There is no denying that Kia knows how to make a reliable daily driver, and the manufacturer’s generous warranty coverage does a lot to sweeten the deal. Whether you’re a solo commuter or have a growing family, an SUV can be the perfect option for your next vehicle, and Kia has an array of SUV models to fit any size or budget. But before we dive into Kia’s extensive lineup, consider what you need from your new ride. Are you looking for more people space? More cargo space? A more powerful engine? All-wheel drive? Something more electrified than a gas engine? Kia has a wide range of SUVs, from small crossovers to full-size third-row SUVs; many hybrid and electric options are available, too.
Picking out the perfect Kia SUV can undoubtedly be difficult. Knowing which ones buyers love the most and why they love them so much might help you make your decision. Let’s take a look at a few notable models that we think are perfect for drivers in Port Lavaca and the surrounding area. If any of these fantastic models have piqued your interest and you’re on the hunt for a great Kia dealership near Port Lavaca, we invite you to visit us here at Victory Kia, located conveniently in Victoria, and our team will be happy to take you through our extensive inventory of SUVs and help you narrow down a few perfect choices.
SUVs, Crossovers, and MPV Models
The Kia Sportage
First up is the Kia Sportage. Packed with cutting-edge technology, the Sportage boasts features like a set of available driver-centric Panoramic Displays that provide you with a massive 25 inches for viewing important vehicle information, entertainment functions, and integrated navigation graphics. Wireless charging is also available if you prefer to remain cord-free during your drive, while two USB-C charging ports are available for the rear seat occupants to utilize.
The X-Pro trim level is fit for adventurous drivers. This trim comes standard with Active All-wheel Drive with Multi-terrain Drive Modes. Whether driving through mud, sand, or snow, the X-Pro’s AWD system provides ample traction when needed. Plus, with 8.3 inches of ground clearance, you will have an easy time traversing off of the pavement. Inside the cabin, you get treated to cozy SynTex upholstery with a special Sportage X-Pro pattern on it.
The Sportage offers a pair of 12.3-inch dual panoramic displays, measuring out to a 25-inch display placed along the dash; these screens let you see your entertainment features, diagnostics, navigation, and other vehicle information functions. You can also take advantage of a Harman Kardon Premium Audio system available on some of the upper trim levels. This eight-speaker, 400-watt system comes with a surround sound setup that pumps audio clearly throughout the cabin, perfect for those who consider themselves audiophiles.
The Kia Sorento
Another popular choice among buyers is the Kia Sorento. This SUV can seat up to seven people and has several well-equipped trim levels to choose from. The Sorento’s 2.5L turbocharged engine delivers 281 hp and comes matched to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. If you plan on doing some towing, the Sorento can handle up to 3,500 lbs when properly equipped, and the available torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system assists with towing by providing ample traction wherever you need it. The center locking differential assists with traction control, constantly monitoring road conditions.
The Sorento is as safe as it is fun to drive, featuring standard safety and driver-assist tools like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection. This feature helps keep you from collisions with vehicles and pedestrians in front of you. Junction Turning Assist is available as part of this system, which can warn you of an oncoming vehicle when you are entering an intersection.
The Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride has become a true powerhouse in the world of full-size third-row SUVs. A lot of the Telluride’s popularity comes from its spaciousness. The first two rows are brimming with space, and the third row can comfortably seat adults, which is often relegated to children in SUVs this size. The interior itself is upscale and full of comfort and convenience features. The dual-pane sunroof lets in plenty of light directly overhead in the first and second rows. The first and second-row seats can be optionally heated and ventilated for additional coziness.
Safety technology is a tour-de-force on the Telluride. The available Surround View Monitor with 3D view is handy since it gives you a birds-eye view of the Telluride’s surroundings. There is also a 10-inch head-up display that can be equipped; it projects important driving and vehicle information onto the screen in front of you so that you can focus on the road ahead.
Hybrid and Electric SUV Models
The Kia Sportage Hybrid
Many Kia SUVs have hybrid engine option counterparts. One of the most popular among buyers is the Sportage Hybrid. Buyers who have already driven the gas-powered Sportage will find a lot of similarities between it and the hybrid variant. These hybrids have best-in-class legroom for the rear seat occupants as well as best-in-class cargo space. If you have to stash an abundance of items in the back, you have ample room in the Sportage Hybrid’s cabin.
Kia keeps drivers connected through numerous standard and available tech gadgets. SiriusXM Satellite Radio connectivity comes on the two highest trims (the EX and SX Prestige) and comes with a trial period. After the trial expires, you can opt to start a full subscription or pass on it. Hands-free connectivity through Bluetooth is standard across the lineup and makes it easy to stay engaged when you are on the go. Naturally, with USB-C charging ports in the rear seats, everyone can also charge up their devices to stay connected.
A 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with a full parallel hybrid system is what draws the most attention to the Sportage Hybrid. It outputs an impressive 227 hp on tap and 258 lb-ft of torque and is rounded out by a six-speed automatic transmission, which delivers power to front-wheel drive (on the base trim) or Active AWD (on the two higher trims). With FWD, this hybrid model gives you an impressive 42 MPG in the city and 44 MPG on the highway, making it an ideal choice for carpoolers and large families looking to save money at the pump.
Kia Niro EV
While a hybrid version of the Niro is available, drivers are often drawn to the all-electric variant the most. With an estimated range of 253 electric miles, the Niro EV can efficiently get you wherever you need to go. The Permanent Magnet Synchronous motor generates 201 hp and 188 lb-ft of torque, giving you plenty of get-up-and-go power. The 358-volt lithium-ion polymer has an energy output of 64.8 kWh. AC and DC fast charge (DCFC) charging options are available; DC fast charging only takes about 43 minutes, so you can quickly get back on the road.
If you upgrade to the Wave trim level, you get a slew of additional tech features. The 7-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system is of particular interest since it offers you a surround sound experience inside the cabin. If you are an avid music listener or want to feel like your favorite podcasters are speaking directly to you inside of the vehicle, this sound system delivers the high-quality audio you’re looking for.
The Niro EV is outfitted with heated front seats, which add a lot to the overall comfort level. When you opt for the Wave trim, you also get ventilation on the front seats. Heated rear outboard seats are an option on either trim level. A heated steering wheel is optional on the Wind and standard on the Wave and can warm up your hands on cooler days in barely any time at all.
The Kia EV6
After it was released for the 2022 model year, the Kia EV6 proved to be an instant hit with buyers. This all-electric crossover SUV is powered by a series of Permanent Magnet AC Synchronous motors. The base motor can generate 225 hp while the Wind e-AWD and GT-Line e-AWD produce 320 hp. If you want something even stronger than that, the GT e-AWD can get an astounding 576 hp. In 2023, the GT was named the World Performance Car for the year by the World Car Awards.
The EPA estimates this vehicle can get up to 310 miles of electric range. When you use DC Fast Charging, the battery can increase from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 18 minutes. What’s more, acceleration is quick with any of the powertrains you choose; the e-AWD-equipped GT-Line can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds with its abundance of torque; 446 lb-ft of torque, to be precise.
The EV6 is the first vehicle built on Kia’s E-GMP platform, which utilizes high-strength steel to give the vehicle a sturdier yet more lightweight build. The wheelbase is akin to what you will find on midsize SUVs (which lends itself to the cabin’s spaciousness) and offers better handling capabilities. This makes the EV6 feel spirited and enthralling, something you might not expect from an EV.
Which Kia SUV Are You?
Buying a new Kia SUV is an exciting experience. There are many great options to choose from, and you cannot go wrong with any of them, as they are perfect for a broad range of drivers. Plus, you get the additional benefit of Kia’s best-in-class warranty coverage. With that in mind, you can feel confident deciding which Kia SUV you want to buy. You will be getting a vehicle built to last you for years to come, taking you on all kinds of adventures and getting you where you need to go every day. And for those who are still unsure which model best fits their needs, we invite you to visit us here at Victory Kia, and we’ll be happy to help you find some great options that are guaranteed to enhance your daily travels.