2021 Kia K8 XL Grille Offers Up Bold Visual Statement, Definition By Distinction

Everyone here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis was watching intently when one of our major German rivals endured a large amount of criticism when they began placing very large-sized grills on their cars. We believe that it was ultimately for the better, as it may have been the beginning of a distinct visual and engineering trend. Kia has since introduced the K8 to replace the Cadenza and gave it the quite noticeably extra-large treatment for its prominent Tiger Nose grille. 

Flanked by sharp headlights and connected to a fantastically-sculpted hood, the K8 possesses a distinct look and upper-end charm that is noticeable when you first see it coming. Even car lovers who are looking for an athletically-stanced and muscular model will appreciate the K8's sense of charm and elegance: it is similar to the excitement you experience when the trip to a formal ballroom or other celebratory soiree allows for a dress-up night. The Cadenza was a massive change in Kia's design language when it debuted 5 years ago, and the character line present on the K8 finishes overall with a look that will certainly be well-received and have you hopping online to see when the Symphony will be performing soon!

When asked about the origins of inspiration for the K8, global designers stated some of the inspiration even came from the most technically-advanced yachts in the world, a fitting source for a car that will be inspirational for anyone who has an enthusiasm for the finer things in life. The sedan that Car and Driver claimed “could be a worthy competitor to the likes of the Lexus ES”, it appears to continue with a transverse-engine layout, and front-wheel-drive. The final measurement of the K8 is 197.4 inches, and images show in detail the diamond-like lattice pattern on the grille and full-width light bar. 

There is also a chrome trim-piece that starts at the front from the LED DRLs and continues below the doors, and a metallic ornament just above the fuel cap. The fastback roofline and rear taillight design derives inspiration from both the souped-up Stinger and K5, and will not at all be a car you'll miss while on the road. We are expecting to get our first official peek at the K8 this spring during March or April, and in the meantime have several accomplishments to be proud of via the J.D. Power Awards. This year we stole the show in terms of the quality, dependability, performance, and both dealership sales and service awards, remaining a benchmark source of safety and longevity for your next purchase! 

Sleek and Stylish Kia K5 Takes Win in “Best Family Sedan” Category During MotorWeek Driver's Choice Awards

 

Motorweek is TV's longest-running car magazine show, and is the defining judge of the most capable and appealing new trucks and cars of the year. The editors evaluate vehicles on a wide variety of their traits with close looks at value, innovative style, and long-term reliability. The 2021 K5 was constructed with the goal of it being the superior champion of its class, offering features that are 100% exclusive to its segment and keeping up with a trend of a determined stance to be the best. 

There are many industry professionals out there who keep tabs on our selling trends here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis along with many other dealers nationwide, and they have long been wondering if the pure and purposeful drive of a sedan will ever run short of its charm. Boasting turbocharged engines for its entire lineup along with the available all-wheel drive and an interior that is loaded with technology, the K5 offers the robust and head-clearing “drivers choice” adamantly rivaling the current appeal of our crossover SUV selection. 

The Optima was the already amazing and efficient midsize family sedan that was used as a measurement standard for how to come out with a groundbreaking and revolutionary model. Since the Optima already had been a staff favorite for the Motorweek crew, they fully appreciated just how the latest personal and safety technology, as well as modern powertrain equipment, could be confidently infused into what turned into an award-winning formula. Comfortable and quiet during highway drives and boasting a strong turbocharged engine in the GT trim level, much of the K5's appeal stems from just how eye-catching the styling is while providing such a great value. 

If you have the desire for more than 180 horsepower, the GT is the choice that offers up the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine good for 290 horses. It's evident that today's buyer is interested in base-level trims with an appealing mix of practical and useful features that make sense. A look at the K5's entry-level trim reveals 16-inch wheels, LED headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, cloth upholstery, an 8-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker sound-system, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity all on the LX trim before you make the move to higher-level options. 

In-depth reviews from Edmunds.com portrayed in detail many happy customers who rendered the K5 a “huge leap” from their current model, relishing all of the great features and first-class appearance after opting to switch brands. The K5's premier mid-level and classy EX-line adds the panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, climate control vents for rear passengers, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and rear parking sensors. 

2021 Kia Telluride's Proportions, Packaging, and Premium Power Pave Way for “Perfect SUV” Status

The term “perfection” in the automotive realm deems a new release free from any flaws or defects and allows you as the incredibly happy new owner to back out every single day knowing that you're behind the wheel of something special. There are a few SUVs from the competitor's hard-working camp that fit the buyer's bill within their own rites, but the Telluride has excitedly racked up many awards and achievements for being above par in every single way. 

Taking a close look at the powertrain that Car and Driver claimed massively exceeds its mission of moving people and their things better than any SUV in its class, the standard V-6 powertrain cranks out 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The engine pairs with an 8-speed transmission, and the top-of-the-line SX model reaches the 60 mph mark in just 7.1 seconds. Hard-earned playtime on the weekends will be that much more fun with a 5000-pound towing capacity, offering you the ability to lug behind all of the lake and wilderness-ready essentials for a much-needed escape. 

The Telluride offers 8.0-inches of ground clearance to fend off long-term wear and assault from the common hazards that quickly find their damaging way to your underbody: when any vehicle you want to take out into the wild rolls fresh off the factory line, it's not always 100% ready to take on challenging elements, and this added lift is the first necessary stepping stone to take on the challenges of the trail. With an excellent build quality, attractive and comfortable interior, and room for 8, the Car and Driver testing crew were able to fit four carry-on suitcases behind the third row and successfully stuffed a total of 35 carry-ons with back rows entirely folded flat. 

We know that one of the most important traits people look for these days is the big screen inside, adding a touch of comfort via tech that makes you feel right at home. Boasting the 8.0-inch touchscreen on the entry-level model, you can choose to upgrade to the 10.3-inch as well as wireless charging, and the bass-booming bounty of the premium Harman/Kardon audio system on the very top-tier SX model. 

2021 Kia Rio Stakes Claim To Class-Leading Victory With Vincentric Best Value in America

Over the last two decades here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, our entire lineup has changed in numerous ways, and the Rio is one model that has maintained its reputation and image based on its generous and timely value. Available in sedan and hatchback versions, the 2021 Rio now has another great thing to boast about: the Vincentric automotive research organization in Michigan has deemed it the proud recipient of the 2021 Best Value in America. 

While stepping up with versatile and practical benefits such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Rio has not added an exorbitant amount of dollar signs to its final price! The Vincentric Best Value in America award factors the current market price of a vehicle and then looks at its cost of ownership over its lifespan. New for this year, the Rio boasts a newly designed front end, a larger 8-inch touchscreen display, wireless smartphone integration, and the technology package that adds safety items such as automatic front braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, automatic climate control, and automatic high-beam headlights. 

Power is sourced from the 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine with 120 horsepower and continuously variable automatic transmission. One of the best variants to check out is the Rio S trim level: you get the added benefits of cruise control, remote keyless entry and trunk opener, 60:40 split-folding rear seat, and a center console armrest and storage bin. Another reason that excellent vehicles such as the Rio are at the top of many awards and honors lists is other bonus traits such as our emergency roadside assistance, providing a trusted and experienced network of over 17,000 trusted roadside assistance providers on call all over the nation and accessible 24 hours a day. 

Vehicles such as the 2021 Rio show our commitment to progress through innovation during each crucial stage of design and development, from the future of alternative fuel vehicles to the most useful safety advancements on the market. On-board UVO is one way to fully tap into the future of the ultimately-connected driver and integrates all of the necessary elements smartly into one interface to keep your Kia model running up to its full potential. You can enjoy hands-free texting and calling, or manage your music selections by using simple voice commands, as well as setting the climate controls for optimum comfort. 

The very stylish and comfortable cabin is packaged with plush seating, a manually-adjustable driver's seat, and the bigger-and-better 8.0-inch touchscreen display as standard. Crossover SUVs that are constructed with an affordable price in mind are exponentially better when they boast a sleek and dynamic profile such as this, with an aggressive stance and poised-for-excitement 15-inch alloy wheels. Reinforced with 30% more advanced high-strength steel, the 2021 Rio is constructed to continuously provide the best in strength, thoroughly protecting you in rapidly-changing driving conditions. 

Kia Telluride and Sorento Both Rank in Top Four of Car and Driver's “Best Mid-Size SUV” Roundup

Three-row crossovers may not be the vehicles out there that have the planet's ultimate environmental salvation or frequent off-road trips up their sleeve, but they are the ideal solution for buyers with large families and a fair amount of stuff. Here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis and other dealerships nationwide, these are useful haulers that can carry around at least 8 passengers, a fair amount of sporting and recreational equipment, and still deliver superior fuel economy than their close relatives in the form of full-size SUVs. 

The Car and Driver staff puts together some of the most useful top-lists in the industry, as a new buyer can quickly scan one over and get an idea of a vehicle that could be best suited for their needs. For the past year's offerings, they provided a down-to-earth ranking of mid-size SUVs ranked from worst to best, and we were thrilled to see that the Kia Sorento and Telluride were both present in the top 4, with the Telluride perched triumphantly at #1. 

The 2021 Kia Sorento enjoyed a complete redesign this year and has exciting changes to offer both inside and outside. Engine options are the base and step-up turbo four-cylinder variants, as well as a brand-new hybrid version. An 8.0-inch touchscreen comes as standard, with the step up to a 13-inch model as an option on higher trims. The upscale materials used in the cabin have helped make it a natural home-run with consumers and reviewers alike, and the second-row bench seats can also be switched over to the captain's chairs to provide easy access for the third row. 

The standard navigation system on SX models will now include an integrated model that allows for vehicle function controls to be handled remotely and notify you quickly if any passengers are left behind. There is the choice of Normal, Eco, and Sport modes to provide intense adjustment for steering effort, throttle response, and transmission fluidity. 

The 2021 Telluride won such distinguishable and high honors for boasting top-tier luxury while possessing a price point in the middle of the segment. Also snagging a spot on the 10Best List that Car and Driver dole out annually, outperforming the competition every time in the most crucial categories. For 2021 there is the addition of the Nightfall appearance package, offering blacked-out accents and a perfectly sinister look. 

The EX trim acquires LED headlights when included in the Premium package, and Sangria along with Black Copper are awesome new paint options for select models. One great way to enhance this spectacular and award-winning vehicle is with the SX Prestige package, which adds a head-up display, heated and ventilated second-row seats, and nappa leather upholstery. Thinking of escaping suburbia for some action on jet skis or the pontoon? The tow package's hitch and self-leveling rear suspension take things up a notch to prepare for an adventurous departure!

2022 Kia Stinger Provides “Abundant Driving Verve”, Thrills From 3.3-Liter V6

The sports sedan segment is one that is always rich with excitement, as these are the cars that enable the driver to experience a very pure and heart-racing connection to the road. The Car and Driver team posted a blog last week taking a close-up look at the 2022 Kia Stinger and were impressed off the bat with an all-wheel-drive option as well as the power derived from the twin-turbo V6. New for the 2022 model year is the mid-level 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, updated exterior lighting elements, new wheel designs, and larger exhaust tips. 

Inside there are new metallic trim pieces, adjustable mood lighting, and the available add-on that is moving up higher and higher on wish lists: the 10.3-inch infotainment display. The 8-speed automatic that comes in every Stinger offers up quick shifts and sharp response from the driver-controlled paddles. During this team's track testing the Stinger had the straight-line speed nailed, and was the most fun when pushed heartily to the limit. The Brembo brakes offered on the GT line were impressive, and both rear and all-wheel drive models outperformed their EPA ratings when put to the real-world test. 

It was also noted here just how comfortable the rear seat was compared to other cars in this class, and the UVO infotainment system comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as a six-speaker stereo. Wireless smartphone charging and in-dash navigation are available as other upgrades, as well as the benefits of premium audio with the 15-speaker Harmon/Kardon stereo system. You're going to be tempted to drive faster than average straight off the line in a car this sleek, and while no one will blame you for doing so, it's good to know that the Stinger has earned a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

After just one drive in this car you can see that it is so defining and natural that it helps redline everything the Kia brand stands for, and the note of the new variable exhaust system will wow even those who have experience with well-equipped German and Italian competitors. Also on board for the 2022 model is a safe-exit warning system that quickly alerts passengers of any approaching traffic and the very useful blind-spot monitor that provides a feed of exactly what is approaching in the zone that is always difficult to keep one's eye on. Up front, a curve now replaces the angles at the left and right edge, which adds a touch of visual width and a bit of angling on the headlamps. 

The bumper's new lower edge now gives it an appearance a bit like a seasoned rear diffuser, and with larger exhaust tips it comes out of the gate with more of a Le Mans stature and feel. We'd also recommend the upgrade to Nappa leather, which provides a unique soft luxury addition that is nice to have. Staff on duty at TheNewsMarket said that we should also look for remote start as a feature as we anticipate new arrivals here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, and are anxious to continue offering this sporty and engaging sedan!

Kia Sedona Name-Change Imminent After NHTSA Filing Details Discovered

The Kia Sedona minivan has enjoyed a fair amount of consumer popularity due to its great looks, smooth V6, and extreme value. Handsomely styled and an ideal choice for a busy family, it has proven to be a solid-performing rival for the competition in the forms of the Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey. The base model offers a good amount of standard convenience features, and the top-of-the-line SX provides an upscale and very comfortable driving experience.

It has now been reported that in the States, the Sedona minivan will undergo a name change to Carnival, which is already used in other markets. The many ways that the vast internet provides answers for filings and patents has aided in brands being able to discover a model's future, and a VIN decoder filing with the NHTSA has clued us in here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis regarding the coming name change. On the SedonaForum.com it was officially confirmed over the last month that the Sedona name would not continue use in the US, and the 2022 model's arrival will be known going forward as the Carnival. 

Now also dubbed as “The Grand Utility Vehicle”, styling on the incoming version is a bit more similar to what is found on an SUV. Checking out the current-model Sedona for a test drive will allow you to find the best value for your needs, which the Car and Driver staff decided was found for them in the middle-of-the-road EX. It adds roof rails, keyless entry, push-button start, 18-inch aluminum wheels, heated front seats, rear-window sunshades, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and leather upholstery. It also sees front and rear parking sensor, blind-spot monitoring, and rear-cross traffic alert as standard safety equipment.

The soon-to-be-Carnival's V6 is well-matched to its duties of moving people and goods from A to B, and you won't notice much of a harsh ride finding its way into the confines of the cabin. The heft of the steering wheel is ideal for the types of driving anyone will encounter during the daily drive, and it is rated by the EPA at 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The SX trim provides reclining captain's chairs where the second-row bench is situated on lower levels, and all models come with a two-tone color theme and above-average small-item storage. 

For the journey's infotainment needs, a 7.0-inch touchscreen system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, with the upgrade to the SX providing an 8-inch screen and an update to real-time traffic and weather. All models come with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, and you can upgrade the trip's appeal with the optional rear-seat entertainment system, which mounts two 10-inch touchscreens behind the front-seat headrests to keep passengers occupied with their choice of digital distractions. The current-model Sedona earned top marks from the National Traffic Safety Administration during crash testing, and some of the key safety features include automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.