real Difference at the Pump

The Sorento PHEV delivers up to 31 miles of all-electric range, which covers the daily driving needs of a large portion of American families without using a single drop of gasoline. When the battery is running low, the combined gas-electric powertrain takes over and continues to deliver strong fuel economy in combined city and highway driving, keeping trips to the pump far less frequent than a traditional SUV would require.

For families who want to maximize efficiency on longer trips, the Sorento PHEV delivers impressive total range on a full battery and a full tank of gas, giving drivers the peace of mind to tackle extended journeys without range anxiety. The all-wheel-drive system is standard across all PHEV trims, meaning buyers never have to sacrifice traction or capability to get the most efficient configuration.

A Cabin Designed Around the People Who Matter Most

Step inside the 2026 Sorento PHEV and the quality of the interior makes an immediate impression. Materials are thoughtfully chosen and well-executed throughout, with the EX trim offering premium simulated leather seating surfaces that feel genuinely upscale. The SX Prestige trim steps things up further with real leather upholstery, elevating the interior experience to a level that competes with significantly more expensive vehicles.

The centerpiece of the cabin is a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen that has earned consistent praise for its sharp graphics, intuitive layout, and modern feature set. The SX Prestige goes further with a stunning curved dual-screen setup, combining the 12.3-inch infotainment display with a matching 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster in one seamless unit. Kia's infotainment system continues to be recognized as one of the best in the industry, and the Sorento PHEV is a showcase for everything it can do.

Second-row seating now includes the option of a full bench, bringing total passenger capacity to seven people, making the Sorento PHEV one of the most accommodating plug-in hybrid SUVs available today. Optional captain's chairs in the second row provide a more premium experience for passengers and also make third-row access noticeably easier.

Cargo flexibility is equally impressive, with multiple configurations offering anywhere from a practical everyday load space behind the third row all the way to a generous, cavernous area when the rear rows are folded flat.

Technology and Features That Simplify Family Life

The 2026 Sorento PHEV is loaded with thoughtful technology features that solve real problems for busy families. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on both trims, keeping phones connected without the clutter of cables.

Wireless charging keeps devices topped up throughout the drive. The Smart Power Tailgate allows the rear liftgate to open automatically when the key fob is detected nearby, a feature that proves its value every single time arms are full of groceries or gear.

Smart Cruise Control uses machine learning to adapt to individual driving styles, making long highway drives feel natural and relaxed. The SX Prestige adds Highway Driving Assist 2, which actively supports lane centering and safe following distance on freeway stretches, along with a Blind-Spot View Monitor that displays live video of adjacent lanes for an added layer of situational awareness.

Safety and Warranty Coverage That Protects the Whole Family

The IIHS has recognized the Kia Sorento with a Top Safety Pick designation, which reflects the comprehensive standard safety suite that comes on every model. Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and junction turning assistance are all included as standard equipment, ensuring that every Sorento PHEV on the road is as well-protected as possible.

Backing all of it up is one of the best warranties in the automotive industry. Kia covers the Sorento PHEV with a five-year, 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty that includes roadside assistance, and a powertrain warranty that extends to ten years or 100,000 miles. For families making a significant investment in their next vehicle, that level of coverage delivers genuine peace of mind that lasts for years after the purchase.

The 2026 Kia Sorento PHEV is built for the life that is just getting started. Room for the whole family, technology that keeps everyone connected, and efficiency that makes every dollar go further!