2018 Stinger
Kia recently stole the spotlight with the debut of its all-new 2018 Kia Stinger GT at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). This exciting sports sedan offers a bold design along with high performance and quiet luxury.
According to Kia, “The Stinger promises to be the highest-performance production vehicle in the company’s history and is backed by Kia Motors’ industry-leading quality and reliability.” Since its concept design five years ago, the Stinger has been a passion project that resulted in this incredible vehicle.
The Top Three Features of Kia’s Stinger GT
Design
The Stinger GT is sleek and powerful. Design elements such as powerful haunches, a low-slung cabin, and a steeply raked windshield give this vehicle an aggressive edge. These details aren’t just about looks, though.
According to Kia, “Purely functional elements of the exterior design—the front air curtains, wheel arch gills, smooth underbody, and integrated rear diffuser—aid its aerodynamic efficiency.” This means that the Stinger not only looks outstanding but has the incredible performance to match.
Powertrain
The heart of any sports sedan is, of course, its engine. Two turbocharged engines will be available for the Kia Stinger GT. The Theta II engine will produce an estimated 255 horsepower at approximately 6,200 RPM. Alternatively, the Lambda II engine will produce an estimated 365 horsepower at approximately 6,000 RPM.
Another important powertrain feature to note is that the Stinger will be Kia’s first sedan available with rear- or all-wheel drive. The AWD mode features Kia’s new Dynamic Torque Vectoring Control. This system monitors road conditions and automatically applies power and braking force to appropriate wheels in order to stay stable in any condition.
Advanced Technology
The Stinger’s amenities aren’t only luxurious. They also help you focus on the thrill of the drive. Driver Attention Alert, Forward Collision Assistance, and Head-Up Display are just the beginning of the Stinger’s amazing features.
This sport sedan also includes 15 speakers and the Clari-Fi™8 system, a patented music restoration technology that rebuilds audio signals that are lost in the digital compression process. Drives are not only safer with Kia’s Stinger, but more enjoyable.
Visit Union County Kia for More Stinger News
The 2018 Kia Stinger is set to hit dealerships later this year. To stay up to date with the latest Stinger news, contact Union County Kia. Our helpful staff will answer any questions you may have about this exciting new sports sedan and will notify you once it arrives on our lot. We know you’ll definitely want to be one of the first to take this model out for a test drive.
It’s a new year, which means a new Kia is making waves in the automobile industry. The Kia Niro is truly the first of its kind as it takes a new approach to the hybrid crossover.
This new Kia achieves an EPA-est. 50 MPG combined and has close to a 600-mile range. In addition to this great gas mileage and range, it features a high-efficiency 1.6L GDI engine, which means you won’t have to sacrifice power for efficiency.
Automobile experts have started to take notice of this amazing hybrid and are beginning to publish their first impressions. But don’t just take our word that the Kia Niro should be your next hybrid crossover. See what the experts have to say.
Kia Niro First Impressions
First Impressions of the Kia Niro Hybrid by All Cars Channel
Focusing on the sporty exterior of the Kia Niro, All Cars Channel agrees that it is a good looking SUV. They even note that it will “add a fresh dimension to the global compact SUV market.” The Niro’s exterior is sleek and unique, making it a great SUV for those wishing to stand out.
2017 Kia Niro: First Drive Review by From Press
This in-depth article sings the praises of the Kia Niro. Starting with its exquisite exterior, From Press goes into more detail about the different trims that will be offered along with its luxurious interior amenities.
One of the aspects From Press was most excited about is the Kia Niro’s unique clutch. “Power gets routed through a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which makes driving more engaging while still providing fuel efficiency.” This allows for a quicker response, creating a better drive overall.
2017 Kia Niro First Review: Flexible Fuel-Sipper Impresses by Kelley Blue Book
As one of the most notable reviewers in the automobile industry, Kelley Blue Book gave the Kia Niro flying colors. They begin the article by saying, “The end result is a well-packaged blend of exceptional fuel economy, ample passenger room, and versatile cargo flexibility…” and continue with a detailed look of every aspect of the vehicle.
While they don’t have enough data to predict its future resale value, they do admit they “like the overall value proposition.”
Stay Up to Date with the Latest Kia Niro News
If you’d like to keep track of what’s going on with the Kia Niro, or if you’d like to learn when this amazing hybrid will be hitting dealerships near you, contact Union County Kia today. Our helpful staff will be able to answer any questions you may have about the Niro and can help you get your hands on one. We’re excited about this new hybrid SUV and can’t wait to take you for a test drive.
Compact and mid-sized SUVs are nothing new to the market. How do you stand out from the competition in terms of comfort and safety in a compact SUV?
Drivers that want a little extra room for friends, family, and storage – but not TOO much space – can find the perfect fit with a 2017 Kia Sportage. Kia’s smallest SUV features plenty of room without a bulky feel. Their high-end safety and technology features outclass their competitors.
Small Spaces Mean Big Savings in a Kia Sportage
On the outside the Kia Sportage is sleek, stylish, and striking. According to Kia:
The completely redesigned Sportage sets its own aesthetic standards for the compact crossover. Its striking grille, elegant side contours, prominent wheel arches, coupe-like roof, extended wheelbase, and full-chrome window surround achieve a precise balance between luxurious sophistication and dynamic sportiness.
With such elegance in a compact design, is there enough room for seating, cargo, and more? In short – yes.
These dynamic features bring big designs to a small frame:
- Spacious seating with 60/40 flat-folding seats and dual-level cargo floor panel
- Hands-free power lift-gate with automatic opening
- Smart compartments allow you more storage options than other midsize SUVs
- Angled consoles, displays, and ergonomic buttons give you maximum comfort and control
- The SUV’s small body gives better maneuverability on the highway and in parking lots
With a price-tag at around $23,000, a basic 4-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, and wireless technology features, the Kia Sportage is the perfect 5-passenger compact crossover for your next adventure.
Safety is No Small Feat
Available with an automatic pre-collision braking system and top of the line advanced safety features, the 2017 Kia Sportage is grounded for the whole family. After acing every crash test, it earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick+ rating. You’ll get protection like blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alerts, and more when you upgrade your Sportage model.
Backed by a 5 year/60,000 mile comprehensive warranty, and a 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty, buying a new Kia gives you years of comfort at no additional cost.
The opportunities are limitless when it comes to the compact features of the Kia Sportage. Find your fit today.
Get the Biggest Advantage on the Smallest Kia SUV with Union County Kia
Purchasing a new or used small Kia Sportage SUV doesn’t have to be a big deal. With great customer service since 1974, get a personal touch with Union County Kia in Charlotte, North Carolina.
What makes Union County Kia different? Our Keffer Advantage benefits are second to none:
- No-Stress buying experience
- Lowest pricing on all pre-owned vehicles
- Complimentary 3 month / 3,000 mile limited powertrain warranty on all pre-owned vehicles
- Honest service for our customers over price, payment, or trade
- 110% price match guarantee (If we can’t beat the other KIA dealer’s price, we will PAY YOU 110% of the difference or $1000, whichever is GREATER!)
- 30 minutes or less maintenance promise
Test-drive a compact Kia SUV model that meets your needs. Call our friendly, experienced staff today at (866) 602-1733.
It’s always tough finding the perfect gift around the holidays – especially when it’s so close to the New Year! But don’t fret. We’ve taken all the guesswork out of hunting down that special something for the person that “has it all.” This list of the Seven Top Holiday Gift Ideas under $150 will warm hearts and unwrap huge smiles from your friends and family this season.
Amazing Holiday Gifts Under $150
- Amazon Echo Dot ($49.99)
This modern marvel is a small, voice-controlled device from Amazon, the online retailer. It uses Amazon’s Alexa service to perform tasks like playing music, controlling smarthome devices, reading the news, setting alarms, and more.
- Fitbit Alta Fitness Tracker ($129.99)
The Fitbit Alta Fitness Tracker is a smart bracelet that syncs automatically to your computers, smartphones, and Windows devices using Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology. It helps you stay fit by keeping a record of your daily activities, such as steps, distance, calories burned, and active minutes. As stylish as it is practical, you can even recieve text messages on-the-go. Find your fit.
- NES Nintendo Classic ($59.99)
Children and adults of all ages can now enjoy the classic games of yesteryear. Based on the popular 1985 NES Design, the NES Nintendo Classic includes 30 games, such as Super Mario Bros and Mega Man 2. This 8-bit wonder connects to your television through the HDMI port and can be controlled with your Wii Remote ™ controller.
Everyone’s talking about the LuMee Two Illuminated Case. The LED is 90% brighter than the original, ensuring you’re always in focus for the perfect selfie.
- Book of the Month Subscription ($44.97)
Not every gift has to be a high-tech wonder. The journey of exploration starts in our minds. Choose from thousands of classics, new bestsellers, fiction, non-fiction, science writing, and more. Delivered to your front door monthly, this gift is a joy for the avid reader in your family.
You’ll feel like your rough morning was just a distant memory a long time ago in a land far, far away with the stylistic Thinkgeek Star Wars R2-D2 Coffee Press. Wake up refreshed – this is the 32 ounce coffee press you’ve been wanting.
- Roku Streaming Stick ($48.00)
The Roku is leading the way in full HD content streamed directly to your television! Use the app to set up playlists, control your settings remotely, and more.
Happy Holidays from Union County Kia
From Union County Kia, in Indian Trail, North Carolina– we wish you Happy Holidays! We know that finding the perfect gift can be tough. When you want to keep your family smiling year-round, look to our great selection of new and used Kias. Every Kia on our lot is the gift that keeps on giving, with high-end safety features and unmatched performance ratings. Call us today at (866) 602-1733 and ask about our Holidays On Us Sales Event.
A Preview of the Elusive Kia GT
Kia GT Concept Car at the 2012 New York International Auto Show
In 2017, Kia will finally enter their submission into the high-end sports car category with the elusive and exclusive Kia GT sports sedan. Modeled to take on everything the BMW 3 Series has to offer and more, the GT is a low-riding powerhouse with lots of great features. As the release date keeps getting pushed back, the anticipation builds on what could be a must-have for sports-car enthusiasts worldwide.
What We Know So Far About the Kia GT
Since 2011, the Kia GT has gone through several incarnations. This sleek road warrior saw its prototype unveiling at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show. A few crash tests later — checking safety standards — it seems to be in line for production.
Even the once-rumored “Stinger” moniker has been repeatedly dropped and added to no final conclusion. The clock ticks more every day without a definitive answer, shrouding the Kia GT in mystery. Whether this loose timeline is hesitation or a careful marketing and anticipation-building exercise remains to be seen.
Here are the latest confirmed elements we know about the Kia GT:
The V-6 engine has been toyed with constantly between the future 2017 and 2018 production models. Should it have more horsepower or just a ridiculous amount? The final tally sits at around 340 horsepower, but it’s still up in the air.
One estimate placed the 2017 Kia GT with a turbocharged V-8 5.0-liter engine, bumping the horsepower up to 415.
A test-model Kia GT was recently spotted cruising around Orange County, California, near Kia’s U.S. R&D facility. The model uses a 2018 Genesis G70 platform, but with a longer wheelbase. A candid series of camouflaged photos confirm that the prototype’s rearward-opening rear doors are gone. They have been replaced by more conventional doors. The sleek rear backlight remains, and a pair of smaller LED headlamps and lower intakes replace the original bulky units. It also sports a large, bright chrome side vent. It seems as if Kia has toned down their model’s exterior to widen the range of interested consumers.
Other spotted features include:
- Rear-wheel drive
- Four and Six-cylinder variants
- Expected 3.3-liter V-6
- 394-pound feet of torque
- More legroom
Motor Authority most recently confirmed a January 8, 2017, unveiling release date, which is the eve of the 2017 Detroit auto show. If they keep in tradition with the BMW competition, their price-tag could land between $35,000 and $43,000 – making this an affordable sports package from the new kid on the block.
Your Personal Path to the Kia GT | Union County Kia
Kia is always improving – changing the way you drive. If you want to find an affordable new or used Kia to take you anywhere you want to be, look to Union County Kia in Indian Trail, North Carolina.
Browse our website to see our unique offers, then stop by our convenient location and speak to one of our knowledgeable Kia experts. We can quickly and easily help you buy, lease, or finance your Kia.
The Kia Soul and Cadenza Win Active Lifestyle Awards
For those who are always on the move, the Kia Soul and Kia Cadenza are both great options — each has taken home titles in the Active Lifestyle Awards. Both of these models were named Vehicle of the Year Award winners, proving their ability to help you stay comfortable even if you are active. The winners are determined by elite athletes and local media, giving a nice range of perspectives.
Winning Features of the Kia Soul
Not only did the Kia Soul win one of the Active Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year Awards, this is actually the fifth year in a row that it did so. The Soul was rated as the best within the urban category after its rigorous evaluation in real-world and dynamic categories. This just proves that the Soul is perfect for urbanites who are always on the move and need a versatile vehicle.
The Soul was praised for its fun-to-drive feel, extensive features, practicality, and style. This model is also stylish and affordable with a small footprint that is a surprise when you consider the spacious cargo area. The 2016 Soul starts at $15,900 with features like Push-Button Start, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
Winning Features of the Kia Cadenza
The Kia Cadenza also took home high honors thanks to its new design for the 2017 model year, complete with its comfortable passenger design and plenty of style. The Cadenza received particular praise for its ample interior, advanced convenience features, and upscale design, all of which help it stand out from other full-size sedans.
The Cadenza essentially gives drivers a luxury vehicle without the hefty price tag. After all, the 2017 Cadenza starts at just $31,990 but it comes with amazing features, like a panoramic sunroof, Harmon/Kardon® Quantum Logic audio, and Nappa leather.
Where to Get the Award-Winning Models
When you are ready to get behind the wheel of the Kia Cadenza or the Kia Soul, head to Union County Kia. While there, you can take either of these Active Lifestyle Award winners on a test drive to see why drivers and professionals alike love them.
Finding the Right Color for Your Kia Soul
When you’re buying a Kia Soul, you want to make sure that it matches your personality. Every Soul is versatile and stylish, but you can customize it by choosing the right trim level and exterior color. Maybe you want an exterior color that blends in with the crowd, or perhaps you want to turn heads.
No matter your goal, there is a Kia Soul color for you.
Available Kia Soul Colors
Neutral Colors
Many drivers want to stay neutral when buying their Kia Soul. Going with a neutral color is a good idea if you ever plan to sell your vehicle in the future, as models with more popular colors tend to retain their resale value better.
A crisp Clear White exterior is a great choice, as is the similar shade of Soulful Clear White. If you like light neutrals but want a bit more personality, consider the Bright Silver or Titanium Gray exterior.
On the other hand, if you are concerned about your Soul getting dirty when driving around town, Shadow Black is an excellent choice. Neutral shades of blue include Caribbean Blue and Fathom Blue.
Bold Shades
For those who prefer to stand out from the crowd, the Kia Soul is also available in Alien 2, a unique shade that is a cross between green and yellow, and you are unlikely to find anything else like it. This quirky color complements the unique styling of the Soul very well, creating a perfect combination.
Solar Yellow is perhaps even bolder, and Inferno Red is sure to stand out, as well. If you don’t want to stand out quite as much, you can opt for a White and Red exterior, and there is a combination of Inferno Red and Black for those who can’t pick but want to be bold.
Interior Colors
Most interior colors for the Soul are nice and dark to make it harder to notice dirt. Depending on the trim and exterior color, you’re looking at these options:
- Black tricoat cloth
- Soulful black cloth
- Black leather
- Black woven cloth
- Gray two-tone woven
- Gray two-tone leather
- Umber Nappa leather
Where to Buy Your Kia Soul
Once you have figured out which of the numerous color options you want for your Kia Soul, it is time to figure out where to buy it. Keffer’s Union County Kia is the perfect option with its convenient location for residents of Matthews, Concord, Charlotte, Indian Trail, and other local areas.
Visit our dealership to see how some of these Kia Soul colors look in real life and learn about the other ways to customize your vehicle. Our team is happy to answer any questions you have, whether it is in person, over the phone, or online.
Kia Earns Top Quality Recognition from J.D. Power
Kia has a lot to be proud of as 2016 draws to a close. The Korean automaker has worked hard to ensure that the safety systems on their vehicles help drivers avoid trouble whenever and wherever possible.
Representatives from the automotive industry has recently taken notice of Kia’s innovation and recognized the company accordingly.
Kia Soul and Sportage Receive Individual Quality Awards
For 27 years, the leading brand in J.D. Power’s U.S. Initial Quality Study had been a luxury brand. Kia has broken with that tradition for the 2016 model year.
The study measures a number of categories including driving experience, interior comfort, and features to determine vehicle quality. A lower score means higher quality, and Kia scored an 83, edging out German supercar manufacturer Porsche, who scored an 84.
Leading their segments were the Soul and the Sportage. The 2016 Kia Soul was found to have the fewest design related malfunctions of any other vehicle in the compact MPV class, while the Sportage earned the same accolades for the small SUV class.
Both models owe a portion of their success to the suite of active safety systems standard in every Kia:
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
- Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC)
All of these systems help keep you in control of your Kia and on the road. Beyond that, standard Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and an Antilock Braking System (ABS) make sure your vehicle always stops when you need it to.
Kia Safety Standards Exceed Expectations
The International Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) takes their standards very seriously. As the leading non-government funded automotive safety group, the IIHS has become the de facto standard for automakers. They are constantly evolving their tests, meaning a vehicle that passed one year may not necessarily pass the next.
Despite the bar being set very high, the 2017 Kia Sorento has been awarded the coveted Top Safety Pick Plus award, demonstrating the company’s ongoing commitment to safety.
Any member of the sales staff at Union County Kia will be happy to take the time to show you all of the safety features of any Kia on our lot. Visit us in Indian Trail, North Carolina, just outside of Charlotte. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Should You Buy or Lease Your Next Kia?
Start looking for your next Kia to drive around Charlotte, and you will likely find yourself wondering if you should buy or lease. This is a tough decision for many people, and there is no easy answer. After all, some people will do to buy while others will prefer to lease a vehicle.
Benefits of Leasing
More Affordable
Those on a budget tend to strongly consider leasing a Kia since it is much more affordable. You will pay less initially on the down payment and then pay lower monthly fees.
Get a Better Vehicle
Because leasing is more affordable, you can frequently lease a more expensive Kia than you would be able to buy.
Change Your Vehicle
It is also much easier to get a new vehicle in a few years if you choose to lease your Kia instead of buying it. A lease only lasts for several years, at which point you can simply sign a new lease for a new vehicle.
Benefits of Buying
Can Customize
If you want to customize your Kia and make any changes to it, then you need to buy. Leases don’t allow for changes to the interior, exterior, or mechanics, but you can do whatever you want to the car you own.
No Mileage Limits
Leases tend to include mileage limits and fees if you go over. When you own a car, however, you can drive as much as you want without any extra fees, including long commutes and road trips.
No Worry of Wear and Tear
The same is true for wear and tear. If you have an excessive amount on your vehicle during a lease, you will be charged. If you accidentally rip the seats and own your vehicle, however, you only have to fix it if you want to.
Eventually Stop Paying
While buying your Kia costs more, eventually you won’t have to make any more payments. Once you have paid for the entire thing, you only have to worry about gas and maintenance costs.
Should You Lease or Buy?
Families with Kids and Pets
To help you choose between lease vs. buy options for your Kia, consider a few examples. Let’s say you have several young kids who tend to spill food in the car or maybe you have a dog that may rip up the seats by accident. Buying a Kia will save you wear-and-tear charges.
Always Want the Latest
Now imagine you are someone who always wants to have the latest styling and technology. When a new phone comes out, you are first in line. In this case, you will want to lease since you can drive a new car for a year or two, then get the latest model without having to pay extra.
Get More Options with Financing
Whether you buy or lease your Kia, you can get some help from the financing department at Union County Kia. If you think that you have to lease because you can’t afford to buy, talk to the team about an auto loan, and you may be surprised to discover how many options you have. Contact our finance department to get the best deals on your Kia, whether you are leasing or buying.
Kia Soul and Optima Awarded Best Family Cars of 2016
When it’s time to purchase a new car, family friendly features tend to head the list of what’s most important. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to choose which vehicle is right for your family. This year, Parents Magazine and Edmunds.com paired up once again to select the ten most family friendly cars for sale, focusing on all the aspects of what makes the best family car. After tallying the votes, the Kia Soul and Optima were named among the best family cars on the market.
Parents Love Kia’s Family Focused Capabilities
With their yearly test, Parents and Edmunds.com look to answer the question many families ask every year: What are the best family cars?
They tested hundreds of vehicles across a spectrum of categories, including:
- Safety
- Reliability
- Comfort
- Value
- Technology
- Fuel Efficiency
- Features
- Craftsmanship
Then they narrowed the group down to ten vehicles. Kia was one of two manufacturers to place multiple cars on the list, winning over the judges with the Kia Soul and Kia Optima.
The safe, sporty Kia Soul won the Best Budget Vehicle category, noted for its ‘smart design and great value [that] make it an ideal starter model.’ The Soul features an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system, forward collision warning, and lane departure alert wrapped in an affordable package. Judges particularly loved the 60/40 folding rear seats which ‘creates cavernous cargo space, while the soaring roof swallows tall, bulky gear with ease.’
Best Sedan was awarded to the athletic, enjoyable Kia Optima. With a base price of $21,990, judges were impressed with the sedan’s ‘sleek lines, pleasing ergonomics, smart controls, a smooth ride, and enhanced fuel efficiency.’ The Optima also earned praise for its smartly designed EX trim, especially the ‘dual zone automatic climate control, heated front seats to combat the cold, woodgrain interior accents, and push-button start.’ With an NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating, the reliable Kia Optima is among the safest family cars, winning over the hearts and minds of the judges at Parents.
See the New Kia Soul and Kia Optima in Person
The Parents and Edmunds.com test put many vehicles through the wringer and Kia stood out with two excellent models in the Soul and Optima. Both cars have proven their abilities to handle all families can throw at them.
To find out which one is right for your family, come down to Union County Kia, where our expert staff is always ready to help find the car you’re looking for. Our dealership is conveniently located on Gray Fox Road in Indian Trail, North Carolina. We’re a quick drive from Charlotte and neighboring Monroe, and we welcome you to our showroom to test drive anything in our inventory.
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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.