Why 5 Kia Models Are Highest in Initial Quality in Their Class

When the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study ratings were revealed, Kia Motors earned the top spot on the list. Several of their vehicles won awards in their respective car class segments, too. These were the Kia Cadenza in the large sedan segment; the Kia Forte in the compact car category; the new Kia Niro in the small SUV segment; the Kia Sorento in the midsize SUV segment; and the hip Kia Soul in the small multi-purpose vehicle segment.

2017 *Kia Niro – Small SUV *

J.D. Power doesn’t seem to have a hybrid car segment for the Initial Quality Study, and we’re sure the Kia Niro would have been on the list if there was. Already heralded by many consumers and receiving stunning reviews, the Niro is moreso a hybrid crossover than a small SUV. Available in five trims, although the hybrid system is the same across, fuel economy in the city varies around 45 mpg and up, as much as 52 mpg. The exterior is a bit more sporty than your typical SUV, and the Niro comes with all the modern tech with UVO eServices. Plus, not only is it affordable, buy buyers will get a federal tax credit just for getting a Kia Niro.

Starting MSRP is $22,890

2017 Kia Forte – Compact Car

The Kia Forte is not only compact, but also very affordable. Available in three trims, each is powered by a similarly same engine – a 2.0-liter DOHC with D-CVVT technology and direct fuel injection. The LX and S have slightly less horsepower because they run on the “Atkinson Cycle” of internal combustion, a type designed to sacrifice power for fuel economy. These two trims get 29/38 mpg city/highway with automatic transmission, whereas the EX gets 25/33 mpg city/highway. Although compact, it has 14.9 cubic-feet of cargo space. f looking to go green, there is also a Kia Forte Hybrid and Kia Forte PHEV.

Starting MSRP is $16,600

2017 Kia Sorento – Midsize SUV

The Kia Sorento has been around for some time, having branched out into a total of seven trims. Nearly no two are the same, with three engine choices and variable features inside and out. Some of the standard features consist of solar control glass, a rear camera display, UVO eServices, Bluetooth, remote keyless entry, and many more. Some of the convenient and high class features are of course reserved for the high-end trims, such as automatic a/c control, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seating, etc. The SUV is available as a five-seater or seven-seater depending on the trim and the options available.

* Starting MSRP is $25,800 *

2017 Kia Cadenza – Large Sedan

We’re a bit surprised the Kia Cadenza didn’t make it into the luxury car segment instead. With the type of comfort and convenient this sedan offers, one could easily mistake it for an automobile reserved for high class folk. Made up of three trims, all powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine, the vehicle gets 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway in either trim. An entire list of safety features are available throughout the lineup, and many convenient features such as dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, heated seats, and leather upholstery are standard on all three trims.

Starting MSRP is $31,990

2017 Kia Soul – Multi-purpose Vehicle (MPV)

The Kia Soul may be a MPV, but for awhile there it was Kia’s MVP. Hip and fun, all the cool kids drove a Kia Soul, and with its incredible affordability, many parents made the Kia Soul the choice for their college student on the road. With a low-power engine, teen drivers won’t be racing up and down the street, and with many automatic safety features, parents rest easy. Plus, it comes with smartphone connectivity and UVO eServices for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (optional on base trim).

Starting MSRP is $16,100.

* Can you see why these vehicles won out in their respective segments during the JD Power Initial Quality Study? If one interests you, find it in our inventory today . *

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