www.hotcars.com 10 Most Reliable Cars Made By Kia

Kia had a rollercoaster ride when they started manufacturing cars. The company initially produced tubes and bicycle parts and later made Korea's first domestic bicycle, the Samchully, in 1952. In 1962, the Asian firm started manufacturing the K360 for Mazda, followed by the Kia T600 in 1969, and the Brisa pickup in 1973.

A year later, Kia ventured into car production with its first passenger car, the Brisa. It was a short-lived affair because they were required by the government to focus on manufacturing light trucks, like the Bongo in 1981. In 1987, Kia entered the American market with the Pride, which was under production until 2017.

Kia was one of the victims of the Asian financial crisis. In 1997, they declared bankruptcy. The result was a merger with Hyundai in 1998. Since then, the company has proven itself as one of the most dependable out there. In fact, in 2016, Kia was honored by J.D. Power as the most reliable model sold in the United States, the first non-luxury manufacturer to top the list since 1989. Kia positioned itself as a budget car manufacturer, but not one to be missed when it comes to practicality and performance.

102021 Stinger

The Stinger is a handsome midsize vehicle packed with agility and performance. First in order is its powerful V6 engine that can generate 376 lb-ft of torque. This car can zoom from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 167 mph.

All that power is matched by reliable service, making the Stinger an efficient car, as far as handling is concerned. It scored five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and earned a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. This car looks good inside and out.

RELATED: Watch This Tuned Kia Stinger GT Take On A Mustang GT Roush 5.0

92021 Forte

The Forte looks simple, but it knows how to wow. It is affordable, but it doesn’t mean quality was sacrificed. For the 2021 model year, Kia packed it with standard features that were optional in the previous variant. This includes wireless charging (EX trim), blind-spot and rear-cross traffic collision warning (GT Turbo), and Michelin Pilot Sport Summer tires (manual transmission GT), among others.

The Kia Forte scored 83 out of 100 on J.D. Power’s reliability rating. It had one recall for an airbag issue but is nonetheless praised by Consumer Reports for advanced safety features. The Forte is a delight.

82021 Sorento

This crossover was named Large SUV of the Year by What Car?, praising its accommodating interior and smooth handling properties. Aside from an improved design, Kia made sure that this SUV means business from its off-road prowess to advanced driver assistance features.

J.D. Power is impressed by the Sorento's handling response and lighter weight, making it fuel-efficient. There was one recall for a fuel system problem, but overall, the Sorento is one durable road companion that’s perfect for any family trip.

RELATED: This Is How The Kia Sorento Stacks Up Against The Mercedes-Benz GLC

72021 K5

Formerly known as Optima, the K5 is all about design and power. Its head-turning aesthetics is not just for show; it’s part of what makes this car a wonder. Its exterior looks bold, and that’s just the start because inside and under the hood, it means business.

Inside, it boasts an infotainment system with wireless features, voice command, an impressive sound system, and an amazing interface. Under the hood, it is packed with a powerful turbo engine, helping this sedan dart from 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds. Reliable and fun to drive, the K5 is always a reliable pick.

62020 Telluride

The Telluride is still new in the game but is already earning praise for its dependability. For 2020, Motor Trend named it SUV of the Year, commended for its value, design, engineering, and safety. As Kia’s largest SUV, it is quite intimidating, but it delivers.

The standard equipment looks luxurious even for the base model, and more than that, it’s easy to handle. It’s not all about design with this car, it’s also about function. With this SUV, Kia made sure to accomplish a balance between comfort and performance.

52018 Soul

The Soul’s square shape raised some eyebrows, but don’t be fooled, it’s more than its design. This subcompact crossover is well-equipped and fun to drive; even passengers are extended comfort when riding in this box.

Though admittedly weird-looking, this model is one car appreciated for its utility. Add the turbocharged engine, and it's a proud vehicle. Its steering is solid, the technology is exceptional, and safety is premium. The Soul lives!

RELATED: 10 Things To Know Before Buying The 2022 Kia Soul

42021 Niro EV

There were no recalls for this electric crossover. If that’s not enough, here are some of its proud assets: a drivetrain with a 239-mile range; an impressive infotainment system; solid handling; and quick acceleration of 0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds.

Consumer Reports is wowed by this model’s versatility, saying it’s one of the “most livable” EVs. EV might as well mean “excellent vehicle” for this Kia creation that hits all the marks. From comfort to practicality, the Niro is a great pick!.

32018 Rio

Kia has been producing this subcompact car since 1999, and through the years, it has improved, but still remained loyal to its goal: affordability and reliability. 2018 was like a rebirth for Rio with the introduction of its sedan and hatchback models. With the reconfiguration, more refined interiors and modern features were included.

With the facelift, Kia made sure to pack the Rio with advanced safety features (like stability control), an attractive design, and smooth handling. This fuel-efficient vehicle is not a “bargain” even though the price tag is cheap. Rio is one robust roadrunner.

RELATED: 10 Things To Know Before Buying The 2022 Kia Rio

22019 Optima

Also known as the K5, the 2019 Optima is commended for user-friendly controls that make it a refined choice among lovers of midsize sedans. J.D. Power recommends it as an adept family vehicle as it’s packed with safety features like anti-lock brakes, a stability management system, and hill start assist, among others.

Its cornering is impressive, too, and it can go from 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds thanks to the work of the turbocharged I4. As they say, if it ain't broke, don't fix it. There were minimal updates for the 2019 version, but the car nevertheless continued to be a valuable machine - an optimal driving companion.

12020 Sportage

This crossover SUV has been around since 1993 and is known for its distinctive looks. Expect a dynamic driving experience with this Korean creation, thanks to its sporty handling. Its cabin is praise-worthy, as it adds oomph to the vehicle.

As expected with Kia, the Sportage has low running costs. It earned five stars from NHTSA plus a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, so as far as reliability is concerned, this SUV is a pal. It’s always an action-packed day out there with this compact vehicle.