When it comes to used Kia cars, there are a few to pick from. Often known for their comfort, reliability, and affordability, it all comes down to what you need. We'll break down these models and what makes them unique from one another to make sure that you get what you need.

Key Takeaways:

• If you're secretly an adrenaline junkie who wants something unassuming, then the Stinger is right up your alley. When properly equipped, this model can push 170 MPH.
• While the K4 does boast some decent gas mileage, its age might make it harder to find. If you want that same mileage, then you can look for a Forte.
• The K5 occupies a nice middleground as it comes with decent power, but doesn't sacrifice much on mileage.

K4

Being the newest model in the Kia car lineup, the K4 will be hard to find, but if you do manage to find one, then you've struck gold. This model can be found in both hatchback and sedan configurations. While the body may look different, the bones remain the same.

You can find up to two engines on this model, with these being the 1.6 and 2.0L engines. The smaller of the two makes 190 horsepower, as it is turbocharged, while the larger engine makes 147 horsepower. While that isn't a ton, for a model of this size, you will definitely feel it when behind the wheel. If you don't want the most power, but value efficiency, then the 2.0L is the way to go. This is because it comes with an EPA-rated 34 MPG combined. This makes it so that you can save money at the pump and look good doing it.

K5

Moving to the K5, this is only available in the sedan configuration. Being that this model is a bit larger, the engines reflect this. These engines are the 1.6L and the 2.5L. The 1.6L is the weaker of the two, making 178 horsepower, while the 2.5L makes 286 horsepower. This is thanks to the beefier build needing even beefier engines.

Unlike the K4, the 1.6L engine is the one that you want to look for if you value fuel efficiency the most. This is because it comes with an EPA-rated 32 MPG combined. While not as much, for a larger model, this is more than enough, especially when looking at the competition.

Forte

Moving on to the discontinued models, the Forte was last seen on the roads in 2024, so it is still relatively new. Being that it has run its course, we have more to look at as it is not ever-changing. This model comes with rear seat heat ducts, an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, steering wheel-mounted audio system controls, and cruise control.

Despite it being discontinued, it wasn't because of a lack of features, as these are what you can expect on models still being made today. This model also came with a very efficient engine, with this one being the 2.0L I4. This came with an EPA-rated 35 MPG combined, making it as good as the models still being produced.

Stinger

The Stinger was a bit of a one-hit wonder. Not in terms of one model year, but more of a generation. Only lasting for 5 years on the market, this model was something a bit different in Kia's lineup. While the other models are made for efficient family vehicles, the Stinger flipped it on its head and focused on performance. This model came with two engines to pick from, with these being a 2.0L turbocharged I4 and a 3.3L twin-turbo V6.

The 2.0L is strong, making 252 horsepower, but the 3.3L blows that out of the water, making 365 horsepower. The speeds are the same story, being that the smaller engine hits 149 MPH, with the larger one blowing past 160, having a top speed of 168 MPH.

When tested on a track, a Stinger that is equipped with a 3.3L V6 was able to go 0-60 in 4.6-seconds. This made people realize that Kia was more than just a soccer mom brand, but as it was only around for one generation, you'll have to really hunt for one.

Which is the best used Kia Car for me?

If you're a soccer mom who wants something more practical, then you have options with these being the K4, K5, and the Forte. But if you want a sleeper that can dominate at the track, then the Stinger is a solid pick. No matter what, though, we want to make your hunt a bit easier. Come on down to Car2Sell here in East Windsor for more info!