Kia
EV3
The EV3 is Kia’s all-electric rival to the likes of the Renault Megane E-Tech and VW ID.3, but with a more distinctly crossover-like take, thanks to the taller, chunkier styling and the fact that it looks like a shrunk-down EV9. The big-battery model has an exceptionally long 605km range but the standard 436km version would probably do the job for most. The EV3 is well-priced, with an appealing cabin. It’s very refined, but not particularly interesting from behind the wheel.
The sportage covers all the bases with hybrid, diesel and plug-in hybrid options
EV6
Few cars do exactly what they say on the tin to such good effect as the spaceship-styled Kia EV6. It’s an electric vehicle that, as its numeral indicates, is large enough to serve as a decent family wagon. It was updated in 2024 with a subtly enhanced exterior and interior styling, but of more importance was a larger battery pack of 84kWh – offering up to 581km of driving in a single hit – and faster charging speeds.
Ceed
Though demand for C-segment hatchbacks such as the Kia Ceed has reduced in recent years, they still make for efficient and good-to-drive everyday transport. The Ceed is one of the more interesting looking options on the market, though choice is limited to a single model. It features the sporty GT-line styling and a turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol engine that offers a balance of abilities.
EV9
The EV9 changed people’s perception of the Kia brand when it hit the scene in late 2023, and not just because of its high price. This is a massive electric SUV that seats up to seven and has interior quality and finishing to rival any premium brand. No wonder it was awarded the 2024 World Car of the Year prize. Buyers can choose from rear-wheel drive or a more powerful all-wheel drive version; and a seven-seat layout or one with just six seats for extra luxury.
Niro
The compact Niro crossover comes with a distinctive look and a loyal following. It’s offered in hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric formats to suit a variety of needs and, usefully, the non-plug-in hybrid and EV are roughly the same price. The electric model is the best of the bunch if that is what you’re after, thanks to perky performance and more boot space than the others, though all get high-quality, well-designed cabins.
Sportage
Based as it is on the same underpinnings as the Hyundai Tucson, it should be no surprise that the Sportage is Kia’s most popular car in Ireland. Indeed, the five-door SUV took third place overall in new car sales in 2024. It covers all the bases with hybrid, diesel and plug-in hybrid options and, though a facelift is on the way late in 2025, the Sportage remains one of the more attractive cars in the segment. Its spacious interior and elevated level of specification no doubt also appeal to buyers.
Picanto
Kia’s smallest car has been updated with design cues from the massive EV9 SUV, and the chunky, modern look suits this agile little city car, which has made its name by being cool, reliable and fun to drive. The latest version continues in the same vein, offering style, efficiency, and equipment in equal measure, while maintaining its compact dimensions and sense of fun. It isn’t especially high-tech, but it’s easily among the best cars in its class.
Sorento
Although the all-electric EV9 has taken the Sorento’s place as the flagship of the Kia range, the popular, rugged Sorento continues to offer a compelling combination of quality and value. Offered in fuel-efficient hybrid and diesel forms, the Sorento gives customers the chance to choose the version best suited to their lifestyle, but all variants come with bags of space, solid build quality and a competitive price tag.
Stonic
Yes, it looks a little like an SUV, but the Stonic is really a supermini in disguise, dressed up with crossover-like paraphernalia to give it a little visual pizazz. It’s priced keenly enough, below most C-segment cars, even if it’s not massive inside. A single petrol engine is available, and buyers can choose between automatic and manual gearboxes.
XCeed
Although the XCeed is technically just a Kia Ceed with a different five-door body, raised ground clearance and a vaguely crossover vibe, we’ve always had a soft spot for it, as it’s a good-looking vehicle. It’s also really well made and pretty decent on the road. Shame, though, that the only powertrain offered is a plug-in hybrid, which feels a little old-school as it only manages 50km on electric power according to the official rating.