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.

A Sustainable Taste of Tomorrow: 2023 Kia EV6 Redefines Desirable + Dazzling

The premise of electrification has changed quite a bit here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis since its early days, and there are a teeming handful of amazing models just around the corner. The 2023 Kia EV6 now enters its second year of existence with its desirable, decidedly space age, and pleasantly fierce persona. Boasting a 310-mile range and thrilling 0-60 mph time, the 2023 EV6 is a viable alternative to a TESLA at a substantially lower price. Inside are two large information screens, along with a long list of standard driver assistance features and a teeming sense of excitement. 

The available all-wheel drive system can automatically adjust to road conditions, allowing for greater traction or various states of energy efficiency. While enjoying all these innovative and very promising features of the future, there's also the long-standing reassurance of segment-leading warranties and an amazingly well-established customer service structure. Each purchase will come with 1000 kWh of free charging on the revolutionary Electrify America DC fast-charging network, offering about 3,500 miles for your next journey.

The range-topping GT version is where things begin to perform just the way that drivers who like things fast and furious want them! Doling out 576 horsepower, this is a very tried-and-true recipe for cornering, off-the-line enjoyment, and thoroughly enjoying every single inch of pavement when you get to sneak away from your responsibilities and take a spirited drive. You can up the “space age stakes” with the addition of the Technology Package, which offers a 360-degree camera system, Blind Spot View Monitor, and Remote Smart Parking Assist. 

The GT eagerly blasts up to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds and gets you there with a sportier and firmer suspension, along with upgraded brakes. The brakes have an ideal sense of direction and confidence, and the lower trim levels still offer an excellent combination of composure and athletic stance while still offering an abundance of modern comfort for the daily drive. With the battery pack situated directly underneath the floor, it keeps the center of gravity low, which contributes to what is a very stable ride quality. 

The all-wheel drive-system governs the front motor and drives it in and out of operation according to what each driving situation dictates. When compared to the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Morningstar.com team preferred the very cool rotary gear selector in the center console to the stalk-style one from the Ioniq, along with the dual 12.3-inch screens displaying all the vitals in what results in a very functional yet showy command center. We are definitely fans of the recycled materials that many of the fabrics use, with the absence of animal products for the construction of simulated leather! 

As consumer awareness increases in the testing and development realm, we are seeing many environmentally conscious individuals that are ultimately after a product that leaves a more earth-friendly footprint. These materials still don't appear low quality in the least, with the level of quality still evoking a high-end visual impression in the cabin. The EV6’s body shape truly “cheats wind”, and its elevated stance is going to set a precedent for efficient battery placement mounted on the floor. Another ingenious feature of the EV6 is the onboard heat pump: it captures heat from the hard-at-work drivetrain and directs it to the cabin and battery for ultra-efficient energy use.

SUV Elegance & Electric Brilliance: EV6 and Telluride Top SlashGear’s Best List of 2023

Checking out the latest in auto news here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis can prepare us for each day full of educating consumers about the best vehicle choice for them and their families! When eager test drivers ask us about awards, honors, and accolades, we always feel that there are so many reasons to say, “best of” and back it up with concrete stats. SlashGear has named two Kia vehicles to its “Best Cars of 2023 – 10 of the Top-Rated Picks.” 

The EV6 was recognized as the “Best EV”, and the Telluride as the “Best Family SUV.” These accolades are selected based on criteria such as range, aftercare support, overall performance, pricing and value, cabin technology, and style. Car shoppers can now feel overwhelmed with their choices, and the SlashGear team selected Kia models because of their superior features and segment-leading performance. When today’s driver is tediously sizing up the competition, many longevity and safety issues render gravitating toward a true industry leader a sensible decision. 

There are now more than 40 electric cars on the market, and the SlashGear crew set out to make finding the ideal model a much less daunting task. A large segment of today’s drivers have read a bit of the data themselves and are already convinced that an EV is a sensible choice for them. They are ready to forge forward with just a few endorsements from industry experts and leaders to shed light on the most innovative and promising daily driver or weekend getaway vehicle. 

The 2023 Kia Telluride comes into a very crowded segment with many diligently strong points, including a larger-than-average third row and cargo space, user-friendly technology, and very smart cruise control. Practical and spacious, the 2023 model received a mid-cycle refresh which includes a facelifted exterior, new wheel designs for each trim level, three new paint colors, and some new interior styling for the dash and steering wheel. 

The 12.3-inch and 14-inch display now come standard across all trims, with the SX and SX prestige trims boasting a standard dual infotainment and digital instrument panel housed under some very cool curved glass. The wireless charging pad has been made slightly bigger to accommodate the incoming cellphone models, and each row of seating gets to enjoy USB-C charging ports. The Telluride’s tow rating is now at 5,500, thanks to the addition of an upgraded fan for superior cooling. 

The 2023 Kia EV6 has impressed many experts and everyday drivers alike with its long driving range, extra fun dynamics, and wealth of technology which make it an incredibly solid model for a daily-use EV. It also boasts a clean #1 spot within the electric SUVs category from U.S. News, which claimed that its athletic handling, swift acceleration, and comfortable seating rendered it such a high caliber. All versions of the 2023 EV6 come with a 77.4 kWh battery, with standard rear-wheel drive having one electric motor and cranking out 225 horsepower. 

All-wheel drive versions derive power from two electric motors and make 320 horsepower, with a quality of acceleration that is known for coming on instantly with its chiseled and unique breed of force. The exhilarating 2023 EV6 GT pumps out 576 horsepower and is the most powerful Kia production car to ever sprint off the assembly line! The EV6 has a maximum driving range of 310 miles, with the more powerful EV6 GT claiming a range of around 206 miles. When the true numbers come in, they are reassuring: based on driving 15,000 miles a year, it costs between $600 and $900 per year to charge the Kia EV6. 

2023 EV6 GT Rendered by Forbes as “Satisfying, Silent, and Ideally Laced W/ Electric Angst”

As we have been closely keeping track of the different qualities that today's drivers are after, the 2023 EV6 is an accessible blend of everything unique and powerful in today’s market! We were waiting intently here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis for the Forbes team to tell the world what they thought of the EV6 after time spent behind the wheel, and they immediately remarked that it was “one of the most ferocious rides of the year.” 

What could be mistaken for a slightly above average and “nerdy” SUV, the EV6 GT model comes loaded and ready for the ride with 575 hungry, but silent horsepower on duty, and 545 lb-ft of torque. If you’re after just a relaxing cruise you can achieve that under any circumstances, but once you figure out that the EV6 does zero to 60 in 3.4 seconds, it is constantly tempting to run through this exhilarating exercise repeatedly. Set to battle with the competition fiercely and confidently, the EV6 faces off against the Chevy Bolt EUV, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Audi Q4 e-tron, and the Tesla Model Y. 

The Forbes drive testing expert reflected that it's simple to roll in a sensible fashion or with the family around town, and on a typical run or doing errands you don't feel like you must impatiently gun the throttle. But if you hit a pleasantly open stretch or suddenly find yourself outside the city, you can decidedly dial in the “OMG” factor, thanks to the variety of performance types packed into the driving modes. You can select from Eco, Normal, Snow, and Sport, with the GT model also offering Drift, GT, and My Drive modes for extra fun. 

Each trim level derives its power from a 77.4-kWh battery pack with various drive configurations and power outputs to keep things optimally juiced and performing at top capacity. The GT’s gleeful and quite inspirational Drift Mode hands over the keys to unlock increased rear wheel drive torque distribution and drifting performance, along with properly administering the 15-inch front larger-diameter disc brakes with quad-piston front calipers. The chassis stiffens up in this mode, and the steering is adjusted for a quicker ratio.

To describe what the drive was generally like, writer Josh Max claims that his first impression was “hasty, silent, and thrilling off the line.” When you accelerate suddenly you are given as much passing ability on the road as you could ever need, and you can excitedly feel as if you may collide with an object or median when you aren’t even close. Even though that’s sheer gravity and momentum doing the talking, we guarantee it’s an enthralling bundle of fun! The controls have a very tight and grippy characteristic, and taking corners allows for a sedan-like feel without much body roll.

The virtual display offers a quick view of how much power is left at any given time, and the glow of the ambient lighting in the center console, door panels, and dashboard evokes everything exciting about interiors that we knew the future of cars would soon be ripe with. With a top speed of 161 mph, a few more of the performance upgrades that make a serious difference are a dedicated sport suspension with electronically controlled dampers and unique front suspension performance components. 

The electronic limited-slip differential works overtime by constantly directing torque to the wheels with the most grip. Fun, consistently satisfying, and just a bit edgy, the EV6 is perfect for a longtime fan of Hellcat-powered devices that are solidly sold on Kia’s excellent warranty and track record. This is the powerful and riotous new model with a personality we have eagerly been waiting for: Edmunds.com claimed that the 2023 EV6 is “your pick through and through if your tastes trend toward thrills.” 

2023 Kia Niro Poised for Spring Adventure w/ Segment-Leading Value, New Interior Design

 

There have been numerous models to get excited about this spring here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, as the power style of the EV6 grabs digital headlines daily. Kia has always been known for offering amazing options for drivers of all types, and the 2023 Niro EV is gaining plenty of attention courtesy of its bold new styling. The Niro’s long list of standard features is very appealing, and it has an excellent charging time and range that rivals the EV6.

One unique feature that will appeal to many is the unique front-axle motor that adds a bit of “spring in the step” for an otherwise familiar driving experience, which will convince many who still are a bit on edge regarding a full-on switch to electrification. Inside, the front door panel armrests find their way down from the angular dashboard, and the Inside EVs blogging staff claimed that the materials are better than what is found in the competition from the Chevy Bolt and Nissan Leaf.

Consumers have all expressed that on top of performance and affordability, they are seeking a ride that is simply an ideal place to spend time during the commute. The Niro’s quiet cabin and segment-leading ride comfort make it a top-notch place to spend the miles accumulated while waiting to clock in. We recognize how important playtime is too, and when your friends come along for the ride, they'll be pleased with the wider cabin that doesn't evoke the same tight confines of the Chevy Bolt.

Don’t forget to check out the Preserve Package, which includes a heat pump and heated rear seats to improve efficiency during the chillier seasons. With the seats down, you’ll enjoy an excellent amount of cargo space, along with a nearly flat-folding seat that makes more room for longer items. Both the base wind trim and top-spec Wave models come with a standard 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster and matching infotainment touchscreen, with the two top trims offering a V2L power generator with a 120-volt outlet conveniently located in the rear seat.

The Kia Niro EV derives power from the same 64.8-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery inside the Hyundai Kona Electric, with the single front motor making an identical 201 horsepower. The regenerative braking system has four settings that range from entirely freewheel coasting to simple one-pedal driving. Among the standard safety features are automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and rear parking sensors. The Wave model offers active blind spot and left-turn collision prevention, along with enhanced Highway Driving Assist 2 and automatic emergency braking.

While plugged into a typical Level 2 charger, the Niro EV will charge from completely empty to 100 percent in six hours, with DC fast charging providing you 80 percent in a lightning-quick 45 minutes. Smartly splitting the difference between a hatchback and an SUV, we are confident that drivers will enjoy its very modern looks and exceptional fuel economy rating of 49 mpg combined. Small yet spacious, the Kia Niro is poised and easygoing, while featuring 22.8 cubic feet of cargo area. Our 10-year 100,000-mile powertrain warranty remains one of the best in the industry, assuring you know you are protected and guaranteed to enjoy every single mile!

Kia Niro and Kia EV6 GT Display First-Quarter Flex as Finalists in 2023 World Car Awards

Reliability and dependability are two qualities that can turn a satisfied customer into a repeat buyer. The vehicles here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis also have appealed to so many due to their unique style and personality, and the Niro along with the EV6 GT both made the headlines again this week during the 2023 World Car Awards. The Niro earned a position among the top three finalists for the World Car of the Year Category, and the Kia EV6 GT was named a finalist in the exhilarating World Performance Car category. 

This achievement is decided by 100 automotive journalists from 32 different nations, who thoroughly evaluated a broad range of vehicles from all over the globe. Now in its 19th year, this is the number one awards program In the world for the 10th consecutive year regarding media reach. This esteemed group now represents the most diverse variety of car journalists in the world and reaches an engaged audience of 300 million. 

The 2023 Kia Niro boasts an all-new exterior and interior design this year, along with more space for cargo and passengers. It’s offered in a traditional hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric model variants, and this year’s model looks fittingly more futuristic and savvy. There are available dual 10.25-inch instrument panels and a central touchscreen setup, and it still derives power from the 1.6-liter 4-cylinder hybrid. The 2023 Niro’s most direct competition is the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, along with the Honda CR-V. Small yet spacious and evoking instant charm with its practical demeanor, the Niro also feels very athletic and sturdy during the drive. 

The 2023 Kia EV6 GT has massive and forward-thinking appeal, due to its 310-mile range and superb 240 kw charge rate. It backs up its aggressive styling with amazing performance, cranking out 576 horsepower and 545 lb-ft of torque. It has a very sweet-looking wedge-shaped side profile, with a low nose, upward-poised beltline, and a more aggressive front fascia than the base-level EV6 Wind. The GT also sports 21-inch wheels wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 tires, along with massively capable 14.2-inch rear brakes. 

The GT kicks things up a notch above the Eco, Normal, and Sport modes, making it the quickest-accelerating Kia ever to roll off the line. The EV6 GT rockets its way up to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, along with a top speed of 161 mph. Experienced test drivers have loved the stable and well-planted drive quality, and the way the GT handles around tight corners. We’d also have to excitedly recommend the muscle-inspired “Drift Mode” brings about: power is reduced to the front axle, and the entire vehicle suddenly becomes easier to slide around in. 

Always on point to deliver stylish and purposeful cars and SUVs, our lineup consists of all sizes and types. Each model has modern looks and segment-leading tech offerings, along with our first-class warranty coverage that keeps you confident and fully covered at every mile!

9 Kia Models Celebrate Early Spring Excellence in Car and Driver Editor’s Choice Awards

9 Kia models were named to the 2023 Car and Driver Editor’s Choice Awards list this year! The 2023 Kia Sportage, Sorento, Carnival, Niro Hybrid and PHEV, K5, Soul, Rio, EV6, and Telluride were selected from over 400 models that the editors put to the test. The design, craftsmanship, and quality that our customers have come to love here so much at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis shone through strongly with these wins, instilling even more confidence in our world-class line.

This latest honor comes just after the 2023 Kia EV6 and 2023 Kia Telluride were ranked on Car and Driver’s prominent 10Best Trucks and SUVs list. The EV6 also recently enjoyed a premiere accolade as the North American Utility Vehicle of the Year by the North American Car of the Year jury. The criteria that allowed for final selection included Car and Driver’s instrumented testing, the vehicle’s true purpose and mission, and how they ranked in the segment up against competitors. 

There is simply so much to love about these great models! There is something for drivers with every need, purpose, and demeanor, with just one-third of the winner’s circle we’ll put in a temporary spotlight:

The 2023 EV6 doles out its own characteristic and segment-leading impression with its long driving range, exhilarating driving dynamics, and excellent technology features. Also toting a #1 rating from the U.S. News staff for the EV category, the EV6 offers comfortable seating for five, and stellar safety ratings to boot. Its available dual-motor AWD setup is powered by the 77.4 kWh battery, resulting in a robust 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque. Getting up to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, this is also the most powerful Kia ever boasting Drift Mode! The EV6 GT is new for 2023 and cranks out 576 horsepower while excelling greatly in the thrill department. 

The 2023 Kia Telluride easily situates itself above the competition thanks to its generous standard features and a top trim level that provides an experience effectively rivaling SUVS twice the price. Its excellent V6, quiet cabin, and very confident handling give the Telluride a refined drive that is suitable to be on weekend duty for hauling camping or lake toys. The 2023 model received a refreshed grille, a new front bumper, and completely redesigned headlamps. The X-Line and X-Pro trims both are instrumental in offering up the Telluride’s hefty 5500-lb towing capacity.

The 2023 Kia Carnival is the ideal minivan for the drivers who are on the hunt for something logical, and starts out the hard bargaining for your family’s next trip by earning its Top Safety Pick accolade from the IIHS for coming out with top-scoring marks in every crashworthiness test. The 3.5-liter provides the ultimate inspiration and power source for the times when you “really need to get away”, and the LX and SX Prestige models can accommodate 7 passengers comfortably. The SX Prestige also adds the benefit of second-row VIP lounge seats, that can recline and slide along with leg extensions, a new “relaxation mode” for when it's needed most.

Kia EV6’s Exhilarating Performance + Sensible Connectivity Secures 2023 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year

The Kia EV6 was named North American Utility Vehicle of the Year by the discerning members of the NACTOY jury, marking the second time in four years a Kia model has earned the honor. Since its introduction a year ago, the EV6 model has signified the refinement and sophistication that Kia EV engineering is known for.

This award proves that the EV6 is not only a practical choice for a daily driver, but also a massive success for electric vehicles as a whole. 50 automotive specialists from broadcast media, radio, online, and print sources tested vehicles while following criteria including automotive innovation, design, safety features, performance, technology, user experience, and overall value. 

More than 19,000 EV6 models have been sold at Kia retailers nationwide, including the exhilarating 576-horsepower EV6 GT introduced last year. The EV6 delivers segment-leading performance, fast DC-charging capability, expertly sourced onboard power, and a sampling of today’s most innovative materials inside. The industry’s most useful connectivity features and Kia’s latest-generation energy-efficient heat pump are other components that have rendered the EV6 an example of the amazing things intense changes in the industry will yield. 

Kia’s design teams have seen to it that the EV6 is a critical part of the “Plan S” strategy to launch at least two battery-electric vehicles per year and offer 14 BEVs by 2027. Motor Trend praised the EV6 for displaying “futuristic exterior design along with quick recharging capability.” For 2023, the Wind RWD becomes the entry-level trim, and the extra-fast and aggressive EV6 GT model is now available. One thing that can be guaranteed with pride about the EV6 is that it simply does not look like anything else out there, with a cabin that is gleefully space-age and efficient. 

A huge priority for the EV6 was athletic driving dynamics, and the ability to move with excellent poise and precision on winding roads while smoothly on the open highway. Regenerative braking amazed drivers and technology enthusiasts worldwide when it was introduced, and now the EV6 provides the option to toggle between separate levels of the feature to meet the needs of your terrain. The 77.4 kWh battery is the power option that delivers the juice to either a rear motor or dual-motor AWD. EPA range is rated at 310 miles, with the AWD model hovering at around 280.

Under ideal conditions, this battery can add nearly 70 miles of range in under five minutes, which is an impressive feat among today’s current offerings. The 77.4-kWh battery can also enable vehicle-to-load capacity, which can provide power to additional offboard devices and appliances, rendering it an even more appealing weekend wanderer’s choice! Onboard charging options include a 12-volt socket, wireless charger, USB type-A port, and C ports in the second row. Trims on the higher end of things also offer a surround-view camera system and Meridian premium audio system. 

Kia Remains Victory-Prone and Valuable as Most-Awarded Brand in 2023 Consumer Guide Automotive Best Buy Awards

Repeat customers at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis now have even more reason to be excited as they scope out the model of their choice for 2023, as Consumer Guide Automotive ranked Kia as their most-awarded brand. The Soul, Seltos, Sportage, Sorento, and EV6 were all claiming champion recipients of the very prestigious Best Buy Awards. This is the ninth consecutive year that the Soul has fared as champion of the subcompact crossover category, and third year in a row for the Seltos at the top of the stack in the same segment. 

Consumers have shifted their “leaning towards spending gaze” at fully electric models, as prices at the pump and general economic uncertainty have drawn attention to petrol-free energy sources. From off-road ready SUVs to crossovers and forward-thinking EVs, Kia’s comprehensive lineup now delivers the excellent design, top-notch quality, and desired technology features that today’s savvy buyers are looking for. 

Now thriving as the most awarded brand in Consumer Guide’s 2023 Best Buy Awards marks another pivotal moment for us as we are constantly finding new ways to increase mobility and a personable, while desirable, appeal. Since 1967, Consumer Guide Automotive’s experienced editorial staff has used an in-depth evaluation process to single out the vehicles that are worth the time for serious consideration by discerning consumers. The traits examined to find the dominating models are features, performance, accommodations, fuel economy, reputation for reliability, and resale value.

Our growth as an identifiable innovator has been thrilling to be a part of, with the array of our lineup including something for everyone from the busy family on the go to the new student full of vigor and a diverse lifestyle! Every function from a sense of reasonable value to luxury driving is represented enthusiastically by Kia, as well as breathtaking examples in the corner-conquering sporty category. 

The 2023 EV6 came very efficiently roaring onto the scene with its very sleek look inside and out, offering a drive on the thrillingly invigorating side of things. Consumer Reports claimed that this is one of the best electric vehicles they have ever tested, benefiting from a nearly silent cabin and comfortable ride. Quick DC fast-charging in public venues will take the battery from 10-percent to 80 percent in just 18 minutes, which is sure to make the daily driver stand up and take drastic notice. While using the Electrify America network, you’ll nail down 60 miles of range in just 10 minutes!

The 2023 Sportage enthusiastically leads the pack as an entirely new and appealing breed of SUV. It has received wide acclaim for its confidence-inspiring layout, class-leading cargo space, and a very bold design. We personally feel that the Sportage has also won so much approval with busy families worldwide due to its many safety offerings: you are hauling your loved ones in the utmost confidence along with child door locks, child seat anchors, Stability Control, front head curtain airbag, lane departure warning system, pedestrian detection system, rear head curtain airbag, and the very useful rear-view camera.

The New Year is a fantastic opportunity for us to do more than just reflect and make resolutions: as a manufacturer and provider, we pledge to always look for sourcing the best and most Eco-conscious in power. We have been able to achieve loyalty, offer excellent features as standard on entry-level models, and build a diverse following one game-changing model at a time!

Kia EV6 Enjoys New Year’s Glow of Achievement With “Best EV of 2022” Title from The Drive

The incoming EV6 has been drawing a massive amount of attention here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, and has recently enjoyed yet another addition to its achievements with “Best EV of 2022” from The Drive. The auto review team from The Drive was amazed by the combination of the EV6’s satisfying dynamics, occupant comfort, and all-electric range that allows it to stand out in its segment. 

What began as an unsteady blip on the market’s radar, turned into a constantly evolving reality as the promising future of electrified cars. The all-electric EV6 delivers on the traits that see an EV rising exponentially to the top of the class. Attractive price and an EPA-estimated range of 310 miles are two ideal starting points for an EV. As the EV6 was picked from among the top-ranked electric vehicles during an entire year of thorough evaluation. 

The amount of preparation and planning that went into the crafting of an affordable vehicle is obvious at every turn, and its excellent suite of advanced driver assistance features makes the EV6 not just another average offering. To have all the amazing qualities it does and be backed up by an exceptional factory limited warranty make for a model that will be compelling enough to sway individuals to make the switch. More than 19,000 EV6 models have been sold at Kia retailers, and the EV6’s onboard power generator along with ultra-fast DC charging capability render it an extraordinary choice. 

The EV6 is a pivotal component of the “Plan S” strategy to successfully provide at least two BEVs per year, and build a full line-up of 14 BEVs within the next 5 years. Car and Driver rendered the EV6 “very lively and easy to live with”, and the GT model comes complete with 576 horsepower and the primo perk of an adaptive suspension. For the true car-lover’s built-in feature that will appeal to anyone a bit reluctant to let go of gas-engine prowess, there’s a green button on the steering wheel that adamantly unlocks the propulsion system’s maximum ability. 

The GT’s cabin also now includes sport seats and neon green trim, with the Wind trim level providing the most affordable way to get all-weather traction and more viable horsepower output than the single motor’s capability. Power is derived from a single electric motor mounted on the rear axle that provides rear-wheel drive or with electric motors on both front and rear. Choosing the larger battery boosts the rear-drive EV6’s total system output to 225 horsepower up from 167, which the Car and Driver gang had a blast with tossing around the backroads in the UK. 

The 320-horsepower GT Line model managed a quick 4.5-second zero-to-60 mph time, with the more boisterous 576-horsepower GT presiding at the top of the lineup. Here you enjoy performance-enhancing features such as an electronic limited-slip differential, firmer chassis, tuning, adaptive suspension, and upgraded brakes. We can heartily also vouch for the supreme abilities and convenience of the 350-kW fast charger, revitalizing the EV6 from 10 to 80 percent in just under 18 minutes: this will soon be the desired method of choice for EV owners constantly on the go.

2023 Kia EV6 Evokes Supercar Essence With “Stunning Performance Level”, Groundbreaking Flair of GT-Line

As the holiday food, football games, and incoming family members are upon us here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, we have some valuable time to reflect on the past and present. So many award-winning new Kias have been test-driven and brought home over the past year. The 2023 Kia EV6 is promising to be just as trailblazing and highly sought-after as it was in 2022. With its modern exterior, athletic on-road persona, and well-styled cabin, the EV6 promises to be a segment leader and a completely rule-breaking product of the future. 

An official Kia press release last week went over the pricing stats and model information for this crossover that has boasted strong sales and robust consumer demand. The Wind RWD now will become the base EV6, and customers will benefit from its greater range and many standard features. Each model now boasts leather seating with ventilated front seats, an optimal smart power liftgate, external and internal vehicle load ports and an amazing sounding Meridian premium audio system.

The EV6’s performance level never loses its luster; so many drivers will be 100% engaged when tapping into the power of the EV6 during their daily drive. Equipped with standard dual motor e-AWD, the EV6’s GT-line trim level doles out a hulking 576 horsepower, and 545 lb-ft of torque, completing the 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 3.4 seconds. There are also the additions of an electronic limited-slip rear differential, high-performance brakes paired with larger 21-inch wheels, and Goodyear Eagle F1 tires. 

Satisfied customers frequently ask which “goodies” can enhance their already-supreme ride the most. All of us here at Jim Butler would have to recommend the available Technology Package, which includes the table blind spot view monitor, parking collision avoidance assistance reverse, and a remote start parking assist that has been custom extended for the wind RWD setup. As another added benefit, all buyers of a brand-new EV6 will obtain 1,000 kWh of free charging courtesy of the Electrify America network of public charging stations. 

Ultra-fast charging has come so very drastically far in its development, as select stations can now charge up the vehicle from 10% to 80% in as little as 18 minutes. This is the exciting model that KBB.com deemed “a credible alternative to a Tesla for a lot less money”. They were also thoroughly impressed with the lightning-fast speed gained from two electric motors. Each model provides a precise and ideally weighted steering quality, and a weight distribution of 49/51 front to back. 

As you drive you might not feel it happening, but the all-wheel drive system in the V6 governs the front motors in and out of operation, depending on what is most needed at that driving interval. The KBB experts also praised the V6 for interior design that “came straight out of the Mercedes-Benz playbook”, touting 212.3-inch screens chiseled into a single unit. These screens also bear a glare-resistant glass finish.