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Hyundai and Kia share many similarities. Both brands are based in South Korea and offer similar lineups. In fact, Hyundai Motor Co. owns just over a third (34%) of Kia Motors. Many of these vehicles share platforms, powertrains, or other parts and engineering. However, Hyundai and Kia operate independently of one another. Both brands maintain their own design studios, engineering staff, sales, and marketing departments. With that said, you’ll find more similarities than differences when you compare the two brands, and that’s actually a good thing. Both brands produce high quality vehicles with great warranties that are beloved by their owners. Still, it’s worth noting those small differences so that you can make an informed choice.
Styling and Presence
Kia and Hyundai offer very similar model lineups. However, Kia does offer a few vehicles that Hyundai doesn’t, although it’s worth noting that Hyundai has created a luxury division, called Genesis, that fills most of those gaps. In general, Hyundai styling is far more conservative and subdued, with flowing curves and inoffensive round shapes making up the bulk of the design features. On the other hand, Kia cars offer sporty styling that makes them look more aggressive and dynamic than their Hyundai cousins. Similarly, Kia SUV models boast a more rugged, off-road inspired design than the comparable Hyundai model. In general, Kia styling is more angular and modern, designed to draw attention and make a statement, while Hyundai vehicles are more likely to blend in with the crowd.
Performance and Handling
Earlier, we mentioned that, while Hyundai and Kia share platforms and drivetrains, each brand maintains their own separate engineering departments. This is important, because it allows each brand to tune their vehicles’ ride and handling characteristics separately. With a wide variety of vehicles on offer – hatchbacks, sedans, crossovers, and vans – it’s a bit dangerous to generalize. However, in general, you will likely find that Kia vehicles offer more dynamic, engaging handling characteristics, while a comparable Hyundai vehicle is likely to prioritize a smoother, but more disconnected-feeling ride. There are strengths and weaknesses to both, but we personally think that the chassis tuning unique to Kia vehicles ups the fun factor considerably.
Price and Value
In general, you will find that Kia vehicles are less expensive than their Hyundai counterparts. For example, the Kia Forte starts at $17,890, while the similar Hyundai Elantra starts at $19,850. Even though the Forte is less expensive, that doesn’t mean that Kia skimps on features – or quality. Like Hyundai, Kia offers a 10 year, 100,000 mile warranty that’s among the best in the business. Both brands stand behind their products and offer quality that’s matched by few in the business. For 2021, Kia ranked third in the J.D. Power U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study*, ahead of brands like Toyota, Chevrolet, and even Mercedes-Benz. Kia even finished ahead of both Hyundai and their Genesis luxury subsidiary. Kia was ranked highest among mass market brands, matched in quality only by Porsche and Lexus. We’d say that Kia is in good company at the top of that list. It’s also worth noting that the Kia Optima, Sorento and Sportage were singled out as being the best vehicles in their respective classes by J.D. Power.
The Kia Advantage
So, the verdict is in – while Kia and Hyundai offer similar vehicles, Kia models offer better value and better quality, with bolder styling and a more dynamic driving experience. Simply put, Kia vehicles are all-around better vehicles, no matter what you value most in your car. Of course, the choice is ultimately up to you. A new car is a major purchase, and we understand that. We suggest you try both brands, because we’re confident that, at the end of the day, you’ll choose a Kia. It’s clearly the superior choice any way you slice it. No hard feelings, Hyundai.
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.
FAQs
Kia and Hyundai Motor Group operate independently, but Hyundai is the parent company of Kia Motors. The difference between Kia and Hyundai is that both companies have their own brand philosophies to uniquely produce their vehicles. As you can see, they are related but not the same! Just imagine Kia vs.
Do Kia and Hyundai use the same engines? ›
Kia and Hyundai are similar in that they share platforms and drivetrains. But they do perform slightly different. They also share some of the same engines, but Kia does make some of its own.
What makes Kia different? ›
Kias are known for being built with quality parts and strong craftsmanship. Owners that love their vehicles often say that it still feels like a new car years after they have made the purchase. While any new vehicle will be sure to last for five or more years, Kia owners often see 10+ without many problems occurring.
Why are Hyundai and Kia so popular? ›
STANDARD FEATURES AND VALUE
Many rival brands have routinely bundled tech and comfort touches into pricey option packages or limited availability to the priciest trims. While the gap has narrowed, Hyundai and Kia cars and SUVs have a well-earned reputation for offering more features for a given price.
Which is higher quality Hyundai or Kia? ›
So, the verdict is in – while Kia and Hyundai offer similar vehicles, Kia models offer better value and better quality, with bolder styling and a more dynamic driving experience. Simply put, Kia vehicles are all-around better vehicles, no matter what you value most in your car.
Which lasts longer Kia or Hyundai? ›
Hyundai Reliability — According to the J.D. Power 2022 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, Kia was the highest-ranking manufacturer for reliability in the US, with the least amount of issues per 100 vehicles. Hyundai is close, winning the bronze, but for the current model year, Kia takes the gold medal!
Should I buy a Kia or a Hyundai? ›
Hyundai won this comparison with top scores in categories such as pickup trucks, midsize SUVs, hybrids and electrics, compact SUVs, subcompact SUVs and others. Kia is no slouch, taking wins for interior, minivans, midsize cars and subcompact cars.
Are Kia and Hyundai transmissions the same? ›
Hyundai Powertech was established in 2001 as South Korea's first automatic transmission specialist. It has plants in South Korea, China, and the United States. Its automatic transmissions are used in Hyundai, Kia, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles.
Do Kia and Hyundai use the same transmission? ›
Hyundai is the parent company of Kia, and for the most part share engines and transmissions. Regrettably, the Hyundai's current engine designs are best suited as moorings for small boats.
Why would anyone buy a Kia? ›
Kia cars are well-reputed for exterior design, technology, performance, and many other desirable features. Kia SUV's boxy design and spacious cabin make it a fashionable ride for anyone. They are affordable with low maintenance costs. The drivability is on point and gives out a lot of satisfaction when driving.
Kia cars are known for their stylish design and high-quality features. They also come at affordable prices. What makes them even better? Kia has always been a leader in car manufacturing.
Why is Kia so good? ›
Models like the Rio and Sportage are highlighted for dependability, with good safety ratings, reasonable repair costs, and efficient fuel consumption. Meanwhile, some Kia models have faced engine, transmission, and paint issues but generally offer a respectable lifespan with proper maintenance.
Is Hyundai reliable than Kia? ›
Plus, Hyundai's warranty also comes with scheduled maintenance, which will help you keep your vehicle in better shape for a lot longer. Kia may be slightly more reliable and slightly cheaper, but the overall value of a Hyundai will be higher in the long run with its safety and warranties.
What does Kia stand for? ›
While often suspected of being an acronym, the name Kia actually comes from two Sino-Korean characters. The first is “Ki” (起) which means “to arise” or “awake”. The second is “A” (亚) which refers to Asia. So Kia literally means “To rise from Asia”.
Why Hyundai is better than other cars? ›
The company offers one of the best warranties in the industry, with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. This extensive coverage gives Hyundai an edge over many competitors. Cost of Ownership: Hyundai vehicles are known for their low cost of ownership, including competitive maintenance and repair costs.
Is Kia fully owned by Hyundai? ›
Hyundai and Kia are both South Korean automotive brands that are part of the Hyundai Motor Group, which is the third-largest automaker in the world. While both companies are part of the same parent organization, they operate as separate brands and have different models and design philosophies.
Is Toyota or Hyundai better? ›
Hyundai shines through as the top brand when comparing its vehicle performance, technology, and fuel economy to those of Toyota models. Hyundai offers V6, V8, and four-cylinder engine options in its vehicles, while Toyota only offers V8 engines on its larger vehicle models.
Who has the better warranty Kia or Hyundai? ›
Kia Warranty vs.
The coverage of the Kia warranty is equal with the coverage of the Hyundai warranty. With either brand, you will get a generous 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.
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.