Kia Motors Corporation is one of Korea’s oldest vehicle manufacturing companies and is well-known for its stylish and sporty models. This year, we’re highlighting some of the Kia models on the market that excel in categories such as comfort, styling, and overall performance. Here’s a guide to five of the top award-winning Kia models for 2017.
1. Kia Cadenza
This sedan has been completely redesigned for the 2017 model year, and these updates have helped the Kia Cadenza earn the title of “Highest Ranked Large Car in Initial Quality” by J.D. Power. This means it has the fewest number of reported problems in its segment. It was also chosen as a 2017 Top Safety Pick+ recipient by the IIHS when equipped with features such as optional front crash prevention and LED lighting.
Finally, the Kia Cadenza was selected as the best large car for families, thanks to its high ratings for safety and reliability, interior seating and cargo capacity, and family-friendly amenities.
2. Kia Soul
Voted as the “Highest Ranked Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle in Initial Quality” by J.D. Power, the redesigned Kia Soul crossover beat out all other models in its class for this coveted title. In fact, this is the third year in a row the Kia Soul has been recognized for its fantastic performance in this category. Additionally, this year’s model received an overall 8.8 (out of 10) consumer rating from Kelley Blue Book, including a 9.0 for comfort and 9.3 for reliability.
3. Kia Forte
Next, we have the 2017 Kia Forte, which tops the compact car segment with its excellent performance ratings. These have helped it earn the “Highest Ranked Compact Car in Initial Quality” title by J.D. Power. However, Kelley Blue Book has also praised it for its superior quality, giving it an overall 8.9 consumer rating, including a 9.2 for comfort, 9.3 for styling, and 9.4 for reliability.
4. Kia Niro
The Kia Niro made its debut in 2017 and has already received plenty of attention for its top performance. J.D. Power selected it as the “Highest Ranked Small SUV in Initial Quality,” thanks to its five-star rating. It also raised the bar for quality by surpassing the small SUV segment average by an impressive 30 points, and it’s one of only three models to earn an Initial Quality Study class award.
5. Kia Sorento
The final Kia on this list is the 2017 Sorento. This crossover was voted by J.D. Power as the “Highest Ranked Midsize SUV in Initial Quality,” and this is backed up by its low scores in eight problem categories as well as its high marks for reliability and design. Plus, Kelley Blue Book awarded the Sorento a 9.1 overall consumer rating, including a 9.5 for value and a 9.4 for performance, comfort, and styling.
If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, look no further than these five award-winning Kia models. Visit your local dealership to find out more about what makes them exceptional.
This photo, “2017 Kia Cadenza” by Automotive Rhythms used under CC BY 2.o. “2017 Kia Cadenza” is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.