2022 Kia Soul Review, Specs, and Pricing
2022 Kia Soul Review, Specs, and Pricing
When it comes to all the toaster-shaped vehicles, the 2022 Kia Soul reigns supreme, having outlasted the Honda Element, the Nissan Cube, and the Scion xB. Today it competes with more traditionally styled subcompact crossovers, including the Chevrolet Trailblazer, the Jeep Renegade, and the Kia Seltos, but it hasn’t given in to those proportions. It remains a quirky cube.
A 147-hp four-cylinder engine comes standard, but Kia offers a powerful 201-hp turbocharged four, which makes the Soul extra perky. The boxy shape provides plenty of room for four adults to cruise in comfort and a suitably large cargo area to hold their gear. If you need all-wheel drive, you’ll have to look elsewhere, as the Soul doesn’t offer it. Nor does it provide standard driver assistance features.
What’s New for 2022?
The Soul sees few changes for 2022. The old oval-shaped logo is gone, replaced with Kia’s new futuristic one. The 10.3-inch infotainment display with navigation is now offered on all but the base LX model, which gets an 8.0-inch unit (previously 7.0 inches).
You can equip the LX model with a Technology package, including automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. S, X-Line, and GT-Line models all provide dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, wireless smartphone charging, and two more USB ports as standard equipment. Unfortunately, the manual transmission has been discontinued.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
We like the X-Line and GT-Line models, which start at the same price and offer two different takes on the Soul’s already quirky appearance. The X has a more rugged look, with black plastic cladding and exclusive Undercover Green paint. The GT-Line is sportier, with its own wheel design and body-color trim plus some bright-red exterior bits. Both come standard with a suite of driver assists that includes automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear-cross-traffic alert.
We will discuss the different trim levels of the all new 2022 Kia Soul below. Keep reading to find out all that’s new for this years model.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Kia offers two engines in the Soul. The base option is a 147-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which comes paired with a continuously variable dual clutch automatic transmission (CVT). At our test track, a Soul X-Line needed a full 8.0 seconds to reach 60 mph, but it doesn’t feel underpowered in normal driving. In fact, the base engine feels peppy around town, and the CVT willingly selects lower gear ratios when you’re looking to pass someone.
The top-spec Turbo trim model comes with a 201-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder and a seven-speed automatic transmission. It snapped off a quick 6.4-second 60-mph time in our hands.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Soul carries an EPA rating as high as 35 mpg for highway driving and as low as 27 mpg in the city—not bad for a seemingly non- aerodynamic box on wheels. The Nissan Kicks and the Hyundai Venue—its key rivals—offer similar highway numbers, but both outshine the Kia in the city, achieving 31 and 30 mpg, respectively.
In our 75-mph fuel economy test, the turbocharged Soul saw 33 mpg. An X-Line model powered by the base four-cylinder managed 30 mpg. For more information about the Soul’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo Space
The Soul’s upright body provides a spacious interior with plenty of room for people and cargo. Kia’s designers have incorporated enough youthful cheekiness inside to match the Soul’s fashion-forward exterior, including textured door-panel inserts and colorful trim. Additional goodies on offer include ambient lighting, a smartphone charging pad, a head-up display, push-button ignition with keyless entry, and heating for the seats and steering wheel. Kia also allows owners a certain amount of customization, with two-tone paint options and a plethora of interior color schemes.
In the cargo area, the tall-roofed Soul provides enough space for seven carry-on suitcases; with the rear seats folded—it should be noted that they don’t fold completely flat—we were able to fit 20 cases. The Venue, with its smaller hold and tighter rear seat space, managed to fit just four behind the rear seat and 17 with the seats down.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability is standard across the board, and all trims but the base model receive a large 10.3-inch display; the LX gets an 8.0-inch unit. Choose a model with the 10.3-incher and you’ll get niceties such as SiriusXM satellite radio, real-time traffic updates, in-dash navigation, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. Most models come with a six-speaker stereo, but a Harman/Kardon setup is standard on the top-spec Turbo model.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Kia doesn’t provide standard driver assistance technology on the base Soul, but it does for the S model and above. For more information about the Soul’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Available forward collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Available lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
While Kia has a well-known 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, Hyundai does it one better by offering the same coverage plus three years of included scheduled maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
2022 Kia Telluride Review, Pricing, and Specs
2022 Kia Telluride Review, Pricing, and Specs
The 2022 Kia Telluride separates itself from the herd of three-row, midsize SUV crossovers with its handsome looks, unexpected luxuriousness, and unrivaled value. Of course, the largest Kia also flawlessly executes its core mission, which is to comfortably ferry families and their cargo. With a rugged exterior and a rich-looking interior, the Telluride wouldn’t appear out of place in a Land Rover showroom.
Along with an array of standard active safety features, every model has a robust infotainment system, and the top trim offers luxuries such as ventilated rear seats for an incredibly affordable price. While the palatial ute isn’t exactly exciting to drive, and its 291-hp V-6 isn’t particularly fuel-efficient, its ride is refined and body roll is restrained. It’ll also effortlessly tug a 5000-pound trailer and all-wheel-drive models will tackle uneven terrain with ease. The 2022 model Telluride is simply the gold standard of its segment.
What’s New for 2022?
For 2022, Kia bestows its new-look logo on the Telluride, with the company’s rebranded badge appearing prominently on its mildly restyled grille, rear liftgate, and steering wheel cover. The SUV’s bottom two trims also benefit from better standard features, including a 10.3-inch touchscreen (replacing the old 8.0-inch unit) and fully automatic temperature control. Plus, both models now come with semi autonomous adaptive cruise control that even utilizes the navigation system to actively adjust the vehicle’s speeding going into and out of corners.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The Telluride is such a great value that we’d even choose the top of the line SX model. It comes standard with flashy features, such as a 12-way power driver’s seat, black-painted 20-inch rims, a Harman Kardon stereo, front and rear sunroofs, Automatic Climate Control, and second-row captain’s chairs. Those who want the added sense of security that comes with all-wheel drive can have it for an extra $1900.
We’d further enhance our Telluride with the SX Prestige package that brings a head-up display, heated and ventilated second-row seats, nappa leather upholstery, and more. The tow package’s hitch and self-leveling rear suspension are also a worthy addition in order to best utilize the ute’s towing capability.
There is also the sleek and stunning trim level called the Nightfall Edition. This version has a black grille, wheels, and much more.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Under the hood of every Telluride is a naturally aspirated V-6 that makes 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Its engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission that feeds the front wheels in the standard format of the front wheel drive model—all-wheel drive is also optional across the board. The top of the line Telluride SX we tested sped to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. However, the big Kia didn’t feel as responsive to throttle inputs at lower speeds as did some of its turbocharged rivals.
The Telluride’s ride is on the firm side, with harsh pavement sometimes throwing the three-row SUV off its intended path. A self-leveling rear air suspension is also available. Brakes are excellent and the steering is precise with a nice heft to its feel. The Telluride boasts 8.0 inches of ground clearance for off-road excursions, and it can tow up to 5000 pounds.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Unlike many rival three-row SUVs, the Telluride is only offered with a V-6 powertrain. The EPA estimates the front-drive version is the thriftiest, with ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. All-wheel-drive models drop to 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, which are slightly higher than V-6–powered competitors such as the Volkswagen Atlas and slightly lower than the Honda Pilot.
The all-wheel-drive Telluride we tested on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route returned 24 mpg—matching its government rating. The Atlas also earned 24 mpg while the Pilot got 27 mpg during our real-world test. For more information about the Telluride’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Regardless of people’s opinion about the Telluride’s bold outward appearance, its interior is undeniably upscale and comfortable. The build quality is excellent, the materials are attractive, and the desirable features are plentiful. The SX trim tops them all with the fanciest options that include driver’s seat memory settings, a head-up display, heated and ventilated rear seats, a premium headliner, and nappa leather upholstery.
Because the 2022 Telluride is several inches longer than the seven passenger Kia Sorento, its cabin is even more spacious, especially for those in the way back seat. There is room for eight with a second-row bench seat or room for seven with the optional captain’s chairs. Along with ample interior storage throughout the cabin, we managed to fit four carry-on suitcases behind its third row and stuffed a total of 35 carry-ons with both back rows folded flat.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Even Telluride boasts a robust infotainment system that features a 10.3-inch touchscreen with popular content that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability along with numerous power points. Also available is a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, a 110-volt power inverter, and wireless smartphone charging. With Driver Talk, which is available on the EX and SX trims, the driver’s voice is amplified through speakers in the back two rows to better communicate with any inattentive or unruly passengers.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Kia is packaging a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technology on all Telluride models. Several upgraded assists are also available, including automatic high-beams, a 360-degree camera system, and what Kia calls a Blind-Spot View Monitor. This tech projects a camera image of the vehicles blind-spot into the gauge cluster display.
For more information about its crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Standard lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Standard blind-spot monitoring
- Highway Driving Assist
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Kia provides some of the best comprehensive coverage out there, with the longest powertrain warranty in the biz. However, it lacks the complimentary scheduled maintenance of rivals such as the Toyota Highlander and the Chevy Traverse.
- Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
2022 Kia K5 Review, Pricing, and Specs
2022 Kia K5 Review, Pricing, and Specs
The 2022 Kia K5 is classified as a family sedan, but its exciting design and 290-hp engine option allude to something sexier. Sure, the sedan formerly known as the Kia Optima isn’t about to usurp its perennially excellent rival, the Honda Accord, but the K5’s roster of popular equipment and friendly pricing make it a strong value play. Every model enjoys standard active safety features and infotainment tech, and the sedan’s attractive interior is bolstered by a roomy back seat.
The K5 GT gets the souped-up engine, and its tire-spinning antics will either draw or deter shoppers. The standard powertrain is largely inoffensive, and it’s also the only way to access all-wheel drive. Despite a driver’s seat that’s too high and ride isolation that’s negatively impacted by the biggest available wheel-and-tire combo, overall the 2022 K5 is an impressive sedan—whether it’s bought for a family or not.
What’s New for 2022?
For 2022 model year, all K5 models are affixed with Kia’s new logo, and there is a smattering of newly standard features across the midsize sedan lineup. The front-drive LXS now has rear-seat USB charge ports. The GT-Line now offers a base all-wheel-drive trim, which essentially makes the system a $1600 option versus part of last year’s $3700 package.
Most notably, the GT-Line and up now come standard with a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system instead of the previous 8.0-inch unit. All front-drive GT-Line models now have a wireless smartphone charger on the center console, too. The EX and GT both get a new 360-degree camera system, power-folding exterior mirrors, and front parking sensors. Don’t forget creature comforts such as a wireless charger for your phone, heated steering wheel and led lights.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
For those who don’t care about the extra firepower that comes with the GT’s 290-hp engine, the GT-Line has a satisfying mix of racy styling elements. That’s the one we’d recommend, and for those who want the all-weather traction of all-wheel drive, it’s available for an extra $1600.
Otherwise every GT-Line comes standard with a sportier body kit, 18-inch wheels, a 10-way power driver’s seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and wireless smartphone charging. We’d also spring for the Premium package, which brings adaptive cruise control, advanced forward collision warning, full LED headlights, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Most K5 models are motivated by a 180-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder that pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine comes standard with front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is optional, but not on the GT trim model. The front-drive, 180-hp K5 we drove demonstrated decent acceleration around town, and our testing revealed a 7.0-second trip to 60 mph. However, it was less impressive at highway speeds, where it needed extra time to execute passes.
Still, its dutiful transmission and well insulated cabin helped ensure its engine noise rarely rose above a dull roar. The full-Monty GT model has a more powerful 2.5-liter turbo-four that generates 290 horses and 311 pound-feet of torque.
Along with its exclusive eight-speed automatic (with the same wet dual-clutch as the Hyundai Sonata N Line), the sportiest K5 is also fitted with bigger brakes, a unique suspension tune, and wider tires on larger 19-inch rims. The GT we drove sprinted to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds and stopped from 70 mph in 163 feet.
The Sonata N Line was slightly quicker to 60 mph (5.0 seconds) and stopped even shorter (152 feet). However, the hi-powered Hyundai we tested wore optional summer tires (the Kia only comes with all-seasons) that contributed to its performance advantage.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA estimates the 2022 K5 with the base four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive will earn up to 29 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. Both those ratings take a big hit when all-wheel drive gets into the mix, dropping to 25 mpg city and 33 highway. Still, both figures are similar to the all-wheel-drive Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry.
The front drive only, 290-hp K5 GT is the least efficient of the bunch at 24 mpg city and 32 highway. We evaluated a front-drive K5 with the standard powertrain on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test and it returned an impressive 43 mpg, beating its government rating by 5. The GT also overperformed, beating its rating by 4 with a result of 36 mpg. For more information about the K5’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the K5 looks amazing for how much it costs. The layout is both sophisticated and straightforward, and the cabin is appointed with attractive materials such as wood trim on the dash and doors. The K5 also offers an array of upscale interior features, such as ambient interior lighting on the dash and doors, heated and ventilated fronts seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a wireless charging pad.
While the driver’s seat feels high even at its lowest point, the comfortable spot for your left foot and floor-hinged accelerator are nice touches. The back seat also provides generous legroom, and the trunk has plenty of space for luggage. We managed to fit seven carry-on suitcases back there.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The K5 comes standard with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that shares a bezel with the gauge cluster. The larger 10.3-inch touchscreen is standard starting on the GT-Line. Both systems have a volume knob as well as physical buttons on the steering wheel. While the smaller display offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, oddly, the larger screen does not and requires a corded connection.
However, the upgraded unit does have customizable profiles and the ability to connect two Bluetooth devices at the same time. The K5 is also available with a 12-speaker Bose audio system for those who want the best auditory experience.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Kia’s family sedan also offers a variety of standard and optional driver assistance technology. For more information about the K5’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Standard lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Available blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert
- Highway Driving Assist (Optional)
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Kia provides one of the best warranties, bar none. While it doesn’t include complimentary scheduled maintenance, its limited and powertrain coverage are the longest of any automaker besides its corporate sibling, Hyundai.
- Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
2023 KIA Sportage Review, Pricing, and Specs
2023 KIA Sportage Review, Pricing, and Specs
The 2023 Kia Sportage should separate itself from the throng of compact SUV class of crossovers with its truly extroverted styling. The Kia’s unconventional face features a set of alien looking headlights and a distinct grille design. Its bodywork is sleek and muscular, and its taillights draw comparisons to those on the new all-electric Kia EV6.
We don’t know what powertrains the Sportage will have, but they’ll likely be shared with the recently redesigned 2022 Hyundai Tucson, with which it shares a platform. That suggests a 187-hp four-cylinder engine will be standard; a hybrid or plug-in hybrid could also be offered. Likewise, we think the 2023 Sportage could be available with a turbo-four that makes around 280 horsepower, especially if it’s inherited from the mid-size Sorento SUV.
What’s New for 2023?
The 2023 Sportage introduces an all-new generation when it reaches showrooms presumably sometime early next year. The current generation is unchanged for the 2022 model year. While we’ve now seen images of the global version of the all-new Sportage, we’ll get more details about the U.S. spec when it’s revealed in July 2021. There is also a new color for the Sportage it’s called Sage Green.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Kia hasn’t said how much the 2023 Sportage will cost or exactly what trim levels will be available. We expect its current lineup to be similar to the next generation, and we don’t expect each model to be priced much higher than they currently are.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the Sportage looks to make an impression with a snazzy design highlighted by a huge digital display on the dashboard and other various eye-catching details. The images we’ve seen show an attractive two-tone color scheme, and the shape of the air vents on the dash are particularly distinct. The center console boasts a rotary shift knob, a push-to-start button, and myriad other controls that blend into the piano-black bezel. The digital instrument gauge cluster has been redesigned too which a lot more features than the previous generation models.
Fuel Economy and Real World MPG
In its segment, the Sportage lives near the bottom of the fuel-sipping hierarchy, well below what the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V achieve. The front-drive, base engine Sportage earns 23 mpg city and 30 highway, according to the EPA. Those numbers drop by 1 and 4 mpg, respectively, when all-wheel drive is added. The front-drive turbo model has EPA estimates of 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, but those figures drop to 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway with all-wheel drive.
The all-wheel-drive SX Turbo returned a measly 23 mpg on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen. The Kia’s real-world result is substantially lower than the 29 mpg we saw on an all-wheel-drive, turbocharged CX-5. For more information about the Sportage’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every model is fitted with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. The system is easy to use thanks to physical knobs and buttons, but its menus have small icons, and the design doesn’t look as sophisticated as the rest of the interior. Desirable options are wireless device charging and built-in navigation.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The 2023 Sportage offers an assortment of standard driver assistance technology as well as a couple of options. For more information about the Sportage’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Standard lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Kia offers a significantly better warranty plan than its competitors, but rivals such as the Chevy Equinox and the Toyota RAV4 include complimentary scheduled maintenance whereas this ute doesn’t.
- Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
2022 KIA Sportage Review, Prices, and Specs
2022 KIA Sportage Review, Prices, and Specs
The 2022 Kia Sportage is starting to show its age versus newer competition, but the compact crossover still possesses an upscale appearance and charming driving dynamics. With its corporate cousin–the 2022 Hyundai Tucson–fresh off a major makeover, we expect the Sportage to get a similar treatment in the near future. Until then, Kia hopes to keep shoppers satisfied with the SUV’s attractive and well-built interior, which offsets its small cargo area with roomy passenger space.
While its standard four-cylinder engine provides sufficient, albeit unremarkable, motivation, a more powerful turbocharged version is available for zippier movement. Too bad it’s only offered on the most expensive model and isn’t as fuel efficient as some rivals, such as the top-spec Mazda CX-5. Still, the 2022 Sportage is entertaining to drive with either engine—and that improves its appeal until the next generation is revealed.
What’s New for 2022?
For the 2022 model year, Kia makes modest changes to the Sportage lineup, with the previously optional Nightfall Edition package replacing the S trim level. The base LX model also adds the newly named Value Edition package, which includes features that used to be reserved for fancier trims. The list includes dark 18-inch wheels, heated front seats, passive keyless entry and push-button start, and more.
Every Sportage EX now comes with a panoramic sunroof, and the EX Technology package and SX Turbo models both add 10 years of complimentary map updates as well as new software and features for their navigation systems.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
While we love the speedy turbocharged compact SUV model, it’s hard to justify its price given that the less powerful engine is still enjoyable to drive. Depending on what trim level you choose, the bottom line will increase by $1500–$1700 when you add all-wheel drive. We think the EX trim combines the best features at a reasonable price.
Every Sportage includes dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, passive entry, and a power operated liftgate. For those who want a more luxurious experience, we’d recommend adding the EX Technology package for its adaptive cruise control, leather surfaces, heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, upgraded audio system, panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, and more.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Sportage’s driving behavior depends on what’s under the hood. Most models have a 181-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder that’s sedate but will satisfy most people’s needs. Those looking for a zestier option with quicker acceleration will want the 237-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four, which is only available on the top of the line SX Turbo trim. While a front-wheel-drive version of the spiciest Sportage that we tested several years ago was speedy, our more recent test of an all-wheel-drive SX Turbo was less impressive in that department.
Still, we appreciated the prompt responses from its six-speed automatic transmission, which comes standard on every model. There’s also not a night-and-day difference in driving enjoyment between the two engines, although the turbocharged engine can turn mundane milk runs into rollicking rides. All Sportage models have above average handling characteristics.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
In its segment, the Sportage lives near the bottom of the fuel-sipping hierarchy, well below what the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V achieve. The front-drive, base engine Sportage earns 23 mpg city and 30 highway, according to the EPA. Those numbers drop by 1 and 4 mpg, respectively, when all-wheel drive is added. The front-drive turbo model has EPA estimates of 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, but those figures drop to 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway with all-wheel drive.
The all-wheel-drive SX Turbo returned a measly 23 mpg on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen. The Kia’s real-world result is substantially lower than the 29 mpg we saw on an all-wheel-drive, turbocharged CX-5. For more information about the Sportage’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Some editors have compared this Kia’s interior to those of Audi products, which means that Kia is doing something right. The Sportage’s cabin is well executed and filled with a pleasing mix of quality materials and nifty, functional features. It’s a spacious enough environment for passengers but not cargo.
The rear-seat accommodations will fit adults, but you might hear some complaining about the low placement of the seat cushion. Cargo space is limited for the class and storage room for smaller items is lacking, but its seats-down carry on luggage capacity and adjustable load floor make up for some of that.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every model is fitted with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. The system is easy to use thanks to physical knobs and buttons, but its menus have small icons, and the design doesn’t look as sophisticated as the rest of the interior. Desirable options are wireless device charging and built-in navigation.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The 2022 Sportage offers an assortment of standard driver assistance technology as well as a couple of options. For more information about the Sportage’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Standard lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Kia offers a significantly better warranty plan than its competitors, but rivals such as the Chevy Equinox and the Toyota RAV4 include complimentary scheduled maintenance whereas this ute doesn’t.
- Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
2022 KIA Carnival Review, Pricing, and Specs
2022 KIA Carnival Review, Pricing, and Specs
The makeover of Kia’s minivan is such a dramatic one that it even includes an all-new name: Carnival. The 2022 Carnival replaces the aging Sedona in Kia’s lineup and its boxy SUV-like styling is no accident, as the Korean automaker aims to capitalize on the success of its critically acclaimed and hot-selling Telluride SUV. Large wheels, crossover like proportions, and signature daytime running lights that flow into the grille give the van an upscale-SUV vibe that reminds us of a Range Rover.
All Carnival models are powered by a 290-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine with front-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. A host of driver assistance features are offered as standard including automated emergency braking. Infotainment tech gets an upgrade as well with an optional dual-display setup with digital gauges and a navigation equipped center touchscreen.
What’s New for 2022?
The Carnival is all-new for 2022, with updated styling, features, and technology to help it better compete with the likes of the Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey, and newly redesigned Toyota Sienna minivans.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The Carnival will be offered in four trim levels ranging from the value oriented LX to the deluxe SX-Prestige, but it appears as though the EX represents the sweet spot between features and price. The EX trim comes with several convenience features that help to justify the cost of upgrading, including a power operated rear liftgate, an in-cabin intercom, and a voice-control system that allows rear-seat passengers to provide commands to the Carnival’s infotainment system.
If you want to splurge and get all the bells and whistles jam packed inside then you should opt for the 2022 Kia Carnival SX Prestige trim.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2022 Carnival is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 churning out a healthy 290 horsepower; an eight-speed automatic transmission is standard. All-wheel drive, unfortunately, is not on the menu, as the Carnival will be offered only as a front-wheel-drive model. The Pacifica has an optional plug-in-hybrid powertrain and the new-for-2021 Sienna comes only as a hybrid, but we don’t expect Kia to offer such a setup on the Carnival, at least not right away.
Kia says the Carnival can tow up to 3500 pounds. During our initial test drive, we were impressed with the Carnival’s well-balanced ride and handling. It delivered a smooth ride when cruising and felt composed in corners. The refined V-6 engine provides sprightly acceleration and powered the Carnival to 60 mph in 7.0 seconds at our test track.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Fuel economy ratings from the EPA for the 2022 Carnival are 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined, which are slightly better than the 2021 Sedona’s numbers. We haven’t had a chance to subject the 2022 Carnival to our 75-mph highway fuel economy test to see how it stacks up against the Pacifica, Odyssey, and Sienna, but when we do we’ll update this story with its results. For more information about the Carnival’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo Space
The Carnival’s dashboard and front-seat area are both more modern and accommodating than the outgoing Sedona’s. A large center console and an optional Mercedes style dual-screen infotainment system with a digital gauge display are notable design changes. The upscale SX-Prestige trim comes with leather upholstery and reclining second-row seats with pop-up footrests.
A panoramic sunroof is optional and provides a large opening over the second row so the kids can get some fresh air. Kia says that interior spaciousness has been improved on the new Carnival; both the van’s wheelbase and overall length have been stretched to provide more room for people and cargo. In our testing, we fit 14 carry-on suitcases behind the third row of seats and a whopping 48 in total with all seats folded.
That’s a ton of cargo space, but it should be noted that both the Pacifica and Odyssey proved slightly more spacious.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Interior technology and infotainment takes a big leap forward in the 2022 Carnival. While a single 8.0-inch infotainment screen is standard, dual 12.3-inch displays that stretch across two-thirds of van’s dashboard are optional, with one serving as a digital gauge display and the other performing infotainment duties. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard.
Up to nine USB ports dot the Carnival’s cabin. A rear-seat entertainment system is standard starting on the SX trim but a 12-speaker Bose stereo is limited to the top-spec SX-Prestige trim.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Kia is offering a lot more standard driver assistance features this time around, including lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlamps, and blind-spot monitoring, all of which will help the Carnival compete with the Pacifica, Odyssey, and Sienna. For more information about the Carnival’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features are likely to include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Collision Avoidance detection system
- Available adaptive cruise control
- Optional Intercom System
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Kia’s warranty trumps its rivals’, with a powertrain policy that spans 10 years or 100,000 miles. Unlike the Sienna, though, the Carnival doesn’t come with any complimentary scheduled maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
2022 Kia Stinger Review, Specs, and Pricing
2022 Kia Stinger Review, Specs, and Pricing
Kia’s big sports sedan—the 2022 Stinger—aims high to challenge the automotive elites from Europe, and it and nearly pulls it off. When compared to rivals such as the Audi A5 Sport-back and the BMW 4-series Gran Coupe, the Stinger offers a very similarly premium look and feel as well as lots of driving verve, making it a great option for enthusiasts on a budget. It shares its underpinnings with the impressive Genesis G70 sedan, but the Stinger disguises its roomier interior, larger cargo hold, and hatchback liftgate with a sexy fastback roofline. A trio of turbocharged engines are on offer, with top-level models getting a gutsy twin-turbo V-6. Rear-wheel drive is standard but all-wheel drive is also available for those who want it.
What’s New for 2022?
In addition to several styling updates for 2022, the Stinger receives an a new 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder as its optional, mid-level engine. The new engine makes a stout 300 horsepower. Not to be left out, the optional twin-turbo 3.3-liter V-6 receives a slight power boost to 368-hp thanks to a new variable exhaust system. Styling improvements for 2022 include updated exterior lighting elements, new wheel designs, and larger exhaust tips. Inside, the 2022 Stinger will receive upgraded materials throughout, new metallic trim pieces, adjustable ambient lighting, and a larger optional 10.3-inch infotainment display.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Even though the GT-Line has the looks of the V-6 models, we’d still go with one of the higher-powered models. Of those, the GT1 is the one to get. It keeps its price below the $50,000 mark but adds a sunroof, navigation, an 8.0-inch infotainment display, Harman/Kardon audio, automatic high-beam headlamps, a power-adjustable steering column, ventilated front seats, automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a driver-attention monitor.
2021 Stinger GT2 AWD
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Stinger now has three available engines and can be equipped with either rear- or all-wheel drive. The entry-level 2.0-liter powertrain does an adequate job relative to its rivals, but the powerful twin-turbo V-6 delivers scintillating performance that gets our enthusiast blood pumping. The 2022 model will offer an optional turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder for the first time, but we haven’t yet tested that model. The eight-speed automatic that comes in every Stinger offers quick shifts and is well calibrated when left to shift for itself. We wish the paddle shifters offered sharper responses to driver inputs, however. Still, for drivers in single-minded pursuit of straight-line speed, the Stinger GT does not disappoint. The Stinger has mastered straight-line speed and returned solid numbers during our track testing. It comports itself well in normal driving, but when pushed to the limit, it couldn’t quite match the composure of its more established competition. Likewise, we identified some protestations from the rear suspension—an unnerving side step when cornering hard on a bumpy road—while some fore-and-aft pitching accompanied our all-out acceleration and braking runs. All GTs feature powerful Brembo brakes, which provided quick stops by any measure and fit in nicely within this class of high-performing sedans. Without the Brembos and rolling on less grippy all-season tires, in our testing a four-cylinder Stinger was not impressive—in this class or any other.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Whether you’re looking at the four-cylinder or the V-6, the Stinger is less efficient than similarly equipped competitors. The EPA’s fuel-economy ratings for each of the Stinger’s engines fall below those of comparable rivals, but the V-6 outperformed its ratings on our real-world test, and there is virtually no fuel-economy penalty for choosing all-wheel drive. So far, only V-6–powered Stingers have made a trip on our highway test circuit. Both rear- and all-wheel-drive models outperformed their EPA ratings by a slight margin during our real-world test. For more information about the Stinger’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Stinger’s interior is well designed and attractive, but it can’t quite match the Audi A4 or the BMW 3-series for material quality or construction. Then again, the Kia costs considerably less than those two German sedans. The Stinger does, however, offer a significantly more comfortable rear seat than many cars in this class—and its advantage feels greater than its numbers would suggest. While the Stinger’s interior is free of glaring errors and omissions, the overall effect is less polished than the efforts we’ve enjoyed from established luxury brands. The Stinger’s stated trunk volume would predict that it has by far the most cargo space in this set, but it only bested its rivals by a small margin in our real-world cargo tests. With its wide hatchback opening and long wheelbase, we’d hoped the Stinger would do even better in these measurements. Its center console is on the large side for a car, which helps to compensate for the fact that the front-door pockets are the smallest of this bunch.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Kia’s infotainment system—called UVO—is used to good effect in the Stinger and consists of an 8.0- or 10.3-inch touchscreen mixed with useful physical buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is a six-speaker stereo system. Audiophiles can upgrade to a 15-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo system, and Kia offers a host of other tech upgrades as well, such as a wireless smartphone charging pad and in-dash navigation.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The Stinger offers nearly every driver assist that we report on available as an option. For more information about the Stinger’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Available automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Kia’s long powertrain warranty is practically legendary, and it easily outdoes every other car in this set for length of coverage. Unlike many of its premium-branded rivals, the Stinger offers no complimentary scheduled maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
2022 Kia Sedona Pricing, Review, and Specs
2022 Kia Sedona Pricing, Review, and Specs
Fresh off the successful launch of the Telluride SUV, Kia is readying its other three-row people mover—the Sedona minivan—for a redesign. Kia has already shown images of the next generation Sedona, which could adopt the name Carnival. We expect the Sedona will go on sale in 2021 as a 2022 model. From images released by Kia, we can see that the Sedona’s square-jawed styling is updated, giving it a very SUV-like appearance.
It’s even more handsome than the current model year. Large wheels, a floating roof, and signature daytime running lights that flow into the grille give the van an upscale vibe that somehow reminds us of the modern Range Rover. We expect the new Sedona to be powered by a 290-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine with front-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. We’ll know more closer to the 2022 model’s on-sale date.
What’s New for 2022?
The Sedona will be all-new for 2022, with updated styling, features, and technology to help it better compete with the likes of the Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey, and newly redesigned Toyota Sienna minivans.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Kia hasn’t released a full list of the 2022 Sedona’s standard or optional features, but we know that a wider range of technology and driver assistance features will be available for the fourth generation minivan. Pricing is speculative at this time as well, but we’ll update this story when Kia reveals more details.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The current Sedona is powered by a 3.3-liter V-6 engine and drives the front-wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. We suspect that the 2022 Sedona will graduate to a more powerful 3.5-liter V-6 churning out a healthy 290 horsepower.
All-wheel drive, unfortunately, is not on the menu, as the new Sedona will remain a front-wheel drive model. The Pacifica has an optional plug-in-hybrid powertrain and the new-for-2021 Sienna comes only as a hybrid, but we don’t expect Kia to offer such a setup on the Sedona, at least not right away.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Fuel economy ratings from the EPA haven’t been published for the 2022 Sedona, but we expect big gains in the efficiency department over the outgoing model. The 2021 Sedona is rated at only 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, which puts it at a disadvantage compared with other minivans.
When we get a 2022 Sedona in for testing, we’ll subject it to our 200-mile highway fuel economy test to see how it stacks up against the Pacifica, Odyssey, and Sienna. For more information about the Sedona’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
From photos of the Sedona’s interior, we can see the new Sedona’s dashboard and front seats. From the look of things, it’s receiving a new rotary shift knob, a large center console, and a Mercedes style dual-screen infotainment system with a digital gauge display. The photo is likely of an upscale SX trim, so it’s shown with leather upholstery; cloth seats are likely to be standard.
Kia will likely offer a panoramic sunroof and lounge-like reclining second-row seats with pop-up footrests as additional options. Kia has said that interior spaciousness has been improved on the new Sedona; both the van’s wheelbase and overall length have been stretched to provide more room for people and cargo.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Interior technology and infotainment is expected to take a big leap forward in the 2022 Sedona. We can see from the interior photo that a large dual-screen infotainment setup will be offered, and we now know that the large displays will be optional. The current van offers either a 7.0-inch or 8.0-inch touchscreen but more modern Kias come with larger free-standing displays and modern software.
Onboard Wi-Fi will likely be a standard feature, and we expect to see Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and perhaps even Amazon Alexa integration. More details will be available closer to the van’s launch.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
We expect Kia will offer more driver assistance features this time around and make several items standard to help the Sedona compete with the Pacifica, Odyssey, and Sienna. For more information about the MODEL’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features are likely to include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Kia’s warranty trumps its rivals’, with a powertrain policy that spans 10 years or 100,000 miles. Unlike the Sienna, though, the Sedona isn’t likely to come with any standard included scheduled maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
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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.