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How to finance a Kia

Returning customers and servicemembers may even be eligible for cash back.

You’ve probably spotted at least a dozen Kia Souls or Fortes zooming around town — and for good reason. The popular Korean car brand ranked number five in dependability according to a 2018 JD Power study. If you’re interested in getting behind the wheel of one of these reliable cars, you have a few financing options to choose from. And you may be able to score a discount if you’re a servicemember or current Kia owner.

How can I finance a Kia?

When you’re looking to buy a new or used Kia, comparing your financing offers first can help you score a better deal. The cheapest way to go is likely taking out a car loan from an online lender, bank or credit union. Filling out preapproval forms with several lenders can give you an idea of what terms you may qualify for to help you find the lowest rate. Another option is comparing personal loan offers. However, rates will likely be higher since your loan won’t be secured by the car you’re buying.

If you’re looking for the financing option with the fastest turnaround, then going directly through an authorized Kia dealer is likely your best bet. Though you can usually secure financing and drive your new car home the same day, you often end up paying more in interest than you would by taking out a car loan from an outside lender. Here are your two options when applying through Kia Motors Finance (KMF):

  • Financing through KMF. Kia allows you to apply for credit to buy a new or used car through one of its licensed dealers. This comes with a few added benefits, like access to your FICO score and less hassle compared to shopping around at different lenders. In the past, Kia has offered deals like 0% APR financing for five years on the 2018 Optima and $4,000 cash back on the 2018 Sedona.*
  • Leasing through KMF. Leasing allows you to switch up your Kia every few years to ensure you always have the latest bells and whistles. While KMF leasing offers will vary depending on where you live, past promotions include leasing the 2019 Soul for $199 a month for three years and $1,999 due at signing.*

Local dealerships may offer their own special deals as well. As with all loans, the exact rates and terms you qualify for will depend on your credit and financial situation.

*Rates as of November 30, 2018.

Read our review of Kia Motors Finance

Compare car loans for financing a Kia

1 - 3 of 3
Name Product Filter Values Minimum credit score APR Loan term Requirements
PenFed Auto Loans
Varies
Starting at 5.19%
3 to 7 years
Active membership with PenFed
One of the largest national credit unions in the U.S., it offers new and used auto financing with transparent low rates.
CarGurus
CarGurus
Varies
Varies depending on the lender
3 to 6 years
Varies depending on the lender
Carvana
No minimum credit score
3.9% to 27.9%
1 to 6 years
18+ years old, annual income of $4,000+, no active bankruptcies
Get pre-qualified for used car financing and receive competitive, personalized rates.
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Does Kia have any car-buyer programs or special discounts?

Yes, Kia offers special cashback deals and low-APR promotions to:

  • US military servicemembers, reservists, retirees and their spouses.
  • Residents of Alabama, Georgia and Florida whose cars were damaged by Hurricane Michael.
  • Car owners whose vehicles were damaged by the California wildfires during November 2018.
  • Returning customers who currently lease or own a Kia model.
  • Well-qualified buyers interested in a certified preowned Kia.

What will a new Kia cost me?

While you can expect to pay $15,000 to over $31,000 for a 2019 model, the total cost of a new Kia will depend on any add-ons you select as well as your negotiation skills.

Choose a build

Cars

Rio

  • Starting MSRP: $15,300
  • Build: Sedan
  • City/highway MPG: 28/37

Forte

  • Starting MSRP: $17,690
  • Build: Sedan
  • City/highway MPG: 31/41

Optima

  • Starting MSRP: $22,900
  • Build: Sports Coupe
  • City/highway MPG: 23/30

Stinger

  • Starting MSRP: $32,990
  • Build: Sedan
  • City/highway MPG: 22/29

Cadenza

  • Starting MSRP: $33,100
  • Build: Sedan
  • City/highway MPG: 20/27

K900

  • Starting MSRP: $59,900
  • Build: Sedan
  • City/highway MPG: 18/25

SUV / Crossover / Minivan

Soul

  • Starting MSRP: $17,490
  • Build: SUV
  • City/highway MPG: 26/31

Niro

  • Starting MSRP: $23,490
  • Build: Crossover
  • City/highway MPG: 52/49

Sportage

  • Starting MSRP: $23,990
  • Build: Crossover
  • City/highway MPG: 23/30

Sorento

  • Starting MSRP: $26,290
  • Build: Crossover
  • City/highway MPG: 22/29

Sedona

  • Starting MSRP: $27,200
  • Build: Minivan
  • City/highway MPG: 18/24

Telluride

  • Starting MSRP: $31,690
  • Build: SUV
  • City/highway MPG: 20/26

Hybrids

Optima Hybrid

  • Starting MSRP: $29,310
  • Build: Hybrid Sedan
  • City/highway MPG: 40/45

How much you actually end up paying will vary based on where you live, what promotions you qualify for and your haggling skills. Since these are the costs of Kia’s brand-new models, you’ll likely be able to score a lower price on a used model.

Compare car insurance rates for driving a Kia

Does a new Kia come with a warranty?

Yes, all 2008 and newer Kias come with its industry-leading warranties, including:

  • 10-year, 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.
  • Five-year, 60,000-mile limited basic warranty.
  • Five-year, 100,000-mile antiperforation warranty.
  • Five-year, 60,000-mile roadside assistance warranty.

Bottom line

Kia’s budget-friendly prices, industry-leading warranties and award-winning reliability ratings make it a popular choice for car buyers. You have a few different financing options to consider — from traditional car loans to applying directly through Kia. And depending on if you’re a servicemember or have been affected by recent natural disasters, you may be able to get a special deal.

To learn more about the car-buying process and compare lenders, check out our guide to car loans.

Frequently asked questions

Pictures: Shutterstock and KIA’s official page

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