Kia is one of the most popular cars on Britain’s roads, famous for their industry-leading 7-year warranty, which backs up their commitment to providing high-quality cars at an affordable price. The manufacturer is now taking significant leaps into the world of hybrid and fully-electric cars, making them an even more appealing choice for many motorists, but who makes Kias, where are they built, and are they worth your investment? Let’s break it down.

Who owns Kia?

Kia is a brand that was born in Korea in 1944. Since then, it’s become Korea’s second-largest car manufacturer, just behind its parent company, Hyundai Motor Group. This business relationship allows the brands to share technology and research while still maintaining a unique style and brand identity. This ownership model began in 1998 and has since produced cars that share features like the engine, drivetrain, and transmission.

Where are Kia cars made?

Kia’s global headquarters are in Seoul, South Korea, where the brand originated, but their cars are produced in factories all over the world. Such a global brand simply wouldn’t be able to keep up with the demand of shipping their cars from one factory in South Korea. The brand has vehicle manufacturing plants in the United States, Mexico, India, China, and Slovakia (where most of the Kia cars in the UK are made).

When was Kia founded?

Kia was founded in 1944, but they didn’t start out as the car manufacturer that we know today. They originally made steel tubing and bicycle parts before moving into motorcycles and trucks.

In the 1970s, as demand for passenger cars grew across South Korea and the world, Kia saw the opportunity to turn their hand to producing cars. Today, you’d only find a Kia bike in an antique store rather than the Tour de France.

Are Kia cars reliable?

Kias are known to be one of the most reliable car brands on the market, which is why they so confidently provide a 7-year or 100,000-mile warranty on their petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric cars. Their electric models are even covered by an 8-year warranty on the battery pack, so you can make the change to electric with certainty. This reliability leads to some motorists returning to Kia every time they decide to change their car.

How many Kia models are there?

The Kia car range is extensive and comprehensive, with a car for almost any type of driver. They’ve got compact cars, hatchbacks, SUVs, and crossovers in petrol, hybrid and electric variants, allowing you to choose the perfect Kia for your needs.

Kia electric and hybrid

Kia has long been a player in the hybrid and electric cars, including the Kia EV6, Niro range, and the upcoming KIA EV6 GT. Kia’s electric and hybrid range combines their stylish design with the calmness and instant acceleration of electric power. There are also unique features to their electric cars, like controlling the climate control before you get in the car to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature.

Kia SUVs

Kia offers a robust SUV line-up, including electric options.

Kia EV9

The Kia EV9 is a top-of-the-range all-electric SUV that offers spacious seating, a modern interior, and cutting-edge tech.

Kia Sportage

One of Kia’s most popular models, the Kia Sportage, combines sporty looks with the everyday usability of an SUV.

Kia Niro

Available as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or full EV, the Kia Niro is ideal for those wanting eco-efficiency in an SUV shape.

Kia hatchbacks

Looking for something a bit smaller? The Picanto is Kia’s smallest car, making it an incredibly city-friendly car with a small footprint that’s ideal for getting down narrow roads and squeezing into tight parking spaces. The Kia Ceed offers slightly more space while still maintaining the manoeuvrability of a hatchback.

Kia crossover

Crossovers perfectly blend a hatchback’s agility with an SUV’s practicality. Cars like the offer elevated driving and sleek lines. The Kia Stonic is a compact crossover with a bold design that’ll stand out on the road. Like all Kias, it’s packed full of tech and safety features to improve driving and keep you and your passengers safe.

Our full range of Kia vehicles is available to browse on our website.

Whether you're after a city car, an electric SUV, or something in between, Kia has a several reliable options worth considering. Visit us to explore the range, ask questions, and book a test drive today.