Are Kias Good Cars? A Look at Kia Reliability, Features, & Pricing

Readers will discover:‍

• How Kia reliability has improved, including current ratings and typical repair costs
• Average Kia lifespans—and why electric Kia models may last even longer
• Key Kia safety features that enhance protection and driver confidence
• How Kia pricing compares to other popular brands and where buyers can save
• What to expect when shopping for new or used Kias, including top models to consider

Kia is on the rise in popularity with drivers of all kinds. One look around the roads, and you’re sure to spot the iconic KIA emblem seemingly here, there, and everywhere.

But how do the Korean automaker’s models stack up against the competition? Are they as good as they are popular? Or are the Kia problems of old still an issue? Specifically: are Kias good cars?

In this explainer, we’ll break down all of the facets you can expect from a new Kia. This includes reliability, features, and pricing across various models. With the right insights about Kia’s distinguishing features, we hope you can decide for yourself if Kia lives up to its reputation.

Are Kias Reliable?

Let’s be honest: Kia struggled in its reputation for years when it came to everything from build quality to reliability. But the brand has been on the rise, not just in popularity but in reliability ratings as well.

According to Consumer Reports, Kia ranks #10 in new car reliability and #21 in used car reliability. Not bad for a car manufacturer that was famous for poor reliability in the 1990s.

But while common Kia problems may be a thing of the past, necessary fixes are a reality for every vehicle, reliable or not. And you’re likely wondering if, when maintenance is needed, a headache awaits you. In a phrase: are Kias expensive to fix?

You’ll likely be happy to learn that no, Kias are not inherently expensive to fix. This is yet another area where drivers can enjoy Kia reliability that rises above its legacy. According to Consumer Affairs, Kias are, on average, less expensive to fix when compared with comparable makes. Of course, repair costs depend on the model, trim level, broken part, and more for your specific Kia vehicle.

Kia Lifespans

A lot of our customers ask “How long do Kias last?”. The answer can depend on the model, model year, trim level, past and current driving frequency, long-term expectations, and more.

With proper care, proactive maintenance, safe driving, and attentiveness to your car’s needs, you can generally expect your Kia to last over 200,000 miles. This should last the average driver about 10-15 years.

However, when we break down gas versus electric Kias, the results get more interesting. In general, electric Kia car models, such as the Kia Niro or the Kia EV6, can last even longer than gas-powered equivalents, such as the Kia Sportage or the Kia Sorento.

As with anything battery-powered, though, proper care and charging of the battery is essential in ensuring how long a Kia lasts.

Kia Safety Features

Kias today incorporate some of the industry’s leading features, keeping drivers and passengers alike safe and secure while en route. Here are just some of the many Kia safety features to offer Kia owners peace of mind:

• Ultra-High Tensile Steel Bodies – A highly rigid yet lightweight auto body that balances fuel efficiency and crash safety.
• Highway Driving Assist and Lane Keeping Assist – A combination of camera technology, radar, and sensors to help prevent accidents.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System – Including active alerts for the driver if pressure changes.
• Vehicle Stability Management – Offering automatic control of the wheel and brakes when road conditions lessen.
• And more.

Truly, there are countless Kia safety features to enjoy. And while not all features are available on all Kia models, the automaker has ensured a broad and exciting array of safety features across its line to ensure drivers and passengers remain safe inside their vehicles.

Kia Pricing

Despite its premium features and popularity among drivers, Kia remains an affordable choice while on the road. This makes it a competitive choice when comparing against Toyotas, Hyundais, and more.

Consider auto values for comparable vehicles, such as:

• The Kia Soul vs. the Nissan Kicks, which can offer an approximate MSRP savings of $1,340
• The Kia Sportage vs. the Honda CR-V, which can offer an approximate MSRP savings of $3,680
• The Kia Telluride vs. the Hyundai Palisade, which can offer an approximate MSRP savings of $1,610

Of course, these Kia pricing figures depend on trims, features, and much more. And car values these days are, in all honesty, always in flux.

As with any car comparison, we recommend shortlisting your needed features and determining how your model, trim level, and more compare to the competition and its most up-to-date pricing.

Discover Great Kias at Great Prices

If you’ve determined that a Kia is right for your family, Vantage Auto Group is here to help you find it.

Our broad selection of reliable and well-priced Kias includes the popular Sportage, the exciting EV9, and much more. And with availability in both new vehicles and used models across our Kia lineup, you’re sure to find the ride that works best for you.

Browse our broad selection of new and used Kias to discover why Vantage Auto Group is reimagining car buying.

Find new Kias for sale near you.