Kia’s Crowned APEAL King: Several Models Rule the Road in 2024 Study

Awards and accolades are incredibly valuable to us here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, as they officially back our commitment to stellar quality! Kia America has set a new standard in the J.D. Power 2024 Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) Study, securing an impressive five model-level awards—the most of any contender this year. This remarkable achievement also highlights Kia's strong position in the Mass Market segment, where it holds its position as the third highest-performing brand.

This marked the 4th consecutive year that the K5 was the highest-ranked Midsize Car, while the all-electric EV6 and Carnival dominated their respective segments for the third row straight. Excitement among BEV owners is now at an all-time high as the EV9 claimed its first Upper Midsize SUV segment award during its first year on the market. The Forte reigns proud as the highest-ranked Compact Car for the second year running! The K5 and Kia Carnival were also included in the brand-wide achievement with consecutive awards of their own.

The J.D. Power 2024 U.S. APEAL Study is now composed of detailed responses from over 80,000 owners of brand-new vehicles. The respondents were surveyed after the first 3 months of ownership. This study measures how well each new vehicle provides exceptional experiences with perceived quality, design, performance, safety, usability, and comfort. This caliber of study helps automakers understand just how a new vehicle performs against its targets and core competitors. It also is an excellent guide for which product priorities should be placed for the development of models in the future.

Some of the experience groups for APEAL include walking up to your vehicle and getting in and out. Using the infotainment system, driving comfort, and satisfaction with the interior are other traits the organization pays attention to during their evaluations. Fuel usage is another scrutinized category, as consumers are rightfully concerned about making every dollar count. Owner satisfaction with new vehicle design and performance has now rebounded after the previous two years of study showed a considerable decline.

The 2024 Kia K5 arrived on the scene with the unique style and substance to set it apart from many other family sedans in the same segment. It places a focus on being easy to drive and offering the luxury touch needed for long trips. It’s now offered with the choice of two turbocharged engines, with the base engine cranking out 180 horsepower and the GT stepping things up to 290 hp. The Edmunds.com team claimed that the K5 “is as silent on the highway as some luxury sedans, with a suspension that soaks up road imperfections and is not overly soft.”

The 2024 Kia EV9 was billed by The Drive as “a three-row family SUV that will smoke its V8-powered competitors at traffic lights, and burn a total of zero hydrocarbons while doing so.” This is an incredibly stylish model that they also claimed boasts the best interior to ever wear a Kia badge. Even the base-level trims have a strong assortment of cabin tech and driver aid, with the Wind, Land, and GT-Line models swapping in the larger 99.8-kWh battery. After the addition of a towing package, the dual-motor EV9 examples also claim up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity.

Wheels of Wonder: The Award-Winning Design Behind the Kia EV9's Unique Look

The Kia EV9 is a brand-new three-row electric SUV that has already earned praise from critics and customers alike! We were paying close attention here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis when it snatched up the 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year award. Constantly sought-after and sensational, it also claimed the 2024 Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year Supreme Winner. A vehicle can’t secure any of these major awards unless it delivers a truly exceptional driving experience.

The EV9’s amazing electric propulsion system, class-leading design, and gorgeous interior all are elements that have established it as one of the most desirable vehicles in its segment. Kia had personally invited the CarBuzz review team to the 2024 Busan International Mobility Show, where they had the chance to speak with Teck-Koun Kim, who is in charge of Kia Next Design Group. He and his team have spent many productive hours constructing the entire EV fleet, and conceptualizing Kia’s influential design language. They began by solidifying just how striking the EV9 was meant to be, as a vehicle that catches attention immediately. 

So many cars on the market now are built “just to blend in”, and don’t have the captivating allure that renders them instantly memorable. The reinvigorated Kia lineup began with a smaller-than-average EV. Things moved forward subtly from that point on, and Kias now almost looks as if they are from a completely separate brand! The vehicles of today have arrived with a bit of a design disparity. The driving factor for this is the pace at which new vehicles are launched and existing models are updated. 

The vehicles that will be delivered very shortly are necessary to move from gas to electric. It has been important to consider the character that was needed to rise up as an industry favorite. The Telluride is now one of the most successful SUVs in the nation. This was achieved by an introspective look at how drivers perceive Kia based on first impressions. One of the visually striking features that has won many over is the Star Map lighting. This is a very personalized way of making the EV9 stand out from other models. 

The K8 was launched with its own form of lighting called the Star Cloud, which was inspired by the unique beauty of the night sky. As people go about their necessary tasks, they love to draw inspiration from nature. These small yet impactful touches embrace a technical appeal that allows one to enjoy an organic connection while on the road. Even the EV9’s wheel designs were very carefully selected. EV wheels are consistently challenged by aerodynamics. The more closed the final build is, the better it performs during the task at hand. 

The wheels were eventually designed with geometric states that were visually appealing and efficient. The EV9’s interior has also won many over with its very open and airy interior. The lack of an engine allows automakers to approach a completely different layout formula. Head designer Kim’s favorite element of the EV9 is the side view. The overall SUV has an upright character, while the hood offers a very gentle surface. The very front end can remind some of what the Niro appears like, with a few distinct accents that allow it to not be overly boxy.

Mudfest Marvel: Kia EV9 Sweeps Awards with Electrifying Performance

Kia has been at the forefront of innovation and excellence over the past decade and constantly strive to provide vehicles that can adapt to any terrain. The EV9 has drawn a lot of attention recently at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, as it made huge waves at the 2024 Northwest Automotive Press Association’s Mudfest event. It was able to claim the very rugged and capable honor of “Outdoor Utility Vehicle” along with “Three-Row Family SUV”, as journalists and enthusiasts descended upon The Ridge Motorsports Park in Shelton, Washington.

Spring has left behind quite a challenging arsenal of half-dry and still slushy terrain right here in Missouri, and plenty of showers and thunderstorms have made for difficult conditions. For customers excited to try their hands at off-roading, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist can provide the confidence to know that the hazards of the wild won’t deter your next trail excursion. Hikers and other adventurers can pop up seemingly out of nowhere, and these features allow you to focus on the fun at hand instead of being concerned about any incidents with others who are out enjoying the wild. 

All Kia models are backed by a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, along with a 5-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty. Drivers who enjoy the task of getting muddy will be happy to know that they can keep their Kia running smoothly for many days to come. These recent accolades yielded from the Northwest’s most rigorous testing grounds underscore Kia’s valued position as a current leader in the automotive industry. The esteemed Car and Driver review crew praised this year’s EV9 for being “one of the first true family-friendly EV options, which drives and acts like a slam dunk!”

Its' large size comes with a towing capacity of 5000 lbs, along with its usable 3rd row of seats that should appeal to many growing families. The more time they spent with the EV9 the more they enjoyed it, as they also moved to award it with a spot on their 2024 Editors Choice List. They felt that the midrange Wind trim offered the most value, with the more capable all-wheel-drive powertrain cranking out 379 horsepower. It also is equipped with the second-row captain's chairs, a heat pump for the climate control system, and the heated front seats and steering wheel.

The second-row captain’s chairs offer heating, ventilation, and massaging, and the rear cargo space holds 20 cubic feet. The J.D. Power team’s independent expert had a tremendous time with an EV9 decked out in Ocean Blue paint, the Second Row Relaxation Package, carpeted floor mats, and the carpeted cargo mat. The front seatbacks include embedded USB charge ports and a storage tray along with a bin that slides toward passengers from the back portion of the front console. The second row features an overhead climate control panel, ceiling-mounted air vents, and side window shades spanning the glass. 

A Charged Crusader of the Kia “Ev-elution”: EV9 GT to Dominate Roads with Enormous Power in 2025

Business results are released at the end of the first quarter, which is always a thrilling time for us here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis! Press releases provide valuable insights into the future and details regarding models on the way. We love to witness the excitement of drivers after they realize the Kia they just checked out is the perfect addition to their family and will allow them to remain productive and prosperous. 

The EV9 GT is set for public release in January 2025 with a supply of “enormous power” derived from a dual-motor setup. It will complete the very telling 0-60 mph sprint in less than 4 seconds, which is quite an accomplishment for any crossover weighing more than 6,000 lbs. Our most potent EV available today doles out 370 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, and the incoming EV9 will provide a major power boost above and beyond these numbers! The additional juice will allow the EV to shave off more than one very crucial second from its sprint time. 

The current EV9 GT-Line offers up to 270 miles of range on a single charge, which may suffer a small hit in the wake of this exhilarating incoming power. While EV range anxiety has been a huge topic in the media over the past 2 years, this is nothing to fear: it's so important to keep in mind that the average commuter travels about 33 miles per day round trip, and that may even include an extra run to the grocery store or comfort food emergency at DQ in the evening! 

The full-line GT model is also getting a more capable suspension setup and upgraded brakes. The EV5 has also made its eye-opening appearance in China, where it was officially endorsed by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. Toward the end of the informative presentation, a comprehensive product roadmap for the coming years was displayed in the background. There’s an updated EV6 due for an official market launch in the second quarter of this year, along with the first-ever EV3 and K4 arriving during the third quarter. 

The 2024 Kia EV9 was praised by the Motor Trend review team for its “upscale interior and quick-charging capabilities”, along with enjoying the thrill of beating our very own Telluride during the 0-60 mph test. One of the reasons this
is so exciting is that the design team set out to create an EV with an appropriately spacious third row, not keeping their focus entirely on an aggressive persona. The second-row captain’s chairs are an excellent place to spend time, and there’s also the convenience of one-touch functionality to fold things down quicker.

Drivers have given the current model EV9 very high marks for its excellent mix of futuristic and user-friendly design. It’s suspected that quite a few consumers attracted to the rivaling Tesla Model X and Rivian R1S will find just what they need in the comfy confines of the EV9. The Carscoops auto writing team excitedly claimed that “every now and then, a car comes on the market so unlike anything else that you can’t help but stare at it!” There’s a 12.3-inch infotainment screen greeting you once inside, and a first-time 5.0-inch display between it and the instrument cluster to house the climate controls.

From Dashboard to Dunks: Kia's In-Car NBA Display Themes Elevate Playoff Excitement

The excitement of the NBA is contagious, riveting, and always engaging with fervor! A-list teams such as Boston, Miami, Los Angeles, and New York will be making their spirited way down the courts in this year’s end-of-season spectacle. The Pelicans-Thunder nightcap was surely the game to take note of over the past weekend, and Kia EV9 owners will now be able to personalize their vehicle’s cockpit with their favorite team’s logos and colors. 

This exciting form of self-expression is offered through the Digital Services and Features platform, with the fever-pitch and precise pivoting action of the NBA in mind. The over-the-air updates for Display Themes to EV9 began on April 9, with the driver-facing 12.3-inch instrument cluster and the AVN screen as the prime real estate for personalization. In the future, other Kia vehicles equipped with the Ultramodern Connected Car Concept infotainment system with Digital Features and Services OTA capability are expected to also be able to display these themes. 

Hues such as the iconic red, black, and white of the Chicago Bulls are available with a personalized instrument cluster and infotainment screen, along with the very cool welcome and goodbye videos for select EV9 trims. As the brand we love to provide and service so much here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis has long been committed to offering exciting themes and collaborations, the EV9 has been the first model to officially offer the NBA themes before the other models enjoy this currently court-crazed feature. 

The Kia Connect Stores Digital Features and Services are accessed via the owner’s app or Kia Owner Portal and will feature each team’s emblem and colors for $39.99. Other themes will soon be available, providing owners of great Kia models the chance to display their appreciation for America’s well-performing superstars on the court. Pivoting loudly and determinedly on the court has always been aspirational and nostalgic, as the classic 1986 film “Hoosiers” depicted an Indiana high school team beating the odds and going for the midwestern glory of the state championship. 

Even though the NBA now has a distinctive flair and has undergone a few quite modern advances, many Kia drivers possess the wholehearted admiration of ball players to render these offerings a tech-lover's triumph. Car and Driver claimed that the 2024 EV9 reigns supreme as “one of the first family-friendly EV options” and is thoroughly looking and performing like a slam dunk. It enjoyed a strong showing as an especially amazing driving vehicle in this size category, and an easy choice for their 2024 10 Best Trucks and SUVs. 

The mid-range Wind trim offers a huge value, stepping things up with the all-wheel drive powertrain which cranks out 379 horsepower. There’s an available Boost Mode that pumps up the volume on the peak torque output and provides quicker acceleration. A performance-oriented GT model will be added to the 2025 lineup while offering as much as 576 horsepower. The EV9’s second-row chairs offer the added comfort of heating, ventilation, and massaging. The EV9 also offers a pair of 12.3-inch screens: one for the gauge cluster and a second for infotainment. 

The Edmunds.com auto crew claimed after their test drive that the EV9 delivers “a luxuriously quiet drive and high-quality features that elevate every commute or jaunt alike.” Spacious, with plenty of features, and boasting a quick charge capacity, the 2024 Kia EV9 has proved its ability to have a sweeping and incredibly mesmerizing presence.

Heatwave Havoc: Kia EV9 Puts Performance to the Test at Legendary Davis Dam

So many of the world's deserts are intensely barren landscapes, but there are more thriving creatures living here than initially meets the eye. What seems like a very hot and sweltering environment can still see many thriving entities taking up residence, but it is still a habitat that can be quite punishing for any EV. California’s legendary Death Valley can reach over 120 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing chefs of all skill levels to fry eggs on the hoods of their favorite car models! 

Before a vehicle can effectively make it to market, it undergoes extreme testing to make sure that any of a slew of technical malfunctions won't take place. Solid powertrain performance and consistent battery power are two of the most important functions to keep an eye on when you notice a few strange mirages around you in the mix! For customers here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis who love every square inch of their exterior appeal, it also means making sure that the paint job will stand up to the inevitable test of time. 

The Newsweek.com auto review team agreed that guaranteeing on-point handling dynamics and adjusting the ride softness are two important boxes to check while making a vehicle appealing for North American drivers. Managing the way a vehicle performs during heavy load towing is also crucial to a vehicle’s hard-earned credibility badge for extreme temperatures and environments. The group effectively “doubled down” from the city of slots and sleight-of-hand, where the desolate desert sands meet the glitz and glamor of the Las Vegas Strip. 

The Kia EV9 was then towed to Bullhead City, Arizona, where the quite notable Davis Dam presides in the sun as one of the world’s most effective trailering test sites. As the review team cooled off, they let the EV9 soak in heat that was much more than 100 degrees! This ensured that all the electronics, high-tech driving aids, and suspension needed to perform under conditions gnarly enough to make people think twice about their model’s durability. It was now time to simulate a common yet very telling scenario in the very dry and consistent heat. 

As the battery had to crank out the juice in the type of climate that is fit for coyotes, desert sidewinders, and desert cottontails, it was now time to assess whether the climate control could effectively keep occupants comfortable. The Edmunds.com review team praised the 2024 Kia EV9 for being, “An excellent choice for families who are ready to transition into the electric realm, without having to compromise on anything.” Fast charging stations will get the battery from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes, which means you can spend much more time driving and less time waiting on long family trips. 

The GT-Line blasted up to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds, an incredible stat for an EV this large. For the small children along for the ride, the EV9 has LATCH anchors and a rear tether top for each seat. Build quality, amenities, and quality of materials render the EV9 a commendable value when stacked up against other vehicles in its segment. Any new vehicle owner will also enjoy free fast charging to the tune of up to 1,000 kilowatt-hours on the Electrify America network. One verified reviewer who had just driven her new EV9 from San Diego to the mountains for a snow weekend claimed it was, “Amazing on every level, with an interior quality that made for an ideal and comfortable experience.”

A Thrilling Transition to Tomorrow: Exploring the 2024 Kia EV9's Trailblazing + Compelling Design

The experts on staff at Car and Driver remarked in one of their blogs last week that car designers these days must not be excited to design 3-row SUVs. Some have reflected that there is only so much to be done with a two-box shape, and that the segment is competitive enough to just play it safe. Kia had excitedly proved that sentiment wrong three years ago with the Telluride, and we now have another modern masterpiece on our hands with the all-electric EV9.

The all-new Kia EV9 certainly makes a bold impression; the engineers and designers met and exceeded the challenge of designing a large battery-powered SUV that is so appealing to many American consumers nationwide. The EV9 is built on Hyundai Motor group’s excellent electric global modular platform (E-GMP) and starts things off with proportions that are slightly different from the Telluride’s.

The wheelbase is 122 inches long, which is nearly 8 inches longer than the Telluride, with the wheels pushed further off into the corners. The headlights offer a bit of a sci-fi vibe, with the vertical orientation of the taillights appearing quite the same way. Even though the EV9 doesn’t claim to be a luxury SUV, the design and materials selected smartly prove otherwise. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen is large enough to satisfy current trends, and there’s also a very cool climate-control center directly behind the wheel. 

The 2nd row captain’s chairs are heated and ventilated, with an excellent amount of power adjustability and extendable footrests. With the Hyundai Ionic 5 proudly claiming an esteemed spot on Car and Driver’s “10Best” list, mini car experts are thrilled with the EV9’s shared E-GMP platform potential. This crew tested the top-of-the-line dual motor, all-wheel drive model, cranking out 379 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The power source is the 99.8-kWh battery pack which boasts a greater capacity than seen from any other E-GMP models to date.

This large and lucent lithium-ion pack weighs over 1200 pounds, while the EV9’s final weight is an immense 5839 lbs. The EV9’s motors crank out more power and torque than the Telluride’s 291-horsepower 3.8-liter V6, with their considerable acceleration abilities easily making up for the extra weight. The dual-motor EV9 blasts up to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, and nails the quarter-mile trot in 13.3 seconds at a formidable 101 mph. These are very fast numbers for ANY segment, and the EV9’s amazingly fast accelerator response can render the Telluride on the slightly slower end.

With the EV9 situated in the first wave of three-row electric SUVs to first hit the mainstream market, it will have to live up to some sizable expectations. This team immediately loved the 285-mm Hankook Ion Evo AS SUV all-season tires, and the primo stopping power courtesy of much larger brake rotors. The EV9 was quite well gripped around the skid pad and made the stop from 70 mph in just 184 feet. The steering quality offered up excellent weighting, and directional changes yielded an eager response. At 70 mph, the EV9 “kicks out the quiet jams” with a hushed 67 decibels and offers an EPA-estimated range of 270 miles,

Savvy Moves for Smart Minds: Kia EV4's Early 2025 Debut Sparks Anticipation

Many digital news flashes scroll rapidly through our feeds here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, and January is full of seasonal updates along with glimpses of things coming soon! The Insideevs.com blog claimed this past week that “compact sedans aren’t dead yet, they’re just evolving.” The EV4 concept shown last year had authentically doubled down on a classic 4-door, 3-box design. A few elements resemble traits you can find in typical crossover SUVs of today, such as the ride height and sweet black cladding surrounding the wheel arches.

The official announcement has dropped regarding this concept’s series-production status, which is just slightly later than originally expected. The Korean Car Blog recently claimed that this savvy new all-electric sedan will go into production at the beginning of 2025. Electric vehicles are now the biggest influence on Kia’s sales and profits, and the brand has remained very flexible while responding to a constantly evolving market. When it finally debuts in production form, this electric sedan will be in direct competition with the Tesla Model 3.

With our focus switching back to all the exciting news currently happening, the Kia EV9 enjoyed glowing reviews from the KBB team and was praised for its “luxuriously quiet drive and high-quality features that elevate every commute or jaunt.” It has made an amazingly successful transition into the electric realm, without having to compromise on the features that have evolved to make Kia a front-running and successful industry icon. There’s plenty of space inside, even in the third row, and its fast-charging capability makes long road trips easier. 

The EV6 is an amazing electric SUV that puts driving excitement at the top of its itinerary and has been hailed for its well-balanced handling. It’s got quick acceleration, sporty handling, and sleek styling, with not as much sheer bulk as a common SUV. When the EV6 debuted in 2022, it confidently announced to the world that we could assemble an incredible and world-class EV. The 2024 EV6 can go more than 300 miles of driving range on a fully charged battery, with the GT allowing you to trade range for fierce performance. The top-shelf 576-horsepower EV6 GT will accelerate to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds.

One amazing claim for the GT-line firmly faces down one of the stiff elements of competition as this time is even quicker than the Ford Mustang Mach-E. Drivers will enjoy the central touch panel that easily selects between radio and climate functions. The infotainment system is ideally responsive, supports USB-connected Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and is simple to use even during the demands of a daily drive. The Wind trim level comes with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive and provides 282 miles of range. 

Last year the Gear Patrol crew outlined how excited they were about the fast-charging options that Kia has for vehicles such as the EV6, which can charge from 10-80% on a fast charger in just 18 minutes. The Niro was new for 2023, offering styling cues from the HabaNiro concept and proudly playing its cards face-up with 201 horsepower. Are you ready to embrace the exciting future of electrification? Contact us here today at Jim Butler Kia to learn more about the many exciting features of our electric vehicle lineup! All the industry’s major variations will be covered in some form by 2027, including an addition to an entry-level model in the A-segment. 

Future-Forward Phenomenon: Kia's All-Electric EV9 is 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year!

Last Thursday as the long winter months became a true reality to us here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, we received a very positive reinforcement to celebrate! It’s not just snow shovels and low temperatures that we must contend with, as the start of the year provides its fair share of industry awards. The Kia EV9 won the 2024 North American Utility of the Year Award, as officially announced during a meeting of the Automotive Press Association in Detroit. 

During this event, 50 automotive journalists from the US and Canada tested and rated the vehicles based on how innovative they were at setting new benchmarks in their respective segments. This is the third time in five years that the NACTOY jury has named a Kia vehicle as the top choice, and the second win overall for an innovative Kia EV. During the design and testing process, all the brilliant minds involved were certain that the EV9 was on its way to becoming a very “future-forward” and trend-setting icon. 

Print, online, radio, and broadcast media experts were on hand to test vehicles ranging from sporty coupes to hard-working pickups, with meticulously assessed criteria. Automotive innovation, design, safety features, performance, technology, driver satisfaction, and user experience are the traits that are examined to produce true industry champions. The Kia EV6 was able to claim this prestigious honor last year, as the EV9 steps out proudly as the first mass-market 3-row SUV in the U.S. After probing consumers for years about their needs, Kia made it a point to create a “true SUV”, with 7.8 useful inches of ground clearance.

Praise for the EV9 has been widespread, with the Edmunds.com review crew claiming they were quite impressed with its “luxuriously quiet drive and high-quality features that elevate any commute or jaunt alike.” Many consumers are now feeling ready to embrace the transition into the electric realm, and offerings such as the EV9 allow for little to no compromise on authenticity. Even the 3rd row offers a fair amount of space, and the EV9 has become quite popular for the number of features it provides at its price point. Easing anxiety across the board with its quick charging capability, the EV9 makes long-distance trips easier and worry-free.

The EV9 GT-Line traveled 306 miles on a single charge during official range testing, while charging from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes even at public fast-charging stations. The EV9’s towing capacity has also yielded a great deal of attention, residing at an admirable 5,000 lbs. When pitted up against the competition in the form of the Rivian R1S and Tesla Model X, Kia’s driver-assist features and ample space chisel it a much-appreciated niche for itself. The GT-Line accelerates from zero to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds, which is segment-leading for an SUV this size.

During more relaxed driving, the V9 offers smooth acceleration along with regenerative braking for efficient one-pedal driving. The fully loaded GT-Line comes equipped with the upgraded second row captain’s chairs which offer nearly the same luxurious amount of comfort as the seats in the front row. The optional 360-degree camera system is a huge help in tight parking situations, and the driver’s view of the climate control screen is ideally situated for constant monitoring. A few of the impressive range of standard driver-assist features are adaptive cruise control, driver attention monitor, and rear occupant detection.

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.

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!