
What began as just a vision has now become something to actually feast your eyes on. Much of the buzz surrounding Kia’s 2018 lineup has centered around the Stinger, a luxury sedan that began as a Grand Touring concept car.
When the Stinger debuted at the 2017 North American International Auto Show, it took home awards for Best in Show from Cars.com as well as the EyesOnDesign award for Production Car Excellence. Given the features of this performance model, it’s easy to see why.
The Specs
The 2018 Kia Stinger pours up to 365 horsepower and generates 376 lb.-ft. of torque from its available 3.3-liter twin turbo V6 engine. The transmission is an eight-speed with five distinct driving modes.
The Drive
The team that designed the handling on the 2018 Kia Stinger was led by Albert Biermann, the same Albert Biermann who previously was BMW’s M Division VP. The Stinger also boasts a new Dynamic Stability Damping Control system that adapts the car’s suspension specs to your driving.
The Look
In the luxury market, a car only travels as far as its appearance. The rear-wheel drivetrain is accentuated by the rear-sloping silhouette that culminate in a quad oval exhaust pipe system.
The Comfort
The Kia Stinger has the comfort to match all that performance and style. Deeply contoured seating is surrounded by spoked vents, metal-ringed gauges and satin chrome trim.
The Technology
As expected from a luxury-performance design, the Stinger will be loaded with technology. One such feature will be a Driver Alert System, which is a first for the Kia brand. Complementing that will be Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist, Advanced Smart Cruise Control and more.
The Concept
The Kia Stinger represents a sizeable shift in the brand’s segment. From practical and affordable sedans to the luxurious and performance-driven Stinger, Kia continues to stretch the limits of what a manufacturer can be.
The 2018 Kia Stinger can be traced back to a concept car Kia unveiled in 2011 at the Frankfurt Auto Show. Seven years and half a globe later, you can talk to the knowledgeable staff at Union County Kia in Monroe, NC about this car and how you can make it yours.

Her name is Rio and she dances on the sand
Just like that river twisting through a dusty land
And when she shines she really shows you all she can
Oh Rio, Rio dance across the Rio Grande
“Rio” by Duran Duran
Duran Duran’s classic hit “Rio” came out nearly two decades before Kia’s subcompact car, but many elements of the song could be about the car as well. You can see the Rio on the beach and on TV, and it’s popular from the mountains in the north down to the Rio Grande.
Learn more about how this fun to drive car can make you feel alive.
The Kia Rio: What You Need to Understand
Performance
The all new 2018 Kia Rio will be available as a four-door sedan or five-door hatchback, both available in a variety of trims. The Rio is powered by a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.
Both models owe their popularity in part to their excellent fuel efficiency, getting 27 MPG in the city and 36 on the highway.
Styling
The Rio may be an “entry level” vehicle, but it is no way “basic transportation.” Beginning with its distinctive front grill and flowing back over sculpted lines, the Rio paints a sleek, aerodynamic picture.
On the ground, the Rio sedan arrives with available 15” alloy wheels, while the hatchback goes a bit larger with 17” wheels.
Interior
The spacious and comfortable interior features two-tone seats and plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers.
You can fit more into this subcompact than you might expect. The trunk of the sedan holds 13.7 cubic feet of cargo. The Rio hatchback starts with 15 cubic feet, with 60/40 split rear seats that fold for a total of 49.8 cubic feet of cargo space.
There’s more places to store thing in the Rio than the truck, with additional room in the front and rear doors, an illuminated glove box, and an available center console with armrest.
Test Drive a New Kia Rio Near Charlotte, NC
Start your adventure when the new Kia Rio Sedan or 5-door Rio Hatchback become available at Union County Kia in Monroe, North Carolina. Get in touch with us if you want to be one of the first to know when these models arrive.
Our dealership is just outside of Charlotte and close to Indian Trail. We look forward to meeting you.

Summer is a time for adventure and there are plenty of adventures to be had in Monroe, NC. And, there are plenty of Kia vehicles designed to get you there.
Below are some of the best Kias for summertime adventures around Monroe, NC.
Sorento
With seating for up to six and an available panoramic sunroof, the Sorento is ideal for family adventures. Pack up the kids and check out the Two by Two Petting Zoo. With eight power charging outlets, the Sorento affords ample opportunity to charge those cameras and phones for the many photo opportunities that will come your way.
Sedona
Big adventures require big room. And with the Sedona’s Slide-N-Stow® second-row seats, you’ll have plenty of space for the biggest adventures. Simply pull a lever, give the seats a push and then head to the Monroe Antique Mall. The moveable seats will leave you extra room for any treasures you might dig up.
Rio
A compact car that’s less than 68 inches wide and 172 inches long, the Rio is designed for navigating tight spaces, busy streets and crowded parking lots while still providing a four-door solution for your family and friends. Jump in a Rio and squeeze your way into the weekly Movies in the Park summer series in downtown Monroe.
Optima Plug-in Hybrid
With over 100 MPG utilizing both gas and electric power, the Optima Plug-in Hybrid is the perfect way to enjoy the open road. And just east of Monroe is one of North Carolina’s most scenic drives, the Indian Heritage Trail. Power up this Optima and ignore any gas stations along the way.
Niro
The Niro is a hybrid crossover that combines a roomy interior with a combined 50 MPG. That sort of combination — along with an available roof cargo basket — is perfect for a weekend camping excursion to the nearby Uwharrie National Forest.
Spend Your Summer at Union County Kia
Your summer adventure begins at Union County Kia in Monroe, NC where you’ll find new and used Kia models, parts and accessories and a there-when-you-need-it service staff. Stop into Union County Kia on Highway 74 and get ready for the summer of your lifetime.

With top crash-test ratings from the NHSTA, a spacious and comfortable interior, and trims that seat up to seven passengers, the 2017 Kia Sorento is the perfect family SUV.
Still, a modern family needs more than just space. You need tech features to make your drive even easier, safer, and entertaining for everyone.
The 2017 Kia Sorento Has the Technology and Versatility You Need
Kia has a strong dedication to giving drivers and their passengers the best possible experience behind the wheel. The 2017 Kia Sorento’s available tech features are an excellent example of the best Kia has to offer.
Park Assist
You’ve surely seen the recent “Rubber Duck” commercial for the Kia Sorento by now. In it, the Sorento uses the innovative Surround View Monitor to effortlessly navigate an obstacle course packed with loud, squeaking, yellow rubber ducks. Surround View uses a system of cameras to give you a complete view of the road around you, eliminating blindspots, and even showing a full bird’s eye view of your Sorento.
Surround View makes parking a breeze, even with a car full of kids. It can help navigate a driveway littered of toys, keeping you free from hazards on the road.
Entertainment
On those long drives, you want to keep your family entertained. Kia makes it easier than ever with smartphone connectivity through UVO eServices and Apple CarPlay™ or Android Auto™. Use the UVO system to connect your smartphone to the Sorento’s touchscreen and operate select apps. Listen to music, audiobooks, Pandora™ radio, and more.
As the driver, you will always be in control, operating your smartphone through the touchscreen. You can also use it for real-time navigation with maps or to make hands-free calls and texts, while keeping your eyes on the road.
Safety
The most important way Kia uses technology is through the active safety systems installed to keep your family protected.
Advanced cruise control will help automatically adjust your speed on the highway to keep a secure distance between you and other drivers. If you begin to drift from your lane, the Lane Departure Warning System will sound an alert. You can also avoid accidents with Autonomous Emergency Braking, which stops your Sorento automatically if it detects danger.
By constantly innovating, Kia has created a family SUV that is more fun, easier, and safer. You can test drive the 2017 Kia Sorento at Union County Kia in Monroe, North Carolina.
If you want to know more about the Sorento, contact us at ( 866) 602-1733. You can also stop by our dealership, just a short drive from Indian Trails and Matthews.

About the only thing more comfortable than a Kia Optima is a Kia Optima with leather seats. While the Kia brand is known more for practicality, the Optima is drawing attention from those that prefer a little bit of luxury.
There are three Kia Optima trims that come standard with leather seats.
EX
The EX features standard leather seating at an affordable price point so consumers can enjoy luxury comfort on an economy budget.
SX
The turbocharged performance of the Optima SX is complemented by the black sport leather seating with red stitching. Or if red stitching just isn’t enough, you can go for the optional red Merlot leather seating to bring the same vibrancy to the interior that is found under the hood.
SX Limited
The highest trim level of the Optima model comes standard with sleek quilted nappa leather seating. Nappa leather is even softer than traditional leather and is dyed with water-soluble colorants to make the material more resistant to light. Nappa leather is also easier to clean than standard leather.
2017 Kia Optima: Beyond the Leather
There’s more to the comfort of the Kia Optima’s seats than just the materials. The EX and SX both come standard with a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with four-way power-adjustable lumbar support. The EX features a 6-way passenger seat adjustment, while both trims come with an optional 10-way power-adjustable passenger’s seat with two-way lumbar support.
Both the EX and SX come standard with a driver’s seat Integrated Memory System (IMS), allowing for two preset positions along with standard heated front seats. Options are available in both trims for ventilated front seats and heated rear seats, and the back seat features a 60/40 split-folding seat with a center armrest.
In addition to the Nappa leather, an upgrade to the SX Limited also comes with a standard 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with 4-way power-adjustable lumbar support and a standard 10-way power-adjustable passenger’s seat with 2-way lumbar support.
The Integrated Memory System and heated front seats remain standard in the SX Limited, while the ventilated front seats and heated rear seats become standard at this trim level. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats remain as well.
Find a Seat at Union County Kia
Come visit Union County Kia in Monroe, NC, to browse our inventory of Kia Optimas with leather seats and speak to our staff about how to care for the leather interior in your new or used Optima.

The 2017 Kia Niro has solved a longstanding dilemma for car buyers. By combining hybrid fuel economy and crossover cargo space, Kia has created the ultimate vacation vehicle.
Why the Kia Niro is the Perfect Vehicle for Your Next Getaway
Impressive Cargo Space
When you’re vacationing, you usually have a lot to bring. Everyone needs basic supplies, like clothes and toiletries. Some trips may require extra cargo like tents, sleeping bags, towels, water toys, and more—supplies that won’t fit into your standard hybrid.
There is a reason why the Kia Niro is called “the un-hybrid.” It offers the cargo space and versatility of a small crossover, something unheard of in hybrids of the past. With the rear row folded down, the Niro has up to 54.5 cubic feet of room, letting you pack whatever you want.
Record-Setting Gas Mileage
The 2017 Kia Niro offers an impressive 52 city and 49 highway MPG thanks to its combined 1.6-liter engine and electric motor. The Niro’s fuel economy is comparable to other much smaller hybrid models. You’ll be able to make better time and save money on the costs of your next getaway.
The fuel efficiency of the Niro isn’t just impressive – it’s record-breaking.
In December of 2016, the Kia Niro set the Guinness Book of World Records title for the “Lowest Fuel Consumption Traveling Across the US.” Without any modifications, the Niro EX was able to make it 3,715.4 miles from Los Angeles to New York on just 48.5 gallons of gas. That means the people driving only had to stop for gas 4 times during the trip.
Save on Your Next Vacation With the Kia Niro
You probably won’t be trying to break any records yourself, but having your own Niro can still help improve your travels. Whether you’re going on a weekend drive to the Outer Banks or a road trip to the Grand Canyon, the Niro strikes the right balance.
You can see the 2017 Kia Niro in action at Union County Kia in Monroe, North Carolina. Sign up to test drive the Niro today.
If you have any questions about the Niro, reach out to us at (866) 602-1733. We’re just a short drive from Indian Trail and Waxhaw.
Your Kia Dealership in Monroe, NC

Finding the right Kia dealership near you in Monroe, NC, and the surrounding area doesn’t have to be a challenge. Union County Kia offers everything you want in a dealership: an extensive selection, competitive pricing, and a well-equipped service center.
You’ll be glad you chose Union County Kia. Here’s why.
What Makes Union County Kia the Smart Choice
Part of the Community
At Union County Kia, we pride ourselves on being a part of the community. As a family-owned dealership, we have been a part of the Monroe, North Carolina, community since 1974, giving us a long-standing reputation in the area.
Reliable and Affordable Service Center
While most dealerships have a service center, few offer the range of services with the speed and quality we do. In addition to standard repairs, diagnostic checks, and scheduled maintenance, we offer Express Service. With this service, you can get in and out in just 30 minutes. Best of all, you don’t need an appointment.
Stress-free Buying
At Union County Kia, we understand that the average person dreads shopping for a new or used car, as it can be incredibly stressful. We aim to change that. We deliver a no-pressure buying experience where our knowledgeable and friendly team will guide you through the entire process. We help you with the paperwork, financing, and we’ll gladly answer your questions. With us, your car-buying experience will be hassle-free.
Extensive Selection of New and Pre-Owned Models
Whether you are looking for a new or used vehicle, you will find an extensive selection at Union County Kia. We have more than 300 pre-owned vehicles, offering you more options than you will get anywhere else.
Best of all, we give you peace of mind with every used purchase with a 3-month or 3,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty. We back up our commitment to quality with every new and used vehicle we sell.
Price Protection Guarantee – We Will Beat Competitor Pricing
When you buy your vehicle from Union County Kia, you are guaranteed the best possible price because we don’t just match the prices of other Kia dealerships – we beat them.
In fact, we give you a 110% Price Protection Guarantee. If we make a mistake and are unable to beat the price at another dealership, we will give you $1,000 or 110% of the difference, whichever is greater.
Visit Union County Kia Today
Visit our showroom for a truly superior car-buying experience. We are conveniently located near Indian Trail, North Carolina. Wherever you live, you can get to our dealership in a matter of minutes.
Find the 2017 Kia Optima for Sale Near You

A sedan is a practical choice for Monroe drivers with its smooth handling, styling, and efficient fuel economy. The 2017 Kia Optima is an excellent option for those who struggle with choosing which sedan to drive, thanks to its wide range of features. While the previous Kia Optima was already excellent, the 2017 model has been updated to give you even more on every drive around North Carolina.
New Features You’ll Love on the 2017 Kia Optima
LX Driver Convenience Package
One of the things you will notice on the 2017 Kia Optima is that the availability of the Driver Convenience Package has been expanded and is now offered in the LX and LX 1.6T models. Adding the Driver Convenience Package will give you exterior power-folding and heated mirrors. You also get an Integrated Memory System and 12-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat.
LX Convenience Plus Package
The 2017 Optima also adds a Convenience Plus Package to the LX trim. This set of options focuses on expanding technology, giving you Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Detection System, Rear Parking Assist System, Android Auto™, Apple CarPlay™, and UVO eServices with a 7-inch touchscreen.
Other Expanded Features
In addition to the new packages for the Optima LX, Kia has expanded the list of standard features on the SX and SXL. The SX now comes standard with LED dual-projection headlights featuring Dynamic Bending Light and 18-inch alloy wheels. The SXL has the same newly standard features, but with chrome alloy wheels.
Quieter Cabin
The cabin of the 2017 Optima has become quieter as well, thanks to enhanced cabin-sound insulation. The mirrors have also been re-contoured to reduce noise further. In addition, the windows now absorb sound.
Your Favorite Returning Features
In addition to the updates, the 2017 Kia Optima still provides you with all your favorite features from the previous model year. The signature Tiger nose grille catches your eye, and you can enjoy LED headlights and High Beam Assist.
While you sit inside the Optima, you will appreciate the console with its clean horizontal design, which creates the feel of a larger cabin. Driving will be less stressful with the range of available driver-assistive technologies, like Advanced Smart Cruise Control and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
Take the 2017 Kia Optima for a Test Drive
Now that you have a better idea of what the 2017 Kia Optima has to offer, it’s time to experience it for yourself on a test drive. The team at Union County Kia can help you get behind the wheel. Just visit our Monroe, North Carolina, dealership to explore the 2017 Kia Optima for sale or go on a test drive. Our dealership can even help you with financing to make owning the latest Optima a reality.

The 2017 Kia vehicles lineup continues to push the boundaries of what you can expect from your favorite auto manufacturer. This year, Kia is introducing the all-new Kia Niro, a handsome compact SUV built with innovative hybrid technology.
The Niro isn’t the only change to Kia’s portfolio, though. The Soul, Cadenza, Sportage, Forte, Optima Hybrid, and Sorento each see advancements in 2017, too.
You can see any of these models in person when you visit Union County Kia in Indian Trail, North Carolina. Stop by whenever you like to learn about what’s new in 2017 Kia vehicles, or read on for our summary.
2017 Kia Vehicles Introduce the All-New Niro and Other Updates
2017 Kia Niro
The Niro is sure to steal the show this year. The demand for a hybrid vehicle in the compact SUV segment was too powerful to ignore. Kia saw the need and answered with the Niro, a handsome compact SUV that delivers up to 50 MPG.
The Niro is a true balance of brains and brawn. Under the hood, the Niro syncs an electric motor with a 1.6L Atkinson-cycle engine to produce 146 HP and 195 lb.-ft of torque. On the outside, the Niro’s body is characterized by smooth, elegant lines that add depth and richness to its color.
This is the hybrid SUV that you’ve been waiting for. We’re excited to have the Niro join the Kia family and we welcome you to reach out with any questions about availability and release date. You can also read more about this model in one of our previous blog posts.
Kia’s beloved Forte gets fine-tuned in 2017.
Changes from the outgoing model include a more performant 2.0L Atkinson-cycle engine and an upgraded fascia. Additionally, drivers can expect more options in the 2017 Forte like automatic braking and adaptive headlights to illuminate corners while turning.
The Cadenza has been turning heads since its introduction in 2014. Since then, this German inspired sedan has only gotten more luxurious.
For 2017, the Cadenza comes standard with a muscular 3.3L V6 that produces 290 HP and 253 lb.-ft of torque. With a stiffer and lighter chassis, the Cadenza’s redesigned body lends itself to a harmonious driving experience.
The 2017 Cadenza also sees major changes in its appearance. The interior has been meticulously crafted with every detail in mind. Soft colors contrast with darker accents throughout the cabin to strike a classic tone. The exterior is characterized by a commanding but sophisticated linear design.
2017 Kia Optima Hybrid
The 2017 Optima Hybrid is a testament to Kia’s commitment to excellence and technological innovation.
For the 2017 model, the Optima Hybrid features a more refined driving experience courtesy of drivetrain improvements. An efficient 2.0L Atkinson-cycle engine replaces the outgoing model’s 2.4L engine. This substitution is well-received: the 2017 Optima Hybrid boasts an impressive 40 MPG. That’s a notable improvement from the previous model’s mark of 37 MPG.
The Optima Hybrid links its improved engine to a conventional 6-speed automatic transmission and replaces the torque converter with an electric motor and clutch. That means this model will have much smoother shifting than competing hybrid vehicles, so if that kept you away before, check it out now.
Much of the Sorento stays unchanged in 2017 since it was recently redesigned. It still offers a stunning yet cohesive design that adds luxury points to this family-ready SUV. The big change comes with the addition of driver-assistance in the form of emergency braking.
The Kia Soul truly is one-of-a-kind. In 2017, the hip and functional Soul receives the long awaited option for a turbocharged 1.6L engine. The Soul Turbo will have 201 HP and 195 lb.-ft of torque on tap. The extra power under the hood will make the already groovy Soul even more addictive to drive.
The Sportage rounds out Kia’s 2017 lineup changes and is more versatile than ever.
Kia has put thoughtful attention into redesigning the interior with soft-touch material and accented stitching. The cockpit is crafted to the driver’s liking with a functional infotainment system. The 2017 Sportage features an elegance of simplicity that is not present in the outgoing model. The exterior has also been streamlined to produce a more mature and sophisticated appearance that’s accentuated by the addition of a handsome grille.
Kia keeps things exciting in 2017 with the introduction of the Niro and a host of additions and redesigns to its portfolio. Be sure to reach out to us with any questions you have about the availability of these new Kia vehicles.
Which Kia Optima is the Best Pick for You?

Updated: 3/20/2018
With a wide selection of Kia Optima cars for sale in Monroe, North Carolina, you’ll wonder if Kia Motors had you in mind when they designed this car. Union County Kia would like to assist you in finding your perfect match.
Here’s what you can expect.
Choosing the Right Kia Optima for Your Needs
Kia Optima LX
An excellent choice for the active family that demands reliability and functionality for a get up and go lifestyle. Its aerodynamic, striking looks are a clear win for any family. A 2.4L DOHC 16-valve I-4 engine is fuel efficient, offering 36/25 Highway/City MPG while still delivering the power you need.
The affordability of the Optima LX also makes it a smart choice. If you’ve never owned a Kia, and you’re interested in what this brand is all about, this might be the best car to get acquainted with. The staff at Union County Kia would love to show it to you.
Kia Optima EX
If the saying “Go big or go home” rings true for you, then the Optima EX won’t be in your driveway very often. With its stylish looks and leather seating, you’re sure to command attention on the road.
Thank’s to a 6-speed transmission, coupled with a 2.4L 4 cylinder engine, you’ll arrive at every appointment on time and in style. Fuel economy provides a very respectable 34/24 Highway/City MPG. An excellent selection and an attractive price tag reaffirm the EX is the car to “go big” in.
Kia Optima SX
This series gives its all with a 2.0L turbocharged engine, available Harmon/Kardon® QuantumLogic™ sound system, and Kia’s UVO eServices with voice recognition. As with other Kia Optima trims, this model is reinforced with Advanced High Strength Steel, protecting you and your passengers.
This trim has an MSRP starting under $30,000. At that price point, the extra power and features are an almost unbeatable value. It’s the most fully loaded Optima you can get, and it’s a car that is sure to serve you well for a long time.
Kia Optima Hybrid
Behind the Optima Hybrid’s unmistakeable tiger nose grille sits an intelligent electric-cylinder hybrid engine that adapts to your driving and reduces your carbon footprint, making you a true friend of Mother Earth. The combination of gas and electric powertrain working together delivers uncompromising power with an EPA estimated 40 MPG on the highway.
You’ll get all the features that make Optima such a good choice with the satisfaction of knowing you’re doing your part to protect the planet. And fewer trips to the gas station mean you’ll be protecting your wallet, too.
Get Behind the Wheel of a New Kia Optima
Discover for yourself why Kia Optima is such a smart choice. Make an appointment today for a test drive at Union County Kia.
Our dealership is just outside of Charlotte, North Carolina, in Monroe, and we welcome customers from all over the area. Visit our store at your convenience to compare each Optima trim side by side. A member of our staff will be happy to help and answer your questions.



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.