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Five Kia Models Make US News’ List of Best Choices for a New First Car

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2018 Kia Soul

Five 2018 Kia models, the Soul, Niro, Sportage, Forte, and Rio, have made U.S. News & World Report’s list of 28 Best Choices for a New First Car. The editors evaluated vehicles based on cost of ownership, base price, the pub’s overall score, and the predictability rating determined by J.D. Power.


Learn More: About the 2018 Kia Soul’s features


With a USN overall score of 9.1/10 and a Reliability Score of 5.0/5, the 2018 Kia Soul secured the number one spot on the list.

Gallery: 2018 Kia Soul

“The Kia Soul is our best new car for first-time buyers. It also tops our compact car rankings, is the only car on this list to have a perfect predicted reliability score, and it’s our 2018 U.S. News Best Compact for the Money. Throw in its coveted IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, industry-leading warranty, and inexpensive starting price, and there’s no surprise here,” writes U.S. News & World Report Writer Steven Loveday.

Gallery: 2018 Kia Niro

The 2018 Kia Niro was praised for its passenger volume, impressive fuel economy, and fun-to-drive performance.

Gallery: 2018 Kia Sportage

The 2018 Kia Sportage, which was also named one of the Best New Cars for Teens by U.S. News, was singled out for its supportive seats, good safety scores, and rear passenger room.


Check Out: The 2018 Kia Sportage overview


The 2018 Kia Forte earned a USN Overall Score of 8.5/10 thanks to its spacious cabin and Top Safety Pick+ distinction from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Gallery: 2018 Kia Forte

“It has one of the nicest cabins in its class due to its high-quality build and noticeable sound insulation. Its standard four-cylinder engine isn’t powerful, but it returns good fuel economy, especially if you add the available automatic transmission,” according to Loveday.

Gallery: 2018 Kia Rio

Securing the second-place spot on the list, the 2018 Kia Rio was highlighted for its smooth performance, affordable price tag, and easy-to-use cabin technology.

“It provides a firm, sporty ride, though it’s still comfortable on the freeway,” reports Loveday.

News Source: U.S. News & World Report