From the bicycle producer to the world's fifth-largest car manufacturer: Kia Motor’s journey to success is a blend of passion, progress, and perseverance. Since its inception in 1944, this South Korean brand has endured many struggles and undergone many metamorphic changes.
Throughout its history, Kia has faced numerous challenges, including geopolitical shifts, changing market demands, and global economic downturns. Surmounting difficulties with resilience, innovation, and strategy, the company has become a game-changer in the automotive industry. Today, it’s making waves in the market, offering affordable vehicles without compromising quality.
The brand attracts many buyers seeking budget-friendly options and offers a wide range of models that can suit every driver’s needs. Another reason behind Kia’s growing popularity is its eye-catching designs, representing a combination of aesthetics and practicality. Kia is also praised for its focus on quality and reliability.
If you’re out in the market looking for your next ride, used Kias can offer great value and reliability. Check out our article to find out everything you need to know about the brand, its popular models, and the pros and cons of each.
Why Choose a Used Kia?
Kia offers classic performance and luxury comfort, and used Kia cars won’t disappoint you either. If you’re seeking a used Kia model, here are some reasons you’re on the right track.
- Affordability: Kia offers competitive pricing for the used midsize and compact SUV categories compared to its rivals. For example, a 2025 Kia Sorento can be found for approximately $29,625, while a 2024 Toyota Highlander is typically priced around $34,987.
- Value for money: Kia’s budget-friendly prices don't compromise its qualities. The brand offers an array of models coming with bold and futuristic designs, an intuitive and responsive infotainment system, a comfortable ride, and excellent safety features.
- Long Warranty Coverage: The most compelling benefit of used Kias is the good warranty coverage. Kia’s models boast a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, providing peace of mind to the owners.
Top Used Kia Models to Consider
Kia Forte
The long-running Kia Forte is a key model in the brand’s stable of vehicles. The budget small sedan is one of the best used Kias, perfect for daily errands.
Pros:
- Fuel efficient. It offers impressive fuel economy and is an excellent choice for budget-conscious drivers.
- Sharp and sporty designs. Recent Kia editions have got refreshed looks with updated bumpers and enhanced headlights.
- Well-thought-out interior. It’s comfortable and intuitively designed, with an adjustable driving position and user-friendly infotainment.
- Excellent warranty plan. Kia offers a comprehensive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Cons:
- Mediocre base engine. Adequate for daily commuting, it’s not suitable for those looking for more robust performance.
- Stiff suspension system. Struggles to absorb rougher terrain and larger bumps.
- Less refined CVT. Transmission lacks finesse.
Kia Optima
This reliable and well-equipped sedan is a good family hauler. Successfully blending comfort, safety, and performance, the vehicle is practical and fun.
Pros:
- Stylish interior. Offers ultimate comfort for drivers and passengers, featuring spacious legroom, even in the back.
- User-friendly infotainment. The infotainment system is intuitive to use with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- Safety Features. Kia Optima is incredibly safe, boasting the most advanced safety equipment available for the production year.
Cons:
- Tighter rear headroom. Like most cars with sleek roofs, the Optima sacrifices some headroom for design.
- No AWD system. All versions of the Kia Optima feature front-wheel drive, which can lack confidence in challenging weather conditions.
Kia Sportage
Known as a fantastic family SUV, the Kia Sportage is comfortable on the road, spacious inside, stylish outside, and comes with standard features.
Pros:
- Plenty of room. The Kia Sportage has excellent cargo space and spacious legroom in the back.
- Advanced infotainment system. The vehicle is equipped with the latest available technology that is easy to use and responsive.
- Premium warranty package. The Sportage boasts one of the longest powertrain warranties in the industry.
Cons:
- Limited-power engine. Although perfect for city streets and suburban areas, the model performs less impressively for a specific rush.
- Not suitable for off-road adventures. The vehicle handles occasional off-road terrain but not rougher conditions.
Kia Sorento
A compelling option for families, this midsize three-row SUV offers a successful blend of performance, functionality, and style. One of the most popular used Kias, the model fits diverse lifestyles from city dwellers to suburbanites.
Pros:
- Varied powertrain options. Kia offers great choices, from a standard 191-hp 2.5-liter inline-four to a punchy 281-hp turbocharged variant.
- Easy infotainment features. From Apple CarPlay to Bluetooth Wireless Technology, everything is easy to use and customize.
- Ample second-row room. The Sorento provides enough space for second-row passengers to relax and stretch out.
Cons:
- Tight third row. The third row is cramped and not suitable for fully grown adults.
- Limited towing capacity. It’s not a heavy hauler and falls short of rivals in maximum towing capacity.
Kia Telluride
Kia Telluride is a standout in a crowded midsize SUV segment. Perfect for family adventures, the vehicle is comfortable, quiet, and easy to drive.
Pros:
- Premium interior space and comfort. The model offers ample room in all three rows with supportive and comfortable seats.
- Advanced infotainment. The Telluride is equipped with an intuitive and responsive infotainment system as well as modern technology features.
- Excellent safety ratings. It has solid crash test performance due to an extensive suite of standard safety features.
Cons:
- Fuel efficiency. The model has mediocre fuel economy, estimated at 21 MPG combined.
- Premium trim pricing. The higher trim levels may be quite expensive, approaching luxury SUV pricing.
Kia Niro & EV6
The Kia Niro EV is a spacious and versatile electric crossover, offering a blend of SUV utility and eco-friendly features. The Kia EV6 is a fully electric crossover, boasting stunning design and cutting-edge technology.
Pros:
- Cost savings. Electric and Hybrid editions of Kia consume less fuel, require less maintenance, and are more affordable to maintain.
- Premium driving experience. Kia’s EVs deliver smooth and responsive performance due to the instant torque of electric motors.
Cons:
- Limited driving range. EVs still require frequent charging, making long-distance travel difficult.
- Charging infrastructure. The availability of charging stations, especially in rural areas, is still limited.
Reliability and Resale Value of Used Kias
Kia’s reliability has come a long way: from humble beginnings to earning recognition for its quality. The continuous innovations and improvements contributed to the company’s success and helped Kia stay ahead of its competitors. Today, used Kias are on top of consumers’ lists who look for reliable vehicles.
Another benefit of opting for used Kias is low depreciation costs. As these models have already gone through the initial depreciation phase, you can have a high-quality model at a fraction of the original cost. Plus, used Kia cars retain their value much better, and you don’t have to worry about the financial hit if you decide to resell it one day.
Let’s explore some real numbers. Kia Telluride, one of the most sought-after used Kia SUVs on the market, retains 78% of its value after three years. Another favorite among used cars, the Kia Sorento retains 66, 4% of its value after three years. A perfect choice for budget-conscious drivers, the Kia Forte maintains 75% of its original value over three years.
Buying Tips for Used Kias
Buying a used Kia for sale will surely save you money; however, there are also risks involved. Here are some things to do before your final decision.
- Carefully inspect the exterior of the vehicle.
- Thoroughly check and examine the interior.
- See what’s under the hood.
- Ask for a vehicle’s history report.
Additionally, it’s essential to consider the common issues associated with various models, ranging from engine troubles to issues with electric engines. For example, the Kia Sportage is known to have several common engine problems that affect its performance. The manufacturer has recalled certain models of the Kia Seltos and Soul due to issues with the piston oil rings. The awareness of these concerns can enhance your ownership experience.
To be totally sure you’re making a smart investment, check out Kia’s certified pre-owned program. The program ensures that used Kias go through a 165-point inspection. Everything, from brakes to Bluetooth, is checked by trained technicians. Certified vehicles come with a 10-year powertrain warranty, one of the best coverages in the industry. Moreover, you’ll get 24-hour roadside assistance, access to a free CARFAX report, and rental car coverage.
Are Used Kias Worth It?
Kia has passed through a long and complicated way, starting from bicycle manufacturing to becoming a game-changer in the automotive world. Today, this multinational automotive company is praised for its powerpack engine, bold design, and trusted technology.
Kia’s vehicles, like Sorento, Sportage, and Telluride, are striking, competitive, and affordable. Used Kias are just as worth considering, coming with quality and value. These vehicles offer impressive reliability, longevity, and low maintenance without breaking the bank.