Snow Ready & Sleek: 2024 Kia Sportage Navigates Chilly Conditions W/Unbeatable Comfort

The official arrival of the 2024 models here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis always makes this time of year so special: after all the amazing food, décor, and family of the season, we get to closely observe torque and horsepower specs along with new features we all love. The 2024 Kia Sportage saw upgrades that were fiercely stanced as a hockey team on the winter ice staring down their opponent. The Toyota RAV4 is going to be quaking in its snow boots heavily, as this crossover is well-equipped for busy students, families, and entrepreneurs. 

There are now brand-new LED projector headlights and a second row of seat-mounted airbags to improve safety, with the power source as the 2.5-liter gas direct injection inline 4-cylinder. Hybrid models come with a 1.6-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine that cranks out 177 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 44-kW electric motor unit. The combined total system power output is 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, boasting an estimated 34 miles of all-electric driving range with the battery at full capacity. 

The available 12.3-inch dual panoramic displays with navigation offer over 24 inches combined display for everything from a spur-of-the-moment old-school Mario Kart session to navigation features and other vital details. The Autoblog staff were greatly impressed with its radical redesign that included much bigger dimensions, multiple hybrids, and top-notch technology, concluding that it’s a valiant and well-deserved segment leader. A detailed comparison test between it and the newly redesigned Honda CR-V hybrid deemed the Sportage as the smart choice, thanks to its distinctive style and excellent safety technology. 

Best-in-class cargo space is an asset that any busy family is going to hold quite near and dear on their “essentials” list, along with a vast back seat that is ready for the “delightful brick-and-mortar hauls of spring.” The current market has dictated the all-important price point as one of the most important features of any car, and this is where the Sportage has a viable upper hand. The interior offers up a sense of cool that the competing RAV4 or Forester can’t offer, with a choice of navy, red, and sage green interior.

The EX Hybrid also is eligible for the “New Year’s resolution” friendly upgrade of misty Gray or Triton Navy color combos, ranking Kia as a reigning champion when it comes to generous content on lower trim levels. Every powertrain option is eligible for the cabin’s swooping main attraction of a giant curved panel housing twin 12.3-inch displays that are politely shared by the enthralling and unique EV6. Also stuffed in the holiday stocking courtesy of the EV6 is the new row of touch-capacitive buttons offering accessible shortcuts for the infotainment menu and climate control.

This new interior is quite different from Kia’s usual look which comes off initially as even cleaner, with reviewers stating that they look better than eager models coming out of the gate from numerous competitors. The X-Pro trim adds a compelling step up in a major way with BF Goodrich all-terrain tires, 17-inch matte black wheels, and recalibrated drive mode settings for challenging reduced traction conditions. A few of our favorite extra available features include navigation, wireless device charging, a panoramic moonroof, synthetic leather upholstery, a Harman Kardon stereo, and the ingenious convenience of a hands-free power lift gate.

Future-Ready & Reliable: Kia Clinches 3 Top Honors in the 2024 Consumer Guide Best Buy Awards

As many awesome gifts are poised under the tree and New Year’s resolutions begin making their way through day planners, we are always thrilled with the sense of festivity in December! Kia America enjoyed the seasonal honors of taking home 3 2024 Consumer Guide Automotive Best Buy awards this month, solidifying our longstanding promise for segment-leading quality. The EV6, Telluride, and Soul models all took home this solid stamp of approval that dominates their respective segments. 

From very capable SUVs and EVs to the ever popular compact crossovers, the Jim Butler Kia lineup offers the quality and technology that the savvy customer is after. There has been much to enjoy about how successful the last decade has been, but Kia is now undergoing an even more intense transformation, and this recognition by the consumer guide automotive Best Buy awards is an excellent step towards authoritative leadership in mobility. The Kia Soul was recognized for its excellent amount of passenger room and sporty dynamics, while the EV6 your appreciation for its high performance blended with a sense of practicality.

The Kia Telluride took honors for its appealing existence as a very sporty yet practical mid-size SUV with an abundance of trim selections and extra option packages. The award-winning Consumer Guide Automotive’s editorial team has been cranking out this very valuable information since 1967, using a very rigorous evaluation process to single out the vehicles worthy of consumers’ hard-earned dollars. Editors closely scrutinized objectives such as features, price, overall performance, accommodations, fuel economy, long-term reliability, and resale value to provide their assessments.

Making the high-end of the final cut during these annual Best Buy Awards means excelling at every vehicle aspect. This results in the consumer being certain that they are going to have a memorable real-world driving experience, and builds the authority that consumers trust before making their decision. This year’s findings allow Kia’s product lineup to claim a viable option for nearly every consumer while staying very relevant in the most popular segments. 

The 2023 Kia EV6 was also praised by Autoblog for its “great range and rapid charging”, along with excellent technology features. It is a vehicle that certainly turns heads within an instant while delivering a dose of much-needed substance. The addition of the EV6 GT offers a thrilling 576-horsepower experience, effectively blasting up to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. From the very colorful lighting and futuristic dual displays, there’s nothing else that looks quite like this out there.

The 2023 Kia Soul redefines “fun to drive”, as it fulfills hatchback as well as compact SUV duties with a well-rounded touch. There’s over 62 feet of cargo space inside, along with the choice of four trims beginning with the LX and moving through the high-end and feature-rich EX. Navigation is also available, in this model comes standard with a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Uniquely entertaining and confident, the Soul keeps a watchful eye on its occupants with Kia Drive Wise’s advanced driver-assistance technologies.

The 2023 Kia Telluride is now one of Kia’s most popular and alluring models. It became Motor Trend’s SUV of the year for 2020 and received a significant update this year. There are brand-new rugged trim levels, more technology, and both an interior and exterior refresh to add to the SUV’s appeal. There are new wheel designs for every trim level, along with a restyled steering wheel and dash trim panels. It’s a vehicle that “feels every inch a premium product, with one of the most handsomely styled exteriors on the market. The X-Line trim offers increased ground clearance, along with off-road-ready improved approach and departure angles.

2024 Kia Telluride & EV9 Shine Bright on Car and Driver's 10Best Trucks List

It took nearly a hundred years for the internal combustion engine to change into the very spacious minivans of the 1980s! Passengers were happy here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis with the sense that they could now officially sprawl out and bring just a few monumental comforts of home such as books and study projects along. In barely ten years, EVS have become excellent at offering a space that is not just a means of accomplishing A to B. The EV9 is a 3-row SUV that is underpinned by the E-GMP platform, which is shared by the close sibling in the form of the Hyundai Ioniq 6. 

This meant that our hard-working engineers didn’t have to package the EV9 around the pressing need to make room for a combustion engine up front. It also allowed for the wheels to be pushed much further out, and the EV9’s characteristically out-front styling language has fantastically shown just how amazing and eye-catching the EVs of the future will be. An onboard 800-volt electrical architecture is the foundation for the modern miracle of ultra-fast DC charging, with the 99.8-kWh being the larger of the two battery pack choices.

The EV9 offers the option of all-wheel or rear-wheel drive, which we must admit that the “coming of the minivan” couldn’t even offer until its long-awaited second generation. The Car and Driver review staff were impressed with the 12.3-inch touchscreen’s easy-to-read and simple-to-operate demeanor, and space is incredibly generous for those counting the mile markers in the second row. The base-level rear-wheel drive EV9 Light cranks out 215 horsepower, with the all-wheel drive powertrain boasting the larger battery as standard. 

This setup allows for 370 horsepower, and up to 516 lb-ft of torque. Driving at a consistent 75-mph speed is quite telling when it comes to how range holds up, and the GT-line trim nailed down a satisfying 240 miles during this crew’s rigorous test. A 350kW DC fast-charger is where “something to write home about” truly originates regarding the future of efficiency. This allows for a battery to go from 10 to 90 percent in just 37 minutes, which equates to a much-needed lunch or extended stretch break.

The GT-Line crushes the 60-mph benchmark in just 4.5 seconds, with the EV9’s very compliant suspension rallying for the win over the 10Best testing loop’s most challenging intervals. Drivers concerned with the everyday task of shuttling to and from will most definitely find exhilaration in the EV9’s pioneering spirit. Thrilled to state that “The EV9’s moment is now”, the Car and Driver team agreed that this is an appealing choice for families ready to transition to electric, without having to compromise on a single crucial element. 

The 2024 Kia Telluride also made an appearance on the 10Best collection of well-performing royalty and was praised for being “gracefully and smartly designed.” Its naturally aspirated V6 and 8-speed automatic are so great together that you hardly notice them going about their day during a perfect pairing. Multiple Car and Driver writers and editors have chosen the Telluride to be the primary resident in their garage, which is as luxurious inside as many premium-priced competitors. Dutifully checking all the necessary boxes and alleviating any need for lofty claims or gimmicks, the Telluride stands apart this holiday season as a shining holiday star in a sea of unintentionally mundane!

Kia's EV9 Captures Tech-Savvy Attention and Reservations Nationwide

 

We were thrilled to watch our latest 3-wheel SUV gain numerous different types of positive attention over the past year here at Jim Butler Kia of Saint Louis. The brand-new and incredibly efficient EV9 has now officially already received full deposits from customers in each state. Kia’s website provides the space to reserve the EV9, where a holiday-ready gift packet is included, featuring the standout 3-year Kia maintenance plan, one-year subscription to digital services, and a portable charger.

As this news becomes public, we have another thrilling holiday milestone to celebrate along with the sights and sounds of the season: this was Kia's best November sales month with 16 consecutive years of steady growth. The groundbreaking and very high-tech EV9 will arrive shortly in showrooms, with a phenomenal growth strength expected well into the New Year. For pricing in general, the EV9’s strategy is a wakeup call to the industry as it provides a feasible and attractive option in the three-row electric SUV category.

The EV9’s AWD trim includes up to 280 miles of range and can be leased at reasonable & attainable monthly rates. At 197” long, the EV9 is slightly bigger than the heavily awarded and much-loved Telluride and includes some of the industry’s segment-leading SUV capabilities. You’ll be heartily showing up for work or play with over 5,000 lbs of towing, over 81 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row, and 7.8” of ground clearance. Inside resides Kia’s awesome next-gen ccNC infotainment system, with dual 12.3” screens and a 5” HVAC screen for all the pertinent operational details. 

The Electrek review crew claimed that this great new SUV has premium potential to be a full-on winter weather conqueror in every way for our brand, with a price that reasonably undercuts the fierce competition. The EV9 boasts a lower price than the Volvo EX90, Rivian R1s, and BMW iX. A few other well-known forums online praised the EV9 for its very upscale interior and lightning-fast charging capabilities. Head-turning style, very smart technology, and each last gift-wrapped detail a 3-row shopper would require are all traits that will allow it to bypass the vast entries in the rival club. 

Since you need to downsize to a smaller vehicle or spend much more on the alternatives currently on the market, the EV9 is one of the only choices out there, and thankfully it’s a spectacular one! It drives like a much smaller and lighter vehicle than it is, with a snugly tight turning circle that makes things a snap to maneuver and park. The Kia EV Forums crew tested the GT-line, which provided robust and very confident acceleration. Full one-pedal driving is available, and drivers can specifically adjust how much regenerative braking is adequate with the paddles directly behind the steering wheel. 

Combining the best aspects of the EV6 and the 3-row telluride, the 2024 EV9 is comfortable, spacious, and packed to the brim with great features. Its 800-volt architecture can charge from 10% to 80% in less than 25 minutes, making a great model to “soon populate the nation’s many busy school drop-off zones.” The midrange EV9 Wind trim is the first to offer all-wheel drive, and it provides quicker acceleration along with 270 miles of driving range on a full charge. The Land, Wind, and GT-Line trims are all equipped with a 99.8-kWh battery, along with two electric motors and all-wheel drive. The battery pack is covered with a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, ensuring that your new ownership experience will be memorable, capable, and trustworthy. 

Your Guide to the Noteworthy Upgrades in Kia's 2024 Lineup

The holiday season here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis offers an excellent opportunity to take a pause and reflect on how thankful we are for what we have while enjoying the many sights and sounds around us. Customers are eagerly wondering what the future has in store for our lineup, as the excitement of wrapping gifts and New Year's anticipation calls for a sneak peek at the dazzling SUVs coming soon! Here are some of the bough-and-holly rich details about what will be on tap for next year: 

The 2024 Kia Soul embodies a very affordable compact SUV, with the EX trim level gaining an available Designer package that offers 18-inch alloy wheels, cloth and faux-leather-trimmed seats, and the very cool Umber interior color scheme. All models with a Smart Key will now offer a sleep mode that will keep dangerous hackers from finding their way into the key’s frequency. The Motor Trend crew praised the incoming model for its “spacious cabin and very pleasant drive.”

The 2024 Kia Seltos enjoys its annual refresh this year, beginning with a larger grille on the front fascia, and slightly tweaked headlights. There is also the added convenience of an optional power liftgate, along with Fusion Black, Valais Green, and Pluton Blue joining the color lineup. The X-Line trim is primed and prepped to tackle the trail, featuring 18-inch tires, a gunmetal-finish front grille, black roof rack, gloss-black door accents, and unique X-line branding. 

The 2024 Kia Niro underwent a second-generation redesign last year. All trim levels of the Niro EV and standard hybrid except the LZ base model will now offer a standard dual-level cargo floor. This dynamic Kia offering has been praised for its handsome exterior, 3 excellent powertrains, and slightly larger size. The Edmunds.com review staff praised it for its “helpful driving aids, smooth ride quality, and excellent value for the money.”

The 2024 Kia Sportage now features LED projector headlights as standard, along with lifesaving second-row airbags directly integrated into the seats. Drivers are immediately sold on the Sportage’s eye-catching exterior, 3 great powertrains, and well-equipped cabin. Busy families love the spacious second row and the equipment offered with the X-Pro that helps tackle the rougher stuff. The Sportage makes an excellent first impression thanks to its snazzy design, very modern dashboard, and eye-catching demeanor. 

The 2024 Kia Sorento underwent plenty of changes for the year with a very rugged and boxy design. The X-Pro trim boasts a 4,000-lb towing capacity, which is the highest in the segment. A 12.3-inch touchscreen is now standard, and the interior was given the holiday gift of updated controls along with new upholstery. Amber LED daytime running lights and new vertical taillights bring a much more striking look, and there are some other awesome elements borrowed from the EV9. New for this year is a machine learning-based adaptive cruise control that effectively adapts to your style of braking and accelerating. 

The 2024 Kia Telluride was just refreshed this year, with 2024’s updates focusing heavily on the exterior. On 2024 X-Pro and off-road trims, black gloss exterior accents are now standard. Drivers immediately notice that the Telluride drives like something much smaller, and it is known for its segment-leading technology features. The Edmunds.com team praised the Telluride for its “extensive standard features, satisfying drive, and very upscale cabin. As many vehicles in the segment are quickly overtaken by newer rivals, the Telluride has remained relevant and trendsetting.

The 2024 Kia EV6 brings back the base Light trim, now offered with either the 58.0-kWh battery or the 77.4-kWh pack with the other models in the lineup. The top-tier GT model is now upgraded to a 218-mile range, and every 2024 EV6 model boasts new charge port lighting and a much more clearly designated charge port door. If you are constantly mesmerized by vehicles from the future, the EV6 is going to strike your fancy immediately! The GT Model cranks out 576 horsepower, and the EV6’s charging speeds and alluring interior have caught the attention of the auto industry’s high-tech-enamored reviewers. 

The 2024 Kia EV9 comes from the same very high-tech vein of the brand we love to provide and support so much. With a DC fast charger, Kia says the EV9 should recover 10 to 80 percent charge in a mere 20 minutes. The EV9 has also stood out with the eco-conscious crowd, as it has employed vegan materials and many forms of recycled plastic to embrace sustainability. Dual 12.3-inch screens along with a 5.0-inch screen for HVAC are on board to aptly keep up with the Joneses, the EV9 promises to be very interesting and engaging at every drive.

Electric Elegance: Kia's Plug-in Pioneers Showcase Next-Level Tech at LA Auto Show

The arrival of electrification here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis is as timely and thrilling as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade itself, as we are looking to tomorrow to embrace the automotive offerings of today. Kia America introduced the all-electric EV3 and EV4 concept models at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show this past week, as attendees were treated to firsthand views of Kia’s cutting-edge EV platform developments. As the state of California is a very accurate gauge of EV success, the nation’s savviest EV consumers were a good choice to gauge this pair of stylish new offerings. 

When the striking and innovative EV9 was revealed in March, Kia introduced 10 must-have items that would be used for models such as the EV3 and Concept EV4. As biomass sources were closely examined to find ideal replacements, corn extract, sawdust, sugarcane, and vegetable oils were selected. The concept EV3 was built on the visual and very robust foundation of a dynamic silhouette, which results in a unique and memorable impression. Inside, the Concept EV3 evokes a practical sense and design and has been tailored to promote a sense of well-being. 

On a mission to make sure that cars’ interiors are a less stressful place to be, Kia has rethought design treatment in a major way. The Concept EV3 has an impeccable sense of ambiance and design, with ergonomic seating that employs natural fiber structures to provide a slimmed-down seating experience. 3D Knit technology is used for the seat covers, and these materials also partner up with unique tables that can slide forward and backward. These two vehicles may officially be concepts but it’s important to keep in mind that the same was said about the EV9, which was shown at the LA auto show in 2021. 

The EV4 concept doubles down on a sportier approach, with a very low nose, long tail, and very small rear spoiler. The very wide and low stance contributes to the look, and there’s a slide-out touchscreen with a very cool and appealing user interface for climate controls. The center console between the driver and the front passenger is built from one of the most unusual yet effective material sources: the use of Mycelium is a bio-fabric still in its early stages. Customizability is one of its real advantages, as it adjusts hydrophobicity and creates efficient hybrid materials. 

While there were no official statements from Kia about the expected range, the current-model EV6 can travel up to 310 miles on a charge. The timing could not be better to broaden the appeal for drivers with lower budgets, while still offering the excellent warranty coverage and safety features Kia owners benefit from each day on the road. There is also mention of fancy “mind modes” that adjust the lighting, ventilation patterns, and information on the display to jazz things up a visceral and futuristic notch. 

Intended to “redefine the sedan”, the four-door EV4 is slightly longer than the current Tesla Model 3 but arrives furiously out of the gate with a large serving of game-changing styling. It also features vertical LED headlamps at the very outer edge of the bumper that gradually blend into the signature Starmap lighting. These cabins are going to be minimal, to bring people closer together and offer a chance to declutter the over-occupied mind. This approach of “shy tech” for interiors stemmed from an increasingly overburdened landscape and the need for a relaxing place to truly decompress.

2024 Kia EV6: The Futuristic & Immersive Face of Modern Mobility

The 2024 Kia EV6 is three years old now and is still hailed as one of the most advanced and high-tech EVs on the market. That’s an amazing testament to how fantastic the design and everything under the skin was when it first made its grand entrance for the 2022 model year. From the rear-drive Wind to the very thrilling GT, the EV6 has a heaping serving of goodness for any EV fan. Ample range, very fast charging, and numerous configurations make the 2024 EV6 one of the most well-rounded EVs of today.

We were in awe from the beginning here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis regarding the EV6’s packaging, which leaves the driver with a ton of places to store valuables. The Light Long Range RWD and Light e-AWD models are new for 2024, which introduce the big 77.4 kWh pack and stronger motors with entry-level trims. The high-performance EV6 GT gets a 12-mile range boost and can now travel 218 miles on a full charge. From the very colorful lighting and unique trim on the center console to the very cool dual displays, there’s nothing out there that looks quite like this! 

All of us here at Jim Butler would agree that the EV6 looks very futuristic, but is still user-friendly for those that have gotten used to the way cars all operate now. The climate controls add a very clean touch to the overall aesthetic, and the 60/40 split screen functionality allows you to check out both navigation and auto at the same time. The wireless phone charger is right by your elbow in the center console, with the GT-Line and GT featuring an augmented reality head-up display that projects very clear enhanced info directly out into the road. 

The EV6’s electric powertrain architecture allows it to have a cab-forward design that's a bit more extreme than others and a pretty massive wheelbase. This makes for excellent backseat legroom for a vehicle that is situated directly in between the Sorento and Sportage in length. Cargo space turns out to be much better than Kia’s officially quoted stat of 24.4 cubic feet directly behind the back seat. The Light trim level has a 58-kilowatt-hour battery pack with a 180-kW maximum charging speed and rear-wheel drive powered by its single electric motor. 

Every other version of the EV6 comes with a 77.4 kWh battery pack that offers different ranges depending on what powertrain is featured. The EV6’s maximum charging output is 240 kW, which is phenomenal for this price point. You’ll be enjoying an 18-minute charge time to get from 10 to 80% if you are on a fast-charging setup. The Light, Wind and GT-Line trim levels come standard with a single motor handling the rear wheels that cranks out 225 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up to the GT-Line AWD model offers 20-inch wheels as standard, and a satisfying output of 576 horsepower and 545 lb-ft of torque. 

One of the high points here is the EV6’s low center of gravity, along with a useful one-pedal driving capacity. For anyone craving the type of power that leaves you wanting to dish out ANY excuse to go for a drive, the GT offers lightning-fast launches and an excellent disposal of all-weather assurance. The 258 lb-ft of instantly available torque is ready in a quick instant once you are moving, but not to the pin-you-back and breakneck level. No model at this price point can touch the E-GMP platform when it comes to charging speeds, and this is more solid proof that both the vehicle build and network quality are rapidly improving!

Kia America Earns 8 Honors in 2023 Newsweek Auto Awards

As the Thanksgiving table centerpieces are being prepared during the seasonal flurry of events, it’s a very special and activity-packed time of year for us here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis! Just as the thrill and family fun of one holiday is over, the next one comes in rapid succession, and it’s a great time to know that you’ll arrive at these gatherings safely and efficiently courtesy of Kia. The holiday stars shone even brighter upon us this week, as Kia America earned 8 honors in the 2023 Newsweek Auto Awards.

The Kia Carnival took home “Best Minivan” for the lineup for the third year in a row, while the brand itself was recognized as the “most innovative vehicle brand.” The Kia Seltos took home “Best Small SUV”, while the Kia Sportage laid down a pre-turkey day’s claim to “Best two-row SUV.” The long-awaited Kia EV9 was rewarded with “Best Premium SUV”, along with “Best SUV Interior.” All these accolades firmly reinforce our ongoing commitment to master design excellence, while providing a diverse product lineup with something amazing for every driver.

The EV9 has eagerly delivered on so many very high-tech features, efficiently packaged into one downright amazing EV. With rich and appealing interior appointments, generous space for cargo, towing capability, excellent exterior design, and leading vehicle dynamics, the EV9 is guaranteed to keep things exciting during each day of ownership. Kia has gone from admittedly existing as a budget choice to a front-runner capable of competing fiercely with the best, and the EV9 has doubled down on a very determined plan to do everything with fantastic flair.

The EV9’s front end still boasts Kia’s signature “tiger nose” graphic, and a very clever optical feature that adds to a powerful sense of width. The interior feels quite modern and spacious, and all the necessary driving-related technology is smartly centered around the brand-new steering wheel design. Future Kia models are committed to cutting back on featuring leather, with natural oils in the seat foam, and recycled interior plastics from materials like the fishing nets that are rapidly polluting our seas. 

We are thrilled that these esteemed media outlets are recognizing our new take on what luxury means, and firmly non-traditional approach. These brand lineup awards were based on Newsweek Editor’s opinions after testing for style, comfort, materials quality, layout, and seamlessness of technology display. Front-running vehicles such as the 2023 Seltos also received a high amount of praise from Edmunds.com over the past quarter. This editing team deemed it fantastic for being “stylish, roomy, and available with plenty of the latest technology and safety features. 

The Sportage made quite a large splash with its crisp, aggressive styling that will likely dictate the look and feel of Kia’s coming future vehicles. a very intuitive infotainment system, a wide array of standard safety features, and a stellar warranty make it even more appealing. The Motor Trend auto review crew praised the 2023 Seltos for its spacious interior, impressive tech, and segment-leading hybrid model. A 12.3-inch touchscreen is standard on almost every trim, along with a great amount of efficiency with an engaging drive making for a sure-fire home run. 

We invite you to come check out any of these award-winning models this fall here at Jim Butler, where we are proud to host this fleet of earth-friendly and high-achieving vehicles of the future!

Where Comfort Meets Luxury: Show Some Love for the Kia Carnival

We would have to agree with the staff of Autoguide here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis when they claimed over the week that minivans have had to endure a bit too much disrespect. There is no other 4-wheeled solution in existence that is better for carrying many passengers over long distances, even though only a few solid examples remain on the market. The 2023 Kia Carnival comes to the holiday-prepped table with its usual three-row configuration, dual sliding doors, and a heaping side of convenience just as good as grandma’s holiday green bean casserole!

There are many reasons why even the slick-sedan-loving driver should take notice of the Carnival, and perhaps give it a chance! Much like having a favorite slice of pumpkin pie and being willing to tempt the taste buds with a sampling of pecan, here are a few reasons why you may want to give this wonderland-conquering warrior a chance.

Swinging Open to Sensible Style:

Sliding doors make it so much easier to get in and out of the vehicle for the passengers situated in the rear. Without a swing-out door, foot navigation in tight parking spots is much easier. Working with a very large and unobstructed opening gives the busy commuter or after-school sports shuttler much-needed peace of mind. If sports cars, trucks, and SUVs had sliding doors like this, many drivers would be appreciative!

From Curb to Core Comfort: Accessible Ground Clearance:

By not trying to mimic the handling of an SUV, minivans can effectively sit lower to the ground. The lower-slung floor makes it easier for passengers to climb in and out. SUVs and pickups are incredibly fun and productive, but they can be a bit trickier to climb up into. When life throws you a very typical day and you feel pressure to get there quickly, a lower-riding physique makes things that much easier. 

Keeping the Peace in the Back: Second-Row Sensibility

During the early days when minivans graced lots nationwide, the second-row seats were much like a summer camp’s dining room accommodations! Very static and flat, they simply didn't offer much in the way of comfort for the long holiday haul. Vehicles now are equipped with power seats in the second row that recline, while offering comfortable heating and cooling. The 2023 Carnival even has a powered pop-up footrest, doing its best to quell the “Are we there yet?” blues.

Minutes Matter: Third-Row Seating for the Efficiency Bonus

Many SUVs out there aren’t very accommodating for any passengers past their teen years. The Carnival bucks that trend by offering excellent head and legroom for all adults on board. Daily commuters, soccer team or boy scout club members, or the impromptu backpacking or playground gang will encounter enough room and comfort in the third row. Once all the bags (and holiday gifts!) are packed, you can prepare to count the miles at your leisure!

Plush and Painless: The Caravan’s Ride Comfort

As drivers became obsessed with tech and the EV revolution began, the crossover rose drastically in popularity. However, it has long been a well-kept secret that minivans ride a bit smoother than their SUV relatives. As soon as you get everyone on board the Carnival and embark on the journey, they will notice the welcoming similarities to a sedan. Loading everyone up into the Caravan this holiday season is bound to “up the valuable bonding” and see your troupe arriving fully refreshed and ready to jingle for the occasion.

The Future of Family Adventure: KIA's 3-Row EV9 is Ready and Waiting

The fall months here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis are always crisp, promising, and full of potential: while we are busy offering test drives and awesome incentives for the vehicles on the lot, we are also revving with excitement on new vehicles now available to order! One sensational and eco-friendly model that is poised and ready is the Kia EV9, which delivers many sought-after features packed effectively into one amazingly high-functioning SUV.

Drivers will love the 5,000-lb towing capacity, seating room for 7, and 7.8 inches of ground clearance ready for light-duty off-asphalt pursuits. The EV9 makes good on the numerous features that EVs of today need to draw in the masses, and Kia’s new design language is evident all over the EV9. The trademark “Digital Tiger Face” that our brand is notorious for now has LED headlights that have slimmed down a bit. When the premise of electrification was first brought to the table, many car aficionados were doubtful that an EV could ever look strong or rugged in the least. 

As EVs have developed their exterior features and carmakers worldwide have advanced leaps and bounds, the EV9 has drawn a bit of influence from its close relative in the form of the Telluride, yet still has its own unique flair. Inside, one of the first features the Electrek blog editors appreciated was the Connected Car Navigation Cockpit system, making things a snap to navigate. The elliptical-shaped dash bears a refreshing form of simplicity with its single display screen, which shows a 12.3-inch infotainment and driver display. 

With physical buttons in place for volume, temperature, and fan speed, the coming EV9 has taken a step back a bit in design language without overloading the retro factor, and there are other switches for various infotainment features situated just underneath the screen. The Car and Driver review crew claimed that the 2024 EV9 is “one of the first true family-friendly EV options, and it’s looking like an extreme slam dunk!” The standard RWD EV9 will have a 76.1-kWh battery that will deliver 300 miles of range, boasting the single-motor setup.

The mid-range Wind trim is situated in a position to offer the most value, gearing up with the higher-powered all-wheel drive powertrain to crank out 379 horsepower. Here you’ll also graduate to some pretty cool features such as a heat pump for the climate control system, heated front seats and steering wheel, and second-row captain’s chairs. An available Boost mode offers up quicker acceleration on the spot, while also lighting its special breed of fire to increase the peak torque output. The EPA hasn’t yet released an official fuel-economy stat for the EV9, but the current estimate is at around 117 MPGe combined.

When the Motor Trend team put the EV9 AWD GT-Line to the test, they were excitedly looking at 379 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. If you’re away from the convenience of a home charger, you can charge from 10 to 80 percent in 24 minutes while using a public fast charger. A few editors from this team commented that the EV9 GT-Line evokes the vibe of futuristic and user-friendly fantastically well, while going on to claim that it is quicker, quieter, and more efficient than any other large SUV on the market. We would heartily agree that the EV9 gets two shining gold stars: one for showing up, and a second for executing at a flawless caliber!

Kia's EV3 and EV4 Shape the Future of Mobility with Futuristic Design

We have wholeheartedly been influenced by the opportunities of the future here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, as tech features become better, electrification becomes more accessible, and customer satisfaction levels continue to climb. The innovative K3 and K4 concepts were just unveiled during Kia’s EV Day event in South Korea, where a thriving culture that has long embraced sustainability and innovation saw an assortment of incredibly promising concepts firsthand.

This appealing pair is so much more than just eye-catching, as they are destined to set the future precedent for our entire production EV lineup. While consistently keeping our eyes on the challenge of reaching one million annual global EV sales by 26 and 1.6 million by 2030, the future of electrification has become our front-running priority. The EV4 immediately struck onlookers as “compact yet adorable” and offers the benefits of an electric vehicle at an attractively low price point. This is frequently one of the smartest moves to make to stay aligned with current times, as inflation has ticked up in all sectors over the last quarter.

One of the first very cool features any futurist would notice is the very unique slide-out panel for climate controls, and the potential for an interior vehicle-to-load outlet, offering a means of charging e-bikes for commuters on the go. The EV4 heaps more appealing layers of charm infused with a fresh approach to traditional sedan design, adding coupe and wagon elements along with new concepts for lighting adjustment and ventilation. A close look allows the consumer to take notice that these ideas are an integral part of Kia’s journey to make electric vehicles appealing to a wide variety of demographics. 

During this spectacular and eye-opening event, Kia unveiled the K3 and K4, doubling down on new premises and a different, very forward-leaning aesthetic. The TopSpeed.com auto review team claimed that even though Kia has dropped many hints alluding to a plan for all-out worldwide domination, there’s something unique and special about this particular drop. They feel as if they could aptly and aggressively rival industry giant Tesla and provide an unparalleled time to shine. It currently seems as if 2026 could be a viable target release date, with an entry-level price point lower than what Tesla models are situated at. 

Alongside the EV6 and EV9, we recognize that releasing so many EVs at once could be a bit of a rescue move and lead to a bit of an oversaturation effect. Risks can frequently pay off with the most extreme form of reward, and we are confident that these two releases will assist dynamically and appeal to many who were once on the fence about the coming of electrification. Both of these new models savvily build on natural fiber structures, which enables very lightweight seat design and color tones with an organically natural touch. The EV4 and EV4 also use Mycelium, which is derived from mushroom roots and acts as a leather replacement. 

The EV3 is the up-and-coming visionary providing full representation of our plan for an electric compact CUV, which will be situated into a package that is just a bit larger than the Kona. The EV4 is bound to appeal to sedan lovers with its sleek, low nose and distinctly elongated tail. Much thought has been given by the design team to the interior spaces, which sport bold colors and unique textiles that instantly enhance the experience inside. As St Louis neighborhoods are decked out in spooky seasonal décor and the holidays are just around the corner, our plan for carbon neutrality is ready, willing, and enthusiastically able!

Kia America's Sales Continue to Climb: Best-Ever Third-Quarter Numbers

There’s never a shortage of good news here during the fall at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis. Last week, Kia announced its best-ever third-quarter sales total of 210,341 units. This thrilling achievement now marks the third time in our company’s history that quarterly sales have exceeded the 210,000-unit mark. 

The month of September saw Kia posting its best-ever sales number of 67,264 units, which marks the 14th month in a row of year-over-year sales increases. Battery-electric vehicles were up 127 percent over the previous record set in September of 2022, and the retail-only performance of 62,661 units showed a 14-percent growth over the same period last year. This news solidly positions Kia as ahead of the curve, and always on point to offer the vehicles that customers are after.

As the battle for market share heats up excessively, we are now confident that our world-class and feature-rich models will keep customers loyal and engaged. The Niro, Carnival, EV6, Rio, Forte, Seltos, K5, Sorento, Telluride, and Soul all were others that saw year-over-year sales increases. The Carnival, EV6, and K5 were three other models that set best-ever September sales records. 

The 2023 Kia Niro has been completely redesigned and remains very competitive and domineering in the rapidly growing hybrid SUV segment. The U.S. News auto review crew was thrilled with its superb fuel economy, great interior design, and two rows of roomy seating. It features a very sleek widescreen infotainment system, ample seating in the front and rear, and excellent cargo room. The Niro’s fuel economy is stellar at more than 50 mpg and is excellent value in a sea of ordinary. 

The 2023 Kia EV6 snagged incredibly high marks for futuristic exterior design, quick recharging capability, and the exhilarating performance of the new GT model. It’s a crossover that wears futuristic styling that doesn’t truly appear like any other model out there, with a space-age cabin and a pleasurably surreal appearance. Very athletic driving dynamics were considered a very high priority for the EV6, and it moves with an excellent sense of precision on twisty roads. Higher-end trims step things up sufficiently with a surround-view camera system and an amazing Meridian premium audio system. 

The 2023 Kia Sorento is a very efficient and appealing 7-seat, all-wheel drive SUV that comes with a choice of powertrains. Just slightly smaller and a bit more affordable than minivan alternatives such as the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot, the Sorento’s infotainment tech features and unique style have made it a top pick for consumers from many backgrounds. The AWD models come with the very cool rugged X-Line appearance package and offer excellent all-weather traction and a handy extra inch of ground clearance. Since it has a smaller footprint than bigger 3-row SUVs that share its segment, and many drivers have praised its quite agile sense of handling.

The 2023 Kia K5 rolled onto the scene with what car experts worldwide claimed was a “knockout exterior design”, along with segment-leading feature content. This year’s model added laminated windows, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic moonroof. With its Z-shaped running lights and full-width taillight, the K5 is hard to miss in a sea of very ordinary offerings. It has a very aggressive front end and a sleek roofline, with a cabin that is functional, stylish, and spacious. Standard equipment across all K5 models includes LED headlights and daytime running lights, dual-zone automatic climate control, AM/FM/HD stereo with six speakers, Bluetooth, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, an 8-inch touchscreen, cruise control, and 4 USB ports.