When drivers need a new car, they can choose from many manufacturers. Individuals today want value for their money and often turn to Hyundai or Kia to see their offerings. Each option has benefits and drawbacks to consider before making this purchase.
Similarities
Hyundai and Kia originated in South Korea. Hyundai is the newer of the two companies, having launched in 1967, 23 years after Kia Motors Corporation was formed. Today, Kia is a Hyundai subsidiary, and both brands are known for being reliable and efficient. How can a driver choose between the options? What should they know when doing so?
Reliability
Before buying a new hyundai or Kia, drivers want to ensure they get a reliable car. J.D. Power ranks Kia highly in reliability, behind Lexus and Genesis. Hyundai also ranks in the top ten of reliable vehicles, and it comes with a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, so drivers know they are getting a dependable car.
Price
Drivers must consider their budget when purchasing a vehicle. Kia offers the Rio, which is very inexpensive. Hyundai vehicles do have slightly higher starting prices, but they remain within reason for most drivers. The Kia Soul starts at just over $20,000, while the Hyundai starts at around $22,000. Kelley Blue Book placed two Hyundai and two Kia vehicles on its list of the ten cheapest new cars of 2025.
Power
Drivers should also consider the performance of the vehicle when purchasing it. Although they want an affordable ride, they also want to enjoy driving it. Both Kia and Hyundai have impressive EV vehicles, along with many others. The 2024 EV06 can go from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds. Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N is right behind it, reaching the same speed in 3.4 seconds. Many Kia and Hyundai vehicles share engines because both brands are part of the Hyundai Motor Group.
Electric Models
Hyundai and Kia offer a range of electric vehicles, which drivers appreciate. Kia offers all-electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid models. Drivers should visit both dealerships to see the offerings because they are similar. Fortunately, they can make their choice based on other factors thanks to the manufacturers’ commitment to electric offerings.
Safety Features
Kia and Hyundai want people to be safe on the road and incorporate many safety features into their vehicles. Drivers will find these vehicles have safety features such as forward-collision assist and a range of optional items, including lane-departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. The features vary by the model and trim level. Overall, Hyundai offers more standard safety equipment on each model. Individuals purchasing a Kia may have to pay extra for the desired safety features.
Hyundai has a slight edge over Kia thanks to the standard safety features and improved styling. Drivers love that Hyundai vehicles have a warranty that includes scheduled maintenance, increasing its value. They get an affordable and dependable vehicle equipped with the features they want in their rides.
Ultimately, drivers should visit the dealership and test drive multiple vehicles to find one that perfectly meets their needs. A reputable dealer will spend time with drivers to help them find the right car. For many individuals, a Hyundai will be precisely what they require for their daily commute and weekend adventures because these cars have everything a driver could want.