Mud-Slinging Season Is On: Kia’s 2026 Sportage X-Pro Dares the Forester to Follow

The 2026 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige stands as one of the most versatile and capable crossovers in today’s market. Designed for drivers who want a mix of comfort, confidence, and capability, this SUV blends refined styling with features that make it as ready for a city commute as it is for a weekend exploring Missouri’s backroads. The X-Pro Prestige trim brings together upscale appointments, all-terrain readiness, and advanced technology, offering a rare balance of adventure and everyday ease.

The compact crossover segment is one of the most competitive in America, with names like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester all vying for attention. The Sportage X-Pro Prestige confidently joins that conversation by pairing standout design with a high level of real-world versatility. While some trims in this class focus solely on luxury or ruggedness, there exists a thoughtful middle ground, creating a crossover that does both with poise here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis. 

Purpose-Built Design

The 2026 Sportage X-Pro Prestige is a five-passenger SUV that shows how attention to detail can elevate every drive. Its exterior projects strength with athletic lines, a bold grille, and practical ground clearance that inspires confidence on less-traveled routes. Underneath, its suspension and tire setup give it both composure on pavement and sure-footedness on gravel or mud. Drivers who appreciate the peace of mind that comes with extra traction and winter-ready hardware will find this trim exceptionally appealing.

Inside, the cabin continues Kia’s tradition of quality craftsmanship. Every surface feels solid and upscale, and the layout is intuitive. A panoramic display stretches across the dashboard, combining a vibrant digital driver cluster and a 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Seating is spacious, the materials are soft-touch, and attention to comfort is evident everywhere. The available heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, and wide glass moonroof create an environment that feels luxurious year-round, whether commuting downtown or heading out to a winter cabin in the Ozarks.

Power That Delivers Confidence

Powering the Sportage X-Pro Prestige is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides smooth, confident acceleration and precise gear changes. Instead of relying on a continuously variable transmission, Kia’s traditional geared setup contributes to a responsive, engaging drive feel. For those who often find themselves navigating highways, winding hills, or dirt roads, this setup ensures steady performance and impressive control.

Drive-mode selection allows the Sportage X-Pro Prestige to adapt seamlessly to varying conditions. With modes for Sport, Snow, Mud, and Sand, the system fine-tunes traction and power delivery to keep you in command. A downhill-descent feature assists in maintaining control on steep grades, particularly useful for drivers who encounter icy or uneven terrain during Midwest winters.

Ready for the Path Less Paved

What sets the X-Pro Prestige apart is its off-pavement confidence. Equipped with 17-inch wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A tires, this trim has the traction and durability to explore unpaved routes without hesitation. These tires enhance grip and stability on loose surfaces while maintaining a quiet, composed ride on city streets and highways. Whether heading to a campsite, lake house, or rural jobsite, the Sportage X-Pro Prestige makes the trip feel effortless.

The combination of capable tires, a compliant suspension, and a well-tuned chassis gives this crossover the ability to smooth out rough surfaces while keeping passengers comfortable. Even when traveling over washboard gravel or uneven dirt paths, the cabin remains serene. For drivers who appreciate the security of knowing their vehicle can handle Missouri’s unpredictable backroads, this trim provides a reassuring sense of control.

Advanced Features for Everyday Life

Beyond performance, the Sportage X-Pro Prestige offers thoughtful technology and comfort features that elevate daily driving. Its full-coverage heated windshield, using an embedded wire heating element, helps quickly clear frost and ice, a feature typically reserved for premium European models. Add to that multi-level heated and ventilated front seats, a power sunshade, and available front skid plate protection, and it becomes clear that Kia engineered this model to handle both convenience and capability in equal measure.

Practical touches like a spare tire and a generous cargo area add to the SUV’s real-world usability. With the rear seats folded flat, the Sportage offers ample room for luggage, outdoor gear, or home-improvement hauls. Kia’s attention to details such as quiet interior design and user-friendly infotainment controls ensures that long drives remain enjoyable for everyone on board.

Built-In Peace of Mind

One of Kia’s standout advantages continues to be its industry-leading warranty coverage, offering extended protection and confidence long after leaving the dealership lot. For drivers comparing models across brands, this alone adds significant long-term value. Combine that assurance with the Sportage’s strong reliability record and advanced safety systems, and it becomes easy to see why so many families and professionals choose Kia for their next crossover.

Designed for the Midwest Lifestyle

The Sportage X-Pro Prestige fits naturally into the rhythm of life in and around St. Louis. Its size makes it easy to navigate tight city streets or crowded parking areas, yet its generous ground clearance and traction-enhancing systems make it equally at home on rural highways or unpaved access roads. From morning commutes to weekend getaways, it offers the comfort of a premium SUV and the readiness of a capable explorer.

For those who enjoy a balance of adventure and refinement, this Sportage trim delivers exactly that. It bridges the gap between traditional crossover convenience and the adventurous spirit of an off-road SUV. Drivers don’t have to compromise between comfort and capability: the Sportage X-Pro Prestige provides both in abundance.

The Final Word

In a world where nearly every automaker offers an adventure-styled crossover, the 2026 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige stands out for doing it right. Its blend of rugged all-terrain readiness, refined comfort, and advanced technology makes it one of the most well-rounded options in its class. With confidence-inspiring handling, an intuitive drive system, and features built for both luxury and longevity, it is more than ready for life in Missouri and beyond.

For families who value safety, comfort, and durability, or for anyone who simply wants a crossover that can go anywhere with confidence, the 2026 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige is a perfect match. It is a vehicle that doesn’t just meet expectations; it redefines what a small SUV can do when innovation meets purpose.

Grip, Go, and GT: Kia’s GT Sedan Brings the Fun Back to the Fast Lane

The 2025 Kia K5 GT brings a bold sense of excitement back to the midsize sedan segment. It’s the kind of car that turns the daily drive into something special, blending the sleek design of a luxury sport sedan with the practicality that Missouri drivers appreciate. Every detail feels intentional here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, as this has created a vehicle that’s as thrilling to look at as it is to drive.

Performance That Makes Every Drive Memorable

At the heart of the K5 GT is a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces an impressive 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. Those numbers put it near the top of its class, and the power is felt instantly when you press the accelerator. The torque arrives early, making the car eager and responsive whether merging onto the interstate or cruising through downtown St. Louis traffic.

Power flows through an advanced eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission that’s engineered for both speed and smoothness. Because the clutch system is cooled and lubricated with oil, shifts are quick yet refined, giving the car the confident feel of a true performance sedan. The K5 GT reacts instantly to driver input, and the transmission works perfectly in sync with the turbocharged engine to create an effortless sense of motion.

The sport-tuned suspension adds to that experience. With a MacPherson strut design in front and an independent multi-link setup in back, the car stays planted and composed, even when the road throws a few surprises your way. Larger ventilated front brakes provide strong stopping power, and the bright green calipers visible behind the wheels serve as a bold reminder that this is no ordinary sedan.

Power Meets Precision

The K5 GT delivers power with poise. Acceleration is brisk, and the eight-speed transmission fires off quick, seamless shifts that keep the car ready for whatever the road brings. Steering is precise and well-weighted, making the GT feel connected and confident through every turn. Whether driving across the Missouri River bridge or taking the scenic route through the Ozarks, the car’s balance of performance and control makes each trip enjoyable.

The K5 GT proves that front-wheel-drive sedans can still offer genuine excitement behind the wheel. It grips the pavement with authority, maintains steady composure, and rewards drivers with responsive handling that’s easy to appreciate in any setting.

Style That Steals the Spotlight

Kia gave the K5 GT the kind of styling that demands attention. The fastback roofline gives it a coupe-like profile, while the signature “Star Map” LED daytime running lights create a futuristic glow that looks striking both day and night. Every curve and crease is sculpted to enhance aerodynamics and attitude, giving the sedan a commanding presence from every angle.

Distinctive GT details, such as its gloss-black accents, quad-tip exhaust, and unique 19-inch wheels, elevate its sporty character. The design isn’t just about flair; it’s about confidence. From the city streets to open highways, the K5 GT stands out as a statement of both style and strength.

A Cabin Designed Around the Driver

Inside, the K5 GT’s interior continues the performance theme with thoughtful craftsmanship and modern design. The flat-bottom steering wheel feels substantial and perfectly positioned, giving drivers a sense of control and connection. The sport seats feature refined materials that balance support with comfort, creating the ideal setup for both long commutes and spirited weekend drives.

Technology takes center stage in the K5 GT, highlighted by a curved dual display that combines a digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It’s intuitive, bright, and easy to use, with seamless integration for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navigation, entertainment, and driver information are all within easy reach, allowing for a smooth, connected experience behind the wheel.

The available Bose premium sound system brings concert-level audio quality, turning every playlist into an event. Ambient lighting and upscale finishes throughout the cabin complete the atmosphere, giving the K5 GT a premium feel that rivals luxury competitors.

Comfort and Confidence for Every Journey

Beyond its sporty personality, the K5 GT remains a practical and dependable choice for families and professionals alike. The spacious interior comfortably seats five, while the large trunk offers plenty of room for luggage, gear, or shopping trips around St. Louis County. The car’s refined ride quality and quiet cabin make it an excellent companion for long highway drives or quick errands in the city.

Safety also plays a major role. Kia’s suite of advanced driver-assistance features provides confidence in every situation. Automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping technology, and blind-spot monitoring help enhance awareness on busy highways and side streets alike. It’s a sedan built with the driver’s peace of mind in mind.

Designed for Drivers Who Want It All

Owning a 2025 Kia K5 GT is about more than just getting from point A to B. It’s about rediscovering the excitement of driving and enjoying a vehicle that performs as beautifully as it looks. From its turbocharged power and striking design to its comfortable, tech-forward cabin, the K5 GT checks every box for drivers who want performance without sacrificing practicality.

For savvy drivers who appreciate style, innovation, and excitement all in one package, the 2025 Kia K5 GT delivers it effortlessly. It’s bold, refined, and built to turn every commute into an experience worth looking forward to, a true reminder that driving can still be something special.

Tellu-Renaissance: Kia’s Star SUV Prepares Its Red-Carpet Return

The wait is almost over for one of America’s most beloved SUVs. Kia has officially announced that the next-generation Telluride will make its world debut at the L.A. Auto Show on November 20. For families at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis who has come to depend on the Telluride for its comfort, capability, and unmistakable style, that’s exciting news. 

Built for real-life adventures, this SUV has become a trusted name on the roads, from school drop-offs to lake weekends and every trip in between. When Kia first introduced the Telluride back in 2019, it immediately captured attention for all the right reasons. It offered a strong, boxy stance and a timeless SUV design that stood apart from its competitors. 

While others leaned into edgy lines or futuristic shapes, the Telluride brought back the kind of confidence that families love: rugged yet refined, capable yet comfortable. Over the years, it’s continued to earn loyalty from drivers who appreciate its reliability, upscale feel, and generous space for passengers and cargo.

A Georgia-Built SUV With Missouri Families in Mind

One of the most inspiring parts of the Telluride’s story is where it’s built. Kia proudly produces this SUV right here in the United States, at its state-of-the-art facility in West Point, Georgia. That dedication to American craftsmanship ensures that every model is assembled with care and precision. For families across Missouri, it’s not just a vehicle; it’s a symbol of local pride and quality built close to home.

In a short teaser video announcing the big reveal, Kia highlighted its Georgia roots while offering a quick glimpse of the SUV’s unmistakable silhouette. Though the video kept most details under wraps, one thing is clear: the Telluride is poised to continue its tradition of strength, style, and dependability. Kia also confirmed that this redesigned version will debut as a 2027 model year, setting the stage for another exciting generation of family-focused performance.

Bold New Look, Same Trusted DNA

From what’s been spotted during testing, the new Telluride remains instantly recognizable, and that’s a good thing. Its confident, upright shape returns, now enhanced with even more presence. A larger front grille and bold new headlights give it a powerful stance, while the tail end appears more vertical and squared-off, adding to its sense of stability. Kia’s signature geometric wheel designs also make their way to this SUV, adding a touch of modern sophistication.

Every design choice looks intentional and family-friendly. Wide doors make entry and exit effortless, perfect for parents loading car seats or kids hopping in after soccer practice. The tall roofline and generous window area create a bright, open feel inside, which is a huge plus for families who spend long hours on the road.

Power, Performance, and Practicality

Under the hood, the next Telluride will continue to deliver the kind of smooth power that drivers appreciate. Based on what’s expected from its closely related models, the Telluride will likely offer a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, a combination known for its seamless acceleration and easy highway cruising. 

For those looking for even more efficiency, Kia is also expected to introduce a turbocharged hybrid option, giving families the freedom to choose the balance of performance and economy that fits their lifestyle best.

Front-wheel drive will come standard, while an available all-wheel-drive system will provide extra confidence on rain-soaked highways or weekend camping trails. Whether it’s heading to a family cabin at the lake or navigating snowy backroads, the Telluride’s engineering ensures stability and control every mile of the way.

Ready for Every Kind of Adventure

For families who crave more than pavement, Kia is also expected to offer X-Line and X-Pro trims, designed to bring rugged style and added versatility. These versions combine the Telluride’s signature comfort with off-road-inspired design elements and features that make outdoor adventures even easier. Think extra ground clearance, durable accents, and confident all-terrain capability, all wrapped in the sophistication of a luxury SUV.

Heading out for a weekend in the Ozarks? The Telluride’s capable powertrains and trailering tech make towing a camper or boat a breeze, so you can focus on comfort and the adventure ahead.

Comfort That Brings Families Together

Inside, Kia is known for designing cabins that make family life easier, and the next Telluride will be no exception. The three-row layout continues to be a highlight, offering generous room for up to eight passengers. Whether it’s kids, grandparents, or friends tagging along, everyone will have plenty of space to stretch out.

Advanced infotainment and connectivity features will ensure that road trips fly by. Large digital displays, seamless smartphone integration, and intuitive controls help parents stay focused while passengers stay entertained. With USB ports throughout the cabin, everyone’s devices will stay charged: whether for streaming, gaming, or navigating.

The Telluride’s quiet ride and high-quality materials will also give daily drives a premium touch. From family grocery runs to weekend ball games, it’s designed to make every outing more comfortable and more enjoyable.

Built for the Way Missouri Drives

With its strong frame, advanced driver-assist features, and proven dependability, the Telluride remains one of the safest and most confidence-inspiring SUVs on the road. Missouri families value peace of mind, and Kia delivers that through intelligent safety technology that helps prevent and protect in equal measure. Systems like forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control help make every drive feel effortless and secure.

A Bright Future for Kia’s Flagship SUV

The next-generation Kia Telluride is shaping up to be everything drivers love about the current model, and more. With its American craftsmanship, family-first design, and capability for every season, it’s built to serve the diverse needs of families who expect more from their SUV.

When it takes the stage at the L.A. Auto Show, the Telluride will do more than debut a new design; it will reinforce why it continues to be one of the most respected names in the family SUV world. Big, bold, and beautifully practical, the 2027 Kia Telluride is ready to carry families confidently into the future.

Smart, Stylish, and Seriously Capable — The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX-Prestige

The compact hybrid SUV market has never been more competitive. Kia’s answer for 2026 is a refreshed Sportage Hybrid that confidently rises above the noise. Blending bold design, advanced technology, and real-world efficiency, the 2026 Sportage Hybrid SX-Prestige showcases how far the modern SUV has come, and why it deserves a closer look for drivers here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis.

Bold Style With a Purpose

For 2026, the Kia Sportage Hybrid benefits from a major refresh that sharpens its appearance while keeping the brand’s signature flair intact. The once-controversial boomerang-style daytime running lights are gone, replaced by sleek amber “Star Map” LED accents that wrap around the front end. The updated face borrows inspiration from the larger Sorento but looks even more balanced on the Sportage’s athletic frame.

The vertically stacked cube-style headlights and wider grille give the SUV a more assertive, confident stance. Around back, darkened taillight trim and simplified lighting design lend a sportier, more cohesive look. The result is a crossover that’s both modern and unmistakably Kia, eye-catching from every angle yet sophisticated enough for daily life in the city or suburbs.

Premium Comfort and Advanced Design Inside

The 2026 Sportage Hybrid SX-Prestige makes a strong impression before it even leaves the driveway. Open the door, and you’re greeted by an interior that feels far more upscale than expected in this segment. Kia’s designers refined nearly every surface, from the square-edged steering wheel and streamlined dash vents to the premium seating materials and thoughtful use of soft-touch finishes.

Dual 12.3-inch displays span the dash, creating a clean, panoramic interface for both driver information and infotainment. The graphics are crisp, the menus are intuitive, and the layout integrates seamlessly with the switchable touch panel below for climate and navigation controls. It’s an interior that combines modern tech with a sense of calm simplicity, perfect for long commutes or weekend getaways.

Comfort plays a big role here, too. Both front seats offer heating and ventilation, while rear passengers enjoy generous legroom, among the best in its class, with available heated rear seats for added luxury. Whether driving across town or across Missouri, everyone onboard can settle in comfortably for the ride.

Smart Tech Everywhere You Look

Kia continues to lead the way when it comes to intuitive, user-friendly technology. The SX-Prestige trim includes a panoramic sunroof, a power liftgate, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system that fills the cabin with rich sound. Safety technology is equally impressive, with Kia’s latest suite of driver-assistance features coming standard.

Highlights include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Lane Keeping and Lane Following Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, and a full Surround View Monitor for confident parking. Highway Driving Assist 2 helps reduce stress on longer trips by automatically adjusting speed and steering to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. These features work together seamlessly to enhance safety and provide peace of mind every time the Sportage hits the road.

Performance That Balances Power and Efficiency

Under the hood, the 2026 Sportage Hybrid pairs a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a strong combined output of 231 horsepower. A 6-speed automatic transmission sends that power smoothly to the available all-wheel-drive system, giving the SUV confident traction in all conditions, from city streets to winding country roads.

Acceleration is quick and responsive, especially in Sport mode, while transitions between electric and gas power remain nearly seamless. Around St. Louis traffic or on longer highway stretches, the hybrid system performs quietly and efficiently, delivering up to an EPA-estimated 35 mpg combined. That means fewer stops at the pump and more time enjoying the drive.

Ride quality is another standout. The suspension does an excellent job absorbing bumps and rough pavement while maintaining a composed, planted feel through corners. Steering is light yet precise, and braking feels smooth and natural, a true testament to Kia’s engineering refinement.

Everyday Practicality With Premium Perks

Beyond its refined looks and smooth performance, the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid delivers impressive everyday usability. Behind the second row, there’s over 39 cubic feet of cargo space, plenty of room for groceries, sports gear, or luggage. Fold down the rear seats, and the capacity expands to nearly 74 cubic feet, offering flexible storage for larger hauls or weekend adventures.

From the driver’s seat, visibility is excellent, and the elevated ride height provides that confidence SUV owners love. The cabin layout is ergonomic and functional, with easy-to-reach controls, clever storage areas, and thoughtful touches like ambient lighting and wireless charging.

A Well-Rounded Hybrid for Modern Drivers

The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX-Prestige delivers everything modern drivers expect from a hybrid SUV, style, comfort, performance, and innovation, all wrapped in a bold new design. It’s refined yet ready for adventure, efficient yet full of character.

For drivers in St. Louis looking for a vehicle that blends practicality with premium appeal, the latest Sportage Hybrid deserves a top spot on the list. With its combination of cutting-edge technology, generous interior space, and confident performance, it’s clear Kia has built a crossover that doesn’t just compete—it leads.