Kia Nabs Fourth Consecutive Year of Highest Ranked Mass Market Brand From J.D. Power

When a customer is reviewing reasons to purchase a vehicle that will be perfect for them and their family in the long run, many people don't realize that the “short run” within the first 90 days of ownership is also so very important! During the first three months that a car is driven, this is when the true initial attachment to the vehicle is made, and longstanding opinions regarding recommending the purchase to others are solidified. Just last week, it was made evident once again that Kia owners reported fewer issues within the first 90 days of ownership than all other non-luxury car and truck brands in the United States.

After ranking the highest in the entire industry in 2016 and 2017, Kia's reported problem levels are still unchanged, deeming us once again as situated in the top mass-market automaker spot. The Sorento SUV and Rio subcompact models were both at the top of their respective segments, and the Optima, Sportage, and Sedona placed second in their respective segments. Every single car that Kia builds is a symbol of world-class quality and craftsmanship, and every employee here at Jim Butler Kia is proud of the progression and focus on performance the brand has displayed as of late.

The report came to its conclusion by analyzing responses from 75,712 respondents,  using 240 different vehicle models across 26 segments. Qualities evaluated were driving experience, the performance of transmission and engine, and a large range of various quality issues as they were reported by knowledgeable vehicle owners. There is nothing quite as frustrating as signing a lease or outright purchase, getting used to the daily drive in a new vehicle, and all of a sudden encountering car trouble. Knowing this full well, our brand takes great pride in being the top contender for the quality study, a measure of how much true satisfaction can stem from Kia ownership.

We invite you to heat things up this summer with a visit to us to check out great vehicles such as the Rio: testers from Car and Driver were greatly pleased with its performance on the brick-paved streets of Baltimore's Fells Point neighborhood, and very quiet performance during highway travel. Customer after customer has been won over by the budget-minded output of Kia in general: we are known to be a brand that takes into consideration the economics of the time, and offering the absolute best in auto quality for a sensible price. 

Cars.com heaped on the praise for our beloved Kia Sportage, claiming heaps of love for its performance with turbocharged engine, accurate steering, and incredibly comfortable backseat. Ergonomics, safety, and reliability are great reasons to fall in love with a car, and Kia is happy to once again roll off the lot with killer qualities highlighted in each and every single model!

2018 Kia Niro Boasts Top Safety Pick+ Award From Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

Many of our satisfied customers here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis have told us constantly that high safety rankings are one of the top reasons they pick our brand. Every time you pull out of the driveway on a new journey, the knowledge that you are behind the wheel of a car that ranks among the best in the world can bring about an amazing sense of peace, no matter how demanding your itinerary. The 2018 Kia Niro recently snagged the honors for the highest award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Introduced for the 2017 model year, the Niro has earned stellar marks across the board, with the latest success being the passenger-side small overlap front test.

The Niro Plug-in Hybrid is also included in these new crashworthiness ratings, and the entire system avoided collisions in 12 mph and 25 mph IIHS track tests. The included forward collision warning component meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria, further solidifying it as a great choice for any growing family or professional with a four-laned and frantic daily jaunt. In order to qualify successfully as a Top Safety Pick+ award-winner, a vehicle needs to have “good” ratings in the driver-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests, on top of an acceptable or good rating in the passenger-side small overlap front test.

The current Niro is known as a model that is a family-friendly 4-door hatchback, with the bragging rights to outstanding fuel economy. One of the absolute most efficient in its class, it has a combined city/highway fuel-economy rating of 50 mpg, and can drive for 26 miles total on electricity alone. Kia has really listened closely to the needs of hybrid shoppers as of late, who will love the hatchback versatility, and attention to detail taken while crafting a very modern and eye-catching design. This year, the Kia added the Plug-in Hybrid model to the Niro lineup, and Lane Keep Assist was included on board to replace Kia's Lane Departure Warning system.

Come down and spend time with us for a test drive at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, and check out the top-of-the-line Niro Touring trim level: the Advanced Tech Package is now included with all of these models. EX models receive a new Electromatic rearview mirror, that keeps glare down for you when you need a quick look at what's going on in lanes behind you. As the reviewers at Kelley Blue Book stated, the Niro is “Athletic and feels light on its feet, with a welcome agility”. Don't forget to check out Sport Mode: this is where you get to enjoy much better throttle response, tightened steering, and the 6-speed automatic transmission offers up quicker action. With a techie yet slightly more rugged appearance than the Prius, the Niro is slated to win over St Louis drivers with outstanding efficiency, and its ability to nail down 43 miles per gallon!

Kia Niro EV Specifics Made Public During Korean Auto Show

This week in South Korea, The Busan International Motor Show was a bustling hive of various high-tech activity and product demonstrations. Here the very latest in passenger cars, motorcycles, automobile parts, and commercial cars are all on display for consumers and business owners to eagerly see what trends and modifications are on tap for the coming year. The Kia Niro EV made its first appearance here, this week, and it was officially confirmed that the car will offer a battery with up to 236 miles of range. In January, a concept version of the car was shown at the Consumer Electronics Show, detailing tail light and trim details. It then appeared in Korea during an electric vehicle expo, touting two new battery options including a larger 64-kWh pack, currently expected to be the only one sold in the United States.

It will offer 100-kw DC fast charging, which can rejuvenate the battery's level all of the way to 80 percent in less than one hour. In other markets, the Niro EV is slated to offer a 39.2 kwh battery pack, rated at an overall finishing distance of 150 miles. A 201-horsepower electric motor will have the duty of driving the front wheels, and allows for a 0-62 mph trot in 7.8 seconds. The 7.0-inch touchscreen has the benefit of specific pages that monitor overall range, driving efficiency, charging opportunities, and control the climate.

The first thing that many will notice right when you enter the efficient and Eco-friendly Niro is the all-digital instrument cluster: it is unique to the Niro EV. You'll have the option to add equipment such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, and active lane control. The characteristic blue accents and rotary shifter are all found in the electric version of the Niro only as well, and the car is set to go on sale in Korea late this year. Some of the big news for the 2018 Niro was that the touring model now comes standard with HID headlights, forward collision warning system, a lane keep assist system, autonomous emergency braking, and the ever-useful wireless phone charger.

Two years ago, Motortrend said of that Niro model that they praised it for its “non- hybrid looks, smooth-shifting six-speed dual clutch, and flat-folding rear seats”. Also giving the Niro high marks for above-average regenerative braking, the Niro has always been a good choice for anyone driving Uber or Lyft as an income opportunity. We are witnessing a very dramatic shift towards sustainability in the power category, and are amazed at the progression that has taken place from hybrid vehicles to a future of purely-battery generated power. We invite you to come down to Jim Butler Kia of St Louis with any questions you may have: the Niro EV is slated for release here during the latest quarter of the year.

AMCI Global Ranks Kia As One of 2018's Most Trusted Brands

As the warmer days of summer are upon St Louis residents, there is an abundance of events to attend, after loading up your new Kia with friends or family to experience all of the fun. As the temperatures begin to reach the point when heavy air conditioning is the name of the game, the St Louis Art Museum is one destination that will “Up the cool factor” in a major way as far as temps are concerned. The Saint Louis Art Museum will be the first North American art museum to tell the amazing story of one of the greatest finds in the history of underwater archaeology. Two lost cities of ancient Egypt were submerged underwater, and were not uncovered for over a thousand years. More than 200 authentic artifacts including sculptures of a pharaoh, a queen, and ancient Gods will be on hand for viewing and a super awesome Summer's educational treat!

While you are on the way to your destination in one of our fine vehicles, you'll have  the satisfaction of knowing that the brand has been acknowledged for the second year in a row as one of the most trusted non-luxury automotive brands in the yearly Trust Automotive Brands Study, conducted by AMCI Global. Trust is the highest-ranked factor that leads to building brand loyalty inside and out, as well as the property of a car that affects a customer's decision to purchase one more than once. This study detailed this year how trust accounts for more than 50 percent of a consumer's decision to recommend, or repurchase a car down the road.

Meaningful perks such as an industry-leading warranty, and a dealer network that has long been devoted to customer service are a few of the reasons why customers keep coming back to Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, and we are happy to provide many with the optimum vehicle for their lifestyle. During January of this year, AMCI conducted its second annual TAB Study, with a collective sample of 2,500 owners across 34 brands participating. The study is executed in collaboration with C Space, a global consumer agency. AMCI is a leading global automotive marketing agency that has long been committed to serving every part of this vibrant industry, and creating new advocates for longstanding as well as newer automotive brands.

Founded in 1984, AMCI has now grown to provide three distinct services. AMCI Live  Is dedicated to consumer and industry product activations and events, AMCI Testing uses technology to compare every single aspect of automotive products, and AMCI Inside works with dealerships to make sure the best customer experience is had during every transaction. It's easy to see why so many drivers are putting their hard-earned trust in Kia: our 10-year/ 100,000-mile warranty program is one of the top leaders in the industry, and leading models such as the Niro, Soul, and Sorento are purchased frequently for their performance and reliability.

Forbes Describes Kia Rio EX as “Roomy, Fun, and Naturally Aspirated”

Jason Fogelson is a contributor for Forbes that is known to never sugarcoat anything related to new cars, and one who gets to test drive some of the fastest, most furious, and front-running vehicles out there. Our beloved Kia Rio just entered into its fourth generation of existence this year, and Jason as well as many other drivers can testify that it is quite a different vehicle than it was during its origins. The Rio was truly Kia's first original subcompact, making its arrival in the US during the 2000 model year. A second generation was on deck in 2005, and a third in 2011. Some brushed aside the first two versions as poster vehicles for incredibly low-cost transportation, while the third generation began to show improvements in outer design, and overall quality of construction.

Jason admitted that “even a jaded auto writer like him” could produce an appreciative nod for the fourth-generation Rio, with his major area of admiration being the exterior. One of his first full glances was next to his wife's Mazda 3 five-door, a car that he admires profusely. The two vehicles share very similar shapes and dimensions, and he had much appreciation for the athletic wheel arches. He was excited about the EX trim-level, which sported 15-inch alloy wheels, and a well-fitting coat of Urban Gray paint. With an overall stance that is a bit on the low and wider side, it is positioned a bit better to appeal to customers looking for an SUV at an entry-level pricing point.

The instrument panel on the driver's side is connected to the dash via support from a black beam below, and black dash above. This allows for a much smoother and modern look than there was on the last two models, and the center stack and center console employ the use of a separate element to connect to each other, and the 7-inch touchscreen display is prominently placed right at the top. The door panels do a great job of mirroring the two-tone dash, and the red leather seats in the EX edition add the perfect touch to the practical, yet pleasantly edgy theme. The second row is as snug a fit as you would expect in a subcompact, and the luggage compartment touts a 17.4 cubic-ft capacity, while the rear seat is up.

The 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder that provides the power source for the Rio comes with  direct gasoline injection, giving it the ability to generously provide 130 hp, and 119 lb-ft of torque. Using a front-wheel-drive platform, it is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, with the capability for manual available on the S and LX models. Expert auto writer Jason has years of experience driving overpowered cars, and still had great admiration for the powertrain, and Rio's overall fun driving experience. The Rio's capable suspension consists of Independent MacPherson struts up front, and coupled torosin-beams in the rear.

 Lower trim levels have front disc/rear drum setup in the lower trim levels, with the EX version consisting of disc brakes in the front and rear. Choosing the EX trim level will assure that you have the rearview camera and 7-inch touchscreen, both worth the extra spend. Economical has now become exquisite, and we hope you come see us here at Jim Butler to give the Rio a spin, and see this prepped-for-urban roads SUV yourself!

Images courtesy of KIA

KIA Proves 2018 Excellence, With 8 Vehicles Boasting a TSP or TSP+ Rating

Every time that St Louis residents buckle up and get ready to go down the road, safety is always on their minds. When we are advising customers from all walks of life here at Jim Butler which models will best meet their needs, we have had many young professionals and those with families in tow with concerns about safety. It is our pleasure to inform them about the many ways in which the 2019 Kia Sorento has value: next year's version received the 2018 Top Safety Pick Plus rating from the IIHS, making the total of Kia vehicles with 2018 TSP+ ratings to four, when specific headlights and front crash prevention are included in the equipment.

Our best-selling SUV was the recipient of “good” ratings in all six IIHS crashworthiness tests, and “Good”-rated headlights when the LED option and autonomous emergency braking are part of the SUV's package. It is a very distinct honor to have earned this strong of safety ratings for so many various vehicles, as we strive to create a top-notch product from the very first conceptualization on the drawing board, to the final inspection on the assembly line. To qualify for the TSP+rating, it is required that a vehicle earn “Good” ratings during six crashworthiness tests. Head restraint, roof strength, side impact, moderate overlap front, and driver-side small overlap front are the tests that the car needs to display above and beyond prowess on.

The Kia vehicles that have the TSP + rating include the 2019 Sorento, the 2018 Forte Sedan, the 2018 Optima, and the 2018 Soul. To qualify for a TSP rating, a vehicle must earn “Good” ratings in five crashworthiness tests: the all-important driver-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests. It also must earn an “Advanced” or “Superior” rating for crash prevention, and a “Good” or “Acceptable” rating during headlight testing.

We have long felt that the promise to make sure every single occupant of a car is safe is one that any auto manufacturer can take gravely to heart. It has been consistently amazing to see how technology has affected new cars being manufactured to date, and any accident prevented is seen as a huge success. As the spring months spur many to make purchases that benefit them in the long run, gaining the opportunity to call one of these Kia models your own will be the best celebration of spring ever. As Memorial Day is upon us and we honor many who had the largest senses of patriotism ever, there will be an uptick in the usually congested corridors such as I-29 and I-35. Knowing that you are driving one of the absolute safest cars in existence will provide the sense of confidence any consumer desires, as our always award-winning brand shines on for the coming of summer!

5 Pricey Models That The Kia Stinger GT Puts to Shame on the Drag Strip

With a price starting at just under $40,000, the Kia Stinger GT has been a robust and slightly rebellious surprise to automotive enthusiasts nationwide. Named as Autoguide.com's “2018 Car of the Year”, there's a lot more to the Kia Stinger GT than just the 3.3-liter, twin-turbo V6 engine, providing 365 horsepower, and 376 pound-ft of torque, but the speed stats have admittedly really been boosting curiosity as well as popularity.

Many customers have asked us after their first alluring peek at the Stinger here at Jim Butler of St Louis, “Which cars can this sedan smoke on the track?” To help us compile our list, we used the 0-60 times published by the automakers themselves, instead of a 3^rd party source. We claim the Stinger GT completes the sprint in 4.7 seconds, but it has been known to complete it in even less.

The BMW 540i: Even though its the least expensive on this list, it still rings in at $20,000 more expensive than the Stinger. It is powered by a 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline six, and generates 335 hp, and 332 lb-ft of torque. The standard-level 540i reaches 60 mph from a complete standstill in 4.9 seconds, while the xDrive all-wheel drive actually hails a tie with the Stinger's time, at 4.7 seconds.

Audi A7: The well-known and dastardly brisk S7 is obviously a faster machine than the Stinger GT, but the A7 is situated in a bit different of a category. It is powered by a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine, sporting 340 hp, and 325 lb-ft of torque. This results in a zero-to-60 time of 5.2 seconds, and a price tag rounding out heftily at $70,675.  

The Mercedes-Benz CLS 550: If BMW and Audi are mentioned, it's almost guaranteed that Mercedes-Benz is idling in park somewhere close, with their undeniably masterful engineering, and high-grade status. There is a new CLS that is set to arrive at dealerships all over in the very near future, but the current model actually does not match the might of our Stinger GT. The CLS 550 and CLS 550 4MATIC both accelerate to 60 in 4.9 seconds, powered by a 4.7-liter bit turbo V8. This admittedly harmonious match generates 402 hp, and 443 lb-ft of torque. So even though the Stinger GT has less power total, it can accelerate quicker, and the price is quite a bit less than the CLS 550's of $76,145.

Porsche Panamera: We fully admit that late last year, we were not at all shy about comparing our beloved Stinger GT to the Porsche Panamera. Coming in at a starting price of $86,000, it will set you back more than double what the Stinger GT will out of the gate. The standard model completes the 0-60 in 5.2 seconds, and the turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 offers less performance with 330 hp, and 331 lb-ft of torque. Beautiful and undeniably compelling? Yes, but the stats don't quite cut it for the short sprint.

Jaguar F-Type: Among all of the sensational cars in existence that the Stinger GT is faster than, there is probably none more startling than the Jaguar F-Type. The Stinger GT does not beat out the high-performance of the F-type R, but it is faster than the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 Variant, that has 380 hp, and 339 lb-ft of torque. That model takes just 4.8 seconds to hit 60, which is no slouch in the least, but is double the Stinger GT's entry-level price. There are many reasons to test drive a Stinger GT this spring, but if speed is your main forte, you'll have no shortage of fun securing a lease or outright purchase of this menacing yet practical daily drive partner!