The Best Kia SUVs for Canadians to Choose From
Written by DriveAxis.ca March 15, 2023
Like its parent company Hyundai, the Kia brand used to be synonymous with bad jokes about poor quality, a terrible ride, and problems galore. However, those days are now over, and Kia has managed to turn its brand image around in the same way that Hyundai did at the start of the 21st century. Today’s Kia vehicles are sharp, stylish, built with excellence, and come loaded with all the bells and whistles drivers demand.
In fact, Kia cars are now starting to give premium brands like BMW and Lexus a run for their money, which came as a surprise to just about everyone. This includes the ever-popular SUV market, which continues to attract Candians across the country who need a car that can rough it in the snow, and carry a lot of stuff at the same time. For those drivers in search of a great SUV at an unbeatable price, Kia has quite a lot of models to choose from. Here’s some of the most successful and attractive, in case you’re in the market.
KIA SOUL
The Soul is considered one of Kia’s most recognizable SUVs, and is almost a brand unto itself. It’s a subcompact crossover with unique looks and a lot of cargo space, especially when the rear seats are folded down. It’s not the biggest SUV in the company’s lineup, but it’ll carry 5 passengers without trouble, which is great for a night out with friends, or a weekend with the kids.
The Soul comes with a 2.0L engine that puts out 147 horsepower, which means it won’t tear up the road anytime soon. However, the Soul was never designed for blistering speed, but rather, a comfortable ride with tech options like an infotainment system, a Harmon Kardon stereo, and the now-standard array of connectivity and navigation packages.
KIA SPORTAGE
Drivers who want a bit more power in their SUVs should consider Kia’s Sportage, another model that has become synonymous with the brand. The Sportage is a beefier and tougher-looking car compared to the Soul, and that includes what’s under the hood, as well. This SUV can put out a maximum of 237 horsepower, which is more than enough to tear up the highway during those weekend getaways.
The Sportage can also rough it during heavy Canadian winters, thanks to its Dynamax Intelligent AWD system. Couple that with technology options that can detect and prevent collisions, plus a standard array of navigation and connectivity options, and the Sportage is sure to satisfy everyone’s inner road warrior - weekend, or otherwise.
KIA SORENTO
Kia would not be Kia without the Sorento, one of its most popular SUVs. With up to 75.5 cubic feet of storage space to brag about, the Sorento is definitely the one to beat when it comes to hauling large amounts of gear, or packing the family in for long getaways. It’ll even carry a grand total of 7 passengers.
The Sorento also comes with AWD options, which is another plus for Canadians who need more traction and security during the winter. However, that’s second fiddle compared to the new hybrid model, which saves a ton on gas money, while still managing to pump out an astonishing 261 horsepower with 256 lb-ft of torque. In short, this SUV is definitely dad-approved.
KIA SELTOS
The Seltos was designed to handle rugged terrain and weather a bit better than some other models, which is good news for off-roaders and weekend warriors. Plus, it comes with a hefty 62.8 cubic feet of space when the first row is folded down. This makes the Seltos great for families who like to go on nature-bound adventures.
The Seltos is available in a 2.0L or 1.6L Turbo GDI, which can crank out either 146 or 175 horsepower, respectively. Plus, it looks stellar on the outside, and comes with a robust tech package including automatic high-beam headlamps, emergency braking, lane assist, and more.
CONCLUSION
Kia has certainly come a long way, and drivers everywhere are taking a solid second look at this once-lampooned car company, for good reason. SUV drivers looking for an affordable option would do well to consider one of the above models, all of which offer great value for the dollar.
If you’re not willing to buy brand new, you may wish to opt for a pre-owned Kia SUV, instead. DriveAxis’ inventory has plenty of models to choose from, and we’ll help you figure out which is the best for you, your lifestyle and family. As always, you needn’t worry about credit approval, because we handle it all in-house. What’s left to talk about? Contact us today!
