The Fast and the Fashionable: K5 GT Puts Power in One Package

At Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, we know our customers want a midsize sedan that brings more to the table than just good looks—and the 2026 Kia K5 delivers. With its sleek profile and generous list of standard features, the K5 offers excellent value without compromising comfort or convenience. It might not be the most thrilling sedan on the road, but it certainly shines when it comes to smooth ride quality and upscale cabin design.

What’s New for 2026?

After a major refresh last year, the 2026 K5 rolls into the new model year with just a few updates—expect a fresh exterior paint option or added standard feature. While changes are minimal, the K5 continues to stand out in a competitive segment that includes heavy-hitters like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Hyundai Sonata.

What helps the K5 hold its own is a strong emphasis on value and design cohesion. Even without significant new updates, it remains one of the most visually compelling options in its class. The sedan’s aggressive front fascia, fastback-inspired roofline, and LED lighting signature make a lasting first impression.

Design That Turns Heads—Performance That Plays It Safe

The K5’s aggressive styling suggests sporty performance, but looks can be deceiving. The new AWD base model doesn’t offer the same pep as previous versions, especially in acceleration tests. While the standard 2.5L four-cylinder gets the job done, it can sound strained under pressure, and the transmission isn’t always quick to respond.

However, if you're looking for extra excitement, the K5 GT offers a 290-hp turbocharged engine that delivers real performance—but it’s only available in one specific trim. Even so, the rest of the lineup impresses with intuitive controls, a roomy trunk, and a well-laid-out interior that feels a notch above its price point.

Kia also deserves credit for its consistent commitment to interior ergonomics and build quality. Soft-touch materials, smart storage compartments, and excellent outward visibility help elevate the daily driving experience.

Fuel Economy and Powertrains

Under the hood, the standard 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine offers 191 horsepower and pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel ratings come in at 25/36 mpg (city/highway) for front-wheel drive and 24/33 mpg with all-wheel drive.

For drivers who crave more muscle, the available turbocharged 2.5-liter engine bumps power to 290 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, clocking 0–60 mph in as little as 5.4 seconds. However, this version sees a fuel economy dip to 23/33 mpg. Compared to rivals like the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima—both of which offer more efficient options, including hybrids—the K5 isn’t the segment leader in gas mileage, but it still performs respectably.

Smart Safety for Peace of Mind

Safety comes standard in every K5. Each model includes features like blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking (front and rear), adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and lane-keeping assist. Step up to the GT-Line trim and you’ll unlock additional safety upgrades, including Highway Driving Assist and a 360-degree camera system for easier navigation in tight spaces.

Also notable is Kia’s driver attention warning system, which helps prevent fatigue-related mishaps on long road trips—a thoughtful addition for commuters and families alike.

Interior Room and Cargo Space

Inside, the K5 provides ample comfort for five passengers. Front-seat legroom is especially generous, and while rear space isn’t class-leading, it remains comfortable for adults. With 15.6 cubic feet of trunk space, the K5 holds its own against the Altima and comes close to the class-leading Honda Accord.

Kia’s seats strike a nice balance between support and comfort, making the K5 an ideal choice for daily drives, weekend errands, or longer highway journeys.

Next-Level Tech Comes Standard

Drivers will appreciate the K5’s standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complete with built-in navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air software update capability. You’ll also find thoughtful features like wireless charging and USB-C ports for front and rear passengers. 

Premium upgrades include a digital driver display, phone-as-key technology, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system for audiophiles. Kia continues to push the envelope with user-friendly tech that doesn’t require a learning curve, proving once again that affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing innovation. Sleek on the outside, sharp on the inside—the 2026 Kia K5 delivers head-turning looks and brains to match. Visit Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis today and get behind the wheel in style!

2025 Kia K5: Elegant, Innovative, and Ultra-Comfortable

The 2025 Kia K5 is back and better than ever, offering a striking design, an upgraded interior, and an exhilarating driving experience. This midsize sedan continues to set the standard for style, comfort, and technology, making it a standout choice for drivers looking for sophistication and performance here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis.

Bold Design That Turns Heads 

The refreshed Kia K5 features a sleek, modern look with an eye-catching light signature that enhances its aggressive stance. A distinctive daytime running light design gives the front end a unique personality, while the stylish rear light bar adds a premium touch. 

With its sculpted lines, sporty profile, and refined details, the K5 is designed to impress from every angle. Available 19-inch alloy wheels and a gloss-black grille further enhance its bold and sporty appearance, ensuring it stands out in any setting.

Performance That Excites Under the hood:

The 2025 Kia K5 offers an upgraded 2.5-liter inline-4 engine that delivers a responsive and dynamic drive. The available GT model takes performance to the next level with a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing an impressive 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the GT model ensures quick, smooth shifts for an exhilarating driving experience.

For those who prefer added confidence on the road, the K5 GT-Line offers available all-wheel drive, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions. Additionally, refined suspension tuning and precise steering response provide a balance of comfort and agility, making the K5 enjoyable whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway.

A High-Tech, Comfortable Interior

Step inside the 2025 K5, and you'll be greeted by a modern, driver-focused cabin packed with advanced technology. The highlight is the new 12.3-inch touchscreen, now standard across all trims, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless connectivity. An available 12.0-inch digital instrument cluster adds a high-tech touch, while the newly redesigned center console provides more convenience with larger cupholders, a wireless charging pad, and USB-C ports for front and rear passengers.

Designed with comfort in mind, the K5 offers supportive front seats and a spacious rear seating area, making it perfect for long drives or daily commutes. Premium materials, available ventilated front seats, and ambient interior lighting create an upscale atmosphere that enhances every journey. The generous trunk space provides plenty of room for cargo, ensuring practicality meets style.

Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance:

Kia has equipped the 2025 K5 with a suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance features to enhance peace of mind on the road. Standard features include:

• Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality

• Blind-spot monitoring

• Lane-keeping assist

• Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking

In addition, available features such as a surround-view camera, rear cross-traffic alert, and highway driving assist provide extra layers of safety and convenience, making the K5 one of the most well-equipped sedans in its class.

Elevate Your Drive with the 2025 Kia K5:

With its bold design, thrilling performance options, and cutting-edge technology, the 2025 Kia K5 continues to be a top contender in the midsize sedan category. Whether you’re looking for a stylish commuter, a tech-savvy family car, or a sporty ride with impressive power, the K5 delivers on all fronts.

The 2025 Kia K5 isn’t just another midsize sedan—it’s a bold expression of style, innovation, and pure driving excitement. From its sleek, head-turning design to its tech-savvy, ultra-comfortable cabin, every detail is crafted to elevate your time on the road. But reading about it is one thing—experiencing it is another. Feel the power, embrace the comfort, and discover the thrill for yourself with a test drive at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis. 

Slide into the driver’s seat, take control, and see why the K5 is setting a new standard for what a sedan should be. Your perfect drive is waiting—let’s make it happen today!

Room for More: Kia Telluride's Stellar Luggage Capacity Revealed

As the back-to-school season is coming quickly here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, many busy families are thinking about all that needs to be done! Meal planning, after-school activities, and options for weekend fun all require some sensible space for carry-ons. The Autoblog review team recognized that drivers sometimes need more than just performance specs, so a luggage test for the Kia Telluride had ranked high on their to-do list. 

Their first test a few years back rendered it an all-out luggage-hauling champion, and now the group eagerly pulled into their headquarters in Portland. The time had now come, with the prime focus being on the space behind the third row. 21 feet is the official claim, which measures up nicely to the 16-18 ft range that most of the competition boasts. The only vehicle that even comes close in the rival community is the Volkswagen Atlas, which resides at 20.6 feet. As every luggage test commands, the group used two midsize roller suitcases that had to be checked in at PDX.

This pair of roll-aboard suitcases were 26 inches long, 16 wide, and 11 deep, and they barely fit in the overhead. There was also a smaller roll-aboard that was 23L x 15w that fit easily. To add a real-world flair, there was also the writer’s wife’s overnight bag, which was 21L x 12W x 12D. The Telluride also boasts the ability to remove the floor, and the cargo cover underneath to increase capacity. Readers worldwide LOVE these tests, as they are an accurate representation of what to expect when it is vacation time, or simply shuttling around the lacrosse team. 

Even though the overnight bag did not fit at first, there was still room left above the two vertically stacked bags as well as in the lower left in front of the wall. It was also of note that the reclining third-row seatback was angled for comfort, which affected the final tally. With it positioned upright, there’s the ability to fit more. When the crew went eagerly to work with the Honda Pilot and VW Atlas, the Telluride remained the champion. As action sports have gained popularity and more people are enjoying going out, being aware of spatial capacity is a must.

The Edmunds.com review staff claimed that the Kia Telluride is an “impressive 3-row SUV with a quiet and upscale cabin, great tech features, and a satisfying driving experience. It has been a class leader for five years now, and this review team has a hard time recommending another SUV because it's just that good. On the inside, the panel gaps are tight, the material choices are top-notch, and everything is built quite solidly.

It's the best of both worlds, with the V6 providing an excellent acceleration response. The crew performed consistent stops from 60 mph in 123 feet, which is on the short end in its class. The Telluride's steering is light at parking lot speeds and then spans up naturally during turns. The engine's fuel-saving stop-start feature works smoothly and quietly.

The off-road-oriented X-Pro turned out to be great on the pavement as well while boasting a superior layer of ride comfort and absorption of rough roads. There are plenty of large windows which aid visibility, and the camera systems are very helpful extras. All Tellurides come with a variety of collision avoidance systems and incredibly well-functioning cruise control. A standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen provides all trim levels with a sweet XL display that is easily accessed from the driver's seat. 

Fresh, Fierce, and Roomy: 2025 Kia K5's Turbo Power & GT Appeal

Looking at the many auto publications available online has always allowed us to get a clear idea of what the industry's best-trained “eyes and ears” think of the newest vehicles coming out on lots today. The staff on duty searching for the latest scoops at Motor Trend took a close look at the 2025 Kia K5 last week, which just enjoyed a significant refresh here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis and faces off with rivals such as the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima while holding down the midsize sedan segment.

Just for starters, this crew enjoyed the headlights' distinctive new look, along with the brand-new integrated spoiler for the trunk lid. There are numerous super-cool new wheel designs, and a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-4 is the powertrain replacement for the outgoing 1.6-liter. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with an aspiring student's favorite in the form of a wireless charging pad and numerous USB-C ports. The bright green brake calipers are another excellent new addition that is one of the first things onlookers notice upon approach.

Since it now boasts some updated and much more edgy styling cues, the well-versed Motor Trend crew eagerly claimed that it is the most exciting-looking sedan in its segment. The GT model is where the true pavement scorcher's dream comes true, with seriously upgraded performance parts and a genuine swagger. Even the base level trim now screeches onto the scene with modern driver-assist tech, along with a very user-friendly dual-function climate control panel.

Kia’s new and improved operating system is the star of the show on the now-enlarged infotainment touchscreen, and this new package is sure to appeal to anyone who needs stand-out styling and plenty of useful features. The new 2.5-liter inline-four is the new standard powertrain, and it cranks out 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. The upgrade to the GT model is the way to go for anyone who is looking to enjoy a true sense of primo asphalt-inspired adventure while equipping you to enjoy the benefits of 290 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.

Kia has always enjoyed a heavily awarded vehicle lineup, and the K5 is off to a typically accolade-inspiring start! Every year since its introduction in 2021 and onward, the K5 has earned the highest five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. The 2025 model sees some of today’s most popular and life-saving driver assist and active safety features increase, beginning with Lane Keep Assist and automatic high beams. Other new standard additions include front and rear parking sensors, as well as adaptive cruise control.

Higher K5 trim levels are equipped with camera-based blind spot monitoring, which is so incredibly useful on today’s hectic roads: if the sensors detect an oncoming vehicle within a certain proximity, an audible warning and signal appear on the side mirror. The Front Automatic Emergency Braking is carried over to this new model and is now an upgraded system that now includes cyclist detection and intersection collision avoidance.

There’s a brand-new 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen now featured in the updated K5, which aligns with the current market’s demands for “bigger and better” each year. We have been so very excited for driving in its purest form to be enjoyed over the days of summer, and the 2025 Kia K5 is an example of the fullest-spirited and two-lane ready sedan to brighten up the open spots in each day’s commute!

Reimagining The MPV: 2025 KIA Carnival's Hybrid Power and Always-Evolving Tech

All of us here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis had our eyes fixated on the Chicago Auto Show last quarter, where the newly refreshed 2025 Kia Carnival gracefully took the stage. The Carnival now brings with it a very fine-honed edge in the unique space between SUV and hard-working family hauler. It commanded attention strikingly with an SUV-like aesthetic while offering up passenger space such as one would find in a fleet van!

The incoming model now offers an available turbo-hybrid powertrain and is a living and breathing example of our proud next generation of fully connected car technology. After many customer satisfaction surveys, engineering spec examination, and finely tuned direction, the Carnival arrived on the scene boasting very appealing functionality. As Kia has continued to avoid settling for “every day and average”, there have been numerous updates to performance technology and striking design.

There have long been stereotypes cast rigidly against the family vehicle that they tend to allude to the uninspiring, and the Carnival has fared amazingly well at reversing that trend! Characterized by a very large grille, the Carnival enjoys the striking visual appeal of Star Map daytime running lights, and very high-tech cube-shaped headlamps. Around the back, the Carnival boasts cleaner lines and smooth surfaces, with an available contoured skid plate on the lower rear fascia.

The Carnival has available alloy wheel options ranging from 17 to 19 inches, along with the decadent and daring Carnival Dark Edition. This model drastically tones down the brightness factor with darkened skid plates, roof rails, side and tail door garnishes, and exterior side mirror covers. Once inside, various simple shapes and ambient lighting span the width of the dashboard, while the center fascia houses climate controls with a minimalist design.

Inside is an available 12.3-inch cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment display, with an optional full-color head-up display that projects navigation and cluster info directly onto the windshield. One simple yet very ingenious touch is the built-in lights within the seat belt buckle that illuminate, making it simple to locate them in the dark. The cabin's seven standard USB-C ports will keep everyone in the first three rows properly juiced and connected, and two 115V inverters can provide a viable power source for tailgating or just plain getting by!

As soon as you step in and say, “Hey Kia!” A very cool multi-zone voice recognition feature takes high-tech cues from the speakers in the front and second rows to assert adjusting climate control or opening windows. Suppose you have opted for a Carnival equipped with the optional VIP Lounge Seat package. In that case, second-row passengers are in charge of quickly activating their seat's “take-me-away”-grade relaxation mode, reclining the seatback, or propping the leg extension up with a simple voice command. You'll be commanding the next Six Flags run with 145.1 cubic feet of cargo room behind the first row and the miraculous “Slide-Flex” seating for 8 with multiple configurations.

Fold-in-floor third-row and removable second-row seats are another means of ensuring your sun-drenched activities go smoothly for the day, and one configuration offers a sliding second-row center seat for easy baby or toddler access. Performance comes from the sturdy 3.5-liter V6 GDI engine that cranks out 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, which is paired with an 8-speed automatic. The 2025 Kia Carnival is now also available with Highway Driving Assist 2, which maintains a well-allocated distance from the vehicle directly in front of you.

Watt’s Not To Love? 2025 Kia EV6 Offers Extended Range, Sporty & Stylish Design

The many outdoor activities of spring have gotten us to think about stylish ways to shuttle everyone to the next event on time! Graduation parties, photography sessions, and even rounds of frisbee golf are all opportune moments to make the most out of your next vehicle here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis. The 2025 Kia EV6 greatly impressed the Motor Trend crew with its sporty demeanor, and quick charging time during their recent test drive!

For the coming year’s refresh, models with the 77.4 kWh battery pack are likely to now feature an 84.0-kWh unit. The range is expected to rise to around 310 miles on the RWD models, while some AWD variants will reside at around 280 miles. RWD models are expected to crank out around 225 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, which is good for a 0-60 mph sprint of around 6.5 seconds. AWD models arrive poised and ready with output residing around 320 horsepower and 416 lb-ft, while scorchingly arriving at 60 mph in about 4.5 seconds. 

The GT trim is presiding slyly and successfully at the top of the lineup, which can crank out 576 horsepower and 564 lb-ft of torque and is good for a 3.2-second sprint. Kia has long been recognized for our commitment to providing great safety features, allowing every new and existing customer to feel as if they are 100% confident they will reach their destination safe and sound. Some watchful high-tech eyes that come as standard are forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors, driver attention warning, and speed limit assist. 

Hitting the road for activities such as the Enjoy Illinois 300 NASCAR Cup or the Juneteenth celebration in the Delmar Loop begs for a very snazzy and superior means of showing up! The coming EV6 will also have new 19 and 20-inch wheel designs to choose from, and there will also be a fingerprint authentication system to provide a secure and verified trip each time. There will be an added sense of rigidity with the addition of thicker B-pillars, and heavier sound insulation behind the rear mirror to offer a welcoming study environment for those seated in the rear.

The Edmunds.com auto experts hailed the EV6 for “prioritizing pure driving enjoyment” while brandishing plenty of power and well-balanced handling. As you sprawl out with the family over your next trip and plan a route to see faraway relatives or move the nephew back home from college, it’s great to know that the 2025 Kia EV6 is compatible with the latest high-rate charging stations. They went on to claim that few options come close to the excitement you have while driving the EV6, with its very sharp steering and first-rate control around corners.

Here the group also claimed that the touch panel that switches between climate and radio functions is ideally situated and a breeze to use. The blind-spot warning system worked perfectly for the group on a rainy upstate New York road, proving itself to be perfect for the slow-and-go motion of rush hour. The expansive legroom in the back also provides the ultimate space for simple car seat installation. Their extended time spent with the EV6 was with the
Wind trim: they greatly appreciated its mix of first-rate performance, upscale features, and reasonable pricing for the segment.

The Evolution of Elegance: Discover the Bold and Brilliant 2025 Kia K4

Questions regarding the future of our lineup are frequently brought up here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, where we have welcomed many awards and accolades over the past year! One decision that has been recently finalized was highlighted by the bloggers hard at work serving up the scoop at MotorTrend, as Kia has now officially revealed a preview of the new K4. This is a “next-generation sedan” whose emergence finalizes our suspicions that the current model Forte is being replaced. 

The current Kia Forte is a versatile and groundbreaking model for Kia, moving over 100,000 units last year alone. It also flaunts the brand’s current lowest entry price and arrives on our lot with a capable 1.6-liter turbo engine cranking out more than 200 horsepower. EPA ratings are a trait that many drivers are looking at closely, as prices at the pump have not quite loosened their grip on the nation. The current-model Forte is rated at 41 mpg on the highway and rounds off the entire package as a very practical, efficient, and exciting affordable compact.

The images that Motor Trend published didn’t reveal too much beyond a design that has a funkier persona then the current very traditional shape. The exterior footprint seems to be a bit larger, with a sloping roofline and rear-end treatment that makes a bit louder initial statement. The new design has very clean bodywork, and much attention to detail was given to the process of revamping an already-attractive favorite. There are a few similarities to the existing Kia K3 sedan, which was officially introduced in Asia last year.

The fender lines and greenhouse designs are where there are initial similarities, but the sheetmetal patterns are not quite alike. The Kia K4 Forte replacement will probably see a boost in material quality inside too, with a list of new technologies and luxury touches to be available. It’s not quite clear yet if the same five trim options will carry over, along with two powertrains. Many questions will likely be answered at the New York International Auto Show on March 27, with a fully-fledged online preview on March 21. 

The images on the Kia website portray a class-leading blend of advanced technology, along with future-forward aesthetics and appealing contours. The manual-equipped Kia Forte GT now packs a 1.6-liter turbocharged I4 under the hood that cranks out 200 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The Car and Driver reporting crew showed the teaser photos, where one can still make out a fastback roofline much like the Stinger Sport sedan’s. This incoming and potentially hybrid setup will offer competition up against the Honda Civic, Mazda 3, Toyota Corolla, and Volkswagen Jetta. 

The rear door handles are no longer situated close to the beltline, as they are integrated into the C-Pillar. There are also two noticeable kinks in the roof line and a D-pillar that is shaped a bit like a fin. Some industry experts are betting that the key four will be available with a 6-speed manual transmission as well, and the Cars.com review team also couldn't resist getting in on the predictive action. After getting their glimpse of the teaser photos, they said that the roof’s corner’s approach to the rear doors was like “Adam and God stretching toward one another, or E.T. healing Elliot’s finger!”

Athletic, Sporty, and Appropriately Large-Screen-Obsessed: A Close Look at the 2025 Kia K5

As winter finally turns to spring here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, there will be even more appealing excuses to sneak away and enjoy a twisty two-lane adventure! The Kia K5 has been an incredibly eye-catching car since it was reworked for the 2021 model year, quickly gaining a name for itself when it stormed the scene to replace the Kia Optima. There was then a more powerful engine placed in the Kia K5 GT, and for 2025 the Car and Driver crew took a close look at the sporty sedan’s thorough refresh. 

One of the coolest new additions is the “Star Map” LED front daytime running lights, a brand-new front fascia, and flared fins that angle up nicely to define the new honeycomb lower grille. In the back, the tail lights turn down prominently at the corners and glow below the truck lid. There’s also an integrated spoiler and 16-inch wheels on the base-level LX trim. There are 18-inch models on the EX and GT-Line and the GT also boasts 19-inch Pirelli P-Zeros. 

Screen-obsessed is a way of life (and signature rolling off the line trait!) for many of today’s cars. It seems like they steadily keep growing each year, and it’s easy to see why: once drivers got a taste of the way a larger-sized infotainment center improves the drive, manufacturers went straight to work cranking out updates! Inside the 2025 Kia K5 there’s a 12-inch instrument cluster and 12.3-inch center touchscreen. It is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and all models also feature Kia’s new Connected Car Navigation Cockpit. 

This efficient cockpit system offers lightning-fast data processing and over-the-air-update capability. The first thing the crew noticed on their test drive was conveniently larger cup holders, the sweet wireless charging pad, and USB-C ports. The entry-level 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder has now edged out of the picture, with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder in its place boasting an extra 11 horses for a total of 191. This powertrain is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and comes in the LXS, EX, and GT-Line trims.

The GT trim is where things get avidly more exciting, with the 2.5-turbocharged 4-cylinder that cranks out 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. The GT Model also receives a standard set of bright green brake calipers to accompany the seat stitching. The 2025 K5 was officially revealed at the Chicago Auto Show on Feb. 8th, with new technology, more standard features, and the new base-model engine. 

The current K5 remains athletic and attractive, with its recent refresh allowing it to stand out on the road. With competition such as the Honda Accord consistently in the mix to rival its chops, the Edmunds.com review team deemed the Kia K5 as “intuitively laid out with thoughtful spaces for odds and ends and offering a comfortable space for both drivers and passengers.” Don’t forget to check out the added benefits of the EX trim, which now comes standard with a heated steering wheel, Bose premium audio system, and useful phone-as-key function! 

2024 Kia EV6 GT Offers “Scorching, Spacious, and Eco-Friendly-Sourced” Thrills

The Nasdaq experts officially published a stat last week that had our eyes peeled here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, as exhilarating vehicles such as the 2024 Kia EV6 have been winning over customers left and right! Through 2028, the EV market is expected to grow at an annual rate of about 10%, seeing it retain its status as one of the fastest-growing technology areas. The Car and Driver crew claimed that the EV6 makes things much less of a “scientific experiment” as far as being reliable for a pleasant ride, and great daily performance.

The style is current and savvy enough to be outright distracting, and many dedicated engineering hours were spent attempting to create something truly special and unique. The GT performance version makes good on 576 horsepower, and a peak DC-fast charging rate of about 225 kW offers segment-leading efficiency. With this quick recharging ability long distances are not an issue, while holding onto bragging rights to boasting an excellent advantage over the competition. For EV buyers who prioritize driving range over athletic speed, the Wind trim’s dual motors generate a combined 320 horsepower.

The EV6 is available with a single electric motor mounted on the rear axle for rear-wheel drive or with electric motors on both front and rear enabling all-wheel drive. For good old-fashioned (via NEW means) straight-line performance, the 576-horsepower GT rushes to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds, proudly sitting at the top of the lineup. Enhancements such as firmer chassis tuning, an adaptive suspension, more powerful brakes, and an electronic limited slip differential offer the raw yet refined driving characteristics that breathe a healthy amount of memorable life into this compelling EV.

The 2023 EV6 GT was included in an exclusive 0-150 speed test last year as well, where its stopping time also created positive waves among review staff: it returned to a stop from 150 in just 31.2 seconds, which was just a tenth slower than a Toyota Supra. Another very important claim was also confirmed by these automotive experts, as the EV6’s 350-kW fast charger adds 70 miles in less than 5 minutes. A godsend for any harried commuter, these stats provide a promising look at our esteemed brand’s future. 

There are 28 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat and 54 cubes total with the rear seats folded flat. The infotainment system works its magic on a 12.0-inch touchscreen that’s an extension of the EV6’s modern 12.0-inch digital gauge cluster. Every drive in the EV6 is guaranteed to be spirited and adventurous, and the upgrade to a 14-speaker Meridian unit renders the audible bits even more engrossing. The U.S News & World Report team praised the EV6 for “standing out from the pack with sleep styling, excellent efficiency, sharp handling, and abundant standard features.”

Satisfied owners here at Jim Butler have told us that the EV6’s impressive driving range, confidence-inspiring handling, and excellent fuel efficiency allow it to stand out in a crowded segment. Its robust selection of both punchy and efficient powertrains offer a large variety for everyone looking to enjoy the benefits of modern EV ownership. For 2024, the Light trim was reintroduced after a one-year hiatus, and the EV6’s infotainment arrangement is now “more intuitive than the Tesla’s.” A few other of our favorite other available features are a sunroof, universal garage door opener, and ambient LED lighting.

Scoreboard & Screens: The 2024 Kia Sorento Takes Center Stage in the 3-Row SUV Class!

As football scoreboards become the center of attention nationwide and here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, we are “bowled over” with the features and functionality of new vehicles arriving each day! The 2024 Kia Sorento is an excellent utility player and 3-row choice, and it now comes with four powertrains. The base trim comes with a non-turbo 4-cylinder and front-wheel drive if you’re on a budget, or there’s the option of the off-road-ready and luxurious turbocharged X-Pro model if you’re looking for extra fun. 

The Plug-In Hybrid model can provide an estimated 32 miles on all-electric driving before the gas engine kicks in, with the regular hybrid providing an extra boost of acceleration and great fuel economy as well. All the non-hybrid trims received a mid-cycle refresh for 2024 that spruces things up with a fresh front grill and revised tail lights, along with freshly updated wheel designs. The infotainment system and dashboard are also updated, with the X-Pro and X-Line trims adding a rugged element of appeal. 

The Car and Driver review crew was impressed with the EX-Hybrid, which comes standard with a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder hybrid powertrain that packs a bit of appealing extra muscle. The EX also includes the comfort of heated front seats, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and remote start. The 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder cranks out 191 horsepower as standard, with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder above it delivering 281 eager horses. These excited test drivers embarked out on the town with the SX trim and enjoyed its incredibly firm brake feedback, and poised handling. 

The exploration-prepped X-Pro trim comes equipped with a center locking differential, all-terrain tires, and 17-inch wheels. The maximum towing capacity for the Sorento is 4000 pounds, which is still adequate for the weekender’s water toys or other recreational items. The 2024 Sorento Hybrid front-wheel-drive models get 39 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, while all-wheel-drive models achieve 36 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. A 4.3-inch digital gauge display and a separate 12.3-inch infotainment screen are standard, with higher-level trims changing things up with a 12.3-inch reconfigurable gauge display. 

The rear-seat entertainment system has been one of the features most appreciated by busy parents; letting the miles pass by with younger ones whose attention is captivated makes a huge difference! The Sorento also features an optional wireless charging pad and immersive 12-speaker Bose stereo. The KBB review staff were impressed by the Sorento’s affordability and efficiency, while also ranking Kia’s stellar warranty coverage as the best in its class. This team of enthusiasts loved the quicker acceleration of the more powerful engine, along with the greater towing capacity. 

For buyers who don’t travel often with more than five people and perhaps spend a good deal of time navigating tight parking lots, the Sorento is a very attractive and adventuresome means of moving through your week! With the 3rd row folded down, you get a generous cargo hold with 38.5 cubic feet of space, with 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space directly behind the 3rd row. The standard Kia Drive Wise safety suite included with every Sorento provides lane keep assist, automatic high beams, driver attention warning, and automatic emergency braking. EX trims and up feature the Smart Power Tailgate, which accommodates hands-free opening and closing. 

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.

2023 KIA K5 Claims On-Campus Clout as “Best Car for Teens” by U.S. News & World Report

As selfies and weekend get-togethers for the tragically hip can understandably be a bit more appealing than cracking the books, popular automobiles today must possess a certain charm to be favored among teenagers. U.S News & World Report has officially awarded the 2023 Kia K5 with the “Best Car for Teens $25k to $35k”, recognizing the vehicle’s dependability, long-term reliability, safety features, and available technology.

This can be a difficult age group to find the ideal vehicle for here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, and details such as modern styling and affordable price are frequently on parents’ and teens’ wish lists alike. The K5 is available in five trim levels and comes equipped as standard with some of today’s best safety features. You’ll be happy to hand over the keys before homeroom knowing that Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, and Lane Departure Warning will assure that each trip pass it's some form of sensible boundaries.

This segment of drivers has a few tendencies that may allow you to want other forms of a watchful eye, and you'll appreciate Geofence Alert, Curfew Alert and Speed Alert, which are all available with the Kia Connect telematics system. After being put to the test against other models in the same segment, the K5 enjoyed so many of the features that render it an excellent midsize car to also boost its new driver appeal. With consistently high scores in reliability and a segment-leading powertrain warranty, this is a stellar car for those who are still fine-tuning their behind-the-wheel performance.

Exclusively available with a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive options, the K5 is always suited for battle up against the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and its running mate the Hyundai Sonata. The GT-Line is now offered with a Panoramic Roof package, and includes a heated steering wheel for extra comfort and dexterity during arctic temps. The Motor Trend team reflected after their test drive that “this is a model that makes perfect sense for those who are tired of forgettable SUV designs.” 

The K5 has a striking visual profile that is hard to miss, while competitors such as the Subaru Legacy have much less in the visually alluring department. Standard variants are powered by a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder that cranks out 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Those on the hunt for more power can look toward the K5 GT, which comes with a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 cylinder that is good for 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. 

The more powerful engine will propel you rapidly on up to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds, rendering it one of the fastest in its segment. All K5 Trims are equipped with a 10.3-inch infotainment system, in every variant also receives integrated navigation along with rear USB charge ports. The GT-Line was the front-running choice of this testing team, with the added features of LXS-LED foglights and taillights, a power driver seat, the larger 10.3-inch infotainment system, and one-touch up/down front windows. 

Always generating excitement and guaranteed to be a hit with even the moodiest of high schoolers, the Kia K5 is outright sensational, and loaded with college-bound potential!