Do you plan on visiting a Kia dealer to explore the brand’s dynamic SUV selection? Few manufacturers offer as large or as diverse a selection of SUVs as Kia does. Once you begin shopping, you’ll be faced with numerous options, including size, engine type, drivetrain, and more. A vehicle is a significant investment, and we want to ensure you get it right.
Here is an overview of Kia’s SUV lineup. We’ll cover the powertrains, drivetrains, performance perks, and the ideal driver profile for each. Plus, we’ll throw in some other standout features when it makes sense. Let’s dive in so you can narrow down your search.
Seltos: The Subcompact With Big Personality
Do you need a sporty vehicle that’s right for the city and perfect for escaping it, too? The Seltos might be for you. This compact SUV packs a punch with an available turbocharged engine, great for those who appreciate some thrills behind the wheel. The Seltos’ compact dimensions make it ready for small parking spots. If you have to battle for narrow slots in your office garage or limited space on the streets, the Seltos can handle it. Plus, it has some serious MPG figures, up to 27 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway, making it ideal for commuters.
A surprising feature of this model is that it comes exclusively with all-wheel drive. That’s right, there’s no front-wheel drive available for the Seltos. If you’re looking for a small SUV that offers dependable traction for all four seasons or light off-roading, the Seltos can handle the job. We often recommend the Seltos to drivers who tell us they need the rugged capability of an SUV, but don’t need all the interior space of a larger model.
Niro: Electrified Flexibility in a Small Package
Do you want one of Kia’s smallest SUVs with some of the biggest MPG figures? That would be the subcompact Niro. This electric SUV is available with a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or all-electric powertrain. If you’re hoping to move away from traditional combustion engines, the Niro could be the right choice for you.
The Niro offers sleek styling, a well-planned interior, and all the technology that busy individuals could ask for. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the hybrid is the choice for you. Even the most thirsty version of the Niro still gets an amazing 53 MPG combined.
Do you want the freedom to charge your battery on your schedule, without having to go fully electric? Consider the plug-in hybrid, which can go up to 33 miles on electric power alone before firing up the gas engine. When you know you never want to see another gas pump again, you’ll move on to the Niro EV. It’s the all-electric option, boasting 253 miles of range. It’s more than ready for a few daily commutes or a weekend getaway on a full charge.
It’s worth noting that the Kia Niro is only available with FWD. However, if you live somewhere with a mostly dry climate and stick to paved roads, it should do the trick in terms of traction.
Sportage: Performance Packed Into Style
The Sportage is a versatile model with a few personalities. As a compact SUV, it offers more interior space and a larger footprint than the Niro. However, it still keeps you in the small SUV space, perfect for those who want to fit into compact parking spaces.
Like the Niro, the Sportage offers a pure gas I-4 engine, a hybrid engine, or a plug-in hybrid powertrain. However, the Niro only provides hybrid or pure electric options. The Sportage also offers an excellent range between fill-ups, up to 575 miles per tank, compared to 383 for the Seltos.
If you do opt for the pure gas 2.5L I-4 engine, you’ll unlock the Sportage’s top towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. That’s a big figure for a small SUV, which is why we recommend the Sportage to adventurers, road trippers, and campers. It lets you take a small boat or camper along for the ride.
The Sportage’s versatility doesn’t end at its engine options. The pure gas and hybrid versions are available with both FWD and AWD, while the PHEV is only available with AWD. You can choose the drivetrain that best suits your environment and driving habits.
EV6: Fun Meets Compact Efficiency
If you’re looking for a compact EV, consider the EV6, which has been described as a lot of fun to drive. It boasts impressive responsiveness and spirited powertrain options, including several dual- and single-motor variants. The EV6 has undeniably futuristic looks and is sure to turn heads wherever you go.
If you’ve ever worried that no EV could deliver race-track-level hp, the EV6 should put your concerns to rest. For some heartpounding thrills, opt for the dual-motor GT, which kicks out 641 hp. This little electric superstar can even tow up to 2,700 lbs. When it’s time to leave the slick city streets for country roads, you can tow a camper in the EV6.
EV9: Family-Friendly Dimensions Meet Electric Thrills
Do you need three rows for an adventurous crew? Consider the EV9, Kia’s three-row electric SUV. You’ll skip the gas pumps entirely, enjoying an estimated 230 to 305 miles of all-electric range. The flexible interior lets you decide whether to prioritize passengers, up to seven, or cargo, up to 81.9 cu.ft. with the back two rows of seating folded down. Heated components and flexible seats should keep everyone content.
This model is only available with AWD, a nod to its adventurous nature. Plus, dual-motor versions can tow up to 5,000 lbs, so feel free to hitch up some bigger toys behind this model. It also boasts the performance-forward GT-line, which kicks up the horsepower a few notches to 501 while adding an adaptive suspension.
Sorento: The Traditional Three-Row Option
If it’s three rows, efficiency, and flexibility you need, the Sorento is the perfect choice for you. It offers some of the most flexibility of any Kia SUV. Choose the turbocharged 2.5L I-4 gas engine to unlock the Sorento’s full potential of 281 hp and a 4,500-lb towing capacity. Alternatively, the plug-in hybrid version lets you decide when to charge your battery. Plug in at home while you sleep, or at public stations while you’re out and about. A non-turbo 2.5L I-4 and a traditional hybrid are also available. The Sorento even offers an off-road-oriented trim, the X-Pro, which features all-terrain tires and a locking differential.
The flexibility continues inside, as well. You can order the Sorento with middle-row captain’s chairs for a six-row setup, or a bench to offer seven seats. Either way, you get 75.5 cu.ft. of cargo space with the second and third rows folded down.
Kia Makes SUVs for Every Drive and Every Life
As you can see, the SUV lineup for 2026 is dynamic and versatile, offering something for everyone. If it’s an electric powertrain you’re after, you’ll find no shortage of options. Between the all-electric options, including the EV9 and EV6, you can leave gas behind, no matter your passengers’ needs.
The Sportage offers the benefits of a compact SUV, featuring three powertrain options, including a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid. The Sorento delivers three spacious rows, ready for a crew, and an efficient plug-in hybrid engine. The Niro is another small SUV with impressive range, thanks to its all-electric powertrain options. Finally, the Seltos is a fun, flexible option with AWD, an available turbo engine, and a comfortable interior.
We carry all of these models and their many trims. With Kia experts on site, we’re ready to answer your questions and guide you towards the Kia SUV made for your daily drives, weekend adventures, and beyond. We’ll also provide you with financing right here, so you can hit the road with manageable payments.
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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.