Which are the best Kia cars?

By Tia Harrison-North

Last updated: 15 July 2025

Searching for the best Kia models? You're pretty spoilt for choice.

Kia models have grown to be some of the most popular cars in the UK and beyond, famed for their state-of-art-interior, comfortable design and innovative technology.

But which are the best used Kia cars? We've compiled a list of some of our favourites to help you find the best Kia cars for you.

• Kia XCeed

• Kia Sportage

• Kia Stinger

• Kia Soul

• Kia Niro

• Kia Picanto

• Kia Optima

• Kia Venga

• Kia Rio

• Kia Ceed

• Kia EV6

Kia XCeed

The Kia XCeed is a compact crossover SUV that's perfect for those who appreciate a stylish and unique design, without compromising on practicality.

Those who opt for a used Kia XCeed will enjoy comfort, convenience and connectivity during both short and long trips.

Tech enthusiasts will appreciate features like the premium sound system, wireless charging and a digital instrument cluster.

Those who prioritise style will value the unique design that makes it stand out from traditional hatchbacks.

Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage is definitely a contender for the best Kia cars.

You have the option of choosing a petrol, mild hybrid or diesel engine, making it an excellent option for all driving preferences.

Sam Sheehan, our motoring editor, said: "The most fuel-efficient is, of course, the plug-in hybrid version, which has 43 miles of electric-only range (plenty for daily town driving) and comes in about 50mpg.

"The MHEV and HEV engines manage high 40s and high 30s mpg, respectively."

If a comfortable driving experience is a must for you, you’ll find pleasure in the well-tuned suspension system that makes potholes and road imperfections a breeze.

Kia Stinger

Don’t dismiss a used Kia Stinger. Sharp, fast, stylish and incredibly cost-effective, this model perhaps defies everything you thought you knew about the South Korean manufacturer.

They're fun to drive and there are a few engines to pick from, including:

Petrol

• 2.0-litre turbo petrol: 244hp

• 3.3-litre turbo petrol V6: 365hp

Diesel

• 2.2 CRDi diesel: 197hp

And if tech matters to you, you’ll love the touchscreen infotainment system and a premium sound system.

Kia Soul

The Kia Soul has a unique, boxy design and distinctive styling that set it apart from the rest of the Kia family. It's perfect for those who appreciate a dose of quirkiness.

There's now also a Kia Soul EV for battery-powered driving. It'll get you up to 280 miles on a single charge.

It might be compact in size, but you can still make use of ample headroom and legroom at both the front and rear of the car.

Boot:

• Kia Soul EV: 315 litres

• Kia Soul: 354 litres

Kia Niro

Can’t decide between a hatchback or an SUV? The Kia Niro is a beautiful blend of both.

The Niro is available as an electric car, plug-in hybrid, and petrol hybrid. Each version offers excellent fuel efficiency, and you can get up to 285 miles from the electric model.

There are advanced safety features, like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, and tech-lovers will appreciate the touchscreen infotainment system.

Kia Picanto

Both stylish and practical, every Kia Picanto has five doors, swept-back headlights and daytime running lights.

Its compact size makes driving through crowded city streets and squeezing into tiny parking spots a breeze.

Impressive safety features like electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes also help prevent accidents while on the road.

Kia Optima

The Kia Optima has no problem demonstrating why it might be the best Kia car.

A true combination of brains as well as beauty, it’s a stylish four-door saloon or estate car that shows off a comprehensive set of safety features.

Sam said: "The 2.0-litre PHEV is likely to be the star of the show, as long as you stick to mostly urban motoring and keep the battery charged up – it can run for around 30 miles on electric power alone."

Kia Venga

Practical, handsome and budget-friendly, a used Kia Venga is ideal for small families and individuals who appreciate excellent fuel efficiency with an emphasis on safety.

Despite its compact size, this model offers a spacious interior that leaves plenty of room for legs, heads and baggage. There's a 440-litre boot that can extend to 570 litres under the boot floor.

Kia Rio

The subcompact Kia Rio offers a lot for a great value hatchback, from the well-designed interior to the super-efficient engine options.

There's also now the electric Kia e-Niro if you fancy switching to battery power.

Sam said: "The Rio is smooth and stable on the motorway, yet easy and responsive around town.

"Note that the hybrid version merges electric and petrol power seamlessly, so you’ll generally drive it without noticing any difference other than your fuel bills."

Kia Ceed

The Kia Ceed is ideal for those who can’t choose between style, comfort and advanced technology.

Despite its compactness, it still offers good looks, ample space and great tech. There's plenty of boot space as well.

• Estate boot: 625 litres

• Hatchback boot: 395 litres

It's an economical car, getting up to 51.4mpg from the six-speed manual.

Kia EV6

We love the Kia EV6, and we love it even more in its GT-Line S form. Both are worth considering for a suave electric car.

The interior is particular impressive, with a pair of 12.3-inch information screens that nearly take up the whole dash.

You'll get up to 361 miles from the 84kWh battery, which will cover most motorists for a full week of driving.

Best Kia cars

Kia is well known for its reliable cars that are efficient and modernly minimalist.

Each one has its benefits, so you'll need to decide what you want from your car to find the best Kia car for you.

Take a look at our full range of used Kia models to see what's on offer.

Read more about Kia cars:

• Kia cars with the best MPG

• Kia Sportage vs Ford Kuga: Which is better?