One of the biggest advantages of competition in car manufacturing is that consumers can choose a vehicle based on their preferences. Some prioritize speed, others power, hauling capacity, or personal transport. There are also options for those who just need a simple, no-frills vehicle to get from point A to point B.
Kia is a great example of a manufacturer that caters to specific consumer demands. Originally founded in 1944 as a South Korean bicycle manufacturer, Kia gradually expanded into producing motorcycles to buses before manufacturing cars. While its bus business remains focused on South Korea, Kia slowly expanded their car lineup and became aggressive for international sales after being acquired by Hyundai in 1998. Today, it is known as a consumer-friendly brand that provides reliable transportation.
Who Owns Kia?
Kia is owned by Hyundai Motor Company. Hyundai holds a 33.88% stake in Kia. This partnership was formed in 1998 after Kia declared bankruptcy during the Asian financial crisis.
Kia Sephia
Kia entered the U.S. market in 1994 with the Kia Sephia. The Kia Sephia would not turn heads of its design, because it's a really simple car built for simple transportation. Presented in 1994, it's meant to rival foreign import cars like Honda and Toyota because of its price although many noted that the car is comparatively low in quality compared to the established brands in the country.
Kia's Iconic Cars
Kia gained a reputation of producing affordable cars with lower quality compared to other import cars. However, the company pushed to overcome the narrative by producing some impressive vehicles since they entered the US market.
The following are the top vehicles product by Kia:
Kia K900
The K900 is practically the antithesis of the early perception of Kia. First introduced in 2012 in South Korea, the K900 is Kia's successful foray in the luxury category of sedans. Coming in with a sleek contoured design, the vehicle came with two engine configurations: the 3.3L Twin-Turbo V6 and the 5.0L V8 engine. These powerful engine configurations push the K900 to 155 mph top speed. The K900 is measured at 201.6 inches long and 75.4 inches wide.
Kia Telluride
The Telluride is Kia's unexpected success in the SUV category. Measuring at 196.9 inches long and 78.3 inches wide, this impressive SUV is an expertly designed vehicle made for comfort and smooth ride for the passengers and driver. Under the hood, the Telluride features a 3.8L V6 engine with top speed of 130 mph. The SUV is a massive success earning multiple awards with increase in demand after the initial limited run.
Kia EV6
Tesla is the most recognized name in the world of electric cars but Kia is also throwing its hat in the EV race with EV6. Their first EV was introduced in 2021 and continues to be one of the most impressive lines of EVs as it sports powerful engines and impressive acceleration. Their GT Model is especially powerful with 576 horsepower and 545 lb-ft torque. This configuration gives the EV6 a 0-60 mph acceleration in only 3.4 seconds and top speed of 161 mph.
Kia Soul
While Kia pushes to be part of the car industry through innovations and impressive car designs, they still haven't forgotten their niche that made them popular. The Kia Soul is the perfect example of the company's car philosophy while improving in quality. Relatively small (165.2 inches long and 70.9 inches wide), it's a budget friendly SUV with ample space for everyone and design for fun.
The King of Kia - Kia Sportage Model Line
While the previously mentioned models made Kia a recognized brand in the car industry, it is the Kia Sportage that continues to impress consumers that often translates into sales.
1st Generation (1993 - 2004)
The first generation of Kia Sportage was a rugged SUV with a body-on-frame design. Measured at 171.1 inches long and 66.5 inches wide for its four-door version, the SUV came with a 2.0L I4 or 2.2L Diesel engine. Its top speed taps out at 103 mph but it's extremely notable in design and performance because it can be used for off-roading and has a convertible version.
2nd Generation (2004-2010)
The 2nd generation improved on the 1st generation with better performance on the road although it's no longer a off-roading SUV. Slightly longer (171.3 inches) but significantly wider (70.9 inches), the vehicle was geared for family use and ease of control with AWD configuration option.
3rd Generation (2010-2015)
Improving on its size (174.8 inches long/ 73 inches wide), this upgraded version of KIA Sportage is well known for its turbocharged configuration option (2.0L Turbo Engine). With top speed of up to 125 mph, it was regarded as one quickest SUVs on its release.
4th Generation (2016-2021)
Bigger is always better for Kia Sportage and this version exemplifies that idea. With 176.4 inches in length and 73 inches in width, it's roomier with advanced tech and safety features (automatic emergency braking). This impressive SUV's top speed was 130 mph and it's considered one of the best-selling models of Kia.
5th Generation (2022 - Present)
Kia decided to push the Sportage to the next generation of car technology by offering hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. Larger than the 4th generation (183.5 inches log /73.4 inches wide), the latest generation is considered the fastest Sportage to date with 130 mph.
Kia continues to be your reliable, consumer-friendly vehicle with a wide variety of options. From the Sportage to Telluride and Soul, Kia will give you the car you need at a competitive price range without skimping on quality and safety.
Kia's Future Vision - Car Sizes & More
Kia's future vision focuses on electrification, sustainability, and innovative design.
Kia car sizes will come in a mix of larger and smaller vehicles. The company is expanding its lineup with larger models like the Kia EV9, which is a three-row electric SUV that measures 197.2 inches (5010 mm) in length and 77.9 inches (1980 mm) in width.
They are also working on more compact and affordable car options. Plans are underway to introduce an electric midsize sedan - Kia EV4, which will be affordable and compact.
The new Kia EV3 which is hitting the market soon, measures 4300 mm in length, 1850 mm in width, and 1560 mm in height.
Kia's plan is to offer varying car sizes, from compact cars to full-size vehicles, to meet different customer needs and preferences.
