Kia Vs. Hyundai: The Ultimate Brand Comparison
Choosing the most reliable used vehicle will often lead you to a Kia vs. Hyundai brand comparison. Both of these automakers elevate value with their sedans and SUVs – gas-powered or electrified – that prioritize function and form, bringing you an unforgettable drive at a great price. Once you compare Hyundai vs. Kia vehicles and their benefits, you'll see that it's a close call – so close, in fact, that we'd recommend these brands equally to drivers looking for reliability and resale value. See how they compare below – if you happen to be in the area of one of our three Used Car Superstores locations, we invite you to see both brands up close.
Kia vs. Hyundai Comparison at a Glance
- Both automakers offer a versatile range of stylish, dependable sedans and SUVs for all types of drivers and families.
- Depending on mileage and age, many used Kia and Hyundai automobiles from recent model years are covered by the remainder of their new vehicle Basic Warranty (five years/60,000 miles) and Powertrain Warranty (10 years 100,000 miles) (whichever comes first).1,2
- Using 2022 as a recent example, both the Hyundai and Kia brands received numerous Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ awards from the IIHS – nine Hyundai models received the accolades,3 while Kia edged them out with 10 acknowledgments.4
- According to RepairPal, these automakers are neck and neck in terms of reliability ranking for models as old as 2010, with Kia in third out of 32 brands,5 while Hyundai comes in just behind, sitting in fourth place.6
- You're likely to get high resale value from either automaker's vehicles, depending on the model. For example, according to J.D. Power, the 2022 Kia Telluride earns an 86/100 for Resale Value,7 while its competing Hyundai Palisade earns a close 80/100 for the same category.8
Used Kia vs. Hyundai Sedans
You'll typically find a variety of model years at our dealership, especially for these popular, value-oriented manufacturers, but let's examine how a 2020 Kia Forte matches up to that year's Hyundai Elantra. These two sedans offer impressive MPG specs, with both the Kia Forte and Hyundai Elantra reaching up to an EPA-estimated 41 MPG (Highway) on their base trims for 2020.9,10 That's thanks to their similar 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines that produce 147 horsepower.
The differences between these Kia vs. Hyundai sedans become more obvious with their feature lineups, though. For instance, an 8-inch touchscreen display is the standard for the 2020 Forte, while the base trim of the 2020 Elantra doesn't have a touchscreen at all. However, you can still find a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen inside higher trims of the 2020 Elantra. Scan our used car deals and find more value-driven cars.
Used Kia vs. Hyundai SUV Models
We love our SUV lineups at our used car dealership locations, thanks in part to Kia and Hyundai automobiles. Patrons often want to know more about how SUVs from these auto companies compare, such as the Kia Telluride vs. Hyundai Palisade. Let's look at their 2022 iterations – the Palisade provides up to 86.4 cubic feet of cargo volume, while the Telluride gives just a bit more at 86.7 maximum cubic feet. Ultimately, finding either of these 2022 sport-utes will afford you plenty of room for a camping trip or moving day.
For a more compact viewpoint, see how the pre-owned Kia Sportage vs. Hyundai Tucson battle plays out in their 2018 variations. The used Sportage begins with a more expressive 181-horsepower engine when compared to the 164 horsepower offered by a 2018 Tucson, but the Hyundai SUV has a slightly higher maximum EPA fuel estimation. Both vehicles have impressive arrays of standard safety and tech features. No matter your preferred sport-ute, you can trade in your current ride to make climbing model years or trim levels easier, letting you access more prestigious appointments.
Used Kia vs. Hyundai EV Models
Do you want to reduce your carbon footprint with all-electric technology? Great choices exist within both brands. The 2022 Kia EV9, for instance, comes with a 29.6-inch panoramic display, consisting of dual 12.3-inch screens and a 5-inch climate control center. It also has an available Surround View Monitor and a premium sound system, encased within a carefully crafted cabin. This model can achieve an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 304 miles.11 A 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric makes for an excellent and affordable entry point into the EV space, offering 261 miles of all-electric range.12 Meanwhile, the Hyundai IONIQ 6 earns up to an EPA-estimated 305 miles on a full charge12 in its RWD Long Range trim, letting you go the distance in an amenity-rich sedan.
Pre-Owned Kia vs. Hyundai Brand Reliability Chart
| Kia | Hyundai | |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | Remainder of 5-yr / 60,000-mi1 | Remainder of 5-yr / 60,000-mi2 |
| Powertrain Warranty | Remainder of 10-yr / 100,000-mi1 | Remainder of 10-yr / 100,000-mi2 |
| 24-Hour Roadside Assistance | Remainder of 5-yr / 60,000-mi13 | Remainder of 5-yr / unlimited-mi13 |
| Certified Pre-Owned Basic Warranty | Remainder of 5-yr / 60,000-mi14 | Remainder of 5-yr / 60,000-mi2 |
| Certified Pre-Owned Powertrain Warranty | Remainder of 10-yr / 100,000-mi14 | Remainder of 10-yr / 100,000-mi2 |
| Certified Pre-Owned Roadside Assistance | 10-yr / unlimited-mi13 (from original in-service date) | 10-yr / unlimited-mi13 (from original in-service date) |
| Parts Warranty | 12-mos / 12,000-mi2 | 12-mos / 12,000-mi2 |
| Number of 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick Awards | 104 | 93 |
| RepairPal Reliability Score | 4/55 | 4/56 |
| RepairPal Reliability Ranking | 3/325 | 4/326 |
| RepairPal Estimated Annual Maintenance/Repair Cost | $4745 | $4686 |
| RepairPal Estimated Annual Maintenance/Repair Frequency | 0.225 | 0.276 |
| RepairPal Estimated Repair Severity | 10%5 | 10%6 |
| J.D. Power Overall Score (2022 Kia Telluride vs. Hyundai Palisade) | 83/1007 | 82/1008 |
| J.D. Power Driving Experience Score (2022 Kia Telluride vs. Hyundai Palisade) | 87/1007 | 89/1008 |
Kia vs. Hyundai Reliability
As you can see in the chart above, the Kia vs. Hyundai reliability ranking clash is extremely tight. While Kia ranks one spot higher than Hyundai for reliability, according to RepairPal, both are among the top five most reliable auto brands.5,6 Dependability isn't the only factor that's important to these automakers – you can also find plenty of high marks for Driving Experience when comparing models on J.D. Power. Check out the 2022 Hyundai Palisade, and you'll see that it scores 89/100 for Driving Experience,8 which is incredible for any vehicle.
Hyundai vs. Kia Depreciation
When you want to shop used inventory for a model with great resale value, look no further than a Kia. According to J.D. Power, the 2022 Kia Telluride has a Resale Value score of 86/100.7 That doesn't mean you won't find competitive scores for Hyundai models, though. The 2022 Hyundai Palisade earns a respectable and close 80/100 in the same category,8 which is still fantastic. You'll find that scores like these are the trend across these brands' models, with both making for excellent investments.
Kia vs. Hyundai Maintenance
According to RepairPal, the difference in average annual maintenance costs for Kia vs. Hyundai automobiles is negligible, with Kia costing about $6 more per year on average.5,6 On the flip side, Kia models are estimated to have slightly fewer required maintenance visits in a given year than Hyundai cars.5,6
Kia and Hyundai Parts
The availability and cost of Kia vs. Hyundai parts for their sedans and SUVs depend somewhat on the supply chain and demand. Both use highly dependable OEM parts and accessories that are reasonably priced. For more information on your expected prices for used transmissions, brake pads, engine fluid, or anything else, please contact our team. We'll provide you with our best estimate based on our network.
Pre-Owned Kia vs. Hyundai Design
Perhaps one of the benefits of choosing a Hyundai vehicle is the unique array of styles to pick from. Let's say you find a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe on our lot. This model has a distinct edge, with a carefully designed exterior for aerodynamics, a beautiful front grille, and tight, squat headlights that cleanly decorate the front of the vehicle. The 2020 Venue takes a similar approach, with a modest yet noticeable undercut, petite headlights, and a stark, bold grille.
Kia models, while still gorgeous in their own respects, tend to rely on more subtle design principles rather than the bold, stand-out approach of Hyundai automobiles. If you come across a 2020 Kia Sorento on one of our lots, you'll notice it has larger headlights that flow into a less obtrusive grille and front fascia. The undercut is slightly less pronounced, but its carefully curated array of exterior color options allows all of its dark accents to contrast perfectly. Beauty is subjective, and any of the Kia or Hyundai sedan and SUV vehicles at our auto group's locations are ready to impress, depending on your preferences.
What is the Availability of Manual Transmission for Kia vs. Hyundai Models?
A manual transmission is far from the most popular selection for either brand, but select models give you direct control over shifting through every mile. For Hyundai, you're most likely to find a manual transmission in some SUVs and sporty sedans, such as these popular options:
- Elantra N
- Elantra GT
- Veloster N
- Venue (2020 models)
- Tucson (2021-2025 with SHIFTRONIC manual mode)
For Kia, a manual transmission is typically found in older models, often utilizing a similar transmission type to its Hyundai competitors. You may find manual control for these sedans and SUVs, depending on the model year:
- Forte (FE trim for 2019 to 2021, GT for more recent years)
- Sportage (2013 and earlier, later years have Sportmatic with a clutch)
- Kia Optima (later years had Sportmatic with a clutch)
- Kia Rio
Many Kia models benefit from the innovative iMT system, a clutchless manual transmission that combines the upsides of automatic shifting with the option to change gears at your whim.
Used Kia vs. Hyundai Technology Highlights
As sister companies, both Kia and Hyundai vehicles boast some of the most enticing value-driven suites of driver-assistance technology and interior comforts. For starters, here's what you would get if you find a range-topping Calligraphy trim for the 2022 Palisade:
- Heated and ventilated front and second-row seats
- Dual-panel sunroof
- Harman Kardon® premium audio with 12 speakers
- 64-color ambient lighting
- Wrapped, leatherette dashboard and armrest
- Dual-zone temperature control
- Ultrasonic Rear Occupant Alert
- Surround View Monitor
- Lane Keeping Assist
The 2022 Carnival is swanky in its own right, offering some amenities that the Palisade doesn't, while foregoing others, such as 64-color ambient lighting. Here are some of the highlights from its top-tier SX Prestige model:
- Heated and ventilated front and second-row seats
- Massage seats (second-row VIP Lounge seats)
- Dual-panel sunroof
- Bose® 12-speaker premium audio system with external amplifier and subwoofer
- Dual LED headlights with High and Low projection
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Ultrasonic Rear Occupant Alert
- Surround View Monitor
- Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection
Kia vs. Hyundai Warranty
Peace of mind comes standard with both brands, thanks to exceptional warranty coverage for their new vehicles – Kia and Hyundai models are covered by a five-year/60,000-mile Basic Warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Warranty.1,2 The best part is that these warranties transfer, meaning that, depending on an individual model's history, the pre-owned Kia or Hyundai you choose could still have plenty of manufacturer-backed protection remaining. Ask us to walk you through the warranty status of the automobile you're interested in.
Find a Kia or Hyundai among our certified pre-owned vehicles, and the same rules apply with some additional benefits.2,14 Kia complements your certified model with one year or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first) of Platinum Coverage.15 This extended policy protects many of the same components covered by the new vehicle warranties. Additionally, certified pre-owned Kia and Hyundai models extend the vehicles' Roadside Assistance to 10 years/unlimited miles (from original in-service date),13 so you're not alone when the unexpected happens.
Shop Hyundai or Kia Models at Used Car Superstores
No matter your preference in the pre-owned Kia vs. Hyundai comparison, we hope you'll choose to shop our inventory of secondhand vehicles – you can do so online or by visiting one of our three locations. We promise to do our best to help you find your next reliable used car or SUV that you can fall in love with when you choose Used Car Superstores.
Mainlanders wanting to benefit from these excellent Kia and Hyundai vehicles can swing by our store in Nutley, NJ, to elevate their commute.
Motorists in Nassau County love our accessible location in East Meadow, Long Island. Stop by to see our current selection of the Kia Sorento before you hit the beach for the day.
Alternatively, if you're in or closer to Suffolk County, head over to our lot in Bohemia, Long Island, just 10 minutes from the Maritime Museum. See if you can find a Hyundai Elantra to call your own before taking a ride down Route 27.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Kia and Hyundai the same company?
Kia and Hyundai are both members of the Hyundai Motor Group, a larger manufacturing conglomerate that handles some tasks for each company. Both brands may share platforms and components with one another, as well as safety and convenience technologies. However, while owned by Hyundai Motor Group, both brands operate independently, allowing them to craft unique vehicles backed by the same dependable entity.
Are Kia models more fuel-efficient than Hyundai vehicles?
Generally, when comparing Kia models' fuel efficiency to their Hyundai counterparts, you'll find similar EPA estimates. For example, the 2021 Kia Sorento SUV earns up to an EPA-estimated 24/29/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),9 while the Hyundai Santa Fe offers a maximum EPA-estimated 25/28/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).10 Overall, you can expect efficient drives from either automaker.
Which brand has higher safety ratings: Kia or Hyundai?
Kia and Hyundai each have an impressive history of safety ratings. To illustrate this, we'll look at the 2022 model year. Kia received 10 Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ awards in 2022, while Hyundai was awarded nine. Look at other model years, and you're likely to find a similar story, with Hyundai taking the lead in some cases. Automobiles from either brand will give you peace of mind.
How do Kia and Hyundai compare in terms of warranty coverage?
Kia and Hyundai have nearly identical – and superb – warranties for drivers. Used models may have the remainder of their Basic and Powertrain warranties, which are five years/60,000 miles (Basic) and 10 years/100,000 miles (Powertrain), respectively, for both brands.1,2 You get one year or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first) of Platinum coverage with Kia certified pre-owned models,15 too.
Which brand offers better hybrid and electric vehicle options: Kia or Hyundai?
Kia and Hyundai offer a diverse range of electrified vehicles. You can find many of your favorite models from either automaker with some form of electrification, whether it's at the mild-hybrid, plug-in-hybrid, or EV level. Currently, you can find 10 models in either manufacturer's stable (including 2025 and 2026 model years) that deliver some variation of electrification.
1Warranties 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.
2Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
3Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/top-safety-picks/2022/all/hyundai#award-winners
4Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/top-safety-picks/2022/all/kia#award-winners
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/kia
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/hyundai
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2022/kia/telluride
8Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2022/hyundai/palisade
9Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle's condition. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
10All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.
11Based on EPA estimates on a full battery charge. Actual range will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, battery age, weather, temperature, and your vehicle's condition. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use. For more information on range, please see www.fueleconomy.gov.
12All figures are EPA estimates and based on a fully charged battery. For comparison purposes only. Battery capacity decreases with time and use. Actual range will vary based on a number of factors, including vehicle options, driving conditions and habits, vehicle and battery's condition, battery temperature and outside temperature.
13Roadside Assistance services provided by third-party providers for vehicles with an eligible service plan, subject to limitations and restrictions. Roadside Assistance is not a warranty; refer to the vehicle's Owner's Handbook for warranty details. Excludes costs for repairs, parts, labor, property loss, and expenses from accidents, abuse, racing, vandalism, and certain other conditions. Contact our dealership for details.
14The Kia CPO 10-year/100,000-mile limited warranty program begins on the original in-service date of vehicle and odometer mile “0.” The limited warranty program includes the remainder of roadside assistance, powertrain coverage and the New Vehicle Limited Warranty (Basic). See retailer for details.
15Platinum Coverage begins on the vehicle purchase date and odometer reading on purchase date. Platinum Coverage is limited; for exact coverages, exclusions and limitations, please review CPO contract or see retailer for details.