Next-Level Family Adventures: Why the 2024 Kia Carnival is the Ultimate Alternative to Crossovers

 

A few decades ago, minivans were the most popular choice when it came time to shuttle a fair amount of people around town. As the SUV began to dominate the mainstream sector, the minivan had taken somewhat of a backseat in the very relevant family vehicle segment. As we look forward to 2024 here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, the Carnival is set to reign as the “anti-SUV” of choice for buyers who are tasked with shuttling duty.

First arriving on the scene 3 years ago to replace the Sedona, the Carnival resembles an SUV from some angles but is a functional and family-ready minivan at the core. When you are looking at 6 to 8 passengers for anything from a grocery run to a late-season Six Flags run, nothing compares to the Carnival for comfort and capability. The power source is a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 gas engine cranking out 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.

Power is sent to the front wheels via an 8-speed transmission, and you’ll be looking at an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city, 26 on the highway, and 22 combined. All the models that existed before this were known for their family-friendly features and ability to sprawl, with this coming fourth-generation Carnival offering a more SUV-like façade to infuse with its family-focused mission. There is much more useful cargo room in the back than a typical crossover or SUV and features such as power-sliding side doors, one-button door open/close functionality, and modular seating.

Families on a budget that have a long to-do list will be thrilled will the long list of standard features on the last LX trim, which has LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a 6-speaker audio system, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Stepping up to the EX offers tri-zone automatic climate control, 19-inch wheels, an interior camera, and an on-board intercom. As you approach the top of the range with the coveted SX Prestige, there is the added visceral enjoyment of cowhide upholstery, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and a power sunroof.

Keeping a consistent and watchful eye over all your precious peeps and cargo aboard is our “Drive Wise” system, which is a helpful collection of the most advanced driver aids in existence. Here you'll never worry about the lack of a watchful eye with rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, blind spot warning, parking distance warning, driver attention warning, and safe exit assist. Other trim levels feature even more active safety features like forward collision avoidance, highway driving assist, and parking collision avoidance.

If you are frequently hitting the road with the family in tow and can’t get enough of the prime + safeguarded vibe, you’ll be thrilled with the Carnival’s warranty, which offers a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Car and Driver staff excitedly claimed that “The Carnival minivan is the desirable choice for when an SUV just isn’t handy enough.” If you opt for the second-row VIP seats, the Carnival is transformed into a very awesome luxury transit, with the reclining buckets intended to make road trips loaded to the gills with anxious kids a cinch.

We know that this is the season when all the “people moving” events come to fruition, and we’re standing by to help you here at Jim Butler with well-equipped and proper vehicles such as the Carnival!

Voltage and Vision: Leaked Pictures Tease Kia's High-Tech EV5 Electric SUV

The world of crossover electric SUVs is expanding rapidly, and consumers are excitedly looking over their choices for the days ahead. The Kia EV5 is officially due for release later this month, and the Electrek.com blogging team was on the scene with a few leaked images that depict this savvy new compact in the flesh, which you can view here. With the EV9 taking up the “largest” spot in the lineup and the EV6 poignantly poised in the middle, the EV5 will be the smallest in the group, proudly showcasing itself as Kia’s first dedicated electric car. 

The EV5 also draws a great amount of influence from our new “opposites united” design mantra here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis. Every Kia vehicle has been widely known for our signature “Tiger Nose” grille, and these leaked photos show a very futuristic Digital Tiger face prominently placed up front here. This innovative new electric SUV will ride on the revolutionary Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform, which is also astutely situated under the Ioniq 5 and EV6. 

Keeping the price point lower has been a focus of the past two years for automakers of all varieties, and following this trend has made a slight difference in the EV5’s architecture build. This model will savvily utilize a 400v system instead of an 800v makeup, which aids in keeping costs down. Even the base version will boost slightly more battery capacity than the V6, dutifully reaching upwards of 82 kWh. A model with longer capability is expected to hit the scene with over 372 miles of range, offering fill-up-worry-free value on long-range trips. 

The official revealing is scheduled for Aug. 25, where it will be sure to dazzle audiences at the Chengdu Motor Show in China. The first few concept models look quite a bit like the prototypes had indicated, with the same front and rear headlights, overall shape, and design cues. The EV5 is expected to source power from a 214 hp electric motor, with 310 Nm peak torque and the energy conscious LFP battery. The rims spotted on the prototype were 18 or 19 inches, compared to the 21 inches that were on the previously seen study scouted in the wild earlier this year. 

Even though some expert sources believe the EV5 will only be sold in China, the Car and Driver crew was fairly certain that it would find its way to the States. It’s important to note that the very real battle for SUV market share happens in the mid-size category: three-row SUVs are very convenient for extra passengers and cargo, but most families end up looking for two-row models. This means that the EV5 will be a very critical component in our head-to-head battle against the likes of the Chevy Blazer EV, the Volkswagen ID4, and a few other stiff competitors.

What is sure to be a new-age and proudly electric design has already been praised by the Carscoops team for its striking and muscular appearance, while they also loved the new digital tiger face design. Kia’s “Star Map” signature lighting technology is what takes up the space on the full-width LED light bar, and the roof has a visually very floating dynamic. Among the exciting updates anticipated for the EV5 are modern semi-autonomous drivers’ functions and more very cool front lighting configurations. We’d also expect to see a high-performance GT version down the line, appealing to those who love off-the-line charisma and appeal. 

Sculpted for Success: 5 Must-See Features of the 2024 Kia Seltos SUV"

 

The sub-compact SUV segment currently has so many models that are eagerly competing to fulfill the promise of providing an ample amount of car for an awesome price! The Seltos began to stake its family-friendly and eco-conscious claim here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis in 2019, with a name inspired by the ancient Greek gods and smack dab in the middle of the segment. Thanks to its true colors and real diversity, modern design, and ideal stance on the road, it stands out smartly against the competition.

Here are a few of the characteristics that see the Seltos at the top of drivers’ lists who are on the hunt for a car that embraces the future while “checking all the right boxes” in the present.

Boldness Beyond Ordinary: The Seltos’ Likable Look

The Seltos now rides on the same platform as the Hyundai Kona and Kia Soul but possesses a sharper and eye-catching sense of styling up front. This year’s model offers a resized grille, along with a modern velvet-rope evoking refreshed lighting system. The wider Tiger-Nose grill gives the 2024 Seltos a front end that makes a memorable statement, and stance with noticeably much more width. The rear lighting now sees a refresh with a light bar connecting both tail-lights, which provides a look that makes you feel like you just ditched a smartphone with a shoddy camera!

Amplified Power & Fresh Transmission:

One criticism that was frequently dished out for the outgoing Seltos is that there was a very noticeable lack of power off the line. There is now a 1.6-liter turbo GDI 4-cylinder engine that offers 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, boasting a sizable 20 horsepower increase. There's also a brand-new HP automatic transmission, taking over eagerly on shifting duty for the outgoing 7-speed automatic. The Seltos currently holds its own just fine with a robust acceleration quality against rivals such as the Toyota Corolla Cross, the Honda HR-V, and Subaru Crosstrek. 

The Numbers that Matter: Delving into MPG Metrics

Even with a boost in power, the 2024 Seltos’ fuel economy is still above par. As inflation regrettably ticked upward again this July, drivers are still very concerned with getting the absolute most value out of every single dollar. The 1.6-liter is only available with all-wheel drive, and the EPA estimated number is 27 mpg while eagerly hitting the open highway. The city figure remains at 25 mpg, and the 2.0-liter engine with the FWD combination adds the most economical 29 mpg combined.

Innovate & Navigate: The Modern Explorer’s Blend

When you notice the dual 10.3-inch digital displays at first glance of the new Seltos, it begins to feel like much more than an under $30,000 model! Directly below the touchscreen there is a shelf that is ergonomically designed to keep your hands steady while tapping and selecting on the very large screen. There is an optional Bose premium eight-speaker stereo system with an external amp and subwoofer, while the S trim and up provides enhanced and embedded smartphone connectivity. One of the coolest advents of modern technology is the available Digital Key 2 Touch, which allows you to share access to your Seltos over text to your friends and family’s smart devices.

Enjoying a Vast & Versatile Cabin:

Immediately after you enter the Seltos, it feels more like a downsized Telluride than a confining sub-compact. Road noise is kept to a minimum with insulation, and the addition of acoustic front glass last year does wonders for maintaining an ideally quiet cabin. Upper-end options such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob along with an optional panoramic sunroof add a nice element of much-needed extra space. Top trim levels offer the 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, ventilation, and extra-comfy heating functions for chilly Missouri mornings!

Safety First, Style Always: The 2024 Kia Telluride's Bold New Look and Features!

 

Consistently raking in the awards and accolades and existing as one of our absolute best “fully-fledged family excursion” vehicles here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, the Kia Telluride is large-sized, always trip-ready, and the 2024 model will be ready to roll on tap here soon. It has been gaining high praise and consumer satisfaction since it was introduced 3 years ago, and has excelled greatly with its very roomy interior, good number of standard features, and rugged styling elements. 

Last year’s model saw the completely reworked and signature “tiger nose” front grille, a brand-new dashboard, and side-by-side 12.3-inch touchscreens. The X-Line and X-Pro trims both debuted on last year’s model, offering a higher ground clearance for off-road tasks, 18 or 20-inch wheels, smartphone connectivity, and up to 5,500-lb towing capacity. These two trims now come with a gloss black exterior outer trim addition, and the entire lineup now offers amber daytime running lamps. Under the hood is the capable and always-prepped naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 that cranks out 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. 

The stock transmission is an 8-speed automatic, and the Telluride’s active AWD system features the very game-changing electro-hydraulic coupling that is a complete boss at redirecting torque between the front and rear wheels as needed. We listened closely as St Louis area consumers told us what their ideal vehicles consisted of, and abundant safety features across all trim levels ranked high on the list. Each 2024 Telluride comes with forward collision avoidance, highway driving assist, lane-keeping assist, navigation-based cruise control, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance. 

The SX and Prestige trims have newly updated junction-turning features for tricky junction crossings, lane changing, and life-saving evasive steering maneuvers. The EX trim is a sweet spot in the lineup for anyone who has long admired the Telluride and is ready to pull the trigger: it adds 2nd row bench seats, genuine cowhide upholstery, ventilated front seats, and the very useful hands-free liftgate. The SX trim steps things up a notch inside with A 10 speaker audio system, a power driver seat with memory, and the all-weather added fun of dual sunroofs.

The CarConnection.com auto review team eagerly claimed after their test drive that “the 2024 Kia Telluride aces every family hauler test”, while greatly appreciating its two-box shape and broad front grille. The NHTSA gives the Telluride a 5-star overall rating, while the IIHS also deems it a Top Safety Pick +. Other features that keep the Telluride in such high regard industry-wide are its user-friendly infotainment system, its massive value, and its segment-leading 5-year/60,000-mile warranty. The esteemed Motor Trend crew gave the Telluride a hearty thumbs-up for its “adventure-ready and user-friendly design.”

Other awesome available driver assistance features include a blind spot view monitor, a 360-degree camera, a digital rearview mirror, and Highway Driving Assist 2 technology. The Driving Assist 2 offers autonomous control over steering on select highways, acceleration, braking, and even automated lane changes. Keyless entry, push-button start, and remote start are standard across the range, and all Telluride models come equipped with a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Edmunds.com auto review crew “Fell in love with the Telluride the moment they set foot in the cabin”, and it leads a field of very popular contenders while offering plush third-row comfort. 

Kia's Hat-Trick Triumph: Success in J.D. Power's 2023 APEAL Study with Unmatched Honors

Awards and accolades have filled up our virtual calendars and timelines for many years here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, and this summer we have had the pleasure of many positive reinforcements that solidify our brand’s innovative momentum. Kia America set a record for the highest total number of awards ever earned in a single year by a brand in the J.D. Power 2023 Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) study. 

Just last month, Kia also claimed the highest number of possible awards in the J.D. Power 2023 Initial Quality Study. The appealing EV6, family-toting Carnival, and exhilarating midsize K5 took top honors in their respective segments, with four other models ranking number one. The Telluride, Forte, Rio, and Stinger were perched at the absolute top of their categories, providing a solid mile-marker and foundation for solid leadership within the electrification sector. Enjoying the clout of the most awarded brand across both annual recognition benchmarks, we are continuing to educate consumers about our penchant for reliability and sought-after technology. 

The 2023 U.S. APEAL Study is based on responses from 84,555 owners of brand-new 2023 model-year vehicles who were surveyed in detail after the very crucial first 3 months of ownership. The study data provides very useful insight into experiences with performance, design, safety, comfort, and perception of quality. Various awards from this very respected entity provide the highest-performing companies with an opportunity to let consumers know that being a winning and desirable brand is their top priority.

The 2023 Kia Forte is a very grown-up small sedan that is an excellent value with a very comfortable and accessible utility factor. It’s loaded with features at a price point much lower than key competitors, and drivers love its high fuel economy. The GT trim offers very compelling performance and feels perfectly punchy during everyday driving. The seats are nicely contoured for long-distance comfort, and any road noise encountered is amply quieted. The Forte’s suspension has a very individual yet stiff feel, which urban commuters have given high marks for when navigating cityscapes on the tighter end.

The 2023 Kia K5 arrived on the scene here at Jim Butler evoking a sense of modern class, while offering what we consider one of the smoothest sedan rides on the market! It also snagged up the U.S News and World Report’s “Best Midsize Car for the Money” award AND their 2023 Best New Car for Teens honor. It boasts very supportive seats, a spacious cabin, along with all-wheel drive. Few infotainment setups are as easy to navigate as Kia’s UVO, which offers a well-organized menu layout, an intuitive interface, and quick response times. 

The 2023 Kia Stinger has raked in the high marks for being “disarmingly handsome, hugely spacious, loaded with charisma, and full of rear-wheel drive bravado.” The Stinger’s point is to make you notice it, and as a well-proportioned fastback saloon, it is entertaining, engaging, and full of very well-engineered bursts of sheer automotive wizardry. While only  a small number see the Stinger as a bit of a Co2 menace, it displays a very raw breed of character and is guaranteed to make anyone who drives on a twisty road grin ear to ear. The Stinger’s injection of extra flavor is genuine, thrilling, smooth, and it will be missed greatly after this year.